Tahltan Nation votes in favour of Skeena’s Eskay Creek project
The Tahltan Nation has voted in support of the Impact Benefit Agreement (IBA) relating to the development and future operation of dual-listed Skeena’s 100%-owned Eskay Creek gold/silver project in British Columbia, following a referendum among its membership.
A decision by the Tahltan central government board on whether to provide consent to the Eskay Creek project is expected to be considered in January 2026.
According to Skeena, the IBA establishes a framework that ensures shared benefits, including employment and business opportunities for Tahltan members and companies; training and education initiatives to build long-term capacity; funding for a facility to benefit Tahltan elders; and meaningful financial participation in the Eskay Creek project.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to the leadership of the Tahltan central government, Tahltan Band, and Iskut Band for trusting Skeena to advance Eskay Creek. The ratification of this IBA reflects the hard work we have achieved together. This innovative agreement sets new industry standards for First Nation involvement in environmental protection and sharing of benefits from the project,” Skeena executive chairperson Walter Coles says.
“We see the IBA as the foundation for a long-term, meaningful partnership between Eskay Creek and the Tahltan Nation. Over the years, the Tahltan Nation has played a key role in shaping the direction of the project. They have shared their environmental, cultural, and economic priorities and we have worked together to ensure those values are reflected in the project,” Skeena external affairs senior VP Justin Himmelright says.
