Catalyst Paper’s mill in the qathet region will now be known as Catalyst Paper tiskwat (pronounced tees-kwat).
The mill’s new sign was unveiled in rainy conditions on November 3, with a number of Tla’amin Nation and Catalyst mill employees on hand for the ceremony.
Catalyst Paper tiskwat general manager Krista Cuddy said the mill was built on a significant Tla’amin village site, and in honour of that history, Catalyst is changing the name of the mill to incorporate the historical designation.
“Moving forward, we hope to have open dialogue with Tla’amin Nation as we work toward building a new and collaborative relationship,” said Cuddy.
Tla’amin hegus John Hackett said it is a very significant day.
“[tiskwat ] was the first community village site we had,” said Hackett. “We appreciate Catalyst and Paper Excellence involving us. We had a very significant burning site on the village site where the dam was. That was a powerful ceremony and very meaningful to our nation.
“I just want to say thank you and we appreciate the gesture. This is a step toward reconciliation and I appreciate the involvement with our nation.”
