Lower Mainland treaty deal unveiled

Tsawwassen Band Chief Kim Baird says this agreement is big step toward improving her people's living conditions to those found in the surrounding non-aboriginal community.

"I can't stress (enough) the disparity the members of my community face in relation to our neighbours as far as socio-economic rates, employment, high school graduation levels.

"A treaty when we get there will provide the tools for my community to rebuild its wealth to levels we used to enjoy traditionally," she says.

Baird says there are a number of important areas that must be dealt with before a final agreement can be drawn up including self-governance and taxation.

That final agreement is expected in about two years.

• LINK: Government background on treaty process