Tolko and the Tsi Del Del recently celebrated yet another milestone in their historic partnership – 25 years of successful collaboration and community building. At an event held in Williams Lake in December, Tsi Del Del President, Otis Guichon, presented commemorative drums to Vice President, Forestry and Environment, Bob Fleet and Alexis Creek First Nation Chief, Ervin Charleyboy to mark this momentous occasion.
“I was honoured to celebrate 25 years of success with Tsi Del Del,” says Bob. “The company has proved its worth and garnered well-deserved recognition and respect in the logging sector. They have created a community focused environment where employees can learn and grow in their careers and their commitment to customer service is inspiring.”
The Tsi Del Del operation at Anahim Lake has created more than 85 well-paying jobs in the community and a number of owner-operator enterprises. Eighty per cent of those employed by Tsi Del Del are First Nations workers, and the company also sets aside 50 cents for every cubic metre logged in an Education Trust Fund that provides post-secondary education or trades and technology training for band members.
“The partnership between Tolko and Tsi Del Del It has been recognized and celebrated as a model to strive for in First Nations-enterprise partnerships in British Columbia,” says Bob. “It’s a model we’re committed to expanding across our operations. Establishing positive, productive relationships with indigenous communities is a necessary priority – it is a big part of the future of the industry.”
