The Haíɫzaqv (Heiltsuk) Nation has announced the completion of the initial phase of a multi-part agreement following an incident where a U.S.-owned tugboat, the Nathan E. Stewart, ran aground in the Seaforth Channel near Bella Bella, B.C. in October 2016. This event resulted in the spillage of approximately 110,000 liters of diesel fuel and 2,000 liters of lubricants into Qvúqvái, a significant area for the nation’s harvesting activities.
The first settlement, reached with Kirby Corporation and Henry Hendrix, the second mate of the tugboat who was found to have been asleep during his watch, involves a payment of $12.2 million to the nation as per a court order scheduled for later this year. Additionally, the company will participate in healing and washing ceremonies as part of the agreement.
The spill had detrimental effects on marine life, food-gathering sites, and access to culturally significant areas, leading to long-lasting impacts on the community. Chief Marilyn Slett emphasized that the maritime laws governing oil spills inadequately consider Indigenous Peoples and lack provisions for compensating them for cultural losses.
The spill posed a threat to various species in the region, including manila clam beds that generated annual income of up to $200,000 for the community. The Haíɫzaqv Nation views the settlement as a crucial step forward but acknowledges that further actions are necessary to ensure accountability, promote healing, and safeguard their environment and way of life.
In response to the settlement, Kirby Corporation’s Vice President of Public and Government Affairs, Matt Woodruff, expressed appreciation for the constructive engagement with the Heiltsuk Tribal Council and emphasized the importance of the resolution. The Haíɫzaqv Joint Leadership confirmed ongoing efforts to pursue remaining claims against Canada and the Ship-source Oil Pollution Fund for compensation related to the spill.
Following the court’s approval of the payment, the community will engage in discussions to determine the allocation of the settlement funds. The nation remains dedicated to addressing the aftermath of the incident and protecting their lands, waters, and cultural heritage.