"The Tsilhqot'in, supported by First Nations and non-First Nations across the country, fear the scathing findings of not one but two independent expert Panels will be forgotten amidst the lobbying efforts by Taseko Mines Ltd. and its supporters," said Chief Joe Alphonse, Tribal Chair for the Tsilhqot'in National Government.

Approval of the New Prosperity mine would send a damning signal to Canada's First Nations and the world that the Canadian government isn't serious about consulting and accommodating First Nations on major resource projects.

"First Nations across the province and the country are watching this decision very closely, as a test of the Harper government's commitment to First Nations or to maintaining the last shred of credibility left in the environmental assessment process," said Stewart Phillip of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs.