The B.C. Ministry of Forests announced this afternoon it has issued permits authorizing construction of the controversial $8.8-billion Site C hydro-electric project in northeast B.C.
The province issued 24 authorizations with conditions under the Land Act, Forest Act, Water Act and Wildlife Act.
The forests ministry said additional permits will be issued as the project proceeds.
The province said each permit was granted after reviewing potential effects on the environment and adverse effects on aboriginal treaty rights.
In a news release, the forests ministry said consultation began with Treaty 8 First Nations in August 2014 and concluded last month.