The Quw’utsun Nation, representing members including the Cowichan Tribes, has criticized British Columbia Premier David Eby and other officials for their public statements regarding a significant Aboriginal title case in Richmond, B.C. The nation has described these comments as potentially misleading or inflammatory, emphasizing that the recent court ruling does not nullify public property rights.
In a statement, the Quw’utsun Nation expressed dissatisfaction with the B.C. government and the City of Richmond, accusing them of spreading misinformation that could unnecessarily alarm private landowners. The ruling on August 7 by the B.C. Supreme Court affirmed the tribes’ Aboriginal title to a specific area along the Fraser River, highlighting defects in Crown and city land titles and the infringement on Cowichan title through the issuance of private titles.
Premier Eby acknowledged the concerns of Richmond homeowners, stating that the government is collaborating with the city to challenge the court decision. Mayor Malcolm Brodie also warned private title holders in a letter about potential impacts on their ownership rights.
Contrary to the officials’ stance, the Quw’utsun Nation emphasized that the government’s response post-ruling does not align with the court’s verdict and hinders the process of reconciliation.
Quw’utsun Nation’s Chief Cindy Daniels clarified that the case was not directed at individual landowners or their property titles, underscoring the government’s responsibility to facilitate reconciliation. Justice Barbara Young’s ruling includes an 18-month suspension on the declaration regarding the unjustifiable infringement on private titles, providing time for stakeholders to address the situation.
To address concerns and provide information, the City of Richmond will hold a public session for landowners affected by the Cowichan Tribes case at the Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel on Tuesday.