The leader of British Columbia’s official Opposition is calling on the federal government to refer a landmark Indigenous land claim ruling to the country’s highest court.
The decision, handed down by the B.C. Supreme Court earlier this month, affirmed that the Cowichan Tribes have Aboriginal title in a 750-hectare land parcel in Richmond, which includes city and port lands, farms, golf courses and commercial properties.
The B.C. government has said it will appeal the ruling, arguing clarity is needed on the matter and that the B.C. ruling could have unintended consequences for private property rights.
In a letter to federal Justice Minister and Attorney General Sean Fraser, BC Conservative Leader John Rustad said the case should be referred directly to the Supreme Court of Canada, argui