VANCOUVER - First Nations leaders in British Columbia are expressing concern over comments made by provincial Conservative leader John Rustad regarding a recent court ruling. The ruling recognizes the Aboriginal title of the Cowichan Tribes over certain private and government-owned lands in Richmond, B.C. Leaders from the B.C. Assembly of First Nations, the First Nations Summit, and the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs have labeled Rustad's remarks as "dangerous and cynical rhetoric."

Rustad has called for an immediate halt to negotiations between the province and First Nations until the Supreme Court of Canada provides clarity on the ruling. The council argues that this request fuels "baseless fears" and undermines the fundamental rights of First Nations.

B.C. Attorney General Niki Sharma responded to Rustad's comments in the legislature, stating that the province was the first to appeal the case to protect property owners' rights. She noted that Rustad's proposal to send the case directly to the Supreme Court would yield only an opinion, which would not be binding on any party involved. Sharma emphasized that the province's position in the original case was that private title "sits above" Aboriginal title, which has faced "displacement and suspension."

The B.C. Supreme Court ruling from August determined that the Cowichan Tribes hold Aboriginal title over a portion of land along the Fraser River. It also declared that the titles held by the Crown and the city on that land are defective and invalid. Furthermore, the court found that the issuance of private titles by the government unjustifiably infringes on the Cowichan title.

Sharma assured that the B.C. Court of Appeal will consider multiple grounds of appeal, and the government will continue to challenge the case using all available resources. "We know that upholding private property rights is very key and critical work along with the work of reconciliation," she stated during the question period. She added that the government aims to resolve outstanding legal questions while also engaging with First Nations to address issues and rectify past wrongs.

The council's statement asserts that Aboriginal title and fee simple private ownership can coexist. They argue that acknowledging this legal and political reality does not threaten the stability and prosperity of British Columbia. Additionally, the council expressed concern over a letter from Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie to property owners in the land claim area, describing it as "alarmist commentary." The letter cautioned property owners that the court's decisions could adversely affect their property titles.

The city of Richmond is also appealing the court's decision and plans to hold a public information session next week to discuss the matter further.