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14h ago

Richmond Warns Homeowners After Cowichan Title Ruling as Opposition Seeks Talks Pause

The province pledges to protect private property rights during appeals of the Cowichan title ruling.

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The ruling gives the Cowichan Nation title to 7.5 square kilometres of land in South Richmond, including city and port lands, farms, golf courses and commercial properties.
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Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie argues that fee simple and Aboriginal title are incompatible, and that the uncertainty that has arisen could have a devastating impact on property interests.

Overview

  • The City of Richmond mailed notices telling property owners the court decision may compromise the status and validity of their ownership and set an Oct. 28 information session at City Hall.
  • B.C. Attorney General Niki Sharma said the government will uphold the ability to buy, sell and mortgage private property and wants the ruling reviewed by a higher court.
  • BC Conservative leader John Rustad asked Premier David Eby to pause all provincial negotiations with First Nations until the Supreme Court of Canada provides clarity on private property and Aboriginal title.
  • The City of Richmond, the B.C. and federal governments, and the Musqueam Indian Band have filed appeals, while the Cowichan Tribes plan to appeal to expand the area from about 732 acres to 1,846 acres.
  • Justice Barbara Young’s Aug. 7 ruling recognized Cowichan Aboriginal title to several hundred acres in southeast Richmond and found some fee-simple and Crown interests defective, with practical effects suspended for 18 months.