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3h ago

Richmond Warns Owners After Cowichan Title Ruling as Opposition Seeks Negotiations Pause

The ruling declared Crown grants over roughly 800 acres invalid with an 18‑month suspension to allow arrangements.

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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.
Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie said the public doesn't have enough information about how the ruling might affect them.

Overview

  • Richmond has mailed notices to hundreds of southeast Richmond property owners warning the decision could negatively affect title and set an Oct. 28 information session at City Hall.
  • Justice Barbara Young found Cowichan Tribes hold Aboriginal title to about 800 acres in Richmond and said past Crown grants unjustifiably infringed that title, with resolution left to negotiation, litigation or purchase.
  • The declaration was stayed for 18 months to give Cowichan, the federal government and the city time to make arrangements, leaving current ownership in place during that period.
  • The Province of B.C., the City of Richmond and the Musqueam Indian Band have announced appeals, with Attorney-General Niki Sharma saying the judgment should be reconsidered by a higher court to protect fee-simple property rights.
  • BC Conservative Leader John Rustad is urging a pause to all provincial negotiations with First Nations until Supreme Court clarity, while Cowichan representatives say they do not seek to displace ordinary homeowners.