OTTAWA – Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo recently urged the federal government to defend the rights of private property owners in British Columbia.
A recent civil suit by the Tk’emlúps and Skeetchestn First Nations is looking to declare Aboriginal title over private property.
“We recognize that there is work to do towards resolving longstanding land claims,” stated McLeod. “However, every federal government in the past has been unequivocal that private property rights are not on the table. That is why it is deeply concerning to hear the justice minister say that when it comes to the federal government’s litigation strategy, they will be ‘potentially changing (their) approach’.”
“Ranchers and farmers are rightfully concerned about the impact on their lands and their livelihood as a result of this lawsuit,” MP McLeod explained. “While the premier of British Columbia has said she will fight for private property rights, it is disappointing that the government in Ottawa has left private land owners in limbo.”
“We call on the government to stop hiding behind the courts and defend the rights of private property owners in British Columbia,” concluded McLeod.