Gitxsan negotiator, Bev Clifton Percival says the Supreme Court ruling on the Tsilhqot’in land title claims is epic moment for B.C. First Nations.
“It’s a big win. It’s the first time there has been a declaration of title in British Columbia. I think that B.C. has been the lead in the common law cases that have come out of the supreme court and we are very happy for them.”
She says the world outlook is shifting and the ruling will mean changes in future negotiations – especially with proposed resource development.
She says developers and the government will need a higher standard when consulting with First Nations in the province.
And for the Gitxsan, she says the ruling again highlights the need for the provincial government to withdraw illegal offers of Gitxsan land to other bands.