B.C. First Nations chief warns ripping up DRIPA is a ‘declaration of war’
The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs warns against ripping up the agreement and instead urges using it as a framework for reconciliation.
A newly-elected Conservative government in British Columbia says it plans to repeal the province's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). However, the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs is warning against such a move, urging instead to use the agreement as a basis for reconciliation. Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, the president of the union, said the government-elect's intention to scrap DRIPA is "a declaration of war."
DRIPA was unanimously passed in the legislature in 2019. Premier-designate Lorne Doerkson said his party is committed to repealing the act since its enactment. He cited ongoing legal issues related to docks in Pender Harbour and mining opportunities in the province as evidence that DRIPA has not solved any problems. Phillip sees DRIPA as the roadmap to reconciliation, calling for the new government to work meaningfully with Indigenous groups to recognize their inherent title and rights.
He warned of a potential "war zone" if reconciliation is not pursued. Doerkson's party is considering a shortened fall session, meaning the DRIPA repeal issue might not be addressed until the spring. First Nations groups have made their position on the matter clear, threatening consequences.
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