First Nations warn B.C. Conservatives against repealing DRIPA

"We're not going to stand idly by while the government-elect does, in fact, rip it up. That's a declaration of war."

— Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs

Premier-designate Lorne Doerkson says the declaration act, passed unanimously in 2019, "hasn't solved anything". He says he is also committed to working with First Nations.

A lawyer for the Cowichan Tribes says they will file a proposal in January to protect private property in the Aboriginal title case. He says repealing DRIPA would not in substance change the court's order.

What's next

Doerkson is weighing a short fall session, so DRIPA likely won't be on the table until spring. Swearing-in can't happen until results are certified, expected Nov 18.