The impact of the Tsilhqot’in decision on BC business – Troy Media

VANCOUVER, BC Jul 15, 2014 – The impact of the Tsilhqot’in decision on the businesses and First Nations of B.C. will be much less dramatic than the headlines indicate and very gradual.

In fact, the decision, as well as any subsequent ones that follow its precedent, is not the end of the world for non-Aboriginal business on traditional territory in B.C. It also does not mean that First Nations now own all of British Columbia “lock, stock and barrel,” to quote Joe Gosnell, a former Nisga’a leader. Nor will it lead to an instant solution to all the challenges faced by the Tsilqhot’in and other First Nations.

But one result of the Supreme Court’s decision, which should make all British Columbians and not just First Nations very happy, is the clarification and greater certainty it generates. Until now, governments or businesses considering economic or other activity on Aboriginal traditional territory not currently in private hands had a ‘duty to consult’. But those who have been ‘consulted’ may be forgiven for treating this ‘duty’ a little cynically. Where consultation is the only requirement, governments and others have been known to set up consultation processes, serve coffee, listen quietly and then go and do exactly as they had previously planned.

Read more: http://www.troymedia.com/2014/07/15/the-impact-of-the-tsilhqotin-decision-on-bc-business/