B.C. Premier Eby Addresses Property Owner Concerns in Landmark Case

British Columbia Premier David Eby has revealed that the province previously attempted, but failed, to involve private property owners in the significant Cowichan Tribes Aboriginal title case. This revelation comes as the City of Richmond prepares to hold a meeting for property owners who may be affected by the recent ruling. The Supreme Court of British Columbia determined that the Cowichan Tribes hold Aboriginal title over a portion of land along the Fraser River, invalidating certain Crown and city titles.

The City of Richmond has proactively reached out to property owners in the affected area, sending letters that inform them of the implications of the court’s decision. Mayor Malcolm Brodie stated over the weekend that the ruling could impact the properties of hundreds of residents, many of whom were previously unaware of the potential consequences.

Eby expressed understanding regarding the anxiety among property owners, acknowledging that it is “totally reasonable” for them to be concerned about the ruling’s implications. He noted that the province had sought to have these property owners formally involved in the case but was denied by the court.

The court’s ruling, delivered on August 7, 2025, stated that the granting of private titles by the government unjustifiably infringed on the Aboriginal title held by the Cowichan Tribes. Eby lamented that some homeowners only became aware of the ruling’s effects through the city’s notification, as the court chose not to inform them directly.

In light of this ruling, the provincial government has decided to appeal the decision but will not seek a direct referral to the Supreme Court of Canada. Eby expressed concerns that such a referral could lead to an “academic decision” that does not reflect the real-world implications for the affected parties.

The city has sent letters to more than 150 property owners, warning them that the court has declared Aboriginal title over their properties, which may jeopardize their ownership status. A public meeting is scheduled for October 28, 2025, to address these concerns and provide more information to the residents.

Opposition has emerged from B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad, who has called for a direct referral of the case to the Supreme Court of Canada. Rustad has reached out to both Eby and the federal attorney general regarding this request.

While the Cowichan Tribes did not seek to have private property titles declared invalid, the B.C. Supreme Court indicated that the issues surrounding private property ownership rights must be resolved through negotiation, litigation, or purchase.

Eby’s comments and the ongoing appeal reflect the complex balance between Aboriginal rights and private property ownership in British Columbia, a situation that continues to evolve as stakeholders aim to find a resolution.