The BC government has decided not to proceed with their proposed Land Act amendments for this legislative session. However, it is possible that this could be revisited after this year’s election. The statement released did not mention the DMP, so its fate remains a question mark over our heads. Our work isn’t over yet. 

See full release here: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024WLRS0009-000236  

Minister’s statement on proposed Land Act amendments
Nathan Cullen, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, has issued the following statement about proposed amendments to the Land Act:
BC Gov News

 We are now waiting for the government to post their ‘What We Heard’ summary compiled from the comments submitted during the public consultation period. The critical concerns we have raised with the DMP, throughout the consultation period, remain unaddressed: 

  • A lack of any meaningful engagement or consultation for transparency and inclusivity 
  • An absence of economic and scientific data and research to justify DMP regulations 
  • Provisions to guarantee the inclusion of grandfathering policies for existing docks and structures 
  • Government barriers to opportunities for building stronger relationships with First Nations 

We are still actively attempting to engage with the Ministry of Water, Lands and Resource Stewardship to secure a meeting to adequately convey our concerns and seek answers to the many questions posed by our members. 

News & Media Updates

Two prominent experts have recently published articles on the Land Act amendments, highlighting the DMP as an example of how this sort of legislation can introduce unnecessary uncertainty and negative consequences on those it affects the most, all with minimal recourse available.  

Please share this information and check our News & Media page often for ongoing updates.

Yes, B.C.’s Land Act changes give First Nations veto over use of Crown Land: op-ed
The government’s documentation describes “shared decision-making through joint or consent models.”
Fraser InstituteBruce Pardy
Implementing UNDRIP: B.C.’s Land Act Reform Sparks Public Debate | Blakes
The British Columbia government is currently soliciting public input on proposed reforms to the Land Act, aimed at enabling shared decision-making in line with the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. With public land constituting 95% of the province, the consultation has sparked significant attention and debate. This article highlights examples of shared decision-making mechanisms with Indigenous governments and underscores key issues.
Blakes Means BusinessRoy Millen

Things are moving quickly right now, and we will keep you updated as things evolve.