Just days after the BC Court of Appeal dismissed an appeal over a mining permit issued in Tsilhqot’in territory, the Union of BC Indian Chiefs have re-stated their support.
Last Friday, the court dismissed the Nation’s appeal over an exploratory drilling permit issued to Taseko Mines.
With the permit standing, Taseko can now begin clearing 76 kms of area west of Williams Lake to eventually excavate more than 360 test pits.
This permit was issued on the final day of the Christy Clark government, despite the New Prosperity mine proposed for the area being rejected on two occassions.
UBCIC President Grand Chief Stewart Phillip says the program will have severe reprercussions on land considered sacred to the Tsilqhot’in.
Chief Phillip also says that the Union will do everything they can to support the Nation in this matter.
