The Supreme Court of Canada has let stand a ruling that says Aboriginal title cannot be claimed over privately owned land.
The decision came after the court refused to hear an appeal from a First Nation in New Brunswick. The ruling means First Nations may seek compensation for lost traditional lands, but cannot claim ownership of private property.
Federal officials say the decision could affect similar cases in British Columbia, including one involving the Cowichan Nation.
B.C. Attorney General Niki Sharma said the ruling supports the province’s arguments in its appeal of a lower court decision involving land in Richmond along the Fraser River.
