"Indian band launches court suit to halt ranch development"

KAMLOOPS, B.C. (CP) ­ The Skeetchestn Indian band has begun legal action against Pagebrook Inc. to try to halt preliminary work on a $180-million golf course and resort at Six Mile Ranch.

The band has applied for a caveat against property titles at Six Mile Ranch because the B.C. government has failed to deal with aboriginal interests in the area, band chief Ron Ignace said Monday. "We have to be dealt with first and foremost and, particularly in this case, it would appear the B.C. government is extinguishing aboriginal title," he said.

The band has applied for the injunction through the provincial land registry, Ignace said. If granted, subdivision plans and any land sales would be on hold until a negotiated settlement is reached with the Skeetchestn band.

Pagebrook's development includes 1,000 homes, hotels, a golf course and a marina on Kamloops Lake. Company president Michael Grenier could not be reached for comment Monday. Ignace said the Supreme Court of Canada's 1997 Delgamuukw decision means the B.C. government must negotiate with natives before selling off Crown land.

The B.C. Assets and Land Corporation is transferring 18 hectares of Crown land to Pagebrook at Six Mile Ranch. Ignace said the Skeetchestn band has repeatedly suggested options, including cash compensation, trading Six Mile Ranch for other land, a co-management agreement and revenue sharing, but all have been refused.

An extensive archeological study was carried out last year at Six Mile following numerous meetings with First Nations. Government officials say the study shows no significant native rights to the area but Ignace disagrees. "The band has repeatedly pointed out...interests in land around Six Mile, including archaeological resources, traditional use plants and critical deer habitat," he said.

"These interests will be adversely and permanently impacted by transforming Six Mile Ranch into an urban setting."