"When word first leaked out in late February that Premier Gordon Campbell intended to push through a sweeping new law to recognize aboriginal title across the province, right now, before the May 12 election, I refused to believe it. The notion was simply too outlandish.

The abrupt retreat from that idea was signaled at 8:30 Saturday morning, and not by the B.C. government. The Recognition and Reconciliation Act won’t be introduced, much less passed, before the election, announced Grand Chief Stewart Phillip of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs.

A briefer version emerged from the Office of the Premier three hours later. It didn’t mention the election.

“This is the time for us to make this important and historic transition in our government-to-government relationship and we need to take the time to make sure we get this right,” the statement said. (Translation: now, but not right now.)

“The Premier and Minister de Jong will continue to engage with the business community on this important initiative.” (Translation: we’re getting our wallets kicked.)"

Get the Story:
Tom Fletcher: Province’s aboriginal recognition law comes off the rails (The Campbell River Mirror 3/18)

Earlier Story:
Province delays introduction of aboriginal recognition bill (The Vancouver Sun 3/14)

Related Stories:
First Nations react favorably to proposed legislation (3/6)