Editor:
Re: Developments diminishing quality of life, letter to the editor, Dec. 5
A recent Optimist letter decries TFN's development: "What does it take in Canada for people to stand up and shout out to the government that we will not stand for such abuse of power..." Wow!
In the 1990s, then part of Delta, TFN wanted to build Tsatsu Shores. Under the Indian Act, they didn't need Delta's OK but graciously held a well-attended public hearing to explain to Delta residents what they wanted to do and why.
Environmentalists did their outrage thing; they spoke, wrote, marched, and petitioned. TFN built it anyway. DFO even took them to court citing environmental issues - and lost, even on appeal.
When TFN asked Delta to connect water and sewer for Tsatsu residents, Delta refused. TFN had to dig a well and build a sewer plant, causing financial loss. Delta later found ample sewer and water capacity to serve nearby Tsawwassen Springs ... even enough to water the golf course! Talk about abuse of power.
A book reviewed in the Vancouver Sun on Dec. 6 deals with aboriginal issues. It reports the author argues that conditions are present for an uprising by First Nations people frustrated with decades of seeing their aspirations ignored by Canadian governments.
There is risk this frustration could turn into a rebellion. It cites "Idle No More" and threats by some aboriginal leaders to mount protests to shut down the Canadian economy.
I recall not a single protest by TFN or any members. Instead, they responsibly and steadfastly negotiated B.C.'s first urban treaty, committed TFN to eventually severing all financial benefits from Canada, and set about finding ways to support themselves with the land they got ... a miniscule part of land that once sustained them.
In my opinion, TFN's endeavours are a bright spot, and hopefully a model, for Canada's aboriginal community. I'm proud, and relieved, to have responsible neighbours such as TFN.
Ed Ries
