Cowichan Tribes is calling on the federal government to act on an illegal dumpsite on Indian Road outside Duncan.
In a statement, the First Nation said the site has been subject to repeated dumping, including garbage, construction and industrial waste, and potentially contaminated materials, some of which could have serious environmental consequences.
“Cowichan Tribes has been deeply concerned regarding illegal dumping of garbage, construction and industrial waste, and potentially contaminated materials on our reserve lands and the environmental impacts of these activities,” the statement said.
The First Nation said several attempts have been made to stop the unauthorised dumping and hold offenders accountable, including letters and meetings involving law enforcement, health officials and Aboriginal Affairs.
“These actions include repeatedly issuing cease-and-desist letters to both the individual coordinating these activities and companies participating in the dumping,” the statement said. “Also, meetings with federal representatives from Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, Health Canada, Aboriginal Affairs, Northern Development Canada, and the RCMP to request assistance and collaboration.”
The release noted that Cowichan Tribes’ authority is limited because the land is not part of their Land Code and falls under federal jurisdiction. It added that the Government of Canada owes “ongoing duties” to Cowichan Tribes and its citizens for continued collaboration on land issues.
