Future of former Kapyong Barracks in Winnipeg still uncertain
Posted August 17, 2015 12:44 pm.
Last Updated August 17, 2015 1:20 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
WINNIPEG – A Federal Court of Appeal ruling has upheld a lower court’s decision about the sale of former military land in Winnipeg.
The Appeal Court says Ottawa failed to properly consult four Manitoba First Nations about the future of the Kapyong Barracks.
But the court also says the failure isn’t as bad as the lower court ruled and the bands bore some of the blame.
The appeal judges also say it’s time for Ottawa to start consulting the First Nations again.
The fate of the land has been hung up in court since 2008 when First Nations leaders stated their desire to establish an urban reserve on the site.
Norman Boudreau, a lawyer representing two of the First Nations involved, says the ruling lays out the next steps fairly clearly.
“The ruling provides a guide for Canada to consult with the First Nations,” Boudreau said.
“I am positive that there are going to be very substantial talks coming up between Canada and the First Nations. We are very hopeful that these talks will result in an agreement.”
There is always the chance that Canada could appeal the ruling, but Boudreau doesn’t believe that will happen.
“This ruling is very strong.”
Boudreau is hopeful that the fate of the Kapyong Barracks will soon be decided.
“They (First Nations) would like to reconcile with the city and citizens of Winnipeg and take their proper place in Winnipeg and develop this land. The Federal Court of Appeal certainly gives them this entitlement.”
The federal government hasn’t announced whether it will appeal the court ruling.
(CJOB)
