Ahousaht Reclaim Land

MEARES ISLAND - The Ahousaht First Nation near Tofino says it is reclaiming part of its traditional territory now owned by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, an international Roman Catholic organization with about 700 members in Canada.
Ahousaht leaders say more than a century ago the land was lent to missionaries to build a residential school. In the early 1970s the school closed. The site was then turned into a drug and alcohol treatment program for First Nations across the province. A few weeks ago that program was moved to Port Alberni, leaving the buildings vacant.

Negotiations have been underway to buy the land from the Oblates, but Ahousaht Chief Councillor John Frank says their last offer of one million dollars was rejected and talks have broken down.

On Monday more than 50 members of the Ahousaht First Nation listened to a declaration read by leaders stating they are reclaiming the land regardless of what happens. However, for the time being, leaders say they want to get back to the bargaining table to resolve the situation.

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