Saugeen First Nation is now the rightful homeowners to 2 kilometres of useful Sauble Seashore shoreline.
“The rights of the Saugeen people have been vindicated. After generations of struggle this is a victory that belongs to our entire community,” stated Saugeen First Nation Chief, Conrad Ritchie. “Our relationship with our lands and waters is central to our way of life, and Sauble beach, known to us as Chi-Gmiinh, is an integral part of our community.”
Ontario’s court docket of enchantment dismissed an enchantment by the city of South Bruce Peninsula, the Province of Ontario, and two personal Sauble seaside landowners, as as to whether the Saugeen First Nation actually does personal the stretch of sandy seaside, from Principal Avenue to sixth avenue north, within the shoreline city.
An April 2023 court docket ruling transferred possession of the stretch of sand from the city of South Bruce Peninsula to the Saugeen First Nation, after a long time of authorized wrangling.
South Bruce Peninsula and Ontario disagreed, however the enchantment was dismissed on Dec. 9, clearing the trail for unfettered management of a big swath of the Sauble Seashore shoreline, to the native Indigenous band.
“The court has recognized the importance of Sauble Beach to the Saugeen First Nation, but we recognize it is important to others as well, including as a tourist destination. We look forward to continuing to do the good work that we have done with our neighbours and partners over the past two summers, to keep the beach a special place for everyone, under the Saugeen First Nation’s jurisdiction.”
Public entry to one in every of Ontario’s prime seaside locations has continued for the reason that possession change, and seems to be persevering with that means, into the longer term.
The city of South Bruce Peninsula, which nonetheless oversee the remainder of Sauble Seashore, is contemplating subsequent steps.
“While we are disappointed with the outcome, we respect the judicial process and remain committed to acting in the best interests of our community,” stated South Bruce Peninsula Mayor, Jay Kirkland.
Having their enchantment dismissed, means South Bruce Peninsula should cowl almost $2 million in court docket prices for each the Saugeen First Nation, and authorities of Canada, who had been supporting the Indigenous group’s land declare.
