A contentious building project on Grace Islet that caused outrage among Salt Spring Island residents has been stopped due to the province stepping in with a purchase plan.
The province is partnering with local First Nations and the Nature Conservancy of Canada on long-term conservation for Grace Islet, which is a privately-owned property and home to a First Nations burial ground.
“It can sometimes be challenging to balance the need to protect archaeological sites while respecting private property rights,” said Steve Thomson, Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations.
Protests and ire arose in August 2014 when the owner of the islet, Edmonton businessman Barry Slawsky, made plans to build a luxury home over the First Nations burial ground.
Only a hectare in size, the Grace Islet is recognized as an ancient burial site under the Provincial Heritage Conservation Act. But due to the remains of the burial ground dating back to before 1846, it does not get the same protection as a cemetery.
According to the ministry, building construction on the islet stopped on Dec. 18, 2014.
WATCH: Opposition builds to a luxury home being built on Native burial grounds near Salt Spring. Kylie Stanton has more.
If the negotiations go as planned and close successfully, the Nature Conservancy of Canada, local First Nations, and the province will be working together on a future management plan for the islet.
“Our ancestors can now rest in peace on Grace Islet,” said First Nation Chief Vern Jacks.
“Tseycum appreciates the hard work of the Province, the Nature Conservancy of Canada and the landowner in resolving the situation.”
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