New Hazelton, B.C. – A court hearing is scheduled in Smithers today in connection with the ongoing dispute centered around the Gitxsan Treaty Society Office.

On December 5th, 2011 the RCMP responded to a complaint after the Gitxsan Treaty Society Office was closed and boarded up. At the time the RCMP worked with the parties impacted in order to find a resolution that allowed those involved to have a peaceful demonstration and to voice their concerns.

The RCMP have worked to facilitate dialogue and have offered assistance to identify independent mediators while also being mindful of a court injunction and the enforcement order. The RCMP remains impartial in this matter and have been actively working to ensure a peaceful management of the dispute.  

The RCMP wants to ensure the safety of all parties involved in this conflict along with police officer safety, while also keeping the peace. It is our intention that everyone involved can come to an agreement and return to a safe and productive working environment.

The court has ordered the blockade to end and as part of its order has authorized the RCMP to take enforcement action, within its operational policing discretion. A court hearing today will deal with the injunction. At the same time the protesters will bring an application to strike down the injunction.