UPDATE: THE JUDGE HAS RULED TO DISMISS THE SINIXT PETITION. SUNSHINE LOGGING LEGALLY CLEAR TO COMMENCE LOGGING AT PERRY RIDGE

The Sinixt Nation is before the BC Supreme Court, seeking the right to be consulted on a planned logging project in their traditional territory. Sunshine Logging wants to log a section of Perry Ridge, amid the Slocan Valley in the Kootenays. The Sinixt are supported by the local non-aboriginal community as well, represented in part by the Perry Ridge Water Users’ Association – who share the Sinixt concerns about safety risks from rock slides and various potential environmental impacts. Several weeks ago, Damien Gillis had a chance to interview the Sinixt official representative, Marilyn James and her supporters at the Vancouver courthouse. The judge’s verdict is expected this coming week. Recognizing the Sinixt standing on the issue could enable them to obtain an injunction preventing the logging activities.