Lelu Island, Flora Bank

The Lax Kw'alaams First Nation is proceeding with a title action for Lelu Island and Flora Bank to establish existing Aboriginal title to the land, something that band says would obligate the government to seek their consent before proceeding with the Pacific NorthWest (PNW) LNG terminal development.

The band says it was opposed to test drilling that began this week and that the terminal itself would not have band support on Lelu Island.

"Our traditional law, backed by our scientific reports, has made it clear that Flora Bank cannot be touched by PNW or any other company that proposes development. This decision is backed by the community and an alternate site must be found if the project is to proceed," said Lax Kw'alaams Mayor Garry Reece.

"We are open to development, including PNW's project. But not the way the project is currently constituted. We have serious concerns about Flora Bank and its environmental importance. The project needs to change before its embraced by the Lax Kw'alaams members."

As well as the location of the terminal, Reece said the band has been "extremely concerned with the apathy and indifference shown by the Government of Canada and its delegated body, the Prince Rupert Port Authority" who Reece said has completely ignored concerns about the terminal's location. As well, Reece said the current federal and provincial environmental assessments are simply inadequate.

"We need a proper process and good science. Lax Kw'alaams requires all projects be reviewed to a standard set by our scientists and experts," he said.

In order to provide more information to members the band has arranged a community meeting on Sept. 30 to discuss the project and the title claim.

"It is our goal to be transparent and accountable to our people," said Reece.

Representatives from the Prince Rupert Port Authority and Pacific NorthWest LNG did not immediately return a request for comment. Look for more on this story as it become available.