The Federal Court has made a ruling on the ongoing dispute within the Blueberry River First Nations.
Back in July, the Apsassin family and a group of Elders took four councillors—Wayne Yahey, Shelley Gauthier, Troy Wolf, and Sherry Dominic—to court, claiming they had breached the Nation’s governance laws.
Elders Clarence and Joseph Apsassin sought a judicial review in January, and on Monday, the judge partially granted it. The court found the councillors had repeatedly made key decisions in private without consulting family groups or members, and held meetings without following proper by-laws and procedures.
Councillor Gauthier failed to provide proper meeting records during cross-examination. The judge issued formal orders for the council to follow its own governance rules, meet regularly as a whole, and consult family groups and Elders on major decisions.
A separate case on removing Chief Judy Desjarlais is still before the court. Elders said they are thrilled with the outcome and hopeful for a new direction, adding that a by-election will be held as soon as possible.
-Noah Abel
