Tsuut’ina First Nation says those trespassing to sunbathe will face the law
Posted Jun 30, 2023 6:05 pm.
Tsuut’ina Nation is fed up with “disrespectful and irresponsible individuals” trespassing on their lands to sunbathe in the nude.
In a statement Friday, the Nation’s lands department says people are coming onto their land illegally.
They say designated areas are welcome to visitors, but all other Tsuut’ina land is private and “has the same protection as any Canadian abode, homestead, farm, or industrial land.”
The Nation says people “divert water from vital riparian areas, squat, dump refuse, trespass and generally feel entitled to use Tsuut’ina land for themselves.”
“These individuals create a serious risk to themselves and to our citizens. Some of the lands they cross were part of the old military base and may contain unexploded ordinances,” said Tanis Onespot, executive director of the Tsuut’ina Lands Department.
“They seriously affect riparian zones, put undo strain on our already stretched resources and expose themselves to other risks. More importantly, our citizens are sometimes threatened by these trespassers who often create conflict.”
Onespot says according to its Treaty, those on the lands are asked to always respect the lands and not to encroach or “molest our lands.”
“Unfortunately, this is happening on a frequent basis, and we have been more than patient and accommodating,” Onespot said.
As a result, they say those caught trespassing will face the laws of the land and the laws of Canada.
“We respect our neighbours and their lands. We ask that our neighbours reciprocate that respect both by respecting our laws and the Treaties that built the foundation of Canada,” Onespot said.
