To coincide with the Cowichan case, another aboriginal title claim has affected Metro Vancouver. However, Kwikwetlem First Nation has been pursuing these lands since at least 2016 and this measure was not coordinated with Cowichan First Nation. The litigation process is in abeyance as an out of court settlement is being pursued by the Province.
Kwikwetlem has two reserves in the area, and they are seeking Aboriginal title over several major properties owned by the City of Port Coquitlam. This includes the 37-acre Gates Park, one of Port Coquitlam’s most popular recreation and athletic leisure sites and which is expected to receive a new soccer training facility. The First Nation is also pursuing multiple undeveloped lots in the South Shaughnessy area.
Kwikwetlem is als0 seeking to claim the adjacent 700-acre ƛ̓éxətəm Regional Park, which is part of Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam and is owned by the Metro Vancouver Regional District.
Port Coquitlam mayor Brad West stated that he will defend public ownership of these lands and private property rights in his municipal jurisdiction.
City of Coquitlam officials have not yet made an official statement.