The Story –
This is yet another case of a boundary dispute between a First Nations group and a company. The Tsilhqot’in people have recently declared the implementation of Dasiqox Tribal Park which includes Fish Lake. But here’s the catch – it is also the site of Taseko’s proposed New Prosperity mine. The First Nations group views these 3,120 kilometres as their sovereign territory while Taseko owns Fish Lake property that lies just outside the title area recognized by courts. Ultimately, the company changed its plans and eventually announced a $79-million takeover of Curis Resources (Arizona copper developer), however, the controversy between the Tsilhqot’in people and Taseko is still worth analysing.
So What?
This case is significant because it speaks a lot to the importance of engaging with stakeholders before implementing a project. In any business project, certain parties must be informed and consulted with prior to launching. For example, provincial and federal governments, banks, and investors must be notified and the plan must be passed by these parties before action can be taken. Another vital group specific to this case is the Tsilhqot’in people. A main reason for the ambiguity in borders with the controversy between Taseko and the First Nations is that the company failed to correspond and engage with the First Nations group. Thus, their voices were muted and unheard in the process. This leaves the Tsilhqot’in displeased with the business plans as they view it to be harmful to their environment and the company can no longer continue with their initial New Prosperity mine project. This became a lose-lose situation because Taseko failed to address all stakeholders involved in the situation.
The Takeaway –
Stakeholders are important! Talk to them.
Fish Lake