Published on April 3, 2026

Aauuknuk (Lot 363) Claim – Community Information Session Summary

Community members were invited to an information session on Tuesday, where Ahousaht’s lawyer, Stan Ashcroft, walked through the Aauuknuk (Lot 363) claim and proposed settlement.

A live Zoom feed was provided for those unable to attend in person. However, due to echoing audio, it was difficult for some online participants to hear clearly. We appreciate everyone’s patience and participation.

This summary is being shared for those who were unable to attend or had trouble hearing the presentation.

Background

Ahousaht has been working for many years to resolve a claim that Lot 363 (Aauuknuk) should have been set aside as reserve land.

The original claim, filed in 2002, was rejected by Canada in 2009. Ahousaht brought the matter to the Specific Claims Tribunal, where the claim was dismissed in 2019. That decision was upheld on appeal in 2021.

In 2022, Ahousaht submitted a new claim based on delays in adding the land to reserve. Canada accepted this claim for negotiation in 2023.

Stan Ashcroft noted that this process has taken over 20 years and involved extensive legal work, including historical research and evidence related to Ahousaht’s use and connection to the land.

Settlement Overview

Through negotiations, both parties agreed the value of the land should be based on timber. Canada has offered a settlement of approximately $4,996,276, with about $4.95 million to be paid to Ahousaht after repayment of earlier claim-related loan funding.

The funds will be provided to Ahousaht to manage, with the expectation that they will be used for the benefit of the community.

Council reviewed the offer and determined it to be fair.

Key Terms

• The settlement funds will be paid directly to Ahousaht within 45 days of signing.

• The funds are to be used for the benefit of Ahousaht.

• In accepting the settlement, Ahousaht agrees to fully resolve and close this claim, with no further legal action on this matter.

• The agreement includes standard legal terms, including a full release of claims and conditions that protect Canada from future related claims.

Community Discussion

During the meeting, community members shared the importance of using the settlement funds in a way that supports both Elders and youth, and benefits the community over the long term.

Interim Deputy Chief Marla Kaloucokovale shared that a future meeting will be held with the community to discuss how the settlement funds should be used. She emphasized that the money is for the people, and the community will help decide how it is spent.

Community members are encouraged to continue sharing their ideas and priorities, which will help guide future discussions and planning.

Next Steps

• Community input will continue to be gathered on priorities for the use of the funds.

• A future meeting will be scheduled to further discuss and decide on how the settlement funds will be used.

• Follow-up questions can be directed to Marla for response after the meeting.

Closing

Thank you to everyone who attended and shared their perspectives. Community input remains an important part of this process.