The Alberta Court of Appeal has upheld a contempt finding against the Tsuu T’ina Nation, ruling that First Nations are bound by the law like everyone else.
In November, a Court of Queen’s Bench judge found the band in contempt of court for shutting off utilities to three people living at the Black Bear Crossing complex just west of 37 St. S.W. when the band was previously ordered to keep the status quo at the site. In December, the court ruled the band could switch off the utilities because of safety concerns.
The band argued to the appeal court that its status as a First Nation gives it latitude regarding court orders, but the court disagreed. “The rule of law applies to all Canadians, and the obligation to respect court orders is universal,” says the April 9 ruling. The court also said orders “arguably granted in error” must still be obeyed.
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