The New Hazelton RCMP continue to work with the community and the impacted parties in the hope of a peaceful resolution to an ongoing dispute centered around the Gitxsan Treaty Society Office.

On Dec. 5, 2011 the RCMP responded to a complaint after the Gitxsan Treaty Society Office was closed and boarded up. At the time the RCMP worked with the parties impacted in order to find a resolution that allowed those involved to have a peaceful demonstration and to voice their concerns. Members of the New Hazelton detachment continue to visit the site to ensure that this civil dispute occurs in a peaceful manner.

The RCMP have worked to facilitate dialogue and have offered assistance to identify independent mediators while also being mindful of the court injunction and the enforcement order.

It is our hope that this matter can be resolved with the safety and security of all those involved as this is our primary concern. The RCMP remains impartial in this matter and have been actively working to ensure a peaceful management of the dispute. We are sincerely hopeful impending enforcement measures will not be required.

The RCMP wants to ensure the safety of all parties involved in this conflict along with police officer safety, while also keeping the peace.

It is our intention that everyone involved can come to an agreement and return to a safe and productive working environment.

The court has ordered the blockade to end and as part of its order has authorized the RCMP to take enforcement action, within its operational policing discretion.

There is a court hearing scheduled for May 14 in Smithers with respect to the injunction. At the same time the protesters will bring an application to strike down the injunction.