Comprehensive and Specific Claims

In 1973, the Federal Government reversed its position on aboriginal title. The new position formed a basis on which the government established two broad categories of native land claims, comprehensive and specific. Comprehensive claims included those based upon the native occupation of their traditional lands not dealt with by treaty or other means. Specific claims included those in which a treaty, agreement, or statute had been violated. Only six comprehensive claims could be negotiated at one time. This process was painstakingly slow, increasing the frustration of B.C. natives who represent the bulk of comprehensive claims.