‘It’s essential the process is done properly’: Petition over BRFN councillor reaches threshold to launch investigation

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Blueberry River First Nations (BRFN) council says it will launch an investigation into the potential removal of Shelley Gauthier.

A petition from two BRFN members – Clarence and Joe Apsassin – was presented and debated during the council’s meeting on March 6th.

The pair have been pushing for Gauthier’s removal since last fall, stating a lack of confidence in her representation.

Under the band’s by-laws, a councillor may be removed if they lose the confidence of the family they represent, complete with a petition of at least 60 per cent of the voters within a family.

The petition document obtained by Energeticcity.ca says grievances against Gauthier include allegedly “ignor[ing] directives from family elders and members” and a “failure to provide transparency and band council resolutions signed on behalf of the family.”

The petition in favour of removal was counteracted by an open letter stating the full family of the late Edward Apsassin – whom Gauthier has represented in council since 2022 – is not reflected in the petition presented by the elders.

In a statement on March 11th, BRFN council stated the petitioners “have now completed the first step in the process” and “the next steps to properly investigate the claim further” will be taken.

“Since we do not have a chief operating officer the process will require the hiring of an independent investigator,” says the release from BRFN council. 

“Once in place, the investigator will assess the merits of the petition and confirm it meets the requirements under [our] election code. If necessary, the investigator will then compile a report on the claims against Gauthier, then present it to council [not including Gauthier].

“It is essential this process is done properly and impartially in accordance with our laws.”

Energeticcity.ca reached out to Gauthier for comment, but did not immediately receive a response. This story will be updated if more information becomes available.

Learn about all the events at BRFN since 2021 in our timeline story here.