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CLEARWATER - A gathering at the campgrounds in North Thompson River Provincial Park has led to a protest which is keeping the general public out of the area.

The Ministry of Environment says in an email the campground was used to host an Indigenous cultural event from July 6 to July 9 and during that time, regular camping and day-use was unavailable to the general public.

"Some event participants remain on site, and have indicated they are occupying the park in protest against the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project," the statement says.

According to the ministry, B.C. Parks is maintaining the closure of the park while efforts are made to peacefully resolve the situation.

"The Province recognizes the right to engage in peaceful protest, however also recognizes that people and families who are simply wanting a camping experience in this particular park are – regrettably – being inconvenienced," the ministry says.

The "Tiny House Warriors" said in a news release today, July 11, that their volunteer group is currently working on reclaiming the land to block the planned route of the Trans Mountain expansion project.

Three tiny houses have been placed in the proposed pipeline's path, and the union states Secwepemc land defenders are beginning to re-establish an ancient village on what in now the North Thompson River Provincial Park.

Beginning today, additional tiny homes will be constructed on the site, the union says.

“Justin Trudeau has left us no choice," Tiny House Warrior leader Kanahus Manuel says in the release. "This pipeline violates our rights and endangers our lands and waters. To stop it, we’re reclaiming our ancestral village and bringing our traditions back to life."

"If Trudeau wants to build this pipeline, he will need to empty this village a second time; in doing so, he would make continued colonization and cultural genocide part of his legacy of so-called reconciliation. Trudeau may have agreed to purchase this pipeline to make sure it gets built, but we’re here to make sure that it doesn’t. This pipeline is unfundable and unbuildable. It’s time Trudeau and all potential financial backers of this pipeline realized that we will never allow it to destroy our home."

The group launched in September 2017, and operates under the authority of Secwepemc law to assert jurisdiction and title over their unceded territory. The group argues the pipeline is not in the best interest of the Secwepemc Nation.

North Thompson River Provincial Park campers affected by the situation are being offered refunds for fees already paid, and assistance is being provided to make alternate arrangements for displaced campers at nearby campsites at no expense.

— This story was updated at 2:21 p.m., Wednesday, July 11, 2018, to include new information from the Tiny House Warriors.

— This story was corrected at 5 p.m. Thursday, July 12, 2018, to indicate the news release was sent out by the Tiny House Warriors, not the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs.

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