B.C. Conservatives Vow to Repeal DRIPA, Citing Co-operative Approach Under Interim Leader
B.C. Conservatives pledge to repeal DRIPA under interim leader

In a significant political development, the interim leader of the British Columbia Conservative Party has outlined a key legislative priority for the party. Trevor Halford, the MLA for Surrey-White Rock, has stated that the B.C. Conservatives will pursue the repeal of the province's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA).

A Co-operative Path Forward

Halford emphasized that his party intends to approach this goal through collaboration. He specifically noted that the B.C. Conservatives plan to "work co-operatively" to achieve the repeal of the legislation. This statement, made in December 2025, signals a strategic shift, focusing on building alliances or consensus within the legislative framework of the B.C. Legislature in Victoria.

The announcement provides a clear direction for the party under its interim leadership. While the original news item did not specify the exact methods or potential partners for this co-operative effort, the commitment itself marks a definitive policy stance. The move is likely to spark considerable debate within British Columbia's political landscape, touching on issues of Indigenous relations and provincial law.

Context and Political Landscape

The statement was made public on December 07, 2025. Halford, who serves as the interim party leader, was seen leaving the house following question period at the provincial legislature earlier that week, on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. His declaration positions the repeal of DRIPA as a central plank for the Conservatives as they navigate the provincial political scene.

The focus on DRIPA repeal suggests the party is seeking to distinguish itself on matters of governance and Indigenous policy. By framing the effort as "co-operative," Halford may be aiming to broaden the appeal of the initiative beyond the party's traditional base, potentially seeking support from other political factions or community groups.

As the interim leader sets this course, the political repercussions and the practical steps toward achieving this goal will be closely watched by observers, stakeholders, and other political parties in British Columbia. The success of this co-operative approach will depend heavily on the party's ability to build the necessary support within the legislature.