Compromise offer in Musqueam lease dispute

The federal government is proposing a compromise solution for people who live on leased land on the Musqueam Reserve in Vancouver.

Many of the tenants owe tens of thousands of dollars in back rent.

Toni Timmermans is with the federal Indian Affairs Department. She says the tenants must pay an interim rent of $10,000 a year. In exchange, they will be allowed to stay in their homes until the case is settled by the courts.

Kerry Lynn Findlay, a spokesperson for the tenants, says the offer will be discussed at an upcoming meeting. Findlay says at first glance the proposal falls far short of what's needed to settle the dispute.