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VANCOUVER – Opponents of a federal free trade deal with China are rallying today outside the Federal Court in Vancouver, where a small Vancouver Island First Nation is challenging the agreement.

The Hupacasath (who-petch-ah-set) First Nation says the deal will give foreign corporations leverage over Canadian regulatory and resource decisions and could infringe on aboriginal rights.

The band has the support of groups such as the Chiefs of Ontario, the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs, the Council of Canadians, the Canadian Auto Workers and ForestEthics.

Hupacasath spokeswoman Brenda Sayers says the judicial challenge is based on indigenous rights, but she believes the band is fighting for all Canadians.

The Conservative government says the Foreign Investment and Promotion and Protection agreement will give Canadians greater access to China, but critics say it gives state-owned Chinese corporations far greater access — and control — over Canadian markets.

The federal court has set aside three days for hearings.

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