Assembly of First Nations Chief reminds Carney of his duty to ensure Indigenous consent for fast-tracking projects
The AFN warned that parliamentary committees – where proposed laws are studied in depth –cannot accommodate 'the numbers of First Nations likely wishing to engage on a matter of this magnitude and significance' nor do committee hearings provide the in-depth legal analysis and consultation she said the federal government is obliged to carry out.
Woodhouse Nepinak said the AFN supports 'efforts to protect' Canada and First Nations from 'geopolitical and economic uncertainty', but she warned the government must respect its duty under the constitution and international law to consult and accommodate First Nations' rights.
Repeatedly citing the United Nations' Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and what the AFN says is a comprehensive duty to ensure Indigenous engagement and consent at all stages in the legislative and approval process for projects, Woodhouse Nepinak warned of protests and lawsuits to come.
'If free, prior and informed consent is not obtained from First Nations, this legislation will be marred and mired in conflict and protracted litigation.'
She said Carney's plan to concentrate authority in 'one federal minister risks marginalizing First Nations' oversight and voices,' and 'one window approval means the constitutional and international rights of First Nations may be dealt with unevenly across the country.'
When it comes to 'nation-building projects,' the national chief said in an accompanying news release that 'Canada needs to start with fast-tracking the basics like clean water, quality housing, modern schools, all-season roads and community infrastructure.'
She said she raised the need to close the infrastructure gap
when she met Carney in Ottawa last week
.
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