Chiefs Gather, Put Canada On Notice For One Canadian Economy Act

Chiefs from all across Canada gathered in Gatineau, Quebec as concerns remain over the One Canadian Economy Act.

The Act provides wide-sweeping Ministerial powers to approve and fast-track large industrial projects deemed to be in the national interest in the absence of adequate protections and provisions to ensure that the rights and title of First Nations will be respected.

They met earlier this week to develop a unified position on the risks posed by the One Canadian Economy Act, which they say was rushed.

The BC Assembly of First Nations has issued a statement of unity reflecting the concerns raised by Chiefs in BC.

They say they stand firmly united in opposition to any Crown representative, legislation or policy that infringes their inherent, Treaty and constitutionally protected rights as protected and affirmed by the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, adding their rights, titles and interests within their respective territories are non-negotiable.

Regional Chief Terry Teegee says Canada must be made aware that if it wants to enact such far-reaching legislation that conflicts with their own commitments and legal obligations, that First Nations are prepared to stand up for their human and inherent rights.

Without adequate protections, Teegee says First Nations will bear the burden of this hastily developed, opportunistic plan to fast-track potentially devastating projects over First Nations territories.

The majority of Chiefs in BC remain concerned about the lack of transparency, accountability and commitment to the protection of their Nations rights.

Chiefs have recently passed resolutions related to the Act calling for full consultation, coordinated strategy and alignment with the UN Declaration.

To learn more, visit British Columbia Assembly of First Nations.