The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) chiefs have unanimously resolved to oppose the Carney government's proposed reforms aimed at streamlining major project approvals, citing concerns over environmental protections and Indigenous rights. This decision comes as the federal Liberals push for a one-year timeline for project approvals, including the creation of a Crown Consultation Hub to engage with Indigenous Peoples. The AFN's national chief, Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, denounced the plan, emphasizing that the timeline subordinates the honor of the Crown to commercial interests and raises questions about the legitimacy of approvals. The resolution, moved by Judy Wilson, a proxy delegate for the Shuswap Band in B.C., calls for the protection of environmental safeguards, oversight, meaningful consultation, and the free, prior, and informed consent of First Nations. This stance sets the stage for a high-stakes first ministers' meeting in October, where tensions between the federal and provincial governments over issues like separatism in Alberta and the drinking water bill (Bill C-37) are expected to be discussed. The Carney government's approach to the bill has been criticized for weakening protections for water sources off reserve and removing direct recognition of First Nations' human right to safe drinking water, sparking accusations of political maneuvering and a potential rollback of environmental safeguards.
