Latest news with #IndigenousAdvisoryCouncil
Cision Canada
7 days ago
- Business
- Cision Canada
Readout - Prime Minister Carney meets with premiers to remove barriers and advance major projects Français
HUNTSVILLE, ON, /CNW/ - Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, met with provincial and territorial premiers in Huntsville, Ontario. The Prime Minister updated the premiers on trade negotiations with the United States. He emphasized that the federal government remains focused on getting the best deal for Canadians. First Ministers are united on this. The Prime Minister also underscored recent federal measures to restrict and reduce steel imports into Canada, protect Canadian steel workers, catalyze domestic steel production, and prioritize the procurement of Canadian steel in government projects. First Ministers discussed their ongoing work to get major projects built across the country, strengthening Canada's economic resilience. To that end, the Prime Minister shared that the Major Federal Projects Office and the Indigenous Advisory Council will be operational by Labour Day – acting as the point of contact for governments, proponents, and communities to submit their proposals. The Prime Minister will continue meeting with key stakeholders over the coming weeks to ensure big projects are built in full partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, and to build one Canadian economy. First Ministers also discussed the wildfire situation across Canada, and the Prime Minister emphasized the federal government's readiness to mobilize additional resources to protect and support Canadians.
Globe and Mail
19-07-2025
- Politics
- Globe and Mail
Chiefs criticize Indigenous advisory council for Bill C-5 projects after meeting with Carney
Two First Nations chiefs are voicing concerns over a proposed Indigenous advisory council that will work with Bill C-5's major projects office, with one saying he has little faith that it will have any impact. Part of the recently passed legislation allows the federal cabinet to deem projects to be of national interest and then exempt them from various laws in order to speed up approvals and construction. The co-ordination of potential projects to be considered on the national-interest list will be done by the major projects office, which will work closely with an Indigenous advisory council announced last month. Both the office and the council are expected to be up and running by Labour Day, the Prime Minister's Office said. The council will be comprised of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis representatives, as well as modern treaty and self-government delegates, to help ensure Indigenous perspectives and priorities are integrated at each stage, the PMO added. Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler, who represents 49 First Nations in Northern Ontario, said he has not yet seen a mandate or terms of reference for the council, but he doesn't 'really have too much faith in' it. 'We've seen advisory committees before on other issues and in different ways,' he said. 'They can provide all the advice that they want, it doesn't necessarily mean that their advice will be heeded or actioned on.' When asked what could give him faith, Mr. Fiddler said the government could amend Bill C-5 to explicitly include that First Nations will have to consent to major projects taking place in their territory. Why First Nations are clashing with Ontario and Ottawa over bills aimed at speeding up megaprojects The law has sparked worry from Indigenous leaders, who have said they are not against development but are concerned their treaty rights will be violated. The federal government has repeatedly said Indigenous people will be consulted at key stages. Prime Minister Mark Carney met with First Nations leaders on Thursday after facing significant pushback from Indigenous leadership on how Bill C-5 was introduced and then sped through Parliament in under a month. At the meeting, Mr. Carney said projects under the legislation will be built with Indigenous communities. Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation Chief Sheldon Sunshine also levelled heavy criticism at the proposed council. He called it a 'colonial construct' and said it will be used to 'manufacture consent on legislation and policies that affect all Indigenous people, including treaty nations.' 'A small group of hand-selected advisers cannot speak on behalf of hundreds of distinct nations with sovereign governance structures,' he said at a press conference after Thursday's meeting. Chiefs gave the meeting mixed reviews. Overall, Mr. Fiddler described it as 'a bit of a gongshow,' citing a last-minute agenda and First Nations' support staff needing to watch online owing to capacity limits at the venue. Mr. Carney committed to regional dialogues. Mr. Fiddler said he told Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty that he is willing to be flexible with the dates of a fall grand assembly to accommodate Mr. Carney's schedule. Mr. Fiddler said he also told Ms. Gull-Masty that there needs to be a forum for youth to voice their concerns directly to government, after youth protesters from Nishnawbe Aski Nation were not allowed into the meeting – a move he called 'very concerning.' 'When we talk about lands and resources and waters, we're talking about our young people and their future,' he said. Mr. Fiddler added he expects to see more protests. His First Nation is monitoring a court challenge filed by nine Ontario First Nations on Bill C-5 and Ontario's similar Bill 5, he said. Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, took a more positive view of the meeting, saying it was a 'good first step.' She reiterated her call to have Mr. Carney meet with First Nations annually, on top of the regional discussions. 'He stayed in the room with those chiefs. He listened to them. He talked to them one-on-one, plus as a group, took lots of questions,' she said, adding she thinks he gained some friends from across the country. She noted the relationship Mr. Carney's government has with First Nations will be determined by actions it takes this fall. She has called on the Prime Minister to address the First Nations infrastructure deficit, and to ensure there are no budget cuts to First Nations, among other asks. Thursday's meeting was the first of three to be held between the Prime Minister and First Nations leaders on Bill C-5. Mr. Carney is set to meet with the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee next week in Inuvik, N.W.T., according to the PMO, and with Métis leadership later on in the summer. Meanwhile, Mr. Carney is also scheduled to meet with Canada's premiers next week to discuss next steps.
Yahoo
18-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Prime Minister engages First Nations Rights Holders on the Building Canada Act
GATINEAU, QC, July 17, 2025 /CNW/ - Canada's new government is ready to get our country building major projects again – and projects built in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples will be at the forefront of this work. To that end, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, convened the First Nations Major Projects Summit in Gatineau, Québec, to engage First Nations groups on the Building Canada Act and how to most effectively build major projects in partnership with Indigenous Peoples. Over 250 First Nations leaders, regional organizations, and other Rights Holders' representatives attended the meeting in person and virtually to share their insights, ideas, and priorities. The Prime Minister heard from First Nations and discussed how the Building Canada Act was designed to transform the Canadian economy and contribute to greater prosperity for Indigenous communities, through equity and resource management projects. To ensure that these major projects are built in partnership with Indigenous Peoples, the federal government is moving forward with several new measures, including: Standing up an Indigenous Advisory Council that will closely work with the new Major Federal Projects Office. Comprised of First Nations, Inuit, Métis, as well as Modern Treaty and Self-Government representatives, the Advisory Council will help ensure Indigenous perspectives and priorities are integrated at each stage. Dedicating $40 million in funding for Indigenous participation. From early discussions on which projects to include to ongoing governance and capacity-building, new funding streams will support meaningful participation of Indigenous leadership in nation-building projects. Expanding the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program. The government has doubled the program to $10 billion to help unlock capital for Indigenous communities to gain full equity ownership in major nation-building projects. Collaboration will continue with First Nations leadership at all levels through regional dialogue tables. The Prime Minister will soon meet separately with the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee and Métis leadership to further advance these conversations on a distinctions basis. Quotes"It's time to build big projects that will transform and connect our economy. Central to this mission is shared leadership with Indigenous Peoples. Working in partnership, we can seize this opportunity and build lasting prosperity for generations."— The Rt. Hon. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada "This Summit marks a turning point. The One Canadian Economy Act is not just about inclusion – it's about recognizing that prosperity comes when First Nations are full partners in shaping the future. Together, we are building an economy that reflects our shared values, our shared responsibilities, and our shared potential."— The Hon. Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services "Today represents a historic opportunity. Together, we're beginning the work of building a better future, one in which Indigenous economies and priorities are truly integrated into the national economy. By listening, engaging, and learning in the spirit of true partnership, we are taking the first steps toward that brighter, more equitable future."— The Hon. Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations "The One Canadian Economy Act is designed to build Canada strong – building economic resilience here at home while ensuring that First Nations, and all Canadians, benefit. To achieve our objectives, we will – and must – look to advance the interests of Indigenous communities. That is the only path to shared success. The First Nations Major Projects Summit marks the first step in that process – setting the stage to create lasting economic opportunities for First Nations across Canada."— The Hon. Dominic LeBlanc, President of the King's Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy "It's time to build major energy and resource projects again in Canada to strengthen our economy and secure our sovereignty in the face of threats. A key part of how we will do this successfully is transforming how we think about First Nations partnership. First Nations are not just participants in our economy – they are the original stewards of this land, Rights Holders, governments, and builders. With meaningful collaboration as partners, they enable us to build better. It's clear: if we are serious about retooling our economy, then reconciliation must be front and centre, not just at today's Summit, but in perpetuity."— The Hon. Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Quick facts Central to the Building Canada Act is Indigenous consultation, participation, equity, and partnership. The Act requires meaningful consultation on which projects are deemed in the national interest and on the conditions that projects will have to meet. The Government of Canada will advance nation-building projects while respecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples recognized and affirmed by Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, and the rights set out in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, including the principle of free, prior, and informed consent. The Canada Indigenous Loan Guarantee Corporation is responsible for managing the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program. Loan guarantees are available to support Indigenous equity participation in projects of various sizes, reflecting the diversity of opportunities and economic development priorities in Indigenous communities across Canada. By advancing national interest projects, the Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to support economic prosperity, grounded in respect for constitutionally protected rights and modern treaty obligations. This document is also available at SOURCE Prime Minister's Office View original content: Sign in to access your portfolio
Cision Canada
17-07-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Prime Minister engages First Nations Rights Holders on the Building Canada Act Français
GATINEAU, QC, /CNW/ - Canada's new government is ready to get our country building major projects again – and projects built in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples will be at the forefront of this work. To that end, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, convened the First Nations Major Projects Summit in Gatineau, Québec, to engage First Nations groups on the Building Canada Act and how to most effectively build major projects in partnership with Indigenous Peoples. Over 250 First Nations leaders, regional organizations, and other Rights Holders' representatives attended the meeting in person and virtually to share their insights, ideas, and priorities. The Prime Minister heard from First Nations and discussed how the Building Canada Act was designed to transform the Canadian economy and contribute to greater prosperity for Indigenous communities, through equity and resource management projects. To ensure that these major projects are built in partnership with Indigenous Peoples, the federal government is moving forward with several new measures, including: Standing up an Indigenous Advisory Council that will closely work with the new Major Federal Projects Office. Comprised of First Nations, Inuit, Métis, as well as Modern Treaty and Self-Government representatives, the Advisory Council will help ensure Indigenous perspectives and priorities are integrated at each stage. Dedicating $40 million in funding for Indigenous participation. From early discussions on which projects to include to ongoing governance and capacity-building, new funding streams will support meaningful participation of Indigenous leadership in nation-building projects. Expanding the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program. The government has doubled the program to $10 billion to help unlock capital for Indigenous communities to gain full equity ownership in major nation-building projects. Collaboration will continue with First Nations leadership at all levels through regional dialogue tables. The Prime Minister will soon meet separately with the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee and Métis leadership to further advance these conversations on a distinctions basis. Quotes "It's time to build big projects that will transform and connect our economy. Central to this mission is shared leadership with Indigenous Peoples. Working in partnership, we can seize this opportunity and build lasting prosperity for generations." — The Rt. Hon. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada "This Summit marks a turning point. The One Canadian Economy Act is not just about inclusion – it's about recognizing that prosperity comes when First Nations are full partners in shaping the future. Together, we are building an economy that reflects our shared values, our shared responsibilities, and our shared potential." — The Hon. Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services "Today represents a historic opportunity. Together, we're beginning the work of building a better future, one in which Indigenous economies and priorities are truly integrated into the national economy. By listening, engaging, and learning in the spirit of true partnership, we are taking the first steps toward that brighter, more equitable future." — The Hon. Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations "The One Canadian Economy Act is designed to build Canada strong – building economic resilience here at home while ensuring that First Nations, and all Canadians, benefit. To achieve our objectives, we will – and must – look to advance the interests of Indigenous communities. That is the only path to shared success. The First Nations Major Projects Summit marks the first step in that process – setting the stage to create lasting economic opportunities for First Nations across Canada." — The Hon. Dominic LeBlanc, President of the King's Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy "It's time to build major energy and resource projects again in Canada to strengthen our economy and secure our sovereignty in the face of threats. A key part of how we will do this successfully is transforming how we think about First Nations partnership. First Nations are not just participants in our economy – they are the original stewards of this land, Rights Holders, governments, and builders. With meaningful collaboration as partners, they enable us to build better. It's clear: if we are serious about retooling our economy, then reconciliation must be front and centre, not just at today's Summit, but in perpetuity." — The Hon. , Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Quick facts Central to the Building Canada Act is Indigenous consultation, participation, equity, and partnership. The Act requires meaningful consultation on which projects are deemed in the national interest and on the conditions that projects will have to meet. The Government of Canada will advance nation-building projects while respecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples recognized and affirmed by Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, and the rights set out in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, including the principle of free, prior, and informed consent. The Canada Indigenous Loan Guarantee Corporation is responsible for managing the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program. Loan guarantees are available to support Indigenous equity participation in projects of various sizes, reflecting the diversity of opportunities and economic development priorities in Indigenous communities across Canada. By advancing national interest projects, the Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to support economic prosperity, grounded in respect for constitutionally protected rights and modern treaty obligations.
CBC
05-06-2025
- Politics
- CBC
Thunder Bay Public Library appoints Indigenous relations adviser
The Thunder Bay Public Library has appointed Stephanie MacLaurin as its new senior adviser of Indigenous relations, a key leadership role aimed at advancing the library's commitment to reconciliation and the decolonization of public spaces. MacLaurin, who is Anishinaabe from Fort William First Nation and a lifelong resident of Westfort, brings more than eight years of professional experience to the position. Their background includes work in governance, Indigenous political science, mental health and post-secondary education. In the new role, MacLaurin will oversee the Indigenous Services Department. They will liaise with the Indigenous Advisory Council and other community partners. Their work will support the implementation of the library's Relationship-Building and Reconciliation Action Plan, which was developed in 2018 with guidance from the advisory council. The plan outlines the library's commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action and a broader effort to decolonize library practices and spaces. That includes providing educational resources, supporting Indigenous knowledge preservation and reviewing library policies. "A new job isn't just a fresh start," says MacLaurin. "It's the opening chapter of a story waiting to be written with passion, purpose and possibility. Stepping into this new role feels like stepping into the life I've been working towards." MacLaurin says they were drawn to the role by its emphasis on community engagement, something they missed in a previous position. "When I moved into my last position that I left for this job, I lost that kind of community component," they said. "I found myself looking at a role that was possibly all-encompassing for the interests that I have in my life right now." MacLaurin said the role immediately clicked for them. They have already identified three early priorities a few weeks into the role: strategic planning for the Indigenous Services Department; building relationships with Indigenous organizations and leadership; and contributing to policy analysis alongside library management. MacLaurin emphasized the importance of libraries being welcoming, inclusive spaces for Indigenous community members and organizations. "I found myself at Mary J. and Brodie a lot throughout my years, sitting at the table, doing research here, whether it was writing, finding the peace that you get within a library. So I would hope that this is something that Indigenous people could experience here and that they're finding peace and comfort." Raili Roy, director of community development at the library, said the team is excited to welcome MacLaurin. "They stood out as an exceptional candidate," Roy said. "We feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with them. We have much meaningful and rewarding work ahead." MacLaurin replaces Robyn Medicine who held the role for nearly a decade. Medicine passed away in February. During her time in the role, Medicine established Indigenous Knowledge Centres across all branches. "Robyn did an incredible job in this role and she has so much love from the community," they said. MacLaurin isn't sure yet which programs created by Medicine will remain. "But I really couldn't imagine just removing all of the hard work that she did." MacLaurin said they're hoping to build a place that is grounded in belonging, education and reconciliation.
