Several Indigenous leaders left a meeting with Mark Carney after growing concerns that the recently passed Building Canada Act could infringe on their rights, despite the Canadian prime minister’s hope the gathering would address their worries.
The legislation, part of Bill C-5, establishes a framework for major construction projects such as pipelines and mines, as well as infrastructure like ports, railways, and power grids. It allows certain "nation-building" projects to bypass typical environmental and regulatory processes if they are deemed to enhance Canada’s economic independence, security, and climate goals, while also benefiting Indigenous communities.
While the government has yet to specify which projects will be prioritized, Rebecca Alty, the minister overseeing Indigenous relations, stated that discussions with provinces, territories, and Indigenous groups would help determine suitable developments.
However, nine Ontario First Nations have already filed a constitutional challenge against the federal government over Bill C-5, as well as against similar provincial legislation. They argue that expedited development without proper legal oversight or meaningful consultation with affected Indigenous communities violates constitutional protections guaranteeing their input on decisions impacting their treaty rights.
During the meeting at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Carney assured hundreds of First Nations representatives that new infrastructure would bring long-term benefits to their communities and promised thorough consultation for those affected by proposed projects. While some leaders responded cautiously, others criticized the event, saying they lacked the opportunity to speak directly with the prime minister or his cabinet and felt their concerns were ignored.
A group of Indigenous youth also protested, carrying signs with messages like “We won’t be silenced.” After several hours, multiple leaders walked out, dismissing the meeting as a public relations effort to counter criticism that the government had rushed the legislation through without proper Indigenous consultation.
“I don’t even know what this is, but this is not engagement. This is definitely not consultation,” said one leader.
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