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Anthony Housefather

Liberal on Adjournment Proceedings 2026-11-02

Replying to Leah Gazan (NDP)

“Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague is absolutely right. We will not be able to build Canada strong without first nations’ free, prior and informed consent, something that the overwhelming majority of first nations across the country have indicated the government is failing to do. They are asking the government to withdraw Bill C-39, which violates the Constitution. Just because the government says something, that does not make it true. It is very clear to workers, environmental organizations and first nations across this country that the government does not respect the Constitution. It is building nothing more than a pipeline to the courts.”

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Mr. Speaker, I recognize that the hon. member has raised concerns, and I recognize that first nations leaders have raised concerns. We take those concerns seriously. At the historic meeting between first ministers and first nations, we discussed those concerns, along with how first nations can own major projects and share in the economic benefits they create. The building Canada strong act would help projects move forward while supporting meaningful consultation and protecting indigenous rights. Let me be clear. Canada’s legal duty to consult, our constitutional commitments, our commitments under modern treaties and self-government agreements, and indigenous rights remain protected. Economic development and reconciliation must go hand in hand. When indigenous economies grow stronger, Canada grows stronger too.