Discussion · Government Orders
Leah Gazan NDP
“This bill limits First Nations control over water only to reserve lands. It leaves out lands where First Nations have title rights, so it does not protect our source water. The government is also ignoring court rulings. I want to know where the Conservatives stand on this.”
“Madam Speaker, it has always a pleasure to work with my hon. colleague. In the legislation, it defines first nations lands as not including “ lands over which Aboriginal title is claimed by a First Nation or has been confirmed by a court.” We know industry is set up by first nations. We also know the legislation would not give first nations jurisdiction over source water and aquifers, therefore limiting our jurisdiction to Indian Act reserve boundaries only. I am wondering if my colleague can share the Conservative position on the failure of the government to even uphold court rulings in relation to this bill.”
Official Hansard
Madam Speaker, it has always a pleasure to work with my hon. colleague. In the legislation, it defines first nations lands as not including “ lands over which Aboriginal title is claimed by a First Nation or has been confirmed by a court.” We know industry is set up by first nations. We also know the legislation would not give first nations jurisdiction over source water and aquifers, therefore limiting our jurisdiction to Indian Act reserve boundaries only. I am wondering if my colleague can share the Conservative position on the failure of the government to even uphold court rulings in relation to this bill.