Discussion · Adjournment Proceedings
Anthony Housefather Liberal
“I hear the concerns from First Nations leaders about this bill, and we take them seriously. This bill helps major projects move forward while still protecting Indigenous rights, treaties, and our duty to consult. We want First Nations to share in the economic benefits and own these projects.”
“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.”
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.