The Anishinabek Nation says it has concerns after a new bill involving water and related infrastructure on First Nations was introduced in Ottawa this week and had first reading.
Officials say it marks a significant departure from the collaborative approach taken in previous legislation, which included consultation and further amendments developed through dialogue with First Nations and knowledge keepers.
“The current legislation, by virtue of Bill C-37, is not a product of genuine collaboration,” says Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige. “The bill tabled [Tuesday], while retaining some important aspects of Bill C-61, also includes changes that were unilaterally made without wide consultation or engagement with First Nations, including removing explicit recognition that First Nation individuals have a human right to clean and safe drinking water, and reducing Canada’s consultation or co-development obligations with First Nations.”
She adds without sufficient engagement, it undermines the principles of self-determination and respect for First Nation sovereignty.
“This is concerning, particularly for a piece of legislation that is in part about affirming First Nations’ constitutionally protected right to self-government on the topic of the legislation,” says Debassige. “The lack of a transparent, consultative process diminishes the legitimacy and effectiveness of the legislation and risks perpetuating colonial systemic inequalities by imposing federal standards that do not fully align with First Nations’ rights, traditional knowledge, or real on-the-ground needs,” she says.
Debassige says they’re concerned the new bill and related processes may reflect a prioritization of federal and provincial economic interests and assertions of jurisdiction over First Nations’ health, well-being, infrastructure, and constitutional rights and jurisdiction.
The Anishinabek Nation is urging the government to hold meaningful engagement with First Nations and revisit the legislation.
