Indigenous Leaders Convene in Winnipeg for Discussions on Key Infrastructure Programs

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is currently holding its annual summer gathering in Winnipeg, with 34 chiefs and proxies attending in person, and 311 participating virtually. The three-day meeting is expected to focus heavily on the federal government's major projects legislation, as well as other pressing issues such as child welfare reform, repatriation of artifacts, policing, the toxic drug crisis, and closing the First Nations infrastructure gap.

One of the main concerns voiced by some chiefs is the potential impact of federal funding cuts, due to the government's efforts to find savings in department budgets. The AFN recently put forth a pre-budget submission to the federal government, recommending $800 million over the next two years to support a First Nations review of national interest projects.

Prime Minister Mark Carney held summits with First Nations, Inuit, and Metis leaders about the federal bill, and First Nations chiefs left those meetings with mixed opinions on the way forward. One draft resolution before the assembly calls for First Nations infrastructure ventures to be included in the national push for projects.

Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Rebecca Alty spoke at the assembly and emphasized the importance of building resilient economies in partnership with First Nations, grounded in real equity and shared stewardship of resources. She acknowledged that there is much more work to be done in reconciliation and expressed her eagerness to continue working with the First Nations.

In response to questions about potential funding cuts, Prime Minister Carney argued that shoring up the economy is necessary to ensure programs can be funded. He stated that the government is committed to working collaboratively with First Nations, Inuit, and Metis communities to address their concerns and find solutions that work for everyone.

Some First Nations leaders and community members have shown strong opposition to the legislation, fearing it will infringe on their inherent treaty rights. Grand Chief Kyra Wilson of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs warned that progress cannot come at the cost of First Nations' rights, treaties, or responsibilities to the land.

First Nations leaders expected to attend the government and industry conference in Winnipeg include Chief RoseAnne Archibald and Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, who are known for advocating Indigenous rights and environmental protections. Archibald emphasized the need for free, prior, and informed consent regarding the national projects bill.

The Indigenous Advisory Council that will work with the new federal Major Projects Office will be announced next week. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew is scheduled to address the assembly Wednesday afternoon. The AFN's discussions and decisions during this gathering will undoubtedly shape the future of the relationship between the federal government and First Nations communities in Canada.