First Nations urge Governor General to delay — or even reject — Bill C-5

The Assembly of First Nations national chief, Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, is leading a call for Gov. Gen. Mary Simon to intervene in the federal government’s major projects legislation that is currently being pushed through Parliament. First Nations leaders are expressing concerns about the impact of Bill C-5, known as the One Canadian Economy Act, on their rights and territories.

Woodhouse Nepinak emphasized that while First Nations are in favor of prosperity, they do not want it to come at the expense of their rights. The bill, which aims to eliminate federal barriers to domestic free trade and expedite approvals for infrastructure and energy projects, is set to pass in the House of Commons with Conservative support.

Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation echoed the sentiment, urging Gov. Gen. Simon to step in and address the concerns raised by First Nations leaders. He highlighted the importance of Simon’s role as the Crown representative in ensuring that Indigenous rights are respected in the legislative process.

The federal government argues that Bill C-5 is necessary to strengthen Canada’s economy amid trade disputes with the United States. However, Woodhouse Nepinak and other leaders fear that the bill could undermine treaty rights and environmental protections.

The Governor General’s office stated that the bill is still under consideration and not yet up for royal assent. While Gov. Gen. Simon cannot intervene in legislation without causing a constitutional crisis, she can serve as a conduit for dialogue between Indigenous communities and the government.

Ontario MPP Sol Mamakwa, a member of the Kingfisher Lake First Nation, called on Gov. Gen. Simon to withhold royal assent for the legislation. He emphasized the need for meaningful consultation and benefit-sharing with Indigenous peoples on major projects affecting their lands.

While some leaders are prepared to take further action, such as organizing demonstrations and potential economic disruptions, others are advocating for a more diplomatic approach. It remains to be seen how the government will address the concerns raised by First Nations leaders and whether Gov. Gen. Simon will play a role in facilitating dialogue and ensuring Indigenous rights are upheld in the legislative process.