Justin Trudeau’s legacy gets mixed reviews from First Nations in B.C.

During his nine-year tenure as prime minister, Justin Trudeau made significant decisions that left a lasting impact on British Columbia. From his decision to phase out open-net salmon farms to the controversial purchase of the Trans Mountain Pipeline, Trudeau’s legacy in B.C. is a mix of praise and criticism.

Trudeau’s commitment to phasing out open-net salmon farms was seen as a positive step towards protecting wild salmon stocks and the environment. The decision, however, was met with mixed reactions from the industry and some First Nations communities who raised concerns about the economic impact of the transition. Despite the challenges, Indigenous leaders like Bob Chamberlin of the First Nations Wild Salmon Alliance welcomed the move as a step towards recognizing the importance of wild Pacific salmon to British Columbians and First Nations.

On the other hand, Trudeau’s government’s purchase of the Trans Mountain Pipeline was met with controversy and criticism. The $34 billion project was seen as contradictory to Trudeau’s climate change policies and drew backlash from environmental activists and Indigenous groups. Reuben George of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation expressed disappointment in Trudeau’s decision to buy the pipeline, highlighting the disconnect between the government’s climate change efforts and its support for the oil industry.

Despite these challenges, Chief Marilyn Slett of the Heiltsuk First Nation acknowledged Trudeau’s government for passing policies that benefited First Nations in B.C., such as an oil tanker moratorium and the safeguarding of the Great Bear Sea. However, she also pointed out the ongoing issues of boil water advisories and the need for more support in areas like child-care funding. Slett emphasized the importance of fulfilling commitments to reconciliation, including co-developing laws and policies in alignment with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.

As Trudeau prepares to step down as prime minister, his legacy in B.C. will be remembered for both the positive steps taken towards environmental protection and Indigenous rights, as well as the controversies surrounding the oil industry. The province will continue to grapple with the impact of his decisions, setting the stage for ongoing discussions and debates on key issues affecting British Columbians.