Nova Scotia chiefs say province needs to improve consultation on natural resources
The Nova Scotia Assembly of Mi’kmaw Chiefs has raised concerns about the provincial government’s lack of consultation regarding the development of natural resources in the province. Chief Tamara Young of Pictou Landing First Nation addressed the legislature’s natural resources committee and expressed serious reservations about recent decisions being made without proper advance notice.
Young emphasized the importance of meaningful consultations, stating that the Mi’kmaq should not have to learn about significant developments through the media. She specifically mentioned the government’s decision to lift the ban on uranium exploration and mining, as well as the moratorium on hydraulic fracturing, without consulting the Mi’kmaq community.
The chiefs have strongly opposed any legislation that opens the door to hydraulic fracturing, commonly known as fracking, and have threatened legal action against the province for making decisions on unceded and traditional Mi’kmaw territory without consulting them. They have called for transparency, predictability, and early engagement in consultation processes.
The relationship between the Mi’kmaq community and the Natural Resources Department has been described as rocky and inconsistent, with Patrick Butler, senior Mi’kmaw energy and mines adviser, highlighting the challenges in keeping up with the changes in the industry. The province’s recent decision to prioritize uranium exploration without consulting the chiefs further exacerbated tensions.
Deputy Minister Karen Gatien acknowledged the need for improved consultation practices and committed to conducting consultations on a project-by-project basis in the future. The government aims to ensure rigorous and meaningful consultation as mining projects are developed.
In addition to concerns raised by the Mi’kmaq community, mining industry representatives also spoke at the committee meeting, calling for major changes to the province’s permitting process. They highlighted the lengthy and cumbersome nature of the current process, which they believe hinders investment in the mining sector.
Sean Kirby, executive director of the Mining Association of Nova Scotia, emphasized the need to streamline the permitting process while maintaining environmental standards. He proposed centralizing permitting under a single department to address issues related to red tape and unclear requirements.
Overall, the call for improved consultation, transparency, and efficiency in the development of natural resources in Nova Scotia underscores the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental and cultural considerations. It is essential for the government to engage with all stakeholders, including the Mi’kmaq community, to ensure sustainable and equitable resource development in the province.
