The First Nations Leadership Council is expressing deep disappointment following the passage of two contentious provincial bills they say directly violate Indigenous rights. Bills 14 and 15, aimed at speeding up approvals for renewable energy and infrastructure projects, were narrowly passed late last night with the B.C. Speaker breaking a tie vote.
The FNLC says the laws ignore legal obligations under B.C.’s own Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. Indigenous leaders across the province had called on the government to pause the legislation and engage in proper consultation. Instead, they say the Province chose to move forward unilaterally, shutting down debate and forcing closure.
Leaders from the BC Assembly of First Nations, First Nations Summit, and the Union of BC Indian Chiefs say this moment represents a major setback for reconciliation. They accuse Premier David Eby’s government of betraying commitments to work in partnership with First Nations.
The FNLC says it will now assess the damage to its relationship with the Province and explore legal and political avenues to push back. They remain committed to defending their rights and title, saying future generations depend on it.
They’re calling on the Province to uphold its own laws and restore trust.
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