Chiefs from across Canada met in Gatineau this week to strongly oppose the federal government’s recently passed One Canadian Economy Act. The Act, introduced by Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government, grants ministers broad powers to fast-track major industrial projects, citing national economic interest—yet lacks clear safeguards for Indigenous rights and title.
The legislation was rushed through in response to new tariffs imposed by the U.S. under former President Donald Trump. BC Chiefs gathered earlier in Prince George to develop a unified position, citing deep concerns about the Act’s disregard for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the slow progress on implementing Canada’s own United Nations Declaration Act (UNDA).
The BC Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) issued a strong statement rejecting any legislation that overrides First Nations’ rights without free, prior and informed consent. Regional Chief Terry Teegee said First Nations will not accept being sidelined on decisions that impact their lands, waters, and futures.
The BCAFN and other Indigenous organizations have passed formal resolutions opposing the Act, calling for full consultation and alignment with international standards. Chiefs warn that without legislative changes, the federal government faces potential legal challenges and a deepening divide with Indigenous Peoples.
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