Manitoba chiefs head to Quebec for summit meetings on Bill C-5

Manitoba chiefs are sending a message to Prime Minister Mark Carney as they descend on Gatineau, Quebec for summit meetings on Bill C-5.

The bill, passed earlier this month, allows the federal government to fast-track projects they deem in the national interest.

“We were promised a treaty relationship based on peace, mutual respect and the sharing of this land and its resources,” said Chief Angela Lavaseur, Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation.  Instead, we are watching as Canada enacts new legislation to fast track development on our territories while the promises made to us over a century ago remain broken.”

Lavaseur also points to the United Nations declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples act, which calls for consultation and consent.

“Let’s be clear, this is not undrip,” said Lavaseur. “This is not consent. This is a violation of international law.”

She and others say that consent will benefit everyone, as they fight for the future of their children and the environment.

“There’s nothing more important, no resource more important to us than the water,” said Chief Derek Nepinak, Minegoziibe Anishinabe. “The water needs to be protected at all costs.”

“We represent the children that are not born yet,” said Grand Chief Garrison Settee, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak. “Whatever decisions are made will impact them.”

“This is a first meeting of many,” said Grand Chief Kyra Wilson, assembly of Manitoba chiefs. “That is the expectation.”