British Columbia’s Coastal First Nations have expressed a sense of satisfaction following a recent meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney. The discussion took place in Prince Rupert and aimed to address pressing issues concerning their territories. Despite the positive interaction, the Indigenous leaders maintained their firm opposition to any pipeline projects bringing oil tankers to the northern coast.
B.C. First Nations Stand Firm on Pipeline Stance
Marilyn Slett, president of Coastal First Nations and elected Chief of the Heiltsuk Nation, emphasized the stakes during a press conference. She cautioned that an oil spill could irreparably harm their way of life. “There is no technology that can clean up an oil spill at sea,” Slett stated.
Commitment to Free, Prior, and Informed Consent
During the meeting, the Prime Minister assured the Coastal First Nations that his government would seek their free, prior, and informed consent for any proposed projects in their territories. “We are looking forward to partnering with the federal government on sustainable economic development and marine protection,” Slett added.
- Location of Meeting: Prince Rupert, B.C.
- Key Participants: Prime Minister Mark Carney, Marilyn Slett, Gaagwiis (Jason Alsop)
- Key Issues: Opposition to pipelines and oil tanker traffic
- Impact of Oil Spills: Potential irreversible damage to Indigenous way of life
Partnership and Future Initiatives
Gaagwiis, vice-president of Coastal First Nations and president of the Haida Nation, outlined the importance of the coastal region for both Indigenous communities and global trade. He noted the challenges facing the federal government and expressed a willingness to collaborate while adhering to established agreements.
Slett reiterated the expectation that the federal government would fulfill its commitment to Indigenous communities regarding project consent. “We have a significant role in these discussions,” she affirmed.
Government Initiatives for Marine Protection
In a subsequent statement, Carney highlighted Canada’s focus on strengthening domestic capacities and forming reliable international partnerships. He confirmed that the government would renew funding for the Oceans Protection Plan and work toward conserving 30% of Canada’s lands and waters by 2030.
Future initiatives include:
- Marine Traffic Risk Assessment study
- Extension of Emergency Towing Vessels leases until 2028
- Collaboration with Indigenous groups on Marine Protected Areas in the Great Bear Sea
The meeting between Prime Minister Carney and B.C.’s Coastal First Nations underscores the ongoing dialogue necessary for balancing economic development with environmental protection and Indigenous rights. The commitment to consider First Nations in decision-making processes sets a promising precedent for future collaborations.
