Alberta and Manitoba Premiers Clash Over First Nations Consultation Duties
Premiers of Alberta, Manitoba spar over need to consult with First Nations
Image: Global News
During a meeting in Kananaskis Country, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew disagreed on the government's obligation to consult First Nations regarding treaty rights. Smith criticized a recent court ruling on a petition for Alberta's independence, while Kinew emphasized the government's responsibility to consult affected communities.
- 01Alberta Premier Danielle Smith plans to appeal a court ruling that struck down a petition for a referendum on Alberta's independence due to lack of consultation with First Nations.
- 02Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, a member of the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation, challenged Smith's interpretation of the duty to consult, stating it is the government's responsibility.
- 03Kinew highlighted that the proposed international border could infringe on established hunting and fishing rights, necessitating consultation.
- 04Smith criticized the court's decision as 'anti-democratic' and expressed a desire for clarity on the consultation requirements.
- 05Kinew suggested a collaborative approach to pipeline construction, urging Smith to delay referendum discussions.
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During a recent meeting in Kananaskis Country, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew publicly clashed over the duty of governments to consult First Nations on matters affecting treaty rights. Smith expressed her intention to appeal a court ruling that invalidated a citizen's petition for a referendum on Alberta's independence, criticizing the judgment as 'anti-democratic.' Kinew, representing the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation, countered that it is the Alberta government's responsibility to fulfill the duty to consult, particularly regarding impacts on established hunting and fishing rights. He emphasized that Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution, which affirms Aboriginal and treaty rights, must be respected. Kinew proposed a collaborative effort to expedite pipeline projects instead of pursuing the referendum, while Smith maintained her stance on appealing the court's decision, indicating that the legal process would clarify the obligations regarding consultation.
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The disagreement between the premiers highlights ongoing tensions regarding First Nations rights and government obligations, which could affect future policy decisions in Alberta and Manitoba.
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