Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled the members of an Indigenous Advisory Council that will assist in steering the operations of the newly established Major Projects Office on Wednesday. The Major Projects Office, based in Calgary, aims to expedite the completion of “nation-building” initiatives by simplifying regulatory procedures and facilitating project financing.
Comprising 11 representatives from diverse First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities across Canada, the Indigenous Advisory Council will serve a two-year term. During a press conference on Thursday, Carney emphasized that council members possess extensive knowledge in economic engagement, impact assessments, and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, ensuring collaborative progress on projects with Indigenous communities.
The appointees to the Indigenous Advisory Council include Kluane Adamek from Kluane First Nation in Yukon, Chief Darcy Bear from Whitecap Dakota First Nation in Saskatchewan, Vanessa Doig from Makivvik in Nunavik, JP Gladu from Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek in Ontario, Victoria LaBillois from Listuguj Mi’gmaq Nation in Quebec, Treaty 8 Grand Chief Trevor Mercredi from Beaver First Nation in Alberta, Chief Terry Paul from Membertou First Nation in Nova Scotia, Lorne Pelletier from Manitoba Métis Federation, Christy Sinclair from Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. in Nunavut, Crystal Smith from Haisla Nation in British Columbia, and Matt Vermette from Métis Nation-Saskatchewan.
Several Indigenous leaders have raised concerns regarding Carney’s initiative to expedite major projects through the Building Canada Act, also known as Bill C-5, fearing insufficient safeguards for Indigenous peoples’ rights to be consulted on projects affecting their territories and communities.
The legislation, which passed through Parliament in June, represents part of Canada’s response to the trade disputes with the United States under President Donald Trump. Carney engaged in a series of summits with Indigenous leaders over the summer, with some expressing discontent following the meetings.
Following the announcement of council appointments, some Indigenous leaders criticized the lack of adequate representation on the council. Grand Chief Kyra Wilson of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs expressed disappointment that no leaders from Manitoba were considered for the council, emphasizing the need for meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities.
In a statement, Wilson highlighted the exclusion of Manitoba First Nations as indicative of an ongoing disregard for treaty rights and Indigenous jurisdiction in the region. The Otipemisiwak Métis Government called on the federal government to incorporate Alberta Métis representation in the council.
At the time of publication, the Prime Minister’s Office had not responded to requests for comments on the matter.