Chiefs representing Treaty 8 First Nations in Alberta are urging for a halt to the pipeline memorandum of understanding (MOU) until they are properly consulted and agree to the potential project. They have warned of legal repercussions if their demands are not met.
During a press conference in Ottawa, the chiefs criticized the lack of consultation with First Nations prior to Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith endorsing the MOU in November.
Grand Chief Trevor Mercredi emphasized that any attempt to move forward without their consent would be met with immediate action. Possible measures could involve withdrawing Treaty 8 cooperation from joint initiatives and utilizing various legal and political means to protect their sovereignty.
Mercredi stressed the importance of consulting every nation affected by such agreements, expressing discontent over being informed about MOUs impacting their territory through the media.
The MOU outlines terms for a new bitumen pipeline from Alberta to the British Columbia coast, providing Ottawa with the authority to adjust B.C.’s tanker ban if deemed necessary.
Mercredi condemned the process by which the MOU was executed, stating it occurred without any involvement or notification of the Treaty 8 First Nations. The Assembly of First Nations has also joined in calling for the withdrawal of the pipeline agreement.
Alberta’s Indigenous Relations Minister, Rajan Sawhney, acknowledged the perspectives shared by the Treaty 8 chiefs and expressed readiness to engage in discussions about the potential project once it progresses further.
Carney emphasized the need for Indigenous cooperation for any pipeline to proceed, announcing plans for a meeting with First Nations representatives early in the upcoming year.
Chief Billy-Joe Tuccaro of the Mikisew Cree First Nation criticized the signing of the MOU without prior consultation, urging Carney and Smith to engage with the affected communities.
Councilor Mike Mercredi from the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation highlighted a shift in the consultation process, expressing surprise at the altered approach by the authorities.
The chiefs conveyed a sense that had there been proper consultation, First Nations would have been involved in announcing the deal. Feeling compelled to act, they are considering legal recourse to address the situation.
In the face of potential legal action, Mike Mercredi emphasized the strong track record of First Nations in court battles.