Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson encountered criticism and had his speaking slot revoked at the recent Assembly of First Nations gathering as dissatisfaction mounts among B.C. chiefs regarding the government’s new energy deal with Alberta. Several B.C. chiefs expressed disappointment in the Building Canada Act’s performance, accusing the Liberals of evading crucial inquiries about First Nations’ approval for a proposed pipeline from Alberta to the West Coast.
B.C. Regional Chief Terry Teegee of the Assembly of First Nations remarked, “His engagement with Coastal First Nations and First Nations in British Columbia, if I was going to grade it — it would be an F.” Initially scheduled to address the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) special chiefs assembly in Ottawa, Hodgson’s speaking engagement was abruptly removed from the agenda. His office clarified that the agenda alteration was orchestrated by federal government organizers, not by Hodgson’s office.
Hodgson has been under intense scrutiny from chiefs and colleagues for his handling of consultations with First Nations concerning the memorandum of understanding signed by the federal government with Alberta, and the potential implications of a pipeline in B.C. Instead of addressing the assembly, Hodgson met with the AFN’s B.C. regional caucus offstage. Although such meetings are typically private, B.C. chiefs and members decided to voice their concerns to the media during the meeting.
Merle Alexander, a member of the Heiltsuk First Nation in B.C., raised the issue of what would occur if Alberta First Nations consented while B.C. First Nations dissented. Hodgson assured the chiefs of his forthcoming visit to the northern coast of B.C. and stressed that there are currently no concrete pipeline proposals. He emphasized a collaborative development process with First Nations in compliance with the Building Canada Act commitment.
Earlier in the week, the AFN passed a unanimous resolution urging the federal government to retract from the memorandum of understanding with Alberta, which outlines conditions for a potential pipeline to B.C.’s northern coast, including a probable exemption to the region’s oil tanker ban. B.C. Regional Chief Terry Teegee criticized the agreement, stating, “This MOU is a slap in the face of British Columbia.”
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne defended Hodgson, stating that he has conducted essential work respecting the Major Projects Office and engaging with stakeholders. Champagne emphasized the significance of inclusive engagement for building a shared future. Nevertheless, some B.C. First Nations members expressed concerns that the government might proceed without their consent, leading to potential legal actions and civil unrest if consultations do not align with their interests.