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FSIN cautions province over legislation limiting exports to B.C.

Apr 18, 2018 | 12:00 PM

The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) is warning the province to proceed with caution while drafting legislation to limit exports to British Columbia.

Premier Scott Moe has said he would join Alberta in limiting energy exports flowing west. In response, the executive members of the FSIN asked the province to consult with Indigenous people here in Saskatchewan before drafting any legislation which would limit the flow of resources.

In a statement, FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron called the decision to draft the legislation before talking to Indigenous people a “classic case of the province’s failure to consult.”

“When the province drafts legislation in any way related to resource development, it must consult First Nations and accommodate their interests,” Cameron said.

The chief acknowledged there are mixed feelings about the oil and gas industry amongst Saskatchewan’s Indigenous people. He said there are communities who are wary of pipelines running through their territory, and there are other communities who actively participate in the oil and gas industry.

Vice Chief Heather Bear echoed Cameron’s sentiments, calling for meaningful consultation and accommodation for Indigenous people regarding the Trans Mountain Pipeline.

“More work needs to be done when it comes to not only consulting but accommodating those First Nations who will be impacted largely by the pipeline,” Bear said.

 

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