Announcements
Advancing Our Nation’s Voice, Rights & Future
During National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and the important discussions that followed, Fort McMurray 468 First Nation had the opportunity to bring our Nation’s voice directly to senior levels of government.
Chief Neil Cheecham, alongside President of Economic Development Ryan Coish, met with Prime Minister Mark Carney, Treaty 8 Grand Chief Arthur Noskey Mercredi, and fellow Chiefs from the Wood Buffalo region to discuss issues that will have a significant impact on our Nations, our traditional territories, and the future of our region.
Discussions focused on major energy development, including the proposed West Coast Oil Pipeline, now known as Pacific Link, the Pathways carbon capture project, protection of Treaty rights, meaningful consultation, responsible economic development, and ensuring First Nations have meaningful opportunities for ownership, employment, contracting, and long-term economic participation in major projects. The federal government has since designated Pacific Link a project of national interest and stated that Indigenous communities will be offered a minimum 10% ownership interest. PM of Canada
On October 1, Chief Cheecham and COO Chris Dupont also attended the major announcement in Fort McMurray with Prime Minister Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, continuing important conversations about the future of energy development in our region. PM of Canada
Protecting Our Land, Water & Treaty Rights
A key priority throughout these conversations is the environmental impact our region continues to face. As major development moves forward, First Nations must have a meaningful voice in determining how that development occurs.
Economic development cannot come at the expense of our land, water, wildlife, Treaty rights, or the ability of future generations to continue traditional practices.
Major projects proposed within or affecting our traditional territories must include meaningful First Nations participation and a clear understanding of both the opportunities and environmental impacts associated with development.
Reconciliation Must Include Action
The timing of these discussions around National Day for Truth and Reconciliation carries particular significance.
Reconciliation must extend beyond words and recognition. It must be reflected in how governments and industry engage with First Nations, respect Treaty rights, address environmental concerns, and create meaningful opportunities for Indigenous communities to participate in and benefit from development within our traditional territories.
Fort McMurray 468 First Nation remains committed to working collaboratively with our neighbouring Nations, industry, and all levels of government to protect our rights and environment while advancing responsible economic development and meaningful economic reconciliation for future generations.
