NDP stands up for Free Prior and Informed Consent

OTTAWA – In Question Period, on Thursday, MP Lori Idlout (Nunavut) called on Carney’s Government to respect Indigenous rights and title when developing projects in their territories. Canada has not fully implemented the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) although it became law in 2021.

UNDRIP is a global framework to protect and promote Indigenous rights, with Indigenous participation in all decision-making that affects their interests and livelihood. Idlout pointed to the Liberals' throne speech presented earlier this week that failed to recognize Indigenous rights.

“Indigenous people must be given free, prior and informed consent,” said Idlout. “The throne speech highlighted One Project One Review and ignored UNDRIP.”

On Wednesday, AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak cautioned the Liberals not to move forward on projects without First Nations voices at the table. First Nations are concerned that the federal government will push to fast-track nation-building projects at the expense of Indigenous rights.

“The Prime Minister plans to make Canada an energy superpower, but fails to say how Indigenous people will be involved in the process. It's no surprise that the Assembly of First Nations is concerned,” said Idlout. “The Liberals must reverse their colonial approach and refrain from violating Indigenous peoples rights.”

MP Idlout's question in the House of Commons can be viewed here.