QSA's Week in Indigenous Affairs (#15, 2025)

Indigenous-owned Cedar LNG project reviewed; Indian Act legislation proposed; Liberal government criticized for child care funding lapses; First Nations court battles; Manitoba-Nunavut energy corridor proposal.

QSA's Week in Indigenous Affairs (#15, 2025)

Good morning! Welcome back to Queen Street Analytics' weekly roundup of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news concerning Indigenous communities, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, and their reserves, territories, and treaty rights.

Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

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Start Date: 2025-04-13
End Date: 2025-04-19

Top Headlines

Main Stories

Cedar LNG Project Reviewed Under Impact Assessment Act

MP Jonathan Wilkinson tweeted about the Cedar LNG project, which is Indigenous-owned and operated, highlighting its review under the Impact Assessment Act with provincial substitution. This project was completed in record time, showcasing the streamlining of major project reviews under current legislation.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Proposed Legislation to Eliminate the Indian Act

Senator Patrick Brazeau announced on Twitter plans to introduce legislation to eliminate the Indian Act, aiming to give First Nations control over their affairs and lands. This proposal comes as the 150th anniversary of the Act approaches, seeking to create a new vision led by First Nations.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

P.E.I. Project for MMIWG Awareness

A project in Prince Edward Island is gathering names to honor Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, highlighting ongoing efforts to address this critical issue.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: www.cbc.ca

Indigenous Candidates in Federal Election

Indigenous candidates shared their experiences running in the federal election, as covered in The Star, highlighting their perspectives on representation and policy impact.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: www.thestar.com

Ontario Chamber's Economic Reconciliation Report

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce and Canadian Council for Indigenous Business released a report on economic reconciliation, emphasizing Indigenous business opportunities.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: financialpost.com

Provincial Announcements

Strategic Energy Corridor Between Manitoba and Nunavut

Manitoba and Nunavut governments support the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link, a 1,200-kilometre transmission project connecting Manitoba's power grid to Nunavut. This Inuit-led initiative aims to enhance Arctic sovereignty, reduce emissions, and create economic opportunities.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.gov.mb.ca

Ontario's Inclusive Community Grants

Ontario announced recipients for the Inclusive Community Grants, including Indigenous communities, to improve accessibility and inclusivity through various projects.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

Ontario Protects Economy Amidst Tariff Threats

Ontario's government outlined measures to protect its economy against U.S. tariffs, including investments in critical minerals and infrastructure.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

B.C. Funds Anti-Racism Projects

The BC government awarded $300,000 in grants for projects addressing racism and promoting multiculturalism, benefiting Indigenous and racialized communities.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.gov.bc.ca

Manitoba Supports Anne Oake Recovery Centre

Manitoba announced $1.5 million in support for the Anne Oake Family Recovery Centre, focusing on addiction recovery for women and their children.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.gov.mb.ca

Manitoba Hydro Directive for Nation-Building

Manitoba issued a directive for Manitoba Hydro to redirect power exports for infrastructure projects, enhancing economic development and energy sustainability.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.gov.mb.ca

Public Officials' Social Media

Criticism Over Jordan's Principle Implementation

MP Leah Gazan criticized the Liberal government's repeated failure to meet obligations under Jordan’s Principle, affecting First Nations children’s access to care. She highlighted issues in Winnipeg Centre where service providers struggled due to unmet contribution agreements.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Niki Ashton tweeted about legal battles involving First Nations and hydro developments, mentioning that Mark Carney's company, Brookfield, fought a First Nation in court and argued against the duty to consult, impacting Indigenous rights.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Justice for Hydro Damaged First Nations

MP Niki Ashton reiterated criticism of Mark Carney's company for legal actions against First Nations over hydro dam disputes, stressing Indigenous rights violations across several countries.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Senator Brazeau on Indian Act's 150th Anniversary

Senator Patrick Brazeau tweeted about the upcoming 150th anniversary of the Indian Act and his plan to propose legislation for its repeal.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Senator Brazeau Questions Historical Document Protection

Senator Patrick Brazeau raised concerns on Twitter about the protection of First Nations historical documents held by Hudson Bay Company.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

What We're Reading This Week

    • The Star: Indigenous knowledge aids forest revitalization efforts.
    • Global News: Manitoba First Nation takes over youth services organization.
    • National Post: Opinion on unleashing First Nations' potential for economic resilience.
    • CTV News: Indigenous candidates reflect on federal election experiences.