Good morning! This is 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: 2025-05-19
End Date: 2025-05-24

Top Headlines

Main Stories

Minister Tim Hodgson Outlines Federal Vision on Energy, Infrastructure, and Indigenous Partnerships

Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson addressed the Calgary Chamber of Commerce on May 23, projecting a shift toward expedited approval of major project proposals, including establishing a Major Federal Projects Office and a "One Project, One Review" approach with set two-year timelines. Hodgson stated that federal policy would require meeting Duty to Consult standards, situating Indigenous nations as project partners in nation-building initiatives. Discussions detailed federal commitments to fast-tracking infrastructure, housing, and critical minerals projects, with an emphasis on industry participation and engagement with Indigenous groups. Hodgson also linked responsible resource development to broader federal strategies on economic sovereignty and international trade diversification, referencing the need for pan-Canadian electricity grids and integration of critical minerals supply chains. He named the Pathways Project and improved interprovincial carbon markets as specific priorities involving Indigenous stakeholders.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

CNSC Approves Final Release of Beaverlodge Uranium Site; Transfers Responsibility to Saskatchewan

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission has revoked Cameco Corporation's Beaverlodge facility licence and released 27 decommissioned properties in Treaty 8, historic Métis, and Dene/Cree territories from federal licensing. These sites are now under Saskatchewan’s Institutional Control Program following an adjudication process that included in-person hearings in Saskatoon and written submissions from Indigenous organizations. The Commission stated it had fulfilled its constitutional consultation obligations with Indigenous communities. Ownership and regulatory responsibility for the lands now shift to provincial authorities.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Procurement Ombud Report Updates Federal 'Best Value' Procurement Standards

On May 21, the Office of the Procurement Ombud issued a study revising the definition of "Best Value" in federal procurement. The updated framework moves beyond price and technical score, explicitly incorporating government priorities such as reconciliation and broader policy objectives. Procurement decisions now consider full life-cycle costs and social value, offering guidance to public sector practitioners on integrating these factors in contract design and monitoring. The research draws on both Canadian and international practices, reflecting an expanded approach to federal procurement affecting sectors engaged with Indigenous-owned businesses.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Provincial Announcements

Ontario Allocates $3.1 Billion to Foster Indigenous Partnerships in Critical Mineral Sector

The Ontario government introduced nearly $3.1 billion in loan guarantees, grants, and scholarships to bolster Indigenous equity participation and regulatory engagement in the province’s emergent critical minerals supply chain.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

British Columbia Awards Funding to Support Indigenous-Led Economic Resilience in Rural North

B.C.’s Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program is allocating up to $43 million for more than 130 projects, including skill-training centres and Indigenous food sovereignty efforts, with the goal to accelerate economic and employment outcomes in rural and Indigenous-majority regions.

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

Lyackson First Nation and Cowichan Tribes Complete Culturally Significant Land Transfer

Lyackson First Nation and Cowichan Tribes have finalized the return of traditional lands in the Cowichan Valley. This follows a May 2024 incremental treaty agreement and sets the stage for community planning and the addition of lands to reserve holdings via the federal process.

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

Alberta Advances Indigenous-Led Health Care Through New Provincial Grants

Alberta launched $25 million in new grants via innovation funds, earmarked for Indigenous primary health care projects such as new clinics, Elder care, and support infrastructure. The Indigenous Support Line is set for province-wide expansion in June.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.alberta.ca

Manitoba Directs $2 Million Toward Indigenous and Diverse Trades Training

The Manitoba government is investing $2 million in employment and training initiatives that partner with Indigenous-led organizations, targeting skill development for marginalized jobseekers.

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

Saskatchewan Observes Treaties Recognition Week

Saskatchewan is marking May 18–24 with its annual Treaties Recognition Week, promoting educational initiatives regarding treaty agreements and ongoing commitments between the Crown and First Nations.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.saskatchewan.ca

Ontario Recognizes Matawa Centre and Nokiiwin Tribal Council in 2024-25 Victim Services Awards

Ontario's Attorney General has acknowledged the Matawa Education and Care Centre Safe Sobering Site and the Nokiiwin Tribal Council Justice Advisory Steering Committee as leaders in supporting Indigenous youth and trauma recovery.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

Fort St. James Hospital Renamed Nats’oojeh to Note Dakelh Heritage

A new $158.3 million hospital in Fort St. James, designed in consultation with five First Nations, has been named Nats’oojeh Hospital and Health Centre to celebrate local Dakelh language and values.

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

Public Officials' Social Media

Jamie Schmale announced his appointment to the opposition portfolios on Crown–Indigenous Relations, affirming new outreach efforts with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit leadership on priorities including reconciliation and child welfare.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Patty Hajdu recognized her term as Minister of Indigenous Services and publicly welcomed her successor, Mandy, indicating a shift in federal departmental leadership as of May 22.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Bob Zimmer commemorated Chief Trevor Makadahay’s leadership at Doig Day, citing advancements made by Doig River First Nation in governance, economic initiatives, and resource stewardship.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Senator Wells cited Innu leaders’ role in mining sector expansion in Labrador, describing their contribution as central to northern economic development.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Senator Wells posted on the significance of seal products for Indigenous and coastal communities, referencing cultural and economic roles in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Sources: Social Media: x.com