January 16 2013
Improving Relationship with First Nations Means “No Enbridge”:
Oil Pipelines Are Off the Table say First Nations Chiefs (PDF Version)
Dakelh Territory, Prince George: In meetings yesterday Carrier Sekani Chiefs told federal officials that tar sands oil pipelines are off the table if the federal government wishes to build a better relationship with First Nations in BC around energy development.
The meeting between federal Assistant Deputy Ministers, Director Generals, Carrier Sekani and other Chiefs yesterday was focused on implementation of Douglas Eyford’s recent report to the Prime Minister.
“Frankly it is insulting to have federal officials trot out a dog and pony show about their oil-spill clean-up plans when we have already made clear that tar sands pipelines are not welcome in our territories,” stated Chief Martin Louie of Nadleh Whut’en First Nations. “We want clear water, a healthy environment and healthy communities, not toxic jobs cleaning up oil spills. Premier Clark also needs to understand that before we can seriously talk about gas pipelines to the West Coast, the province needs to change its approach to Aboriginal engagement and stop issuing permits to Enbridge.”
The Eyford report also recommended political engagement between the Crown and First Nations to build trust.
“We would welcome high level political engagement with the Crown to establish the ‘rules of the game’ around energy infrastructure and energy policy, but this must be grounded in recognition of our constitutionally protected title, rights and decision-making authority,” said Carrier Sekani Tribal Chief Terry Teegee. “That is not what happened in Prince George yesterday.” The Carrier Sekani Tribal Council will be issuing a letter to the Prime Minister outlining opportunities in moving forward.
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Contact:
Chief Martin Louie, Nadleh Whut’en First Nation, Yinka Dene Alliance. Phone: 250-570-7759.
Tribal Chief Terry Teegee, Carrier Sekani Tribal Council. Phone: 250-640-3256.
Dakelh Territory, Prince George: In meetings yesterday Carrier Sekani Chiefs told federal officials that tar sands oil pipelines are off the table if the federal government wishes to build a better relationship with First Nations in BC around energy development.