Statement from Regional Chief Marlene Poitras on the Mikisew Cree First Nation V. Canada Supreme Court Decision

STATEMENT FROM REGIONAL CHIEF MARLENE POITRAS ON THE MIKISEW CREE FIRST NATION V. CANADA SUPREME COURT DECISION

The Supreme Court of Canada ruled on the application of the Duty to Consult doctrine and if it can be applied to the federal legislation-making process. The case originates from Mikisew Cree First Nation’s challenge of the 2012 Omnibus bills introduced under the previous federal government that made significant changes to environmental, fisheries and waters protection.

October 11, 2018, amiskwaciwâskahikan (Edmonton, AB)

“I wish to first recognize Mikisew Cree First Nation, Chief Archie Waquan, and former Chief Steve Courtoreille, in their fight to protect our Inherent and Treaty Rights through a court system that is not our own.

My disappointment today is only surpassed by my deep frustration to see a missed opportunity for meaningful involvement of First Nations in the legislative process, a process that can have deep and lasting impacts on our peoples, our lands, our waters, and our Treaty and Inherent Rights.

This decision is not the end of our journey to protect our lands and waters. The Supreme Court held that the government must act according to the Honour of the Crown and we will continue to hold the federal government to that high standard.” – Regional Chief Marlene Poitras

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For more information contact:
Ann Gladue-Buffalo (587) 588-7254

 

Assembly of First Nations Alberta Association (AFN Alberta) is a regional advocacy body for 44-member First Nations in Alberta who elect a Regional Chief as its spokesperson.

Regional Chief Marlene Poitras is a member of Mikisew Cree First Nation and currently holds the national Specific Claims and Emergency Management portfolios for the Assembly of First Nations.