Statement – A Collective and United Approach Against Bill 97

by ahnationtalk on September 22, 202586 Views

WENDAKE, QC, Sept. 22, 2025 – On September 16, 2025, the AFNQL, its Chiefs Committee on Forestry, unions representing more than 20,000 forestry workers, environmental organizations, as well as the federations of ZECs and outfitters in Quebec supporting more than 5,000 jobs, came together for an unprecedented meeting.

All share the same conclusion: Bill 97 is one of the most unifying pieces of legislation ever put forward—unifying in opposition. This joint declaration against it is proof of that.

This convergence of voices reflects a deep concern with the current version of the bill and underscores that the forest must be regarded as a major societal issue. In this spirit, and as an act of collaboration, we call for Bill 97 not to be reintroduced in the new parliamentary session.

After analyzing the situation, we all reached the same conclusion: the proposed version is unacceptable. Despite our efforts to make our voices heard, the government has persisted in turning a deaf ear, refusing to recognize the value of the solutions we are collectively bringing forward.

The status quo is not an option either. However, any new version must fully respond to the requirements expressed by the First Nations and all stakeholders concerned.

Likewise, a rushed reform cannot benefit anyone, especially if it is to remain in place for many years. We are united in affirming that a new forest regime must be considered as a true societal project.

A meeting between the Premier, First Nations, and all concerned parties must be organized promptly in order to discuss and jointly identify a path that will allow for the fair and sustainable reconciliation of ancestral rights, the long-term sustainability of the forest and the many benefits it provides, biodiversity, as well as the quality and stability of long-term jobs in the forestry sector.

With respect, goodwill, and unity,

Francis Verreault-Paul
ChIef of the Assembly of First Nations
Quebec–Labrador

Lucien Wabanonik
Chief of Anishnabe Nation of Lac- Simon

Jonathan Germain
Chief of Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation Council

Martin Dufour
Chief of Innu Council of Essipit

Jérôme Bacon St-Onge
Vice-Chief of Innus Council of Pessamit

Sipi Flamand
Chief of Atikamekw Council of Manawan

Lance Haymond
Chief of Kebaowek First Nation

Constant Awashish
Grand Chief of Atikamekw Nation Council

Savanna McGregor
Grand Chief of Tribal Council of the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation

Kevin Gagnon
Fédération de l’industrie manufacturière-CSN

Luc Vachon
President of the Centrale des syndicats démocratiques