A shift is underway in how Canada approves massive industrial projects. Following criticism that the new Major Projects Office overlooked Indigenous involvement, a second wave of referrals signals a change – including a significant liquefied natural gas (LNG) project.
This latest list fast-tracks proposals like the Crawford nickel mine in Ontario, the Ksi Lisims LNG project in British Columbia, and a crucial transmission line to power the region. Also under consideration are a hydroelectric project for Iqaluit, a graphite mine in Quebec, and a tungsten mine in New Brunswick – representing a potential $56 billion in new investment.
The government’s new legislation allows for expedited approvals for projects deemed vital to the nation, potentially bypassing established regulations. This move prompted the creation of the Major Projects Office and an Indigenous advisory council, designed to integrate the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples into the decision-making process.
The council emerged as a direct response to concerns from Indigenous leaders who feared the legislation could infringe upon their rights and lead to projects being approved without meaningful consultation. This latest announcement marks the first project referrals since the council’s establishment.
The Ksi Lisims LNG project, planned for Nisga’a Nation territory in British Columbia, boasts the support of the First Nation. Proponents claim it will be among the cleanest LNG facilities globally, with significantly reduced emissions, and contribute billions to the national GDP annually.
However, the project isn’t without opposition. Two British Columbia First Nations have launched legal challenges, even as the federal government pledges substantial financial support to encourage Indigenous equity ownership. The government maintains that referral to the Major Projects Office doesn’t guarantee approval, but aims to establish favorable conditions for advancement – with First Nations playing a key role.
Hereditary Chief Na’Moks of the Wet’suwet’en Nation voiced his opposition during a demonstration near the announcement, standing in solidarity with those challenging the Ksi Lisims project and the accompanying transmission line. His presence echoes past protests that brought rail traffic to a standstill nationwide.
The Crawford Nickel Sulphide Project is forging a different path, establishing partnerships with three area First Nations to provide business and employment opportunities. Agreements offer contracting opportunities, including railway construction, demonstrating a commitment to collaborative benefit-sharing.
In Nunavut, the Iqaluit Nukkiksautiit Hydroelectric Project, spearheaded by an Inuit-owned energy company, aims to reduce the region’s reliance on diesel power. Leaders see the project’s referral as a recognition of Nunavut’s importance to the Canadian economy and a step towards Inuit self-determination.
The proposed Sisson Mine in New Brunswick seeks to supply critical metals to global markets, backed by revenue-sharing agreements with six Wolastoqey First Nations. These agreements promise a share of provincial revenues generated by the mine, offering a direct economic benefit to the communities.
Similarly, Nouveau Monde Graphite in Quebec has reached an impact benefit agreement with the Atikamekw First Nation for a graphite mine north of Montreal. This agreement aims to ensure the project contributes positively to the First Nation’s economic and social well-being.
Despite these referrals, no project has yet received the coveted “national interest” designation, which would unlock exemptions from environmental laws like the Fisheries Act and the Species At Risk Act. The Major Projects Office will review each proposal and provide recommendations to the government for a final decision.
The government engaged in extensive consultations with Indigenous leaders throughout the summer, responding to concerns about the initial drafting of the legislation. While reactions were mixed, these meetings helped de-escalate tensions and avert potential widespread protests.
National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak of the Assembly of First Nations, initially a strong critic, now emphasizes the importance of adequate consultation. The Manitoba Metis Federation, while supportive of the legislation, also highlighted the need for prior consultation. Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami stressed both consultation and participation in projects within Inuit territories.
