US Edition
National chief says First Nations frustrated by ‘fast-track’ approach to development
- On May 28, 2025, Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, leader of the Assembly of First Nations, told reporters in Ottawa that First Nations leaders are frustrated with governments for pushing rapid development in their territories under the justification of national unity.
- This frustration stems from government plans to reconfigure infrastructure approval processes to accelerate projects of national significance, while some First Nations say key treaty and environmental rights are being overlooked or threatened.
- Leaders referenced prior Indigenous rights movements like Idle No More and reported widespread concern that bills like Ontario's Bill 5 would weaken protections for threatened species and reduce meaningful consultation with Indigenous communities.
- National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak said, “They're frustrated and they're being disrespected,” highlighting that exclusion from decision-making causes problems and noting that First Nations encompass 1.5 million people with billions extracted annually without return.
- The situation implies a need for genuine partnerships and respect for treaty rights to properly advance development projects without legal delays and to promote reconciliation, as leaders plan continued dialogue with Prime Minister Mark Carney.
27 Articles
27 Articles
Indigenous leaders have warned the government that there is a risk of a new wave of protests in the country, like the "Idle No More" movement, if projects of "national interest" are undertaken without the consent of the first peoples.
Sydney Morning Herald
‘The rocky path will only become more difficult’: Leader wants more than basic rights
Ahead of delivering a major speech honouring Eddie Mabo, Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner has said more needs to be done to support Queensland’s First Nations.
National chief says First Nations frustrated by ‘fast-track’ approach to development
OTTAWA - The national chief of the Assembly of First Nations says she doesn't blame First Nations leaders who are voicing frustration with governments promising to fast-track development in their
"We disrespect them," said the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak.
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