July 7, 2026
(xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh)/Vancouver, B.C.) – The First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) is deeply troubled by the coordinated efforts of the federal and provincial governments to fast-track new fossil fuel infrastructure and energy export proposals in British Columbia under the pretext of economic development and national interest. First Nations have been clear: reconciliation cannot coexist with unilateral decisions that undermine First Nations’ rights, title, human and treaty rights, the standards of free, prior, and informed consent, and the constitutional duty to consult and accommodate.
First Nations maintain inherent rights and responsibilities throughout our respective territories. Any proposal affecting First Nations lands, waters, resources, or future generations must be explored in partnership with, and with the free, prior and informed consent of, the Nations whose rights and territories are directly impacted. Attempts to accelerate approvals through political deals between Crown governments fundamentally conflict with the Crown’s legal and constitutional obligations.
To read full release, click “Download PDF” below and to the right.