Major projects CEO faces B.C. First Nations’ frustrations over lack of consultations
First Nations in B.C. are calling on Ottawa to set national standards for Indigenous consultations on major projects, saying they were given limited time to review the proposal.
Dawn Farrell, the CEO of Major Projects, addressed the B.C. Assembly of First Nations at its annual general meeting in Vancouver, expressing frustration over a lack of consultation on the proposed Pacific Link pipeline. Farrell, whose staff has faced criticism for inadequate consultation on previous projects like the Trans Mountain pipeline, said her office is committed to improving procedures.
However, she admitted that the current process can be overwhelming and that meaningful consultation is difficult when decision-making continues despite the need for review. First Nations called for national standards to ensure protected timelines for consultations before decisions are made, including minimum procedural protections.
Farrell acknowledged the importance of adequate consultation for project success and expressed her office's commitment to accommodating First Nations concerns. However, she faced criticism over the government's push for speed and certainty in project approvals, with concerns raised about whether these efforts are balanced with the protection of Aboriginal title and rights.
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