Rebecca Alty
Northwest Territories, Northwest Territories · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, I find it disingenuous that the members opposite continue to suggest that we are not protecting the private property rights of Canada. Here is what we have been doing: We disagreed with the B.C.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is an important question and one that is currently before the courts. In the recent Wolastoqey decision, the Court of Appeal in New Brunswick, which is the highest court in the province, has refused leave to appeal. It found that aboriginal title cannot be declared over private property.”
“By advancing this legislation today, all members of the House have the opportunity to support a stronger future for the Tłegǫ́hłı̨ Got’įnę. This moment has been a long time in the making. All of us know that the heart of this legislation is in the north, in the Sahtu and with the people of Norman Wells.”
“If passed, it would establish the agreement as a self-government treaty in Canadian law. It would formally recognize the Tłegǫ́hłı̨ Got’įnę government as the government of the Sahtu, Dene and Métis of Norman Wells and would affirm what has always been true, which is that the Tłegǫ́hłı̨ Got’įnę hold inherent rights of self-government, righ…”
“Mr. Speaker, beyond the investments such as the Mackenzie Valley Highway, the Slave geological province and the Taltson hydro expansion, the important thing about accelerating this legislation is really the importance of the self-governance to the Tłegǫ́hłı̨ Got’įnę.”
“It was a landmark for not only the Sahtu but also the entire country. It created certainty, stability and a foundation strong enough to support other self-government negotiations into the future.”
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“[ Translation ] The appointment of a commissioner for modern treaty implementation will ensure that this and future governments are held to account for the implementation of modern treaties. That is in keeping with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the action plan that our government committed to implementing in partnership with indigenous peoples. [ English ] I would like to take a moment to share a bit about what modern treaties are and the work the government is doing to support indigenous peoples on the path. Beginning in 1975, Canada signed what are called “modern treaties” with first nations, Inuit and Métis rights holders. These agreements also often include provinces and territories.”
“Effective modern treaty implementation is a key part of this, and one that the commissioner would support. Improved implementation of modern treaties would go a long way to ensuring that indigenous communities can take part in economic growth. It would also help to ensure that indigenous partners in the north are well placed to contribute to Arctic security as we look to bolster our national defence capabilities in today's evolving landscapes. The government is committed to fulfilling the spirit and intent of modern treaties. This means honouring our commitments and responsibilities, and advancing our common objectives. This bill embodies the importance of our unique modern treaty relationships.”
“Modern treaties cover more than 40% of Canada's land mass, including 80% of the north. This means that much of Canada's resource wealth lies on or under lands governed by modern treaty partners. [ Translation ] The only way that we can move forward with projects and development on these lands is to do so in co-operation with modern treaty partners and in accordance with our constitutional obligations. Indigenous partners have shown that they are willing and able to work with and guide Canada in stimulating economic development. (1025) [ English ] We want to build Canada strong. That means upholding our commitments and obligations agreed to in modern treaties. We need an economy that includes indigenous leadership and benefits everyone.”
“This was a significant investment of time and effort that reinforces how important it is to follow through on Canada's modern treaty commitments. [ Translation ] In Canada, modern treaties are constantly evolving as laws and policies change. Clearly, they have real potential to promote social, cultural and economic progress for both indigenous partners and Canadians. As I mentioned, I have seen how much progress can be made when we develop real partnerships and make honest efforts, and I believe that this is also true for economic development. [ English ] We are living in increasingly uncertain times, amid economic upheaval and rising global instability. Strong relationships with modern treaty partners are going to be essential to building Canada strong.”
“This infrastructure development is helping community members access health services and education, and promotes the growth of local businesses. We see yet another example with the Gwich'in Renewable Resources Board. This board promotes sustainable use of land and resources while preserving traditional practices. It plays a leadership role so that the fish, forests and wildlife in the Gwich'in area remain healthy and sustainable. Its mandate is to work in the public interest, representing all the parties to their modern treaty. I see hope and promise in this legislation, but I know the road to negotiating a modern treaty is not easy. In fact, in many cases, the process can take decades to complete. In Nisga'a Nation's case, it took more than a century of advocacy and nearly 20 years of formal negotiations with the Crown.”
“The Nisga'a Nation, B.C.'s first modern treaty partner, holds its own elections in accordance with the nation's own constitution. Their community is seeing booming economic development and, just recently, is a partner on a major project under consideration of the Building Canada Act. [ Translation ] When they are implemented effectively, modern treaties are drivers of economic prosperity that can help to build a strong Canada. They support decision-making and land management and promote closer co-operation between the Crown and indigenous peoples on economic development projects. [ English ] In my home territory, the Tłı̨chǫ Government has invested in an all-season highway that connects remote communities.”
“Over the past few years, we have made significant progress in codeveloping tools to improve the implementation of modern treaties in a way that reflects the essence of our partnership. In 2023, we launched Canada's collaborative modern treaty implementation policy. We codeveloped this policy with modern treaty partners to support the full, effective and timely implementation of all modern treaties in Canada. [ Translation ] We co-developed the important bill that is before us today. Bill C‑10 will enable the appointment of an independent agent of Parliament tasked with holding the government accountable regarding its commitments, obligations and relationships arising from modern treaties. [ English ] We have seen the powerful results that modern treaties can deliver.”
“Today, we have an opportunity to respond to these calls and create a strong foundation for the ongoing work we will be doing together to overcome the challenges that modern treaty partners face across Canada. [ English ] Modern treaties have been fundamental to advancing reconciliation and shared economic prosperity with indigenous peoples for half a century. My perspective as a minister is shaped by my experience coming from the Northwest Territories. I know first-hand that progress is possible when there is real partnership and honest efforts. That depends on a solid foundation of respect and reliability. Earning and holding the confidence of indigenous peoples take ongoing work. They are things we must continue to do every day.”
“[ English ] Masì cho to the Land Claims Agreements Coalition co-chairs, Nisga'a Nation president Eva Clayton and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated president Jeremy Tunraluk, for their support. We are especially grateful for the guidance they provided while we engaged with the Tłı̨chǫ Government, the Tla'amin Nation, the Whitecap Dakota First Nation, the Maa-nulth treaty council and the Grand Council of the Crees. I look forward to their continued support as we work to advance this bill through to royal assent. For over 20 years, modern treaty partners have been advocating for an independent oversight mechanism to hold the federal government accountable to its modern treaty commitments. (1020) [ Translation ] This bill is about accountability, trust and following through on our promises as a government.”
“Since I became minister, it has been consistently raised with me as something they want passed quickly. I want to thank and acknowledge the modern treaty and self-governing partners across the country who have guided the development of this bill. Their vision is embedded in its foundation. By working together, we are making significant strides on our shared path of reconciliation. A representative for the Tsawwassen First Nation said that the commissioner for modern treaty implementation would help guarantee that governments are consistently held accountable, not just in words but in action. [ Translation ] This vision of a better Canada will help us be better treaty partners. The work that has been done is significant, and with this support, we are transforming our society for future generations.”
“moved that Bill C-10, An Act respecting the Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation , be read the second time and referred to a committee. Bill C-10. Second reading She said: Mr. Speaker, before I begin, I want to acknowledge that we are gathered on the unceded traditional territory of the Algonquin Anishinabe people. I am honoured to rise and speak today as Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations to begin debate on my first bill, an act respecting the commissioner for modern treaty implementation. With the support and guidance of modern treaty and self-governing partners, I am introducing this important bill because it would lead to a stronger, more prosperous future for modern treaty partners and everyone in Canada. Modern treaty partners across the country have been strong advocates for this legislation.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his question and his great work in his riding. On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we honour the children who never returned home and stand with survivors, their families and communities living with the legacy of residential schools. In response to call to action number 80, this day was established as a federal statutory holiday in 2021. Since then, our government has supported hundreds of community events every September 30, including 339 across the country this Tuesday. I encourage my colleagues and all Canadians to participate in ceremonies or events in their communities and to reflect, remember and recommit to the ongoing work of reconciliation.”
“Bill C‑10. Introduction and first reading moved for leave to introduce Bill C-10, An Act respecting the Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation . (Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)”
“Mr. Speaker, these rights are affirmed by the Constitution, and the duty to consult and accommodate has been set out in a series of Supreme Court of Canada decisions. The one Canadian economy act, specifically, in both the preamble and throughout the body of the legislation, would require the government to consult with indigenous rights holders, at clauses 5(7), 7(2) and 8(3). Again, we will be consulting with indigenous rights holders.”
“Mr. Speaker, we will be looking for projects that have indigenous support and, even better, indigenous equity in the projects. The legislation is about supporting projects that are not only shovel-ready but also shovel-worthy, projects that respect indigenous knowledge and uphold aboriginal and treaty rights. The legislation mandates that there must be meaningful consultation and accommodation with indigenous rights holders during both the process of determining which projects are in the national interest and the development of rigorous conditions for each project.”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for his hard work in his riding Honoré-Mercier. This Saturday, I am looking forward to celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day in Yellowknife at the North Slave Métis Alliance's annual community fish fry, which will also showcase entertainment and the vibrant cultures of indigenous peoples, both locally and nationally. I give my sincere thanks to the North Slave Métis for hosting and to Heritage Canada for its continued support of community celebrations like this across the country. I encourage all residents and colleagues to take part in the festivities. It is an opportunity to celebrate the rich history, diverse heritage and enduring strength of first nations, Inuit and Métis—”
“Mr. Speaker, this bill requires meaningful consultation with indigenous peoples, consistent with section 35 of the Constitution and the duty to consult. It would require consultation both during the process of determining which projects are in the national interest and, most important, once a project is selected during the permitting process. Both steps would require our indigenous partners. I look forward to continuing to engage with partners to ensure the success of the legislation and the involvement of indigenous peoples in moving our economy forward.”
“Mr. Speaker, we face a major challenge that requires united efforts to advance nation-building projects, making Canada's economy stronger and one of the fastest-growing in the G7. The Crown, including the provinces and territories, must consult with indigenous people to support indigenous self-determination. This partnership fulfills legal duties and advances reconciliation. While we will not comment on provincial matters, we remain committed to collaborating with all to build a stronger Canada.”