Some First Nations worry Carney's major projects bill will only lead to more conflict

Some First Nations are raising concerns about the federal government's plan to provide up-front approvals for major projects, with one grand chief calling it a "fool's errand."

Through interviews and letters CBC News obtained, First Nations are raising red flags with the Liberal government's plans to fast-track what it calls projects in the national interest.

The government is still consulting with Indigenous communities, premiers and industry, but is expected to table "one Canadian economy" legislation as early as next week.

"While you can legislate to fast-track regulation, you cannot fast-track the Crown's duties or fast-track Indigenous acceptance," states Savanna McGregor, Grand Chief of the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation Tribal Council in a letter to the Privy Council Office (PCO).

"Trying to do so is a fool's errand because it would lead to more, not less, potential conflict, including preclusive litigation."

McGregor represents seven nations in Quebec and Ontario.

In a statement, the Prime Minister's Office said the Liberal government would never override constitutionally protected Indigenous rights.

"The proposed legislation acknowledges that right and considers Indigenous consultation and partnership integral. It will not cut out necessary approvals or consultations," said Audrey Champoux, a press secretary for the prime minister.

The PCO is the lead branch of the civil service providing support to Prime Minister Mark Carney and his cabinet. The office has been sending letters to Indigenous leaders, asking for feedback on proposed legislation that would fast-track major projects, such as ports, nuclear facilities and mines.

CBC News obtained a document shared with First Nations that states Carney's government intends to "facilitate the identification of projects" that are in the national interest, "provide certainty through up-front regulatory approvals" and establish a "major projects office."

During the federal election, Carney campaigned on rendering final decisions on projects within a two-year timeline instead of five years and a "one window" approach that shifts "the focus of project review from 'why' to 'how.'" Those priorities were included in Tuesday's speech from the throne.

The letter gave First Nations a week to comment on the briefing note, which spells out how the proposed legislation would work. Friday was the deadline to comment.

"Obviously, it is quite concerning," said Treaty 8 Grand Chief Trevor Mercredi in an interview with CBC News. "There's not much time to react and strategize."

Treaty 8 is the largest treaty by area and encompasses parts of Alberta, the Northwest Territories, British Columbia and northwest Saskatchewan. Many of its sovereign nations are in the heart of Canada's oilpatch or live with its direct environmental impacts.