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Mark Carney is banking on economic reconciliation but critics say he’s not on track
Carney’s government says faster project approvals and incentives for First Nations will advance economic reconciliation, while critics say the approach weakens Indigenous rights.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has centered his Indigenous relations strategy on "economic reconciliation," prioritizing major project approvals. Indigenous leaders argue this approach prioritizes corporate interests over treaty rights, leaving the relationship like a "four-legged stool with one leg missing," Chief Wilton Littlechild said.
Critics compare Carney's strategy to former prime minister Stephen Harper's approach, with one expert noting, "Where Harper was the stick, Carney is the carrot." The government encourages First Nations to back the Trans Mountain pipeline through low-cost loans and $2.5 million payments.
Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty defended the government, stating, "There is a lot of institutional reconciliation that's happening." Meanwhile, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 94 Calls to Action demand broader social support beyond economic initiatives.
Tensions escalated ahead of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation after individuals displayed a banner bearing "Got bones?" in Kamloops, B.C., questioning reports of burials at former school sites. Experts warn this "residential school denialism" constitutes ongoing harm.
Bill C-39, the Building Canada Strong Act, seeks to approve projects within one year, compressing consultation timelines that First Nations chiefs say will hamper land-use assessments. Leaders stress achieving sovereignty requires consent, arguing the current path "completely excludes us by way of disrespect.