Tribal Council looks forward to immediate consultation on implementation and action
The former federal Conservative government previously called the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) an aspiration document, while the new federal Liberal government of Canada, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has committed to a new nation-to-nation relationship with Indigenous peoples across Canada.
This renewed commitment to Canada’s Indigenous peoples was confirmed at the 15th Session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) when the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, declared full support of the UNDRIP. The Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council (NTC) which politically represents 14 First Nations and over 9,700 citizens along the West Coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, is excited to hear Minister Bennett’s recent statements for the adoption of UNDRIP. However, the NTC is cautiously optimistic as there is currently an immediate need for change and action.
Debra Foxcroft, NTC President stated, “Nuu-chah-nulth citizens are relieved that there has been a renewed relationship between the federal government and First Nations across Canada. However, we must recognize that there is a lot of work that needs to be done immediately. Implementation of the UNDRIP is an amazing start, but there are still issues that need to be addressed, including why this current federal government insists on battling five of our First Nations (Ahousaht, Ehattesaht, Hesquiaht, Mowachaht/Muchalaht, and Tla-o-qui-aht) in the Ahousaht litigation and lack of funding for child and family services. UNDRIP will provide the preliminary tools for Canada’s toolbox in their dealings with First Nations.”
“Although this is exciting news, there is still much work to be done,” commented Ken Watts, NTC Vice-President. “We want to acknowledge all the Indigenous leadership that helped draft UNDRIP, in particular Grand Chief Ed John. But most importantly, we look forward to the Government of Canada not only consulting, but engaging with First Nations in a working relationship to implement UNDRIP in Canada. We must also not forget the Province of British Columbia (BC) has an important role to play in implementation of UNDRIP. We as Nuu-chah-nulth call upon BC Premier Christy Clark to undertake a review (in consultation with BC First Nations) of what it would take to implement UNDRIP in BC, much like the work the Province of Alberta has already undertaken.”
