Federal power to sidestep Indian Act removed from major projects bill

After weeks of criticism from First Nations leaders, the federal government has amended its major projects bill to withdraw the power it gave cabinet to sidestep the Indian Act. The Liberal government’s controversial legislation, which would allow cabinet to quickly grant federal approvals for big industrial projects like mines, ports and pipelines, sailed through committee in the early hours of Thursday. Amendments to Bill C-5 made in committee include the removal of the Indian Act from a list of laws the government can sidestep when determining whether a project should move forward. The change comes after First Nations leaders warned the bill could violate their constitutionally protected rights. First Nations leaders also said Ottawa could face legal challenges and its fast-tracked projects could be slowed down if Indigenous communities are not meaningfully consulted. The legislation, which has support from the opposition Conservatives, is expected to pass Friday. Story by Alessia Passafiume Continue Reading