Carney to meet Coastal First Nations in Prince Rupert on major projects, marine protection

Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to meet with leaders of Coastal First Nations in Prince Rupert on Tuesday, with discussions expected to focus on major resource projects and marine conservation along British Columbia’s coastline.

Carney will be joined by Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson, whose early dealings with the alliance have drawn criticism. Hodgson faced backlash after failing to consult Coastal First Nations before the federal government signed an agreement with Alberta that could advance a new pipeline to the B.C. coast.

The minister later apologized for remarks made during a television interview, in which he suggested consultations could have been done virtually. Coastal First Nations leaders said the comments underscored broader concerns about meaningful engagement on decisions affecting their territories.

According to federal officials, Tuesday’s meeting will also examine how Indigenous communities can participate in Ottawa’s major projects agenda as Canada looks to strengthen its economy amid ongoing trade and economic pressures from the United States.

Coastal First Nations, an alliance of nine First Nations, plays a key role in protecting the Great Bear Rainforest and the surrounding marine environment, while advocating for Indigenous leadership in decisions related to land, water, and resource development across the North and Central Coast of British Columbia.