Less than two weeks after First Nations formed an alliance to stop the construction of oil pipelines, several other First Nations are gathering to discuss how to encourage the oil industry.
Chiefs representing oil and gas First Nations are talking about reconciling traditional values and energy development during the two-day conference in downtown Calgary.
“The debate is extremely polarized. Our objective is to provide a forum for meaningful and respectful dialogue that hopefully will chart a path forward,” said Stephen Buffalo, chief executive of the Indian Resource Council, in a statement about the conference.
Oil and gas executives along with provincial government representatives are taking part, although the federal government is not involved besides being a sponsor.
“Unfortunately, we have not received any indication from the [Prime Minister’s Office] to participate at this time.”
Perry Bellegarde, national chief of the Assembly of First Nations, will address the conference. He admitted it will be tough to find common ground among Indigenous communities when it comes to major pipeline projects, during his interview this weekend on CBC Radio’s The House.
“We’re diverse in Canada as Indigenous people. So the point that we’re supporting as the Assembly of First Nations is right — the very important right — of self determination,” he said.
He supports the right of First Nations to say no to development on their land.
Last month, 50 First Nations in North America signed the Treaty Alliance Against Tar Sands Expansion. They oppose tanker and rail proposals in both countries, including pipeline projects proposed by Kinder Morgan Inc., TransCanada Corp. and Enbridge Inc.