Reference made to First Nations

Re: “First Nations’ efforts to protect waterways should be recognized” (Montreal Gazette online, June 1)

Grand Chief Joseph Tokwiro Norton is right. Any effort to better protect and manage Canada’s freshwater resources on a national scale requires the active involvement of our First Nations. That is why the motions I have tabled in Parliament on the issue of water management have included a vital reference to First Nations.

My current motion calling on the federal government to create a Council of St. Lawrence to better promote the integrated and scientifically based management of the St. Lawrence River states that this forum should be composed of representatives from “the federal government, the Quebec government, river communities, First Nations, industry and the public.” Moreover, in 2006 I tabled a motion calling on the federal government to develop a national water strategy “in consultation with the provinces, territories, Aboriginal groups, municipalities, (and) local community organizations.” Finally, in 2009 I was successful in having the House of Commons environment committee launch a study of the impact of the oilsands industry on the Athabasca River watershed — not least because of concern for First Nations communities that depend on the watershed. The Liberal report from the study referenced, in particular, the need to respect First Nations treaty rights (namely, Treaty 8 rights) in the region.

First Nations have a deep connection with, and respect for, water. They must be properly consulted on water policy. Francis Scarpaleggia, Member of Parliament for Lac-Saint-Louis