Recently, First Nations leaders spoke out against the Alberta Energy Regulator at a hearing, expressing disappointment and frustration with the organization’s handling of energy development in their territories. The hearing, which took place in Calgary, called into question the effectiveness of the AER and the extent to which it is serving the needs and interests of Indigenous communities in the province. In response to these concerns, Alberta’s energy minister has promised reform, though some remain skeptical of the government’s ability to implement meaningful change. This article will explore the arguments raised by First Nations leaders at the hearing, as well as the government’s proposed solutions and the ongoing debate over energy development in Alberta.
Representatives from First Nations impacted by wastewater release from an oilsands mine in Alberta criticized the province’s energy regulator at a House of Commons committee hearing, accusing it of serving the oil industry instead of the public. Daniel Stuckless from the Fort McKay Métis Nation labelled the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) as having “zero credibility outside Calgary’s echo chamber”, saying it downplayed the effects of oilsands on communities and the rights of Aboriginal and treaty groups. Meanwhile, Chief Allan Adam of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation said the Alberta system was “broken” and should be dismantled, accusing Ottawa of failing to enforce environmental laws. The hearing was convened to investigate why it took governments and First Nations nine months to uncover information about tailings water releases from Imperial Oil’s Kearl mine, but speakers said the problem was far wider.
The recent hearing regarding the proposed oil sands project in Alberta has brought to light the ongoing strife between the First Nations communities and the province’s energy regulator. The government promises reform, but whether this will be enough to satisfy the concerns of these communities remains to be seen. It is clear, however, that the First Nations will continue to fight for their voices to be heard in matters that affect their land and way of life. As we move forward, it is important to remember the importance of respecting the rights and needs of Canada’s Indigenous peoples.
