Treaty 8 chiefs urge Alberta for a 2% share in resource royalties, citing urgent need for self-determination and wildfire support amid legislative changes.
First Nations Leaders Seek Greater Economic Share
Chiefs from the Treaty 8 First Nations in Alberta have formally called on the provincial government to grant a 2% share of resource revenues from projects developed on their ancestral lands. The call was made during a pivotal meeting held Thursday with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith in Calgary, marking a renewed push for economic self-determination.
Context for the Demands
The request comes amid accelerating provincial and federal legislation that could fast-track natural resource developments. Treaty 8 Grand Chief Trevor Mercredi emphasized that the speed of regulatory changes has heightened the need for urgent dialogue and direct involvement of Indigenous leadership in decisions that affect their territories.
“We’re not asking for a handout,” Mercredi said. “We’re asking for the means to take care of our people—on our terms, from our lands.”
Provincial Response Emphasizes Equity
Premier Smith responded by reaffirming the government’s interest in Indigenous participation in Alberta’s economic future, but leaned toward equity stakes over royalty sharing. She cited the Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation, which supports Indigenous investments in major sectors, as a more sustainable solution.
“We share the aspiration, we just have a different way of supporting it,” Smith said.
Bill C‑5 Sparks Concerns Over Consultation
Coinciding with Thursday’s meeting was the Senate’s passage of Bill C‑5, federal legislation that allows streamlined cabinet approvals for infrastructure and resource projects deemed to benefit the Canadian economy. While intended to accelerate development, the bill has drawn criticism from Indigenous leaders like Mercredi, who warn it may bypass meaningful consultation with First Nations.
“The resources come from our backyards,” Mercredi said. “It can’t be business as usual while our rights are overlooked.”
Expanding the Conversation: Emergency Response
In addition to economic matters, Treaty 8 leaders raised growing alarm over Alberta’s wildfire response. As climate-related emergencies become more frequent and destructive, Mercredi called for formal inclusion of Indigenous leadership in emergency management planning.
“Our communities are on the frontlines of wildfire season year after year,” he said. “Alberta must step up its services and recognize our capacity to govern and protect our people.”
Future Talks and Next Steps
The Treaty 8 delegation also pushed back against Alberta’s Sovereignty Act, asserting that it undermines Indigenous governance. They called for formal recognition of Treaty 8 leadership as equal partners in governance decisions moving forward.
Premier Smith is expected to visit Treaty 8 territory in August for continued discussions. While both sides expressed willingness to collaborate, the path forward will depend on how Alberta balances rapid economic development with its legal and moral obligations to Indigenous nations.
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