VANCOUVER — Canada's natural resources minister says the Liberal government wants to collaborate with indigenous communities to develop natural resources based on a low-carbon, sustainable energy economy.
Jim Carr told an energy forum organized by the Assembly of First Nations today that Aboriginal Peoples will be consulted on resource projects and decisions will be based on science.
He highlighted the government's introduction of new environmental assessment rules for major resource projects including Kinder Morgan's Trans Mountain pipeline expansion and Enbridge's Northern Gateway project.
The forum brings together First Nations from across Canada to set priorities for working with the energy industry.
Carr's remarks come after two bands launched a $3-billion class action lawsuit against the federal government alleging mismanagement by the agency responsible for protecting their oil and gas rights.
