SASKATOON — The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations calls the Saskatchewan provincial government to consult First Nations leaders before selling or leasing Crown lands and minerals.
FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron asserted that the selling and leasing of Crown lands and minerals fall within the Treaty and traditional territories of Indigenous Peoples who continue to practice their traditional ways of hunting, fishing, trapping, and gathering.
"By failing to notify us of land sales or leases, the province is neglecting its constitutional obligations to First Nations: to engage in consultations before making decisions that may impact our rights," stated Chief Cameron.
He further emphasized the significance of Treaty rights, stating that they supersede provincial laws and land sales policies. Chief Cameron condemned the lack of transparency in the local administration, highlighting what he perceives as a disregard for First Nations and their rights.
Echoing Chief Cameron's sentiments, FSIN Third Vice Chief Heather Bear, responsible for the Land and Resources Commission, urged the Saskatchewan government to uphold First Nations' Treaty Land Entitlement and specific claims agreements.
"The law mandates that the province consults with First Nations whenever it considers decisions that could affect our Treaty rights. However, when it comes to Crown land sales and leases, the province appears to overlook these obligations to appease its base," said Vice Chief Bear.
Highlighting a history of land appropriation, Vice Chief Bear asserted that the province's current land sales and leases hinder First Nations people from utilizing lands they have relied on for generations.
Responding to the situation, several First Nations are actively challenging the province's land policies, while others are considering legal action against long-term leases being issued without their consent.
FSIN has been collaborating with the Saskatchewan First Nations Natural Resources Centre of Excellence (Centre of Excellence) to create maps showcasing Crown land sales and leases up for auction and their proximity to First Nations communities across the province.
These maps are shared with all First Nations in Saskatchewan as part of ongoing efforts to protect their rights and traditional territories.
