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7h ago

AFN Assembly Opens in Winnipeg With Push to Shape Bill C‑5 Implementation

Chiefs seek guaranteed consultation alongside $800 million to support a First Nations review of national‑interest projects.

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Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, Chief Abram Benedict, and Chief Francis Verreault-Paul listen as delegates speak about resolutions at the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Annual General Assembly in Winnipeg, Wednesday, September 3, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods
Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak gives her opening address at last year's annual general assembly in Montreal.

Overview

  • Delegates are debating a resolution that would require federal consultation on how the fast‑track law is implemented and elevate closing the First Nations infrastructure gap as a nation‑building priority.
  • The AFN has submitted a pre‑budget request for $800 million over two years to fund a First Nations review of projects designated in the national interest.
  • Ottawa has created a Major Projects Office, and Prime Minister Mark Carney said the Indigenous Advisory Council that will work with it will be announced next week.
  • Crown‑Indigenous Relations Minister Rebecca Alty told the assembly the government aims to build resilient economies in partnership with First Nations to address concerns about the legislation.
  • Chiefs are set to vote on Bill C‑5‑related resolutions Thursday as divisions persist, with some leaders warning the fast‑track powers risk infringing treaty and inherent rights.