Canada plans to unveil legislation requiring Canadian companies to disclose natural resource payments to foreign and domestic governments, but is delaying the onset of similar requirements for payments to First Nations, so that consultations with Aboriginal leaders can take place. This decision was welcomed by Aboriginal leaders, some of whom are concerned about the potential consequences of such requirements. Hayden King, Director of the Centre for Indigenous Governance at Ryerson University, predicts that “because of the likely superficial media reporting we can expect many to run with the popular ‘corrupt chief’ narrative…[and to] call for the erosion of treaties, end of ‘special’ Indian status, privatization of reserves, etc.” There are also concerns that the government will reduce funding for Aboriginal programs and services based on revenues coming from the private sector.Transparency of natural resource payments on Indigenous territories should be supported in principle, but must be approached in ways that strengthen, rather than erode, communities’ sovereignty over their lands and natural resources. The consultations will hopefully elicit a disclosure process that addresses the legitimate concerns of Canada’s Aboriginal leaders.
Sources: Globe and Mail, CBC
This post is excerpted from First Peoples Worldwide’s Corporate Monitor, a monthly report on key trends affecting companies interacting with Indigenous Peoples. To sign up for monthly e-mail updates, click here.