Chief says assembly will tackle effect of major projects push on First Nations rights

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak speaks at the annual First Nations Major Projects Coalition conference in Toronto on Thursday, April 30, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sammy Kogan

OTTAWA — Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak says chiefs will focus on major projects and a coming meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney and the premiers when the AFN’s annual general assembly starts Tuesday.

Woodhouse Nepinak says the federal government’s approach to major projects development is raising concerns about possible threats to the rights of First Nations.

She says First Nations are not opposed to economic growth and are simply asking for a seat at the table as the federal government attempts to shore up the economy.

Woodhouse Nepinak says chiefs will discuss an upcoming first ministers meeting and what they want to see on the agenda.

She says that first ministers meeting, set to be held this fall, will be “a big test” for the country and chiefs need to show up united.

The Assembly of First Nations is a national advocacy body that takes its direction from some 630 First Nations chiefs through special and annual general assemblies.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 13, 2026

Alessia Passafiume, The Canadian Press