Assembly of First Nations National Chief Calls for Action to Alleviate Impacts of High Fuel Prices on First Nations

Press Release

(May 8, 2026 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) – As fuel prices across Canada surge to ever-higher levels, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak is calling on the federal government to work immediately with First Nations on plans to mitigate the impacts of the high costs.

“The costs of fuel already impact First Nations more severely than any other community,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “Now, First Nations are being hit especially hard because of market instability and supply disruptions. This affects all our people and is especially dangerous for our citizens in rural, remote and northern First Nations. High fuel prices impact transportation costs, food security and energy security, traditional activities, emergency preparedness and more. The government needs to urgently co-develop a plan of action with First Nations to mitigate the impacts of high fuel prices and ensure our people are safe and secure.”

The National Chief noted that First Nations people already experience higher levels of unemployment and lower incomes than other populations in Canada, putting the cost of fuel out of reach for some. In addition, a number of First Nations in northern, rural and remote areas are not connected to power grids and rely on diesel for heat and energy, a long-standing issue that is exacerbated by surging fuel prices. Even before the recent price increases, diesel tends to be more expensive than other forms of electricity generation, poses health and environmental risks, and leaves communities vulnerable by relying on a single power source.

“We call on the Prime Minister and key federal ministers to come to the table with First Nations to confirm a plan for financial support and other relief for First Nations to minimize the impacts of high fuel costs,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “The Prime Minister has extended support to the private sector during these turbulent times of tariffs and high costs. The government must extend support to First Nations that are dealing with the impacts of international instability. Going forward, this is yet another urgent reason why we need a strategic plan to close the infrastructure gap for First Nations, which would address power supplies, all-season roads and highways structures, transportation infrastructure and other priorities.”

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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.

For more information, please contact:

Cherish Francis
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)
cfrancis@afn.ca

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