UBCIC Rejects Proposed Major Projects Reforms

Press Release

(xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh)/ Vancouver, B.C. – June 10, 2026) The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) has submitted recommendations to the Government of Canada regarding its engagement on proposed reforms to federal major project review and approval processes.

The proposed changes would significantly alter how major projects are assessed and approved, including changes to environmental assessment, regulatory review, and Indigenous consultation processes. Following concerns raised by First Nations, environmental organizations, and other stakeholders, the federal government has announced an extension of the engagement period until July 22, 2026.

UBCIC’s submission rejects the federal government’s proposed reforms to major project assessment and permitting processes as currently drafted. The submission argues that the proposals would undermine First Nations’ title and rights, free, prior and informed consent, environmental protections, and Canada’s commitments under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. UBCIC calls on Canada to pause the current process and work with First Nations on a Nation-to-Nation basis to co-develop any future reforms.

UBCIC’s full submission is available below.

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Media inquiries:

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President, 250-490-5314
Chief Councillor Linda Innes, Vice-President, 778-884-5663
Chief Marilyn Slett, Secretary-Treasurer, 250-957-7721

UBCIC is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

For more information, please visit www.ubcic.bc.ca

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