OTTAWA — Justice Minister Sean Fraser issued an apology on Wednesday for comments he made regarding the federal government's obligation to consult First Nations on projects affecting their territories. His remarks have raised concerns about trust between the government and Indigenous communities.

The controversy arose in the context of Prime Minister Mark Carney's proposal to introduce legislation aimed at expediting approvals for significant energy and infrastructure projects. The new plan would reduce the approval timeline from five years to just two. This has alarmed the Assembly of First Nations, which represents over 600 First Nations across Canada. They argue that the proposed legislation poses a serious threat to treaty rights.

In a letter to Carney, National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak referenced the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. This declaration emphasizes the need for "free, prior, and informed consent" regarding laws and decisions that impact Indigenous peoples. When asked about this principle on Tuesday, Fraser explained that it requires a deep level of engagement and understanding of the rights that may be affected. However, he added that it does not grant Indigenous groups a complete veto over government decisions.

Following his comments, Fraser faced backlash, prompting him to apologize. He acknowledged that his words may have given the impression that the government intended to act unilaterally rather than in partnership with Indigenous peoples. "Despite innocent intentions, I think my comments actually caused hurt and potentially eroded a very precarious trust that has been built up over many years to respect the rights of Indigenous people in this country," he stated as he entered a Liberal caucus meeting.

Fraser revealed that he received a call from Woodhouse Nepinak expressing her frustration after his remarks. He apologized to her directly and committed to making a public apology. "This is completely on my own initiative," he clarified. "I’ve not been asked to do this by anyone. (Woodhouse Nepinak) said that she would appreciate if I would offer some clarity. But this is not coming from anyone within government. This is something I feel compelled to do."

As of now, the Assembly of First Nations has not responded to requests for comment regarding the situation.