Northern Manitoba First Nations are expressing concerns about a corporation that Premier Wab Kinew believes will facilitate the expansion of the Port of Churchill and the establishment of a liquefied natural gas shipping route through Hudson Bay. A discussion on the proposed Manitoba Crown-Indigenous Corporation at a Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak meeting was cut short by the chiefs. They insisted that Kinew should personally engage with them regarding this new entity instead of provincial officials.
The Manitoba Crown-Indigenous Corporation is envisioned as a collaboration between the provincial government, First Nations, and the Red River Métis to support various projects, including the Port of Churchill expansion, a Hudson Bay natural gas shipping corridor, mining ventures in the north, and the construction of year-round roads. According to a draft legislation obtained by CBC News, the corporation would have the authority to engage in land transactions, financial activities, investments, and take ownership interests in projects in northern regions.
The draft legislation outlines that a minimum of 80% of the corporation’s profits would be allocated to First Nations and organizations representing them, along with the Red River Métis, while the remaining 20% would go to the provincial government. It ensures that the corporation will not impede First Nations’ rights to approve or reject projects affecting their lands and resources.
During the meeting, MKO chiefs expressed doubts about the composition of the corporation’s proposed board, which includes only two representatives from northern Manitoba and allows a provincial MLA to be a member. Grand Chief Garrison Settee emphasized the need for more northern representation due to the concentration of resources and projects in that region.
Amna Mackin, the interim CEO of the corporation, clarified that while the goal is for all nations to participate from the beginning, not all are required to join immediately. She stated that a portion of revenues would be reserved for those choosing to opt in at a later stage.
Premier Kinew estimated the Port of Churchill expansion costs at $80 billion, mentioning the possibility of an offshore liquefied natural gas terminal. However, Mackin informed the chiefs that the type of commodity transported through Churchill could vary. She assured them that the corporation would prioritize respecting traditional lands and resources while pursuing economic opportunities responsibly.
The Kinew government did not provide comments, but Minister Bushie assured the MKO that the Crown-Indigenous Corporation would uphold the rights of First Nations and emphasized the importance of further consultations before enacting legislation to establish the corporation.