Manitoba Chiefs Reject Proposed Indigenous Corporation

Northern Manitoba First Nations have expressed strong opposition to the proposed Manitoba Crown-Indigenous Corporation, which aims to facilitate the expansion of the Port of Churchill and a liquefied natural gas shipping corridor through Hudson Bay.

The corporation would allow the provincial government, First Nations, and the Red River Métis to partner on projects such as northern mining and road construction. However, several chiefs from the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak expressed concerns that the corporation could undermine their rights and interests.

Chief Michael Yellowback of Manto Sipi Cree Nation stated, 'We are opposed to it.' He added that nobody speaks on behalf of First Nations, not even the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. The chiefs also questioned the proposed board structure, which would allow a provincial MLA to sit as a member and only include two representatives from northern Manitoba.

Amna Mackin, interim CEO of the corporation, acknowledged that traditional resources and lands will be respected in order to develop economic opportunities.