Innu Chief says any new mining project on Aboriginal land could be blocked

Innu Chief Gilbert Dominique, a spokesperson for the
Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador, said any new mining project on Aboriginal land could be blocked if it falls short of Native communities’ expectations regarding ancestral rights. First Nations are considering a challenge of Quebec’s new Mining Act in court after the province cut short debate on it to force passage. “We want a veto right on all projects that have a devastating impact on our land,” said Dominique. The new mining bill promotes consultation with Native communities “if the circumstances warrant.” Quebec First Nations say consultations should begin the moment a mining claim on their land is registered and before exploration operations.