The Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta are calling fir caution as the province considers a “Treat and Release” approach for oil-sands tailings water manangement.
Leaders say the plan to discharge threated mine water into the Athabasca River poses serious risks to the environment and the health of downstream communities. They argue that the technology isn’t proven safe and that Indigenous Nations haven’t been properly consulted.
In a statement made by the Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta, they stated that their position is guided by the following Treaty Based Principles:
– Treaty Responsibility: The Crown gas a legal and more duty under Treaty No. 8 to protect, not compromise, the health, lands, and waters of First Nations Peoples
– Free, Prior, and Informed Consent; No government or industry actions shall proceed without transparent, meaningful engagement and the consent of all affected Nations
– Indigenous Jurisdiction: Long term solutions must respect and strengthen First Nations’ inherent right to govern, monitor, and protect the waters within their territories
Treaty 8 First Nations are supporting First Nations added that they stand in a united front that no treated effluent shall be released into the environment unless it:
1. Meets First Nations defined safety standards established through Indigenous led science and traditional knowledge
2. Receives the free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC) of all affected Nations
3. Reflects the Crown’s binding Treaty obligations to protect the health, lands, and waters of First Nations Peoples.
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