Huatong and Stoney Nakoda Nation Joint Venture: A Different Perspective on First Nations Issues
Tipis at Stoney Nakoda, Alberta Photo by Bencito the Traveller (flickr)
As seen by the protest against BC Hydro’s Site C project by First Nations chiefs, treaty rights and land claims are significant external factors that affect development projects throughout Canada. The project was rejected by the claim that the economic benefits did not exceed the costs (negative effects to fishing practices and wildlife), which was outlined in a precedent case as a requirement for development on Aboriginal lands.
However, treaty rights are not a political obstacle to businesses simply because they exist, but because they were once abused. They represent the First Nations people fighting back against the oppression and injustice they faced through the Indian Act. Aboriginals simply seek to continue their traditional practices and protect their wildlife, yet are not averse to all industry-related activities.
This is proven by the Stoney Nakoda Nation’s joint venture agreement with petrochemical corporation Huatong, with Huatong providing all the funding for Nakoda Oil & Gas, Inc. to develop oil and gas on Nakoda land. Unlike BC Hydro, which sought to control all operations once the site was claimed, Huatong allowed Nakoda to oversee the development on their own land. Beyond providing jobs for the First Nations people, they could also be ensured that the project’s operations would not be harmful to the environment on which their livelihoods depend.
“The magnitude of this new agreement between Huatong and the Stoney Nations will hopefully bring us one step closer to self-sufficiency for our nation and people.” – Bruce Labelle, Chiniki Nation chief Chief Bruce Labelle Photo by Alberta Aboriginal Relations (YouTube)
Thus, I believe the need to establish rightful mutual agreements is the real external factor at play here. There is increasing demand from the First Nations people for a business model that emphasizes partnerships, cooperative efforts, and respect.