2023-24 Reporting on the Calls for Justice 13.1 to 13.5: Calls for Extractive and Development Industries

Learn how the Government of Canada is responding to Calls for Justice 13.1 to 13.5.

Based on data provided June 3, 2024.

On this page

13.1: We call upon all resource-extraction and development industries to consider the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people, as well as their equitable benefit from development, at all stages of project planning, assessment, implementation, management, and monitoring.

2023-24 Updates

  • Natural Resources Canada successfully advocated for the inclusion of Shared Priority Action Plan Measure (APM) 12 within the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan, which will strengthen the Government of Canada's commitment to implementing Calls for Justice 13.1 – 13.5. Natural Resources Canada has established a dedicated team to lead on this measure and has begun early foundational work to guide its implementation.

Initiatives

Advancing Economic Reconciliation in the Natural Resource Sector: Renewal of Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee - Line 3 and Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee Trans Mountain Expansion Project

Progress to date

The IAMC-TMX's Socioeconomic Subcommittee met bi-monthly from its inception in 2018 to mid 2023, and monthly since that time with a focus on enhancing Indigenous oversight over socioeconomic effects during construction of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project. This initiative assists government departments and agencies, and the proponent, to better understand emergent issues related to the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people during the construction of a major natural resource infrastructure project.

The IAMC-TMX program provides funding to Indigenous communities impacted by the Trans Mountain Expansion Project to enable their participation through its various Subcommittees, including the Socioeconomic Subcommittee. The Socioeconomic Subcommittee's work has resulted in formal advice to the Government of Canada focused on enhancing consideration for the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people at all stages of resource extraction activities. Through submission to government or regulators, or through discussions at the Socioeconomic Subcommittee's regular monthly meetings involving government representatives (Canada Energy Regulator, Indigenous Services Canada, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, Impact Assessment Agency of Canada, etc.). For example, in 2022 the Socioeconomic Subcommittee provided a submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on the Status of Women regarding Resource Development and Violence Against Indigenous Women and Girls. This brief helped inform the Standing Committee's Report on Violence against Indigenous Women and Girls in the Context of Resource Development Projects and its subsequent recommendations.

On May 30, 2023, the Chair of the IAMC-TMX Socioeconomic Subcommittee presented at the Indigenous Centre for Cumulative Effects conference on the topic of "Restoring Indigenous Stewardship Through the Realm of Socioeconomic Cumulative Impact Assessment and Monitoring". The presentation included a focus on the community-based and regional working groups that have been created by the Socioeconomic Subcommittee as a proactive response to gaps in regulatory oversight as this concerns impacts to Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

This year, in response to a call for feedback on the Canada Energy Regulator's draft Industry Best Practices for Involvement of Indigenous Nations and Communities in Emergency Management, the Socioeconomic Subcommittee submitted a series of recommendations that outlined the importance of requiring Canada Energy Regulator -regulated companies to approach emergency management through an Indigenous Gender-based Analysis (IGBA+) lens and so as to better account for gendered consideration within their emergency management programs.

This year, the IAMC-TMX's Socioeconomic Subcommittee committed to partnering with Natural Resources Canada on development and implementation of the Government of Canada's United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Shared Priority Measure 12 which is focused on developing a strategy to increase the safety, security and equitable benefits of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people at all stages of resource project development. This work is being advanced, in part, through the SESC's Wise Practices gatherings which bring together Indigenous members from communities affected by the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, other Indigenous organizations working to address issues concerning MMIWG and the resource sector, staff working with federal regulators and federal government departments, all with a focus on advancing collective efforts regarding needed intersectional action and response to the ongoing harm(s) and structural violence that are upheld through existing policy and regulatory regimes, and to re-center Indigenous knowledges and cultural accountability in support of the survival, dignity and well-being of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Through enhancing the capacity of Indigenous communities to identify, monitor and mitigate socioeconomic effects related to natural resource development projects, and through provision of policy advice and direct engagement with federal regulators and department officials, the Socioeconomic Subcommittee seeks to adjust regulators', legislators' and federal partners' worldview, regulations, and ways of working with Indigenous peoples as this concerns socioeconomic effects assessment and monitoring, including that focused on the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Funding and partner information

Lead Department: Natural Resources Canada
Funding Amount: A portion of the $44M NRCan received for the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for Major Projects, over three years starting 2024-25, will support the IAMC-TMX Socioeconomic Subcommittee.
Funding Source: Budget 2022
Partners: Members from: Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association, Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, Buffalo Lake Métis Settlment, Louis Bull Tribe, Simpcw First Nation, Nooaitch Indian Band, BC Métis Federation, Montana First Nation, Stoney Nakoda First Nations, Musqueam Nation, Tsuut'ina Nation; Federal regulators/departments: Natural Resources Canada, Canada Energy Regulator, Indigenous Services Canada, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
Related Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A
Related Calls for Justice: 13.2, 13.3, 13.4, 13.5

UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) Shared Priority Measure 12 (SPM 12) on Safe, Secure and Equitable Resource Development (NEW)

Progress to date

The Fifth Report of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women entitled Responding to the Calls for Justice: Addressing Violence Against Indigenous Women and Girls in the Context of Resource Development Projects was released in December 2022 and included 15 recommendations and one observation to improve the safety, security and equitable benefits for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people in the context of resource development. Natural Resources Canada appeared as a witness for the study and co-led the Government Response to the Fifth Report of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women report with Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada with input from 13 other federal departments and agencies. The Response highlighted work in progress, including existing federal initiatives to address violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

The Standing Committee acknowledged the brief provided by the co-developed Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line's Socioeconomic Subcommittee (IAMC-TMX SESC), specifically as this concerns the exploitation and sexualization of Indigenous women and girls (p. 12), fear of violence (p. 13), the earmarking of funding to study the relationship between resource development and violence against Indigenous women and girls (p. 16), how companies can manage worker accommodations to reduce the risk of dangerous situations (p. 28), the lack of trust in, and inadequacy of,  industry-led grievance mechanisms (p. 29), the need for collaboration to design appropriate grievance mechanisms and reporting (p. 30), the need to track the use of services addressing gender-based violence (p. 31), the need for cultural safety training in the workplace (p. 34), the need for training on violence against women and sexual exploitation for workers (p. 35), the need for a national counter exploitation program to be delivered at industrial sites (p. 35), the pressures temporary workers exert on local housing (p. 39), and how police forces and communities can prepare for natural resource development projects in their area (p. 40).

On June 21, 2023, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) Action Plan was released. Natural Resources Canada is a core partner in the implementation of the UN Declaration Act Action Plan and is the lead department on Shared Priority Measure (SPM) 12 which seeks to address Call for Justice 13.1 and commits the Government of Canada to "partner with Indigenous communities and organizations, industry, other federal departments and provinces and territories to develop and implement a strategy to:

  • Increase safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people at all stages of resource project development;
  • Empower Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people to influence and equitably benefit from resource development through increased participation across disciplines and occupations, leadership positions and throughout the supply chain; and,
  • Partner and pathfind with other federal departments to identify while of government responses to mitigate the impacts of resource development projects on Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ peoples."

Natural Resources Canada has established a dedicated team to lead on the development and implementation of Shared Priority Measure 12 and has begun foundational work to guide its implementation through:

  • Partnering with the co-developed Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee for Trans Mountain Expansion Project's Socioeconomic Subcommittee (IAMC-TMX SESC) to gather wise practices from their Work Camps and other Influxes of Workers Initiative.
  • Initial engagement through relationship building with National Indigenous Women's Organizations and other Indigenous partners and communities.
  • Partnering with Women and Gender Equality to draft indicators that will be used to inform the co-design of a performance measurement framework for Shared Priority Measure 12; and
  • Initiating the co-design of an engagement strategy with National Indigenous Women's Organizations, 2SLGBTQI+ organizations, natural resource industry associations, and others.
Funding and partner information

Lead Department: Natural Resources Canada
Funding Amount: N/A
Funding Source: N/A
Partners: The Socioeconomic Subcommittee of the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line ("IAMC-TMX"); Indigenous women's and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations including Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC), Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak / Women of the Métis Nation (LFMO) and Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada; Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and other relevant federal departments; Natural Resources Industry
Related Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A
Related Calls for Justice: 13.2, 13.3, 13.4 and 13.5

13.2: We call upon all governments and bodies mandated to evaluate, approve, and/or monitor development projects to complete gender-based socio-economic impact assessments on all proposed projects as part of their decision making and ongoing monitoring of projects. Project proposals must include provisions and plans to mitigate risks and impacts identified in the impact assessments prior to being approved.

2023-24 Updates

  • Natural Resources Canada successfully advocated for the inclusion of Shared Priority Action Plan Measure (APM) 12 within the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan, which will strengthen the Government of Canada's commitment to implementing Calls for Justice 13.1 – 13.5. Natural Resources Canada has established a dedicated team to lead on this measure and has begun early foundational work to guide its implementation.

Initiatives

Advancing Economic Reconciliation in the Natural Resource Sector: Renewal of Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee - Line 3 and Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee – Trans Mountain Expansion Project

Progress to date

The Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with the Trans Mountain Expansion Project ("IAMC_TMX") formed the Socioeconomic Subcommittee, in part, to better understand and address Indigenous gender-based issues as these pertain to the Project.

In response to the release of the September 17, 2021 guidance regarding GBA+ in the Practitioner's Guide to federal impact assessment (under the Impact Assessment Act), this year the Socioeconomic Subcommittee invited two members of the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada to join the subcommittee to exchange information and to assist in informing the agency about the socioeconomic impacts experienced by those Indigenous community members impacted by the Trans Mountain Expansion Project from an IGBA+ lens.

On December 12, 2023, the Chair of the Socioeconomic Subcommittee presented to the broader Committee on the topic of IGBA+ and has since been asked to present to the socioeconomic staff within the broader Canada Energy Regulator.

Funding and partner information

Lead Department: Natural Resources Canada
Funding Amount: A portion of the $44M NRCan received for the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for Major Projects, over three years starting 2024-25, will support the IAMC-TMX Socioeconomic Subcommittee.
Funding Source: Budget 2022
Partners: Members from: Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association, Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, Buffalo Lake Métis Settlment, Louis Bull Tribe, Simpcw First Nation, Nooaitch Indian Band, BC Métis Federation, Montana First Nation, Stoney Nakoda First Nations, Musqueam Nation, Tsuut'ina Nation; Federal regulators/departments: Natural Resources Canada, Canada Energy Regulator, Indigenous Services Canada, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
Related Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A
Other Related Calls for Justice: 13.1, 13.3, 13.4, 13.5

United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) Shared Priority Measure 12 (SPM 12) on Safe, Secure and Equitable Resource Development (NEW)

Progress to date

The Fifth Report of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women entitled Responding to the Calls for Justice: Addressing Violence Against Indigenous Women and Girls in the Context of Resource Development Projects was released in December 2022 and included 15 recommendations and one observation to improve the safety, security and equitable benefits for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people in the context of resource development. Natural Resources Canada appeared as a witness for the study and co-led the Government Response to the Fifth Report of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women report with Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and included input from 13 other federal departments and agencies. The Response highlighted work in progress, including existing federal initiatives to address violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

The Standing Committee acknowledged the brief provided by the co-developed Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line's Socioeconomic Subcommittee (IAMC-TMX SESC), specifically as this concerns the exploitation and sexualization of Indigenous women and girls (p. 12), fear of violence (p. 13), the earmarking of funding to study the relationship between resource development and violence against Indigenous women and girls (p. 16), how companies can manage worker accommodations to reduce the risk of dangerous situations (p. 28), the lack of trust in, and inadequacy of, industry-led grievance mechanisms (p. 29), the need for collaboration to design appropriate grievance mechanisms and reporting (p. 30), the need to track the use of services addressing gender-based violence (p. 31), the need for cultural safety training in the workplace (p. 34), the need for training on violence against women and sexual exploitation for workers (p. 35), the need for a national counter exploitation program to be delivered at industrial sites (p. 35), the pressures temporary workers exert on local housing (p. 39), and how police forces and communities can prepare for resource development projects in their area (p. 40).

On June 21, 2023, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) Action Plan was released. Natural Resources Canada is a core partner in the implementation of the UN Declaration Act Action Plan and is a lead department on Shared Priority Measure 12 which seeks to address Call for Justice 13.2, and commits the Government of Canada to "partner with Indigenous communities and organizations, industry, other federal departments and provinces and territories to develop and implement a strategy to:

  • Increase safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people at all stages of resource project development;
  • Empower Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people to influence and equitably benefit from resource development through increased participation across disciplines and occupations, leadership positions and throughout the supply chain; and,
  • Partner and pathfind with other federal departments to identify whole of government responses to mitigate the impacts of resource development projects on Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ peoples."

Natural Resources Canada has established a dedicated team to lead on the development and implementation of Shared Priority Measure 12 and has begun foundational work to guide its implementation through:

  • Partnering with the co-developed Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee for Trans Mountain Expansion Project's Socioeconomic Subcommittee (IAMC-TMX SESC) to gather wise practices from their Work Camps and other Influxes of Workers Initiative.
  • Initial engagement through relationship building with National Indigenous Women's Organizations and other Indigenous partners and communities.
  • Partnering with Women and Gender Equality to draft indicators that will be used to inform the co-design of a performance measurement framework for Shared Priority Measure 12, and.
  • Initiating the co-design of an engagement strategy with National Indigenous Women's Organizations, 2SLGBTQI+ organizations, natural resource industry associations, and others.
Funding and partner information

Lead Department: Natural Resources Canada
Funding Amount: N/A
Funding Source: N/A
Partners: The Socioeconomic Subcommittee of the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line ("IAMC-TMX"); Indigenous women's and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations including Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC), Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak / Women of the Métis Nation (LFMO) and Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada; Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and other relevant federal departments; Natural Resources Industry
Related Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A
Related Calls for Justice: 13.1, 13.3, 13.4 and 13.5

13.3: We call upon all parties involved in the negotiations of impact-benefit agreements related to resource-extraction and development projects to include provisions that address the impacts of projects on the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people. Provisions must also be included to ensure that Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA people equitably benefit from the projects.

2023-24 Updates

  • Natural Resources Canada successfully advocated for the inclusion of Shared Priority Action Plan Measure (APM) 12 within the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan, which will strengthen the Government of Canada's commitment to implementing Calls for Justice 13.1 – 13.5. Natural Resources Canada has established a dedicated team to lead on this measure and has begun early foundational work to guide its implementation.

Initiatives

UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) Action Plan Measure 12 (APM 12) on Safe, Secure and Equitable Resource Development (NEW)

Progress to date

The Fifth Report of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women entitled Responding to the Calls for Justice: Addressing Violence Against Indigenous Women and Girls in the Context of Resource Development Projects was released in December 2022 and included 15 recommendations and one observation to improve the safety, security and equitable benefits for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people in the context of resource development. Natural Resources Canada appeared as a witness for the study and co-led the Government Response to the Fifth Report of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women report with Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and included input from 13 other federal departments and agencies. The Response highlighted work in progress, including existing federal initiatives to address violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

The Standing Committee acknowledged the brief provided by the co-developed Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line's Socioeconomic Subcommittee (IAMC-TMX SESC), specifically as this concerns the exploitation and sexualization of Indigenous women and girls (p. 12), fear of violence (p. 13), the earmarking of funding to study the relationship between resource development and violence against Indigenous women and girls (p. 16), how companies can manage worker accommodations to reduce the risk of dangerous situations (p. 28), the lack of trust in, and inadequacy of, industry-led grievance mechanisms (p. 29), the need for collaboration to design appropriate grievance mechanisms and reporting (p. 30), the need to track the use of services addressing gender-based violence (p. 31), the need for cultural safety training in the workplace (p. 34), the need for training on violence against women and sexual exploitation for workers (p. 35), the need for a national counter exploitation program to be delivered at industrial sites (p. 35), the pressures temporary workers exert on local housing (p. 39), and how police forces and communities can prepare for resource development projects in their area (p. 40).

On June 21, 2023, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) Action Plan was released. Natural Resources Canada is a core partner in the implementation of the UN Declaration Act Action Plan and is a lead department on Shared Priority Measure 12 which seeks to address Call for Justice 13.3, and commits the Government of Canada to "partner with Indigenous communities and organizations, industry, other federal departments and provinces and territories to develop and implement a strategy to:

  • Increase safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people at all stages of resource project development;
  • Empower Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people to influence and equitably benefit from resource development through increased participation across disciplines and occupations, leadership positions and throughout the supply chain; and,
  • Partner and pathfind with other federal departments to identify whole of government responses to mitigate the impacts of resource development projects on Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ peoples."

Natural Resources Canada has established a dedicated team to lead on the development and implementation of Shared Priority Measure 12 and has begun foundational work to guide its implementation through:

  • Partnering with the co-developed Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee for Trans Mountain Expansion Project's Socioeconomic Subcommittee (IAMC-TMX SESC) to gather wise practices from their Work Camps and other Influxes of Workers Initiative.
  • Initial engagement through relationship building with National Indigenous Women's Organizations and other Indigenous partners and communities.
  • Partnering with Women and Gender Equality to draft indicators that will be used to inform the co-design of a performance measurement framework for Shared Priority Action Plan Measure 12; and
  • Initiating the co-design of an engagement strategy with National Indigenous Women's Organizations, 2SLGBTQI+ organizations, natural resource industry associations, and others.
Funding and partner information

Lead Department: Natural Resources Canada
Funding Amount: N/A
Funding Source: N/A
Partners: The Socioeconomic Subcommittee of the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line ("IAMC-TMX"); Indigenous women's and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations including Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC), Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak / Women of the Métis Nation (LFMO) and Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada; Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and other relevant federal departments; Natural Resources Industry
Related Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A
Related Calls for Justice: 13.1, 13.2, 13.4 and 13.5

Advancing Economic Reconciliation in the Natural Resource Sector: Renewal of Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee - Line 3 and Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee – Trans Mountain Expansion Project

Progress to date

The Socioeconomic Subcommittee of the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line ("IAMC-TMX") was formed, in part, as a response to concerns around the influx of non-local workers and temporary work camps related to the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, and potential related impacts to the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people. The IAMC-TMX and its Subcommittees are comprised of representatives of relevant government departments and federal regulators, members from impacted Indigenous communities, and in some instances, other relevant parties including Trans Mountain Corporation representatives.

The IAMC-TMX's Socioeconomic Subcommittee supports the inclusion of provisions (such as Project conditions, monitoring, regulatory enhancements, government programming, etc.), that better address the impacts of resource extraction projects on the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

The Indigenous Caucus of the IAMC-TMX submitted feedback on the Canada Energy Regulator Onshore Pipeline Regulations' discussion paper and noted the importance of addressing the differential impacts of pipeline construction, operation, and decommissioning on diverse groups within Indigenous communities, including women, gender diverse, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. In addition, the submission outlined that an updated version of the Onshore Pipeline Regulations must include requirements for companies to establish relevant policies to ensure the safety and security of Indigenous women, gender diverse, and 2SLGBTQI+ employees.

In June 23, the Indigenous Caucus of the IAMC-TMXProject participated in a workshop with the Canada Energy Regulator regarding updates to its Filing Manual and Onshore Pipeline Regulations; connected to this ongoing work, the Socioeconomic Subcommittee has hosted a series of Wise Practices workshops and has commissioned research that will help inform further advice to the regulator in relation to socioeconomic impacts of projects through an IGBA+ lens.

The IAMC-TMX's Socioeconomic Subcommittee committed to partnering on the Government of Canada's United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) Shared Priority measure 12 that is focused on developing a strategy to mitigate the impacts of resource development projects on Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Funding and partner information

Lead Department: Natural Resources Canada
Funding Amount: A portion of the $44M NRCan received for the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for Major Projects, over three years starting 2024-25, will support the IAMC-TMX Socioeconomic Subcommittee.
Funding Source: Budget 2022
Partners: Members from: Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association, Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, Buffalo Lake Métis Settlment, Louis Bull Tribe, Simpcw First Nation, Nooaitch Indian Band, BC Métis Federation, Montana First Nation, Stoney Nakoda First Nations, Musqueam Nation, Tsuut'ina Nation; Federal regulators/departments: Natural Resources Canada, Canada Energy Regulator, Indigenous Services Canada, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
Related Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A
Related Calls for Justice: 13.1, 13.2, 13.4, 13.5

13.4: We call upon the federal, provincial, and territorial governments to fund further inquiries and studies in order to better understand the relationship between resource extraction and other development projects and violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people. At a minimum, we support the call of Indigenous women and leaders for a public inquiry.

2023-24 Updates

  • The Socioeconomic Subcommittee of the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line ("IAMC-TMX" commissioned a series of issues briefs to be produced from a 2019 review of Trans Mountain Expansion Project policies, procedures and practices and research carried out in 2021 focused on two regions impacted by the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, Fraser Valley and Alberta. These briefs focused on project impacts on local Indigenous populations, including gender-based violence and women-specific issues, crime prevention and perceptions of safety, and 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusivity and safety.
  • Natural Resources Canada successfully advocated for the inclusion of Shared Priority Action Plan Measure (APM) 12 within the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan, which will strengthen the Government of Canada's commitment to implementing Calls for Justice 13.1 – 13.5. Natural Resources Canada has established a dedicated team to lead on this measure and has begun early foundational work to guide its implementation.

Initiatives

Advancing Economic Reconciliation in the Natural Resource Sector: Renewal of Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee - Line 3 and Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee – Trans Mountain Expansion Project

Progress to date

The Socioeconomic Subcommittee of the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line ("IAMC-TMX") has undertaken work to identify issues it would like to further understand, such as the relationship between resource extraction and violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people, to inform itself and other interested government departments and impacted Indigenous communities.

The Socioeconomic Subcommittee has conducted analysis of Trans Mountain Corporation's plans for Indigenous socioeconomic inclusion in the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and the proponent's employment policies and project conditions. This analysis facilitated a better understanding of safety and security issues related to a major resource project and enabling highlighting potential gaps to be addressed by the proponent.

This year, the Socioeconomic Subcommittee of Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line ("IAMC-TMX") commissioned a series of issues briefs to be produced from a 2019 review of Trans Mountain Expansion Project policies, procedures and practices and research carried out in 2021 focused on two regions impacted by the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, Fraser Valley and Alberta. These briefs include recommendations to address issues related to the safety and security of Indigenous women and girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people in relation to a specific natural resource infrastructure project and will be made available to Indigenous communities and government agencies for their information and consideration.

New research commissioned by the Socioeconomic Subcommittee in 2023 focuses on the experience of smaller municipalities and a local First Nation in the North Thompson region during construction of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, a major project constructed during the Covid-19 pandemic and involving thousands of non-local workers. The results of this new research will be used to inform itself and other interested government departments and impacted Indigenous communities.

Funding and partner information

Lead Department: Natural Resources Canada
Funding Amount: A portion of the $44M NRCan received for the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for Major Projects, over three years starting 2024-25, will support the IAMC-TMX Socioeconomic Subcommittee.
Funding Source: Budget 2022
Partners: Members from: Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association, Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, Buffalo Lake Métis Settlment, Louis Bull Tribe, Simpcw First Nation, Nooaitch Indian Band, BC Métis Federation, Montana First Nation, Stoney Nakoda First Nations, Musqueam Nation, Tsuut'ina Nation; Federal regulators/departments: Natural Resources Canada, Canada Energy Regulator, Indigenous Services Canada, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
Related Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A
Related Calls for Justice: 13.1, 13.2, 13.3, 13.5

United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act Shared Priority Measure 12 (SPM 12) on Safe, Secure and Equitable Resource Development (NEW)

Progress to date

The Fifth Report of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women entitled Responding to the Calls for Justice: Addressing Violence Against Indigenous Women and Girls in the Context of Resource Development Projects was released in December 2022 and included 15 recommendations and one observation to improve the safety, security and equitable benefits for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people in the context of resource development. Natural Resources Canada appeared as a witness for the study and co-led the Government Response to the Fifth Report of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women report with Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and included input from 13 other federal departments and agencies. The Response highlighted work in progress, including existing federal initiatives to address violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

On June 21, 2023, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) Action Plan was released. Natural Resources Canada is a core partner in the implementation of the UN Declaration Act Action Plan and is a lead department on Shared Priority Measure 12 which seeks to address Call for Justice 13.4, and commits the Government of Canada to "partner with Indigenous communities and organizations, industry, other federal departments and provinces and territories to develop and implement a strategy to:

  • Increase safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people at all stages of resource project development;
  • Empower Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people to influence and equitably benefit from resource development through increased participation across disciplines and occupations, leadership positions and throughout the supply chain; and,
  • Partner and pathfind with other federal departments to identify whole of government responses to mitigate the impacts of resource development projects on Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ peoples."

Natural Resources Canada has established a dedicated team to lead on the development and implementation of Shared Priority Measure 12 and has begun foundational work to guide its implementation through:

  • Partnering with the co-developed Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee for Trans Mountain Expansion Project's Socioeconomic Subcommittee (IAMC-TMX SESC) to gather wise practices from their Work Camps and other Influxes of Workers Initiative.
  • Initial engagement through relationship building with National Indigenous Women's Organizations and other Indigenous partners and communities.
  • Partnering with Women and Gender Equality to draft indicators that will be used to inform the co-design of a performance measurement framework for Shared Priority Measure 12; and
  • Initiating the co-design of an engagement strategy with National Indigenous Women's Organizations, 2SLGBTQI+ organizations, natural resource industry associations, and others.
Funding and partner information

Lead Department: Natural Resources Canada
Funding Amount: N/A
Funding Source: N/A
Partners: The Socioeconomic Subcommittee of the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line ("IAMC-TMX"); Indigenous women's and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations including Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC), Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak / Women of the Métis Nation (LFMO) and Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada; Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and other relevant federal departments; Natural Resources Industry
Related Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A
Related Calls for Justice: 13.1, 13.2, 13.3 and 13.5

13.5: Anticipate and recognize increased demand on social infrastructure because of development projects and resource extraction, and identify mitigation measures

2023-24 Updates

  • The Socioeconomic Subcommittee of the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line was formed and is actively working to analyze data and trends to inform policy regarding the influx of non-local workers and temporary work camps related to the Trans Mountain Expansion Project.
  • Natural Resources Canada successfully advocated for the inclusion of Shared Priority Action Plan Measure (APM) 12 within the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan, which will strengthen the Government of Canada's commitment to implementing Calls for Justice 13.1 – 13.5. Natural Resources Canada has established a dedicated team to lead on this measure and has begun early foundational work to guide its implementation.
  • The Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund supported 6 shovel-ready infrastructure projects at First Nations health facilities, treatment centres and Aboriginal Head Start On-Reserve centres.

Initiatives

Advancing Economic Reconciliation in the Natural Resource Sector: Renewal of Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee - Line 3 and Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee – Trans Mountain Expansion Project

Progress to date

The Socioeconomic Subcommittee of the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line ("IAMC-TMX") was formed, in part, as a response to concerns around the influx of non-local workers and temporary work camps related to the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, and the potential for increased demands on social infrastructure.

The Socioeconomic Subcommittee, together with the proponent, reviewed existing Trans Mountain Corporation socio-economic indicators and agreed to the tracking of and reporting on priority Indigenous-focused socio-economic indicators, such as reporting on health incidents and local accommodation usage.

This year, the Socioeconomic Subcommittee continued to receive reports from Trans Mountain Corporation on priority Indigenous-focused socio-economic indicators at monthly meetings with the proponent. This data is currently being consolidated for the purpose of analyzing trends with a view to informing future policy development and to be shared as advice to regulators.

Funding and partner information

Lead Department: Natural Resources Canada
Funding Amount: A portion of the $44M NRCan received for the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for Major Projects, over three years starting 2024-25, will support the IAMC-TMX Socioeconomic Subcommittee.
Funding Source: Budget 2022
Partners: Members from: Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association, Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, Buffalo Lake Métis Settlment, Louis Bull Tribe, Simpcw First Nation, Nooaitch Indian Band, BC Métis Federation, Montana First Nation, Stoney Nakoda First Nations, Musqueam Nation, Tsuut'ina Nation; Federal regulators/departments: Natural Resources Canada, Canada Energy Regulator, Indigenous Services Canada, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
Related Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A
Related Calls for Justice: 13.1, 13.2, 13.3, 13.4

Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund – Funding for First Nations and funding for Urban Indigenous Peoples

Progress to date

Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund funding under Indigenous Services Canada for First Nations health infrastructure can be linked to Call for Justice 13.5 that policing, social services and health services are adequately staffed and resourced in the context of meeting the anticipated needs of host communities where development projects and resource extraction may be taking place.

Starting in 2021–22 and as of September 30, 2023, of the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund targeted funding committed, Indigenous Services Canada has invested $1.85 billion (excluding operating expenses), including $154 million of Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund funding toward 437 shovel-ready infrastructure projects.

In 2023–24, the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund funding was allocated toward 26 shovel-ready infrastructure projects at First Nations health facilities, treatment centres and Aboriginal Head Start On-Reserve centres.

Funding and partner information

Lead Department: Indigenous Services Canada
Funding Amount: First Nations on reserves: $2.83 billion over 3 years; Urban Component: $200 million over 4 years
Funding Source: Budget 2021
Partners: Community-based partners; Regional and national partner organizations; Assembly of First Nations; First Nations; First Nations organizations
Related Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A
Related Calls for Justice: 4.6, 4.7, 13.5

United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) Shared Priority Measure 12 (SPM 12) on Safe, Secure and Equitable Resource Development (NEW)

Progress to date

The Fifth Report of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women entitled Responding to the Calls for Justice: Addressing Violence Against Indigenous Women and Girls in the Context of Resource Development Projects was released in December 2022 and included 15 recommendations and one observation to improve the safety, security and equitable benefits for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people in the context of resource development. Natural Resources Canada appeared as a witness for the study and co-led the Government Response to the Fifth Report of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women report with Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and included input from 13 other federal departments and agencies. The Response highlighted work in progress, including existing federal initiatives to address violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

On June 21, 2023, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) Action Plan was released. Natural Resources Canada is a core partner in the implementation of the UN Declaration Act Action Plan and is a lead department on Shared Priority Measure (APM) 12 which seeks to address Call for Justice 13.5, and commits the Government of Canada to "partner with Indigenous communities and organizations, industry, other federal departments and provinces and territories to develop and implement a strategy to:

  • Increase safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people at all stages of resource project development;
  • Empower Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people to influence and equitably benefit from resource development through increased participation across disciplines and occupations, leadership positions and throughout the supply chain; and,
  • Partner and pathfind with other federal departments to identify whole of government responses to mitigate the impacts of resource development projects on Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ peoples."

Natural Resources Canada has established a dedicated team to lead on the development and implementation of Shared Priority Measure 12 and has begun foundational work to guide its implementation through:

  • Partnering with the co-developed Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee for Trans Mountain Expansion Project's Socioeconomic Subcommittee (IAMC-TMX SESC) to gather wise practices from their Work Camps and other Influxes of Workers Initiative.
  • Initial engagement through relationship building with National Indigenous Women's Organizations and other Indigenous partners and communities..
  • Partnering with Women and Gender Equality to draft indicators that will be used to inform the co-design of a performance measurement framework for Shared Priority Measure 12; and
  • Initiating the co-design of an engagement strategy with National Indigenous Women's Organizations, 2SLGBTQI+ organizations, natural resource industry associations, and others.
Funding and partner information

Lead Department: Natural Resources Canada
Funding Amount: N/A
Funding Source: N/A
Partners: The Socioeconomic Subcommittee of the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee associated with the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Line ("IAMC-TMX"); Indigenous women's and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations including Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC), Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak / Women of the Métis Nation (LFMO) and Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada; Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and other relevant federal departments; Natural Resources Industry
Related Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A
Related Calls for Justice: 13.1, 13.2, 13.3 and 13.4

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