Major conflict of interest as Higgs’ credibility takes another hit

The following statement was issued February 5 by the six chiefs of the Wolastoqey Nation in New Brunswick:

Wolastoqey Territory – Blaine Higgs has once again shown his disdain for First Nations in New Brunswick by naming Natural Resource and Energy Development Minister Mike Holland the new Indigenous Affairs Minister following the sudden departure of Arlene Dunn.

By assigning the same minister to oversee both departments, Higgs has effectively welcomed the fox into the henhouse. This move is a clear conflict of interest and yet another blow to Higgs’ credibility.

What’s also concerning is the government’s track record when it comes to respecting the duty to consult. For years, Higgs has failed to provide any meaningful consultation with First Nations’ leaders on a wide range of files, including resource development. Now, he appears ready to use Holland – who also announced he won’t be running again – to steamroll ahead with his frack-filled plans before his time is up.

• Other missed opportunities to consult with indigenous leaders include:
• Refusing to work with Indigenous communities on tax-revenue sharing agreements
• Overseeing a patriarchal government-appointed, non-Indigenous led review of systemic racism that continues to collect dust
• Standing with Higgs in perpetuating the idea that Indigenous people were coming to steal New Brunswickers’ homes

Following in the footsteps of former Aboriginal Affairs Minister Jake Stewart, we aren’t surprised these two veteran ministers are throwing in the towel. Anyone who stands beside Higgs for long enough eventually drowns.

The Wolastoqey Nation in New Brunswick provides technical advice to Wolastoqey Communities on projects that have the potential to impact Wolastoqey rights.