Iroquois Caucus Opposes Bill C-39; Calls for Government to Immediately Suspend
For Immediate Release
(Kenténha/October 2026) The Iroquois Caucus stands united with First Nations across Canada to oppose Bill C-39, the Building Canada Strong Act, and calls on Canada to immediately withdraw the legislation. The bill is the latest in the federal government’s efforts to prioritize their economic agenda, while ignoring the rights and interests of First Nations Peoples.
The bill proposes a fundamental restructuring of federal project reviews, including a one-year decision timeline, regions of national interest, and complete restructuring of assessment and regulatory processes. The Iroquois Caucus cannot support legislation that places accelerated timelines ahead of the inherent rights and jurisdiction of First Nations, the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and principles of free, prior, and informed consent. Decisions affecting traditional territories, lands, waters, wildlife, and future generations must not be made without our meaningful participation.
The federal government affirms that the bill preserves duty to consult and that timelines may be suspended or extended for Indigenous consultation. Such assurances that consultation requirements will remain in place do not, on their own, resolve concerns. Consultation cannot be reduced to a procedural step on the way to a decision which has already been made.
“We support approaches to economic development that create lasting benefits and respect for First Nations jurisdiction, protect the environment, and establish genuine partnerships." stated Chairperson, Grand Chief Cody Diabo. "However, we have major concerns with this bill, and the fundamental questions has never been formally answered. Will this bill respect FPIC and will First Nations have a Veto? Or will it be forced on us like everything else Canada wants."
The Iroquois Caucus rejects the continued assumption that governments can determine the future of our territories first and seek our input afterward. We call on the federal government to listen to First Nations and work with us in good faith toward a future built on justice and genuine partnership.
About the Iroquois Caucus:
The Iroquois Caucus (IC) is comprised of elected Councils from Haudenosaunee communities that include Akwesásne, Kahnawà:ke, Kanehsatá:ke, Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte (Tyendinaga), Oneida Nation of the Thames, Wahta Mohawks and Six Nations of the Grand River. Collectively the Iroquois Caucus works to advocate for the wellbeing of our communities and are committed to ensuring the ongoing protection and recognition of our inherent and human rights.