Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak used her opening remarks at the AFN general assembly in Ottawa to criticize the federal government's proposed reforms aimed at accelerating approvals for major industrial and infrastructure projects.

While reaffirming that First Nations support economic development and projects that contribute to Canada's prosperity, she argued that these goals must not override Indigenous rights or the Crown's constitutional and legal obligations.

Woodhouse Nepinak specifically questioned the proposed one-year federal approval timeline, saying it risks placing commercial priorities ahead of the Crown's duty to consult and accommodate First Nations.

The federal government launched consultations on the proposed regulatory changes in May and later extended the consultation period until July 22 following criticism from Indigenous organizations and other stakeholders.

The proposed reforms include creating economic zones, allowing cabinet to grant certain environmental exemptions, establishing a Crown Consultation Hub within the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada, and streamlining project reviews.According to Woodhouse Nepinak, the consultation process remains insufficient given the scope of the proposed legislative changes.She warned that project approvals could face legal challenges if the federal government fails to properly fulfil its consultation obligations.

During the July 14–16 AFN assembly, chiefs are expected to debate a resolution opposing reforms that weaken environmental protections, reduce meaningful consultation, shorten review timelines, or bypass the principle of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC).

The resolution also calls on governments to avoid making political commitments or signing agreements on pipelines and major infrastructure projects before meaningful consultation with First Nations has taken place.

Woodhouse Nepinak also announced that a First Nations–First Ministers' meeting is scheduled for October 26 to focus on advancing First Nations priorities through ongoing federal and provincial engagement.