Now that I have the mike again, I was very grateful for support on my first amendment and I want to thank the majority of the members of this committee.
This is pursuing the change found on page 4, between lines 13 and 16, to expand the duty of the minister when considering matters that could constitute an adverse effect on the rights of indigenous peoples. To protect rights for indigenous peoples throughout the bill, the expansion eliminates the concept that they're only acting when there are adverse effects.
My amendment would strengthen that language by saying “upholds the protection provided for the rights of Indigenous peoples” by the recognition and affirmation of section 35 of the Constitution. It then adds a proposed subsection 2.4(2) to “take all measures necessary to ensure that the act is administered in a manner that is consistent with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples”, which is further qualified and specified by noting the date on which it was adopted.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I appreciate the chance to put forward this amendment.