Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I appreciate the witnesses for being here today in person and via video.
My first question will go to Vice-Chief David Pratt, who's with us via video conference.
In your media release dated December 11, 2023, you stated:
The proposed act announced today would force First Nations into more negotiations with the provincial government, who must agree to any protection plan.
Your chief was also quoted as saying:
Of particular concern in this proposed legislation is a section that allows Canada and Provincial and Territorial governments to make agreements regarding First Nations water by themselves. While it says the Minister must consult with First Nations on these agreements, the law does not require First Nations approval of any agreement as it does the provinces on source water.
Vice-Chief Pratt, do you believe the legislation can guarantee that first nations, the federal government and provinces would have to come to an agreement before any regulations would come into force?