Thank you, Mr. Chair, for allowing me to speak to the committee.
Good afternoon. It is my pleasure to be here with you to talk about Bill C-49.
As chief in Membertou, our Mi’kmaq community located on Cape Breton Island, I can tell you we are focused on two things. The first is creating economic opportunities for our community and the Atlantic as a whole. The second is investing in projects that will generate long-term stability for our people.
At the core of everything we do are the people we do it for: our community members. With every major project we take on, we do our due diligence to ensure that it aligns with our Mi’kmaq values while also pushing our community forward. This is why we support the intent of Bill C-49.
Through this bill, we can enable the development of offshore wind in Nova Scotia. Membertou is an equity partner in proposed offshore wind developments that have the potential to positively shape the entire landscape of our island.
Traditionally, indigenous Canadians were not invited to participate in major industry projects. I am proud to say that is changing. When we all work together, great things happen. We truly believe that an offshore wind industry can coexist with other industries in a sustainable manner.
Membertou has operations in sustainable seafood, as well as offshore and inshore commercial fisheries, which will not be impacted by these developments.
It is important to note that broad consultations, including comprehensive environmental assessments, will be undertaken before offshore proponents will receive the necessary approvals from all levels of government. Ensuring that habitats are protected is at the heart of these processes, and that is made clear in the proposed legislation. This is a value that is very close to us and of the utmost importance.
As Mi’kmaq, we want to be part of the solution in fighting climate change. We recognize that the development of this industry is needed in the global climate crisis and to meet the net-zero targets put in place by the government.
As a major harvester in the offshore fleet, we know that any forthcoming plans for offshore wind development will be developed thoughtfully and to fully protect this and any other sensitive areas.
We will continue to work with all interested and involved parties to ensure that we create new opportunities for our people while also protecting the industries that remain critical to our way of life.
Thank you for providing me with an opportunity to speak to you today.
Wela'lioq.