AFN chief says talks of Alberta separation 'irresponsible,' points to treaties

The Canadian Press

· Posted: May 12, 2025 3:56 PM EDT | Last Updated: 4 minutes ago

The nationalist main of the Assembly of First Nations says speech of Alberta separatism is 'irresponsible' and it's "not smart" for politicians to marque statements astir it without consulting with First Nations first.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has introduced a measure that would marque it easier for Albertans to motorboat referendums connected assorted topics — including splitting from Canada.

Smith has pointed to increasing alienation successful her state and vexation with Ottawa, saying those wanting to abstracted "are not fringe voices."

National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak says immoderate effort by Alberta to divided the state would beryllium "unconstitutional" and a "direct affront to the ineffable treaties that predate the state itself."

First Nations person ne'er ceded their inherent rights to the onshore and resources, and separatism would disregard treaties and undermine the instauration of Canada, Nepinak said.

"Any projected separation of Alberta from Canada would beryllium fundamentally illegitimate and unconstitutional without the explicit, prior, informed and corporate consent of the First Nations whose lands and rights predate the enactment of the state and of Canada," Nepinak said successful a statement. 

The nationalist main is besides calling for a national reappraisal of earthy resources transportation agreements successful effect to the referendum talk, saying First Nations were ne'er consulted connected those agreements with the provinces.