Federal Energy Minister Tim Hodgson issued an apology to Coastal First Nations for his choice of words regarding a proposed meeting in Vancouver on Friday. Despite the group’s opposition to a bitumen pipeline to the northern B.C. coast, Hodgson expressed willingness to meet with the alliance of nine First Nations following an agreement between Ottawa and Alberta aimed at advancing the project.
Brushing off concerns raised by the group’s president, Marilyn Slett, about the short notice of the meeting invitation, Hodgson suggested using Zoom for the discussion. He later clarified his remarks, acknowledging the short notice and expressing regret for his comments. Hodgson emphasized his commitment to an in-person meeting at the convenience of the Coastal First Nations.
In response, Slett criticized Hodgson’s initial comments as disrespectful and reflective of a lack of understanding of their communities. She highlighted their successful collaborations with the federal and B.C. governments on environmental initiatives in the Great Bear Rainforest and Sea, emphasizing the importance of respectful dialogue for ongoing productive relationships.
Hodgson, in his efforts to mend the situation, expressed readiness to travel for an in-person meeting with the Coastal First Nations following the misunderstanding surrounding the proposed virtual meeting.