Alberta extends resource consultation timelines for Indigenous communities

EDMONTON — The Alberta government through the Aboriginal Consultation Office is allowing participating Indigenous communities to add days, if necessary, to consultation processes for resource projects.

The extension is in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Up to 10 days can be added to Level 1 and 2 consultations, with 15 days for Level 3 consultations.

“With fewer resources available to manage consultations on natural resource development projects while responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, Indigenous communities should not have to choose between safety and prosperity. Timeline extensions can slow the pace enough to allow for good consultation practices,” said Alberta Minister of Indigenous Relations Rick Wilson in a statement.

By extending consultation, development projects on Crown lands that have met adequate consultation requirements for regulatory approval can move ahead while limiting harm to essential workers and the capacity strain in Indigenous communities, a government of Alberta release explained.

Consultation pauses will still be available as a last option should Indigenous communities need them, the release added.