Canada Urged to Include Fossil Fuels in Indigenous Loans Program

Posted : November 23, 2023

In recent discussions surrounding sustainable fossil fuels development, an overarching sentiment has emerged: Ottawa should place trust in the original caretakers of this extraordinary land. The proposal advocates for the inclusion of oil and gas sectors into its Indigenous Loans Program. This initiative not only fosters economic growth but also champions the ideals of indigenous sovereignty and environmental stewardship. This unique integration offers an insightful perspective on future pursuits. Read on for an in-depth exploration of this subject.
1. Ottawa is encouraged to entrust sustainable fossil fuel development to the original caretakers of the land, the Indigenous communities in Canada.
2. The proposal calls for the oil and gas sectors to be included in the Indigenous Loans Program.
3. This initiative is intended to foster economic growth and uphold the ideals of indigenous sovereignty and environmental stewardship.
4. The Indigenous communities in Canada have successfully managed their lands sustainably long before Ottawa was established, proving their suitable stewardship.
5. Incorporating the oil and gas sector into the Indigenous loans program not only presents a practical decision, but also acknowledges the long-standing competency and stewardship of these communities.
According to a 2018 report from The National Energy Board, Indigenous communities produce about 14 percent of Canada's natural gas and 9 percent of its oil.
The Indigenous communities across Canada have been managing their lands long before Ottawa was even established. These communities have fostered a sacred relationship with their terrain, maintaining its sanctity over the decades through their deep-rooted belief systems, customs and traditions. Their rich history of land management is evidence enough that they possess the knowledge on how to sustainably engage in fossil fuel development. Therefore, incorporating the oil and gas sector into the Indigenous loans program is not only a practical decision, but also a recognition of their long-standing competency and stewardship.