The National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations says proposed anti-terror legislation sets up “conditions for conflict” with First Nations.
Perry Bellegarde made the remarks this morning before a Commons Standing Committee reviewing Bill C-51.
He testified the Bill will create circumstances where First Nations people asserting their rights will be labelled as threats.
More specifically, the chief said the Bill will infringe on First Nations’ rights to freedom of speech and assembly — and the right to be free of unreasonable search and seizure.
Bellegarde told the committee to withdraw the proposed legislation, adding First Nations will “vigorously oppose any legislation that does not respect and protect our rights”.
The AFN leader was testifying before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security.