Ottawa’s new climate strategy being developed ‘behind closed doors,’ AFN says

By Canadian Press on October 30, 2025.

OTTAWA — The Assembly of First Nations says Ottawa’s climate competitiveness strategy is being developed “behind closed doors,” without input from First Nations.

Speaking at a House of Commons environment committee hearing Thursday, P.E.I. regional chief Wendell LaBobe said the government’s renewed focus on economic security could see it backslide on its climate commitments.

LaBobe told the committee this isn’t the first time the government has developed climate policy without First Nations input, citing the 2050 net zero plan and Canada’s 2030 and 2035 emissions reduction targets.

The climate competitiveness strategy, to be released with the federal budget on Nov. 4, is expected to mark a shift in Canada’s approach to climate policy.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has said his approach prioritizes results over targets and emphasizes the economy, while he and his ministers have dodged questions on whether the government is still committed to its emissions reduction targets.

LaBobe said the government has an obligation to work on climate policy with First Nations, as set out in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 30, 2025.

Nick Murray, The Canadian Press