Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association v. Canada (Minister of Finance), 2025 FC 864
Justice Grammond - 2025-05-09
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The Federal Court ruled on two applications for judicial review concerning the exclusion of certain Indigenous groups from discussions regarding an equity stake in the Trans Mountain pipeline project. The Minister of Finance deemed the applicants ineligible, citing a lack of recognition under Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, despite prior consultations. The Court found the Minister's criteria for participation to be arbitrary and lacking in rational justification, as they were selectively applied and did not credibly assess the legitimacy of the Indigenous groups involved. Furthermore, the Minister breached procedural fairness by failing to inform the applicants of concerns related to membership overlaps with other groups. The applications were allowed, underscoring the necessity for a fair and transparent process in recognizing Indigenous rights. The case reflects ongoing complexities in the recognition and consultation of Indigenous groups in Canada.
Decision relates to:
- T-1988-24 - Aseniwuche Winewak Nation Of Canada, A v. The Deputy Prime Minister and The
- T-2508-23 - LAC STE. ANNE MÉTIS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION v. THE MINISTER OF FINANCE