The Indigenous Resource Network (IRN) said the Canadian government’s proposed just transition could have negative implications for indigenous oil and gas workers. .“We understand the anxieties of some of our workers in the oil and gas sector” said IRN Executive Director John Desjarlais in a press release. .“Throughout the legislative process, IRN will be engaging with decision makers and our supporters to ensure our concerns are heard and that proper amendments are considered.”.The Canadian government followed through on its threat to gut Alberta’s energy sector by introducing its just transition bill on Thursday. .READ MORE: Liberals table 'Just Transition' legislation in House.Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson appeared alongside Labour Minister Seamus O’Reagan, union representatives, and NDP MPs to announce plans to create a sustainable jobs council and a sustainable jobs secretariat under a five-year plan..Wilkinson said Canada’s economic future “will need aligning.” Although he pledged to work with the provinces, there were no premiers in attendance..With the oil and gas industry being a source of livelihood, contracts, and revenue for indigenous people, the release said IRN is concerned about what issues might come from transitioning these workers out of their jobs without a plan for them to earn the same wages. Statistics Canada reported indigenous people make almost three times more working in oil and gas than the average indigenous worker ($140,400 to $51,120). .While the legislation does not offer many key details, IRN will continue to monitor for updates from the Canadian government and offer considerations and amendments representing the interests of indigenous workers and businesses. .Desjarlais concluded by saying the resource sector is “valuing the skills and experience that indigenous workers bring to the table.” .“We look forward to working with the federal government to ensure indigenous workers have more, not less, opportunities in the sector while providing the world with responsibly produced energy,” he said.
