John Rustad has warned that David Eby is "setting back reconciliation" by effectively giving First Nations "veto" power when it comes to fast-tracking projects in British Columbia.The Conservative leader's comments come in response to the premier's assertion that if Bill 15 is passed, giving the province the ability to prioritize certain projects, only those owned, at least in part, by First Nations will be considered.."Projects that are in BC's public interest should be prioritized based on what's best for ALL British Columbians — not based on who happens to own the project," Rustad wrote in a post on X. "Instead, David Eby's NDP is giving First Nations an absolute VETO over whether or not projects in BC can be given priority status by government."He went on to claim that the "Eby VETO" is "part of a larger pattern" of behaviour from the BC NDP, deeming it "not normal."."British Columbians are in agreement on reconciliation and having respect for First Nations culture and rights — including title," Rustad continued. "However, BC's provincial government is supposed to govern for ALL British Columbians."He argued that no group in BC should be given veto powers on whether projects are prioritized by the government or not, land rights and access rights on privately owned property, or access to and use of public lands."The BC NDP's 'Eby VETO' approach is setting back reconciliation, driving away investment and undermining BC's economy, and breaking down trust between British Columbians," Rustad concluded. "BC needs to end the 'Eby VETO,' if we want to get our economy going again.".In an interview with the Globe and Mail, Eby made it clear that indigenous partnership was integral to his vision of Bill 15's implementation, and noted that prioritized projects at the federal level would also have to follow those rules."For us, it’s about actual ownership by the Nation whose territory the projects are going on," he said.
