Nations

Nine Ontario First Nations Sue Federal Government Over Controversial Law Allowing Fast-Tracked Resource Projects

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Nine First Nations in Ontario have filed a lawsuit against the Canadian government, contesting a new federal law that permits the expedited approval of infrastructure projects, including oil pipelines, deemed to be in the “national interest.” This legislation, recently passed by Parliament, allows the government to designate certain projects for fast-tracking, potentially bypassing existing federal and provincial regulations. Prime Minister Mark Carney, a member of the Liberal Party, has praised the legislation as a fulfillment of his campaign promise to enhance the approval process for essential infrastructure initiatives, particularly those related to mining and oil … Read more

Proposed Amendment to Controversial Bill Aims to Address First Nations’ Concerns on Economic Zones

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Victoria, Canada — A proposed bill has raised significant concern among First Nations and Indigenous stakeholders due to its lack of explicit language addressing the government’s obligation to engage in consultations regarding regulatory impacts. Discussion of the amendment is anticipated today, which aims to clarify that regulations under the new Act must align with the acknowledgment and affirmation of existing Aboriginal and treaty rights as outlined in Section 35 of the Constitution Act of 1982. This includes the government’s duty to conduct consultations with Indigenous communities. Critics, including legal representatives for Indigenous groups, argue that … Read more

Cayuga Nation’s $15 Million Racketeering Lawsuit Against Local Smoke Shop Set for Jury Trial

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SYRACUSE, N.Y. – A federal racketeering lawsuit involving the Cayuga Nation and a local smoke shop, Pipekeepers, is set to go to trial in Syracuse this coming September. The case, presided over by Judge Brenda K. Sannes of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York, hinges on allegations that the smoke shop, operated by Dusty Parker and owned by Paul Meyer, has negatively impacted the nation’s business to the tune of $15 million. The lawsuit, initiated in February 2022, claims that Pipekeepers, located on Route 90 in Montezuma, has been conducting … Read more

Global Shifts in Employment Law: Nations Advance Worker Protection and Gender Equality in 2024

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As 2024 unfolded, the world witnessed a sea change in employment laws with several countries instituting progressive legislation aimed at enhancing employee rights and welfare. Various governments have introduced measures to foster gender equality, protect workers’ rights, and ensure fair employment practices. This global legislative shift underscores an evolving focus on creating balanced, inclusive workplaces that support diverse workforce needs. In Italy, significant enhancements to parental leave kicked off on January 1, 2024. Italian workers caring for children under twelve are now eligible for a payment from the National Institute for Social Security, amounting to … Read more