Federal Special Representative and the Right to Fish in Pursuit of a Moderate Livelihood

Following the 1999 Supreme Court Marshall decision based on the Peace and Friendship Treaties of 1760–1761, the courts affirmed the rights of Indigenous communities right to hunt, fish, and gather for a moderate livelihood.
However, the courts did not institute any mechanism to ensure the rights were upheld.
As a result, the Federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans appointed a Chief Federal Representative to ensure Indigenous communities have the ability to exercise their rights.
Over the years, with investments and supports, Indigenous communities were able to better participate in the fishing industry, however, the lingering effects of the Marshall Decision has caused unrest between Indigenous peoples and other non-Indigenous fisherman.
This policy discusses the role of the Federal Special Representative in acting as a neutral third party in addressing the unrest, it contains the interim report, observations, new information that has come about, and more.

Citation

Canada. Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Federal Special Representative. Implementing the right to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood: Rebuilding trust and establishing a constructive path forward. 2021. https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fisheries-peches/aboriginal-autochtones/moderate-livelihood-subsistance-convenable/surette-report-rapport-mar-2021-eng.html

Policy Sub-Topic

Policy Type

Federal Report