Monday December 16, 2024 – Listuguj, Quebec – The Mi’gmawei Mawio’mi Secretariat (MMS) expresses dismay and deep concern regarding the recent announcement by the MRC of Haute Gaspésie to outright reject 20 proposed protected area projects in Quebec’s initiative to protect 30% of land within the province by 2030. The Gaspésie has been identified as having its rich biodiversity threatened and is given particular attention by Quebec. Some of these rejected proposals include those aimed at protecting the endangered Gaspésie mountain caribou and salmon in the Madeleine River. Recent media reports highlight the deeply flawed and prejudicial system governing the designation of protected areas in Quebec.

Under the current system, MRCs are the gatekeepers to determine which project proposals are worthy to proceed to the next phase of the assessment process. Essentially, they are granted complete veto power and sole authority to determine the “social acceptability” of protected area project proposals submitted by individuals and organizations. This structure prioritizes local development interests and systematically excludes the Mi’gmaq Nation from decisions that directly impact our unceded territory, inherent rights, and stewardship responsibilities.

“This approach disregards our inherent rights and title as Mi’gmaq,” said Tanya Barnaby, Executive Director, Mi’gmawei Mawio’mi Secretariat. “The Mi’gmaq hold rights recognized under Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution, affirming our title and governance over Gespe’gewa’gi. By sidelining us in the decision-making process for the designation of protected areas, Quebec ignores our historical connection, duty and responsibility as stewards of the environment. Protecting the biodiversity of Gespe’gewa’gi, including species like the Gaspésie mountain caribou and salmon which are the lifeline of the Mi’gmaq, is integral to the health and sustainability of our people while reflecting our responsibilities as rights holders and our deep connection with the territory.”

The Mi’gmawei Mawio’mi Secretariat firmly opposes the current system, which has shown to be counter-productive to Quebec’s goal to protect 30% of the province by prioritizing MRCs stated economic objectives over environmental conservation and reconciliation efforts. We remain committed to the protection and preservation of the lands and waters of Gespe’gewa’gi and advocating for processes that uphold our inherent rights and the rights of future generations.