Alberta government amends referendum bill to address First Nations concerns [Video]

Alberta’s government has made 11th-hour changes to controversial proposed legislation, declaring that no separation referendum question could threaten First Nations’ existing treaty rights.

Premier Danielle Smith’s government is working to considerably lower the threshold to allow for citizen-initiated referendums, including whether the province should separate from Canada.

Her government’s proposed bill has yet to become law, but it’s faced backlash from Indigenous leaders since its introduction in the house more than two weeks ago.

Justice Minister Mickey Amery said Wednesday the United Conservative Party government has heard concerns from First Nations on how such a referendum might affect treaty rights.

“We are listening,” he said.

Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation Chief Sheldon Sunshine and Mikisew Cree First Nation Chief Billy-Joe Tuccaro were quick to release a statement saying the amendment “means nothing,” and the proposed bill still needs to be shredded.

“We have heard from many treaty people; we are united in our resistance. None of …