Chief Don Tom says 'era of trust' between First Nations and Eby is over if bills pass

A First Nations leader says the "era of trust" with the government of B.C. Premier David Eby is over if two bills responding to American tariffs pass this week.

Chief Don Tom of the Tsartlip First Nation in Greater Victoria says First Nations will do everything in their legal power to kill bills 14 and 15, adding that First Nations will remember the actions of the government at the next election.

Tom says at a protest in downtown Victoria steps away from the legislature that this won't just apply to the Premier himself, but every MLA who votes for the bills.

The government says Bill 15 is needed to speed up public and private infrastructure projects in the face of tariff threats from the United States, while Bill 14 would streamline permitting for renewable energy projects, such as wind farms.

First Nations want the bills withdrawn or revised, saying they undermine environmental standards and the constitutional rights of consultation for First Nations.

Tom, who attended a meeting between Eby and the First Nations Leadership Council this month, says First Nations have "a good record in the court system" when it comes to protecting their constitutional rights for consultation.