Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston met with Mi’kmaw chiefs. The meeting addressed rising tensions. This stemmed from a cannabis crackdown. The province aims to curb an expanding illegal market. Mi’kmaw communities seek to establish their own industry. This would operate independently. It is grounded in treaty and Aboriginal rights.
Background of the Conflict
Nova Scotia’s government is pushing to stop illegal cannabis sales. Justice Minister Scott Armstrong directed police to increase enforcement. He wrote to 13 Mi’kmaw chiefs. He asked for their cooperation. The province claims over 118 illegal cannabis outlets operate. Only 51 are legal. These are run by the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation (NSLC). One NSLC store exists on First Nations land.
Mi’kmaw leaders expressed surprise at the approach. They felt the province did not consult them properly. Mi’kmaq communities want their own regulated cannabis industry. This would operate independently of provincial rules. It is grounded in Treaty and Aboriginal rights. Some First Nations activists deem the crackdown “blatantly racist.” They view it as an attack on Mi’kmaw sovereignty. Thomas Durfee, a cannabis advocate, asserts a legal right to sell cannabis. He cites treaty truckhouses dating back to the 1700s. The Mi’kmaq assert their right to self-governance. They state the province does not govern their communities.
The Meeting and Stated Positions
Premier Tim Houston met with four Mi’kmaw chiefs. The discussion lasted two hours. Houston described the meeting as positive. However, he maintained the province’s position. He believes unregulated cannabis poses public health risks. It may also connect to organized crime. He stated that the current situation “isn’t working.” The premier seeks collaborative solutions. He wants these solutions to address safety concerns.
Membertou Chief Terry Paul spoke on behalf of the chiefs. He explained that Mi’kmaw communities desire their own industry. This industry must be Indigenous-regulated. It must operate independently of provincial frameworks. This pursuit is grounded in Treaty and Aboriginal rights. Paul urged the province to listen carefully. He stated, “We have rights in this province.” The chiefs are not interested in partnering with the NSLC. They seek a system allowing their participation without fear. Both sides acknowledged a clear need for improved communication.
Mi’kmaq Claims and Provincial Stance
Mi’kmaw leaders argue that treaty rights permit free trade. This trade, they contend, includes cannabis sales. They believe these rights remain relevant today. They extend to community economies and self-determination. A provincial court ruling in July 2025 raised questions about these claims. The court found evidence for treaty rights in cannabis sales insufficient. The ruling cited a lack of specific historical connection.
The province maintains that the Cannabis Control Act is the prevailing law. It applies universally to everyone. The NSLC remains the exclusive legal retailer of cannabis. In April 2025, new regulations were introduced. These allow Mi’kmaw communities to open legal cannabis stores. These stores must operate under agreements with the NSLC. They must also sell cannabis purchased through the NSLC. This regulatory adjustment followed concerns voiced by Mi’kmaq leaders regarding safety.
Escalating Tensions and Criticism
Critics have expressed strong disapproval of the government’s actions. Some observers suggest the province is targeting First Nations unfairly. Legal experts question the justice minister’s directive. They hint it might overstep into police operational independence. One First Nation community banned Premier Houston and two ministers. This action followed the recent enforcement directive. They formally labeled the politicians “undesirables.” The premier expressed puzzlement regarding the ban. He reiterated his government’s primary objective: protecting Nova Scotians. He cited public safety and potential links to organized crime as key concerns.
Future Outlook and Conclusion
The recent meeting between Premier Houston and Mi’kmaw chiefs highlights an ongoing dispute. Mi’kmaw communities aspire to achieve self-governance. They aim to develop their own cannabis industry. This industry would respect established treaty rights. The provincial government prioritizes public safety. It insists on upholding current laws. Both parties acknowledge the necessity of improved communication. The situation remains complex. It involves intricate legal rights, assertions of sovereignty, and significant public health considerations. This trending news is a developing story. The debate surrounding cannabis regulation is far from settled.
