OKT Podcast – What is Bill 5 & C-5 and What Does it Mean for Indigenous Jurisdiction?

Friday, July 4, 2025

In this episode, partner Senwung Luk is joined by Randall Kahgee, David Wright, and Martin Olszynski for an in-depth discussion on Bill 5 and Bill C-5 , a recent legislative development that reshapes the landscape of environmental assessment and Indigenous consultation in Canada.

Randall Kahgee, former Chief of the Saugeen First Nation, brings deep expertise in consultation, accommodation, and Indigenous law. David Wright, professor at the University of Calgary Faculty of Law, specializes in natural resources, environmental, and Indigenous rights law, with a particular focus on modern treaties and their implementation. Martin Olszynski, also a professor at the University of Calgary Faculty of Law and practiced law at the federal Department of Justice, contributes his extensive knowledge in environmental law and his work as a member of the federal Minister of Environment and Climate Change’s Advisory Council on Impact Assessment.

Together, the group unpacks the key changes introduced by Bill 5 and C-5 and explores the broader implications for Indigenous jurisdiction, environmental governance, and regulatory frameworks in Canada.

Here are the articles reference within the podcast:

• Bill C-5: Move Fast and Make Things, or Move Fast and Break Things? – ABLawg
• Kebaowek First Nation v. Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, 2025 FC 319
• Canadian politicians are using real crises to abuse their power

Speakers:
Randall Kahgee, Senior Counsel , OKT
Senwung Luk, Partner , OKT
David Wright, Associate Professor, Faculty of Law, University of Calgary
Martin Olszynski, Chair in Energy, Resources and Sustainability, and Associate Professor, Faculty of Law, University of Calgary

This podcast is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any questions regarding the content in this episode, please visit oktlaw.com or email info@oktlaw.com.