FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 4, 2026
Mi’kma’ki – Yesterday, the RCMP launched a number of inspections of dispensaries throughout the Mi’kmaw communities, which resulted in seizures and fines issued. The actions of the RCMP, upon directive of the Provincial government, only contribute to the ongoing issue of federal and provincial interference in Mi’kmaw jurisdiction.
In a media release issued in December 2025, the Maw-lukutijik Saqmaq made their position clear on the provincial government’s attempt to assert authority within Mi’kmaw communities.
“In December and again now, we affirm our Right to self-governance and self-determination,” reiterated Chief Leroy Denny, Co-Chair of the Maw-lukutijik Saqmaq. “The provincial government giving directive to the RCMP, and then having the RCMP respond with raids, rather than discussions with community Chiefs and Councils, only further deteriorates our relationships with these Crown entities.”
Many Mi’kmaw communities have been developing their own cannabis laws, in response to the Government of Nova Scotia’s refusal to work with the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia from the onset. Prior to federal legalization of cannabis in 2018, the Maw-lukutijik Saqmaq reached out to share understandings with Nova Scotia on the regulation of cannabis in Mi’kmaw communities. The Province rejected those requests. While the Province may see the result as “illegal”, that is not the viewpoint of Mi’kmaw leadership or communities. The result is exactly what was predicted – a Provincial system that does not work in Mi’kmaw communities, leaving the Mi’kmaq to find their own solutions.
“The RCMP are stationed in our communities and were brought in to build trust, transparency and better the relationship with our people. This was necessary after a long and disturbing history with this agency. Directives and actions authorized by an outside government, undermines any positive work that’s been done and only furthers the historic patterns of distrust between Mi’kmaq and Crown agencies,” continued Chief Denny.
The Mi’kmaw assert their Right to self-government, which includes jurisdiction over economic development, community safety and the regulation of what happens on our lands.