Who has the exclusive duty to consult with Indigenous people before making decisions that could affect their rights or lands?

The correct response highlights that the Crown has the exclusive duty to consult with Indigenous peoples regarding decisions that may impact their rights or lands. This responsibility arises from the legal framework established in Canada, which recognizes Indigenous rights and titles under the Constitution and various landmark Supreme Court decisions.

The Crown, as the representative of the government, holds the responsibility to ensure that the rights of Indigenous peoples are respected and upheld. This includes obligations stemming from treaties, the duty to consult, and accommodate Indigenous interests when making decisions related to land and resource management.

Indigenous leadership plays a significant role in these discussions, serving as the voice of their communities; however, it is the Crown that bears the legal obligation to engage with them adequately and meaningfully. The involvement of provincial governments or municipalities comes into play in specific contexts and is typically subordinate to the federal responsibility of the Crown in managing relations with Indigenous nations on broader issues of rights and land.

Therefore, it is the Crown's duty to ensure that Indigenous peoples are consulted, given their distinct constitutional status and the rights they hold regarding their land and resources.