Land protests planned in Canada

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OTTAWA, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper has "no right to sell" aboriginal rights in Canada, a group protesting against development plans said Friday.

Advocacy group Idle No More, supported by Canadian tribal communities, announced demonstrations in opposition to Bill C-45. The group said the measure would do away with "critical laws" meant to protect the environment.

"Bill C-45 further demonstrates a pattern of recklessness by the federal government that puts the long-term safety and health of Canadians in jeopardy," the group said last month.

The Montreal Gazette reports that tribal communities blocked roads and highways across the country in protest. A hunger strike by tribal chief Theresa Spence entered its 11th day Friday.

Aboriginal communities in Canada have expressed concern that development plans for oil and natural gas would put their cultural heritage and environmental interests in jeopardy.

"(Harper) has no right to sell all aboriginals or Canadians rights to a quality life, liberty and dignity," the movement said Friday.