By Lisa Johnson Alberta’s premier is taking a hands-off approach to a First Nation defying her government by announcing it will offer safe haven for gender-affirming medical care. “I don’t have any authority over the First Nation,” Smith told reporters at an event in Edmonton Thursday. “I respect their sovereignty.” Her comments came a day after Saddle Lake Cree Nation announced its plan. The nation says the plan is within their jurisdiction and that access to health care is a treaty right. Alberta law prohibits doctors from prescribing puberty blockers or hormone therapy to transgender and gender diverse children under age 16. Smith has said the law is about protecting children and their fertility while preserving choice. Her United Conservative government has invoked the Charter’s notwithstanding clause to shield the…
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