Ontario Premier Doug Ford has expressed a willingness to collaborate with First Nations to obtain their support for mining development while emphasizing that they cannot continually rely on government assistance. Ford is scheduled to meet with various chiefs from the Anishinabek Nation, which consists of 39 First Nations in Ontario, on Thursday.
The passage of Bill 5 has sparked outrage among First Nations, as it grants the provincial cabinet the authority to suspend existing municipal and provincial laws for selected projects through the establishment of special economic zones. The government describes this measure as part of an omnibus law aimed at expediting the construction of significant infrastructure projects, particularly in the mineral-rich Ring of Fire region located in northern Ontario, which Ford has indicated will be the first designated zone.
Despite First Nations expressing a desire to partake in economic development, they are angered by the government’s decision to implement legislation without prior consultation. Ford has consistently stated that the rights of First Nations treaties will be respected and that the government intends to fulfill its obligation to consult through a series of meetings planned for the summer.
At a recent press conference, Ford remarked, "This is like handing an opportunity on a silver platter to First Nations that, by the way, I have treated like gold." He showcased his administration's commitment with examples such as a $3 billion Indigenous financing program that offers loan guarantees aimed at enabling First Nations to build ownership in large infrastructure projects. Furthermore, he mentioned an investment of $70 million dedicated to training Indigenous workers for employment in construction, development, and mining sectors.
However, Ford also indicated a limit to government support, stating, "When you literally have gold mines, nickel mines, every type of critical mineral that the world wants, and you’re saying, ‘No, no, I don’t want to touch that, by the way, give me money’ — not going to happen." This comment has drawn sharp criticism from Sol Mamakwa, the New Democratic Party representative for the Ring of Fire region and the only First Nation member in the Ontario legislature. Mamakwa condemned Ford's remarks as "deeply offensive and racist," asserting that they reveal a fundamental misunderstanding of the treaty relationship between Ontario and First Nations.
In light of the recent legislation passed, Mamakwa has called for its repeal, arguing that Ford is fostering divisions within the province and neglecting the need for collective unity and respect for the rights and consent of First Nations. He stated, “This premier has made it clear that he won’t bring people together, uphold the honour of the Crown, and obtain free, prior, and informed consent.”
Following the backlash, Ford’s office released a statement confirming that the premier looks forward to engaging with First Nations leaders to foster self-determination and achieve economic reconciliation for their communities. Spokesperson Grace Lee reiterated Ford’s eagerness to advance these discussions in the upcoming meeting.
This ongoing dialogue highlights a significant intersection between Indigenous rights, governmental policies, and economic development in Ontario, underscoring the complexity of achieving mutual understanding and cooperation in resource management and community prosperity.
