Chiefs of Ontario Urge Premier Ford to Respect First Nations’ Rights in Mining Legislation

(Toronto, Ont. – April 14, 2025) The Chiefs of Ontario are raising concerns about the Ford government’s proposed legislation to fast-track mining development by designating “regions of economic and security interest.”

First Nations across Ontario support economic reconciliation and recognize the role that responsible resource development can play in strengthening local and regional economies amid global trade challenges. However, this must not come at the expense of First Nations’ inherent Treaty rights, jurisdiction, and stewardship responsibilities.

“We are concerned that this legislation may directly or in-directly impact how mining companies interact with First Nations inherent, Treaty, and constitutional rights. True economic reconciliation cannot happen through exclusion,” said Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict. “We urge the province and industry to work with First Nations as full partners from the outset, anything less is both unacceptable and could lead to extended delay and loss of opportunity.”

These processes exist to ensure projects are done responsibly and do not cause long-term harm. Consultation is not a barrier, it is a pathway to successful, respectful, and mutually beneficial development.

The Chiefs of Ontario call on Premier Ford to ensure that any new mining legislation does not infringe upon the rights of First Nations. We urge the provincial government to commit to genuine, Nation-to-Nation dialogue grounded in the recognition of First Nations’ jurisdiction, consent, and shared prosperity.

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The Chiefs of Ontario supports all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction, and their chosen expression of nationhood. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, X, Instagram, or LinkedIn @ChiefsOfOntario

Media Contact:

Isak Vaillancourt

Communications Manager

Chiefs of Ontario

Telephone: 416-819-8184

Email: isak.vaillancourt@coo.org

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