Ontario extends olive branch to First Nations on ‘special economic zones’ – BayToday.ca

July 4, 2025

Consultation means nothing without accommodation, says Wabun executive director

Ontario’s Indigenous Affairs Minister Greg Rickford is reassuring First Nations that they’ll have a say in how “special economic zones” will be created for fast-tracking permits and expediting construction on major mining projects.

After the passage of the contentious Bill 5 (Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act) in June, the Ford government is attempting to smooth the waters with irate Indigenous leaders by promising a “separate consultation pathway” to devise the criteria for “Indigenous-led special economic zones.”

Rickford’s June 13 letter, sent to at least two chiefs in the Treaty 9 area, was obtained by Northern Ontario Business.

Read More: https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/ontario-extends-olive-branch-to-first-nations-on-special-economic-zones-10895232