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First Nations launch legal challenge against Ontario, federal bills 5 and C-5
ONTARIO, CANADA, JUL 14 – Nine Ontario First Nations argue Bills 5 and C-5 threaten Indigenous self-determination and environmental protection by fast-tracking infrastructure projects without proper consultation, seeking a court injunction.
- On July 15, 2025, nine First Nations from Ontario initiated a legal challenge against both federal Bill C-5 and provincial Bill 5 by filing their case at the Ontario Superior Court.
- The litigation arises from concerns that these laws fast-track major projects like mines and pipelines without proper Indigenous consultation, threatening First Nations' rights and self-determination.
- The laws allow governments to approve projects considered in the national interest quickly and to suspend municipal and provincial laws by creating special economic zones, notably in the Ring of Fire mineral-rich area.
- Chief Sylvia Koostachin-Metatawabin expressed concern that proceeding rapidly with large projects without fully understanding their impacts risks harming their lands and future generations, while Chief Todd Cornelius emphasized the importance of careful and responsible decision-making rather than rushing through development.
- The First Nations are requesting a court order to prevent the federal government from designating projects as being of national interest and to block Ontario from establishing special economic zones, arguing that these laws infringe upon constitutional rights.
69 Articles
69 Articles
Ontario First Nations Chiefs Seek Court-Ordered Injunction Against Major Projects Bill
A court-ordered injunction is being sought by nine Ontario First Nations to prevent the federal and provincial governments from using recently passed legislation to expedite infrastructure initiatives. The injunction was requested as First Nations are set to meet with Prime Minister Mark Carney on July 17 to discuss the major projects law. A July 14 application to Ontario’s Superior Court of Justice from nine First Nations’ chiefs argues that t…
The hastily and gagged passage of Bill C-5 took place without meaningful consultation with Aboriginal peoples.
First Nations chiefs worry Bills 5 and C-5 will enable environmental destruction
TORONTO — First Nations chiefs behind a legal challenge to a pair of federal and provincial laws meant to fast-track infrastructure projects say they are turning to the courts because they worry the laws will lead to environmental destruction.
The Peterborough Examiner
The Sarnia JournalMore legal battles likely as First Nations launch first lawsuit against new federal, provincial laws
As First Nations launch the first constitutional challenge against federal Bill C-5 and Ontario’s Bill 5 — sweeping laws to fast-track mines and major infrastructure — legal experts say the governments’ refusal to consult has left Indigenous communities with no…
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