Doug Ford Offers Amendment to First Nations on Mining Bill but Vows to Speed Development Through ‘Economic Zones’
- Ontario Premier Doug Ford's government introduced Bill 5 on May 29, 2025, to create special economic zones, including Indigenous-led zones, aimed at speeding up mining development across the province.
- The bill has faced criticism from Indigenous leaders for insufficient consultation and ongoing environmental concerns, leading to a proposed non-binding amendment aimed at affirming existing Indigenous and treaty entitlements.
- Bill 5 would empower the cabinet to exempt projects within these zones from provincial laws, including environmental and labor regulations, impacting Indigenous, municipal, and vulnerable communities.
- Hannah Jensen, Premier Ford's press secretary, said the amendment was requested by some First Nations to create zones that 'will unlock economic prosperity for generations,' while some Indigenous leaders remain unconvinced by the changes.
- The bill is progressing toward approval despite resistance, with the government pledging to engage Indigenous communities over the summer to establish regulations that would enable them to create and manage economic areas under Bill 5.
46 Articles
46 Articles
Indigenous peoples lead resistance to right-wing natural resource grab in Canada
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Ontario Backs Down on Key Bill 5 Provisions, Echoes BC’s Mining Debate
Ontario’s Conservative provincial government is retreating from elements of its controversial Bill 5 following weeks of intense pressure from First Nations leaders. They have accused Premier Doug Ford’s administration of violating its constitutional duty to consult Indigenous communities on critical minerals development in the province's far north.In a move aimed at quelling growing unrest, Ford’s office confirmed on Wednesday (May 28) that it w…


Province has plans for 'Indigenous-led economic zones' under Bill 5
Facing mounting opposition from First Nations, the premier's office announced a pivot


Ontario to amend mining bill, add Indigenous economic zones
TORONTO — Premier Doug Ford’s government is set to capitulate to some First Nation demands on a controversial mining bill, though it will not kill the proposed law outright despite the growing backlash.
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