Trouble in the Ring of Fire

Several First Nations have taken a strong stand against unfettered development in Ontario’s Ring of Fire. At a press conference last week, Chief Roger Wesley from Constance Lake First Nation made it clear they will not be pushed aside. “We will be forced to resort to alternative measures if Canada and Ontario continue to ignore the First Nations that are being impacted by Ring of Fire developments,” Wesley said. “We want development, but we also want to make sure that our lands, waters, wildlife, and our way of life are not destroyed in the process.” The Matawa Chiefs are demanding that Canada institute a joint panel review so their voices can be heard. Several OKT lawyers are working on this matter, including Renee Pelletier, Judith Rae, myself and Larry Innes, who is quoted in this widely-distributed editorial. There’s further coverage of last week’s press conference here.

By Bryce Edwards