Grand chief in Ontario says repeal of Bill 5 starting point for discussions with First Nations

The fallout continues after the government of Premier Doug Ford rammed its controversial Bill 5 through the legislature on Wednesday. “Very disappointed that this week we’ve seen the government of Ontario proceed with accepting the bill through its processes even though they’ve heard quite strongly from our chiefs across the region that we reject Bill 5 in its current context including the amendments that had been proposed,” said Abram Benedict, grand chief of the Chiefs of Ontario on Friday. The bill has raised the ire of First Nations because they say it was drafted and passed without proper consultation. Also known as the Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, 2025, the legislation aims to create “special economic zones” in areas such as the Ring of Fire in northern Ontario that would speed up development while bypassing key environmental regulations at the same time. The provincial government is keen to mine the remote area because it contains valuable critical minerals which are essential for batteries used in the electric car and smartphone industries. Benedict said First Nations remain open to meeting with both Ford and Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation Greg Rickford but as of yet nothing has been confirmed. “The premier did commit to meet with leadership,” he said, “Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to secure that meeting as of yet. With respect to minister Rickford, he said he would meet with leadership as well but their message also has been, this was of course prior to the bill passing, that, ‘Well, after the bill passing we’ll go consult,’ and that’s not how it works.” At the same time Benedict was adamant the starting point for discussions would be a commitment to rescind Bill 5. “Now that the bill has been passed it (stance of First Nations leadership) continues to be the same,” he said. “That the government needs to repeal the legislation so that they can reset how the process has been and that they are having meaningful conversations, dialogue, with the rights holders so we can find a pathway forward together.” Earlier this week, the Chiefs of Ontario invited Ford to their upcoming annual assembly on the Hiawatha First Nation June 17-19. The letter directly mentions Bill 5 and said “Your participation in this Assembly would mark the beginning of consistent, ongoing conversations necessary to address these significant challenges collaboratively.” Benedict said the invitation remains open but the organization has not yet received a formal response. Also this week, the Anishinabek Nation and Neskantaga First Nation issued statements condemning the legislation. The Ring of Fire does have its supporters. Three First Nations have signed agreements with the province on development plans including roads. The Chiefs of Ontario represent 133 First Nations in the province. Continue Reading