Some First Nations still concerned with mineral exploration in northern Ontario

Some First Nations are prepared to take a legal route to keep mining companies out of their traditional territories.

They say some are conducting exploration activities near communities without proper consent.

They are worried about the environmental risks.

Sachigo Lake Councillor Eugene Tait cites one firm working near his community.

“There are several concerns, reports that there are hundreds of barrels of fuel that are lying around. There’s contamination to the land,” says Tait.

“There are also concerns with the labour force there. For this exploration company to operate, they were given a permit by the province of Ontario. The province did not seek our consent to work in our territory.”

Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler echoes the sentiments of TAit.

He says First Nations are not against development, but senior levels of government are obligated to follow Treaty and constitutional requirements that ensure proper consultations.

“They want Ontario and Canada and industry to respect the relationship that they have with the Crown,” says Fiddler.

“They’re here to offer solutions to industry, Ontario, to Canada, solutions that will lead to predictability and stability in the north.”

Tait says if the exploration company near his community refuses to leave, they will do what they can to have them removed, including taking a legal route.

Fiddler notes several First Nations have already gone to court over Bill 5, the legislation that helps fast-track developments such as mines.