Ring of Fire Updates Uncategorized Weekly News Roundup

May 4-May 10, 2021: Weekly News Roundup

The provincial environment assessment (EA) process is underway as of May 4th on the middle section for the Ring of Fire road. The first phase is the drafting of the Terms of Reference. This road is meant to link the Ring of Fire to the provincial highway system. Two leaders of two First Nations, Marten Falls and Webequie, say that they are are supportive of the road, while another First Nation, Neskantaga First Nation is calling for a halt to all the environmental assessment (EA) processes in the Ring of Fire. Chief Wayne Moonias is demanding a “pause” in the process until the pandemic is over when meaningful consultation can take place. Consultation is not possible virtually and is not culturally appropriate according to Chief Moonias. Meanwhile many First Nations continue to be under long-term drinking-water advisories with no stated new deadline to meet the promise from the Federal government to supply clean water for all First Nations. Trudeau’s government had made a campaign promise to end all boil-water advisories by 2021.

May 10, 2021 (Northern Ontario Business):

Neskantaga First Nation calls for halt to environmental study process on Ring of Fire road

Pandemic restrictions preventing adequate consultation between government and Indigenous members

“The environmental assessment (EA) process for the third and final proposed road project in northern Ontario that will connect remote Matawa First Nations to the provincial highway network and create a road to the proposed Ring of Fire mineral development is underway, as of May 4.” Read more here…

May 6, 2021 (NetNewsLedger):

Mamakwa’s Bill Seeks Safe Drinking Water for All Ontarians

“MPP Sol Mamakwa (Kiiwetinoong) is calling on the Ford government to support his bill to include Ontarians living in reserves in a law that ensures all Ontarians have access to safe drinking water.  Mamakwa’s bill, the Inherent Right to Safe Drinking Water Act, will be debated in the legislature on Thursday.” Read more here…

May 5, 2021 (The Globe and Mail):

Marc Miller seeks to clarify timeline in government documents on water for First Nations

“Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller says Ottawa has not extended its timeline for ending long-term drinking-water advisories in First Nations communities to 2026.” Read more here…

May 4, 2021 (CBC):

Planning for Northern Link Road environmental assessment begins in the Ring of Fire

First Nations, environmental organizations have called for a moratorium on consultation activities

“The environmental assessment (EA) process for the third and final proposed road project in northern Ontario that will connect remote Matawa First Nations to the provincial highway network and create a road to the proposed Ring of Fire mineral development is underway, as of May 4.” Read more here…

May 3, 2021 (Northern Ontario Business):

Environmental assessment planning begins on middle section of the Ring of Fire road

Marten Falls, Webequie First Nations beginning community, stakeholder consultation to kick off the Northern Road Link study

“The provincial environment assessment (EA) process is beginning on the middle section for the Ring of Fire road.” Read more here

May 4, 2021 (TB NewsWatch):

Two First Nations ask neighbours : ‘trust us’ with assessment for a Ring of Fire road

Marten Falls and Webequie say they will ensure any environmental risks are mitigated.

“Two First Nations in Northwestern Ontario say they are taking the lead on the environmental assessment for a controversial road link between the Ring of Fire and the provincial highway system.” Read more here…

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