The NDP is attacking the PC’s on a decision to scrap a regional framework agreement for the development of the Ring of Fire.
The province is taking a different approach and is now working with impacted First Nations.
Northern Development and Mines critic Michael Mantha admits the agreement the Wynne Liberals signed had problems that needed to be fixed, but the Ford government is taking things from bad to worse.
Mantha stresses now we’re at risk of losing another decade of opportunity to ignite the Ring of Fire.
He notes Doug Ford’s ‘divide and conquer’ approach destroys what partnership work has been accomplished with First Nations communities.
Mantha is also upset with the overall handling of the portfolio.
Mantha says the mining project has the potential to be a massive source of economic opportunity for Northern Ontario.
He stresses families and communities are counting on the Ring of Fire for stable jobs and opportunities for young people.
Mantha notes the government hasn’t even paid lip service to the billion dollars in funding needed to build roads leading from communities to the Ring of Fire.
He adds the recent budget made no commitments to meaningful consultations with First Nations impacted by development in the area.
