The Premier accuses Ottawa of neglecting its role in Far North development and investment in First Nation communities.
Premier Doug Ford stated that it’s time for the federal government to step up and join Ontario in investing in the Ring of Fire.
This summer is expected to kick off construction to create roads into the Far North mineral belt, and Ford emphasized that Ottawa must contribute its fair share towards transportation infrastructure.
While addressing media questions during a funding announcement on June 16 in Thunder Bay, Ford challenged Ottawa to match Ontario’s $1 billion commitment to develop the road network and enhance the Webequie First Nation airport.
“Guess how much the feds have put in? Zip, zero, zilch,” said Ford. “They can keep talking about it. Rather than talking, show us the money.”
Toward the end of last year, Ford and Prime Minister Mark Carney signed a cooperation agreement aimed at speeding up timelines and streamlining regulatory processes for environmental assessments and approvals on major national projects.
When introducing the federal government’s Major Projects Office last September, Carney mentioned that future developments like the Ring of Fire would be part of their new approach eventually.
Ford mentioned that expanding and repairing transportation infrastructure across Northern Ontario will cost $600 million, and he urged Carney’s government to invest in areas under federal jurisdiction.
“We just can’t go it alone all the time,” said Ford. “The feds have to step up and start pitching in, and I’ve not yet seen that.”
When asked about concerns from some First Nation communities regarding rapid development at Ring of Fire, he responded by saying he frequently communicates with chiefs throughout Ontario who are seeking improved community infrastructure, investments in local projects, reliable power connections, and partnerships in major developments.
Ford claims his government has been consulting with Indigenous leaders and has provided “ten times” more support than Ottawa for on-reserve investments related to airports, healthcare services, and long-term care facilities.
Evidently facing protests from Grassy Narrows reserve advocates calling for action on their ongoing mercury poisoning water crisis, Ford expressed his willingness to help but again pointed out that responsibility lies with the federal government.
“I’d love to support them anyway we can. The number one priority is having clean drinking water for everyone in Ontario, but again, where are the feds?”
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