After a long time of planning, construction is set to start on a supply road that will eventually connect to the Ring of Fire.
The Webequie Supply Road will be a two-lane, all-season route linking the Webequie First Nation to a broader network of roads leading from the Ring of Fire to Ontario’s highway system.
The project received approval after the Webequie First Nation’s environmental assessment was cleared.
“Our community has been clear from the outset that any development in our territory must proceed thoughtfully, responsibly, and with our people at the table,” said Webequie First Nation Chief Lorraine Whitehead. “We have worked hard to ensure this project is informed by our knowledge, guided by our values, and aligned with our vision for a healthier, stronger, and self-determined future.”
The province views this as an important milestone and anticipates that the road will be finished by November 2030.
“Ontario’s Ring of Fire is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create 70,000 good-paying jobs, access the critical minerals the world wants to buy, add $22 billion to our provincial economy and help Northern Ontario reach its full economic potential,” said Premier Ford. “We’re delivering on our promise to protect Ontario, and we are doing so in partnership with First Nations, to support true economic reconciliation. We appreciate the partnership of First Nations leaders and communities, including Chief Lorraine Whitehead and Webequie First Nation, as we continue our work to create opportunity and prosperity across the north.”
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford and Minister of Indigenous Affairs stated, “Today is about Webequie First Nation and their leadership, together with partnering First Nations in the Ring of Fire region, who remain committed to protecting traditions and their way of life in the far North while moving forward on modern legacy infrastructure needed to access the kinds of economic activities that create lasting prosperity.”
Rickford was joined at today’s ceremony by several key members of government including Premier Doug Ford and Minister of Energy and Mines Stephen Lecce.
“The successful completion of Webequie First Nation’s environmental assessment is proof that a strong economy and a healthy environment can go hand in hand,” said Todd Mc Carthy, Ontario Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. “Along with First Nations partners, Ontario is unlocking critical minerals and generational economic opportunity in the North while safeguarding our shared environment.”
Map of the Webequie Supply Road project (via Government of Ontario)
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