On behalf of Animbiigoo…

On behalf of Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek, I have attached our expression to the opposition of Bill 5. Even though economic development is essential to all Ontarians, as well as First Nations throughout our province, this proposed piece of legislation directly weakens environmental protections, limits community oversight, and undermines First Nations’ rights. Bill 5 proposes wide-ranging changes to laws critical to the well-being of our people and territories; for example, changes in the Endangered Species Act, the Mining Act, and the Ontario Heritage Act. It also introduces the concept of “Special Economic Zones”, which raises serious concerns about the potential for projects to proceed without proper accountability or respect for Indigenous rights. Further comments on this piece of legislation are enclosed in the attached document.

“APPROXIMATELY 80% OF THE REMAINING BIODIVERSITY ON EARTH IS UNDER INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' STEWARDSHIP.”
~World Bank