Bill 23 has wide reaching…

Bill 23 has wide reaching impacts related to environmental protections, regional planning, and public
participation. As rightsholders, First Nations, through their Inherent and Treaty Rights, affirmed
through Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, must be consulted through the Duty to Consult on
any decisions that may affect their lands.

It is our opinion that Bill 23 may have an adverse impact on the natural environment of the
traditional territories of Indigenous communities. A lack of consultation and accommodation of these
concerns risk violating these rights.

In summary, we respectfully advise the Government of Ontario to pause in its efforts on Bill 23 and
delay its third reading until such time as consultation with First Nations, as rightsholders and treaty partners, has been adequately conducted.