This letter is the Historic…

This letter is the Historic Saugeen Métis response to the proposed Bill 5, Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, 2025.
The Historic Saugeen Métis (HSM) are among the Indigenous peoples who have lived in, cared for, and relied on the traditional Saugeen territory for generations. It is the responsibility of the HSM Council to ensure a sustainable environment for current and future Métis families asserting Section 35, Canada Constitution Act (1982) aboriginal rights in the traditional Saugeen Métis Territory. HSM supports development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs, specifically where it relates to our ability to continue traditional harvesting practices, rights, and interests.
The Historic Saugeen Métis strongly opposes the proposed Bill 5 , Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, 2025. The proposed Bill 5 would allow significant harm to natural environments like wetlands and greenspaces that support our way of life, interests, and rights. It also threatens important heritage and cultural spaces by removing protections and allowing for the need for archeological assessments to be waived.
We are deeply concerned that the Ontario government is failing to protect the environment, cultural heritage, and communities. HSM has not been properly consulted regarding Bill 5 and we are requesting the opportunity to meet with the appropriate staff to discuss the proposed bill and provide comments.