The sheer amount of…

The sheer amount of freshwater taking in this proposal is quite concerning. As a member of the Anishinabek Nation, it is our traditional responsibility and vocation to speak up for those that cannot speak for themselves. That includes the Earth, water, and all those that need water for life. It is incumbent on the Government of Ontario to consider all aspects of Indigenous rights including the requirement to consult with First Nations and to consider Indigenous traditional knowledge. The amount of water proposed to be taken for industrial purposes is alarming. There is no measure to determine, to my satisfaction, that the water will be returned to its original clean and natural state. I've also question with the sustainability of such a large water taking. Given these factors, there is no way to mitigate my concerns. I must clearly state my opposition to the proposal. Further, as a member of the Anishinabek Nation I must insist on a full and adequate consultation process with the members of the Beausoliel First Nation, Chippewas of Rama, Chippewas of Georgina Island, whose traditional territory that the water taking is being proposed. This consultation process must include members of local traditional societies, Elders and Indigenous knowledge holders. I also assert that the Government of Ontario lacks a true understanding, processes and skillsets to adequately consider, analyze and interpret input and considerations gleaned from Indigenous traditional knowledge. For example: It is a fundamental Indigenous understanding that water has a spirit which may be impacted in numerous ways by industrial activity. The balance between the Earth, animal life, plant life and the water is dependent on spiritual considerations. First Nations have a specific society that is dedicated to protecting and speaking for the water. The Midewaanikwe, the Anishinaabe women who are called upon to lift the water in ceremony, and speak for the water and its protection, must be heard prior to decisions being made. Many of these women are founders of the Mother Earth Water Walk. It takes many years of dedication, commitment and learning to obtain the skill sets necessary to understand Indigenous traditional knowledge with respect to water. It is incumbent on the Province to take steps to understand the worldview of the Anishinabek, and consider robust accommodation measures that take into account the traditional and spiritual aspects related to these concerns. [Original Comment ID: 212497]