This comment is being…

This comment is being submitted on behalf of Magnetawan First Nation(MFN) to express MFN's concerns, and highlight major outstanding issues, pertaining to the proposed Environmental Assessment Act (EAA) Amendments in the COVID 19- Economic Recovery Act (ERO number: 019-2051) and the proposal to exempt various Ministry of Transportation projects from the requirements of the EAA (ERO number: 019-1883).

These identified outstanding issues, and our proposed corresponding recommendations, must be addressed prior to the finalizing and implementation of the proposed changes, as they have the potential to greatly impact the rights, interests, and way of life of Magnetawan citizens. Further to that point, MFN wishes to use these comments and recommendations as an opportunity to open an ongoing dialogue and relationship with the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) and the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) regarding environmental assessments and transportation projects ongoing in our territory, with a particular focus on the following transportation projects currently subject to amendments proposed under ERO 019-1883:

• Highway 69 from north of Highway 559 northerly to south of Magnetawan First Nation Reserve
• Highway 69 from south of Magnetawan First Nation Reserve to north of Highway 522
• Highway 69 from south of Magnetawan First Nation Reserve to north of the Magnetawan River
• Highway 69 Patrol Yard selection study
• Highway 69/17 access

Magnetawan First Nation appreciates the opportunity to provide our perspectives on these proposed legislative changes and trust that our comments will be thoughtfully considered in this review process. It is crucial that Indigenous perspectives be thoughtfully considered and integrated into this process if the Government of Ontario intends to fulfil on its commitment to supporting Aboriginal and Treaty Rights as was outlined in item # 10 of ERO bulletin 019-2051.