The opposition is critical of the provincial government for holding closed-door meetings with First Nations this week.
Reports indicate that the meetings are planned for Thunder Bay and Sudbury, focusing on the bill aimed at accelerating development.
Some First Nations have expressed concern with the bill, saying it aims to circumvent Treaty rights.
NDP MPP Jamie West says the Premier should repeal the Bill and do real consultation by working with First Nations leaders.
“While the government goes through with these closed-door consultations, some affected Chiefs are saying they weren’t invited at all,” says West.
“This is the bare minimum, and the government still can’t get it right. The government continues to operate entirely on its own terms, even as some Chiefs who have publicly said that they are in states of emergency due to wildfires and unable to participate while their communities are in crisis.”
West notes that ten First Nations are taking legal action while residents from Attawapiskat and Neskantaga First Nations are protesting near the Ring of Fire.
“Bill 5 is creating more chaos and uncertainty at a time when we need unity and confidence in our government,” says West.
