First Nations issues in Ontario advanced
TORONTO – Ontario Regional Chief RoseAnne Archibald and members of the Political Confederacy of the Chiefs of Ontario met with Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Minister of Indigenous Affairs Ontario, Greg Rickford, on October 7 to discuss a number of key priorities and issues affecting First Nations in Ontario. The meeting provided a much needed opportunity for open dialogue between the provincial government and First Nations in Ontario, a press release from the regional chief noted.
“The Political Confederacy Leadership Council members and I are very pleased with the outcome of today’s meeting and it is a signal that the province is willing to move forward and create a new relationship with the current elected provincial government and First Nations in Ontario. Enhancing and strengthening our relationship will allow us to move forward together and make impactful change for First Nations and all of Ontario. After all, we have a shared goal of prosperous, healthy and vibrant communities,” said Regional Chief Archibald. “With new beginnings both here in the Chiefs of Ontario and the newly elected premier and Ontario Cabinet, we have a real opportunity to embrace change at this moment and build a strong and respectful relationship. I look forward to continuing to formally meet with Premier Ford, Minister Rickford, cabinet ministers and chiefs to collaboratively ensure that the opportunities to create a prosperous quality of life for First Nations are a priority.”
Glen Hare, Grand Council Chief of the Anishinabek Nation said, “in the ongoing effort to rebuild and repair the nation-to-nation relationship with the provincial government, I am happy to hear that Ontario’s Premier, Doug Ford and Minister (Greg) Rickford spoke of their commitment to respecting the charter, treaty and inherent rights of First Nations in Ontario. We look forward to continuing the development of this relationship and working with the provincial government to advance our communities, as equals.”
