Province, First Nations partner on new economic-development group
The Ontario government has struck a partnership with three first nations to create a new economic-development group that aims to create new opportunities in the southwestern region.
The government announced the partnership with Caldwell First Nation, the Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation and the Three Fires Group on September 15. The new Southwestern Ontario Infrastructure and Economic Opportunities Table will advance billions of dollars’ worth of critical infrastructure projects in the area, support transformational clean energy project investments, identify and prepare investment-ready lands, and advance discussions regarding shared environmental priorities.
“We are on a mission to build this province, and the creation of this economic opportunities table will be a game changer for the people of southwestern Ontario,” said Premier Doug Ford. “We are going to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our First Nations partners to advance critical infrastructure projects and ensure everyone benefits from the opportunities that Ontario holds.”
Recommendations from the table will also help inform discussions and further advance partnerships between First Nations communities, the province, local businesses, and municipalities.
The province says the partnership will encourage more opportunities for qualified First Nations providers to support the procurement of goods and services across the province and further strengthen Ontario’s economy.
“The creation of the Southwestern Ontario Infrastructure and Economic Opportunities Table will lead to enhanced collaboration between the Government of Ontario and area First Nations leadership, and I look forward to the important work that lies ahead,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs. “We are moving forward on our promise to build the province of Ontario, and this table will allow First Nations partners an opportunity to inform decisions in a respectful forum and share in economic prosperity.”