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Ford’s 'Hat in Hand' Comments Prompt Indigenous Fury on Eve of Bill 5 Summit

He will convene Anishinabek Nation chiefs to address concerns over the special economic zones established by the mining bill.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford speaks at a press conference in Toronto on Thurs., April 17, 2025.
Ford wants to declare the mineral-rich Ring of Fire region in northern Ontario a 'special economic zone' using Bill 5.

Overview

  • Ford defended funding commitments to First Nations by citing a $3 billion financing program and $70 million for worker training before saying they “can’t just keep coming hat in hand.”
  • Bill 5, which became law on June 4, empowers the province to create special economic zones where municipal and provincial rules can be suspended to fast-track projects, with the Ring of Fire set to be the first zone.
  • First Nations leaders argue the legislation was passed without free, prior and informed consent and say it threatens their treaty rights, warning of blockades and protests if the law is not amended.
  • NDP MPP Sol Mamakwa condemned Ford’s remarks as “deeply offensive and racist” and called for the repeal of the mining bill to uphold the honour of the Crown.
  • Thursday’s summit will bring several dozen Anishinabek Nation chiefs to Queen’s Park to discuss critical minerals strategy and the government’s duty to consult on northern development.