Chiefs of Ontario: Toronto, ON – On August 9, 2022, the Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, delivered the Speech from the Throne, titled “Together, Let’s Build Ontario,” outlining the re-elected Progressive Conservative government’s plans and opening the first session of the 43rd Parliament of Ontario. Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare issued the following statement in response to the Speech from the Throne:

“Tuesday’s Throne Speech mentioned many pre-election priorities for Ontarians, some of which align with policy and legislative priorities of First Nations in Ontario,” said Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare. “That said, there was a clear lack of political will, commitment, and concrete action toward addressing First Nations-specific priorities.”

“Before the provincial election, the Chiefs of Ontario and First Nations Leadership in Ontario collectively developed a priorities document titled Creating a New Legacy: Building a Strong Foundation for Future Generations. This document details high-priority items for First Nations that must be top of the legislative agenda and met with immediate, concrete action to address our mutual socio-economic priorities and to build long-term, mutually beneficial relationships between First Nations and all Ontarians.

While we welcome commitments in areas such as economic development, infrastructure, and health care, the Government of Ontario must provide clarity on their mandates moving forward and prioritize working collaboratively and effectively with First Nations Leadership in Ontario. By working together, we can fully implement the Creating a New Legacy: Building a Strong Foundation for Future Generations and ensure proper consultation and engagement processes to repair fractured relationships with First Nations in Ontario.

I look forward to meeting with Premier Doug Ford and his Cabinet as soon as possible to seek specific commitments and build a joint action plan to address our shared priorities.”

Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare