Indigenous groups condemn Ford’s bill 5 as ‘assault’ on constitutional rights

Indigenous groups in Ontario are condemning Premier Doug Ford’s so-called “protecting Ontario by unleashing our economy act.”

The group calls it “Trump-like” and says it’s “a sweeping assault on constitutionally protected Indigenous rights,” while the government says it’s necessary to fast-track development amid the trade war with the U.S.

The new act, also known as “bill 5”, is aimed at making it easier for developers to get projects off the ground in mineral-rich areas, like the ring of fire.

It does by making sweeping changes to environmental protections and the obligation for developers to consult local indigenous nations.

Bill 5 is in its second reading and debate at Queen’s Park.