Chiefs of Ontario Respond to the Tabling of 2025 Ontario Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review

Press Release

(Toronto, ON—November 7, 2025) Yesterday, the Ford government tabled its 2025 Ontario Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review: A Plan to Protect Ontario. The update focused heavily on economic impacts from tariffs and Ontario’s investments in economic development, critical minerals, and mining sectors.

Support for economic development, along with expanded loan guarantees, has the potential to advance prosperity and greater opportunity for First Nations communities.

While some of these developments represent progress, the Chiefs of Ontario emphasize that underlying, urgent challenges persist across the province. The housing crisis remains acute in many First Nations, gaps in child and family services continue to impact future generations, and the ongoing opioid crisis is claiming lives and destabilizing communities. These issues require sustained, targeted action in tandem with economic and infrastructure investment.

“I acknowledge Ontario’s investments in community infrastructure and create new economic opportunities for our people,” stated Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict. “However, it is imperative that investments in housing, child welfare, and mental health services—especially those addressing the opioid crisis—receive the same level of ongoing attention to ensure safe, healthy, and thriving communities.”

Opposition parties also raised concerns about the province’s weak employment rates and the rising cost of living. The unemployment rate is projected to increase from 7.6 per cent to 7.8 per cent by 2028, while groceries and rent rates continue to soar throughout the region.

“While the cost of living pressures impact all Ontarians, First Nations are experiencing these challenges to a far greater extent. Housing, groceries, and transportation remain unaffordable in many of First Nations, especially those in remote or northern regions.”

The Chiefs of Ontario will continue to analyze the 2025 Fall Economic Statement and advocate for the inclusion of First Nations’ priorities in Ontario’s fiscal planning and are committed to continuing the relationship with the government at all levels.

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The Chiefs of Ontario supports all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction, and their chosen expression of nationhood. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, X, Instagram, or LinkedIn @ChiefsOfOntario

Media Contact:

Isak Vaillancourt

Communications Manager

Chiefs of Ontario

Telephone: 416-819-8184

Email: isak.vaillancourt@coo.org

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