‘This is all disingenuous’: Ontario’s belated Bill 5 consultations fail to reassure First Nations – The Narwhal

Aug. 11, 2025

Leaked documents show the Doug Ford government’s fast-tracking plans allow for ‘special economic zones’ and exemptions from archaeological studies, with few details on project-specific Indigenous consultation

Ontario didn’t consult Indigenous communities before passing Bill 5, which allows for “special economic zones” where “designated projects” can be fast-tracked. Now, leaked documents show how the Doug Ford government plans to fulfill its duty to consult on specific projects — plans one First Nation chief called “extremely vague,” in which consultation comes after projects have already been greenlit.

The plans are in what’s known as technical briefings, which are private presentations given by government bureaucrats to stakeholders. The Narwhal obtained copies of two briefings officials shared at recent meetings with First Nations about Bill 5, or the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025.

Read More: https://thenarwhal.ca/ontario-bill-5-consultation-documents/