The Matawa Tribal Council withdrew their support for the Ring of Fire chromite project in the James Bay lowlands saying a federal environmental assessment doesn't go far enough in consulting with First Nations.
The council, which consists of nine Ojibway and Cree First Nation communities, closest to the large exploration camp, are asking for Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Premier Dalton McGuinty to intervene. For five months, the chiefs say they are pushing for a full-blown Joint Review Panel that is more far-reaching in hearing the public's support and concern for the project.
The chiefs said the manner in which the development is proceeding will destroy their way of life, impact their treaty rights and destroy their territory.
“The government is forcing us to take action,” said Constance Lake Chief Roger Wesley in a statement. “They are not listening to us or consulting us in a meaningful way, and they are certainly not accommodating us.”
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