Terms of agreement also raises prospect of EV plant go-ahead, which would employ 2,500 people
The Ontario government has announced a new partnership with Indigenous leaders in a huge employment boost for the region, which stands to benefit from billions of dollars in infrastructure and clean energy projects.
The partnership involves the provincial government, the Caldwell First Nation, the Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation and the Three Fires Group, which together have formed the Three Fires Nations-Ontario Southwestern Ontario Infrastructure and Economic Opportunities Table.
Premier Doug Ford said the creation of the table is a "game-changer" for the people of southwestern Ontario when it comes to business and employment opportunities. "We are going to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our First Nations partners to advance critical infrastructure projects and ensure everyone benefits from the opportunities that Ontario holds," he said. "Working together, we will build a better Ontario for the generations that follow us."
The deal also raises the possibility that the previously announced large-scale electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant planned in Windsor will get the go-ahead, creating even more jobs.
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The Economic Opportunities Table, with its goal to support "transformational clean energy project investments" and further "shared environmental priorities," could help clear the electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant's construction plans.
The plant, which has a $5-billion investment from a joint venture between Stellantis and LG Energy Solution, is the largest automotive manufacturing investment in Ontario's history. This is expected to directly employ an estimated 2,500 people, according to the provincial government.
Indigenous Affairs Greg Rickford said the new Economics Opportunities Table will lead to "enhanced collaboration" between Ontario and First Nations leadership.
"We are moving forward on our promise to build the province of Ontario, and this table will allow First Nations partners an opportunity to inform decisions in a respectful forum and share in economic prosperity," said the minister.
Caldwell First Nation Chief Mary Duckworth said they are "excited to work in lockstep with the province of Ontario". "We are ready to move at the speed of business and look forward to advancing the agenda together with the Premier and his team," said Duckworth.
