Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) – Minister’s Message

The Government of Ontario is committed to a new relationship with First Nations in Ontario. My approach as Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, guided by the recommendations of the Ipperwash Commission, has always been to find opportunities to work together to prevent potential conflicts and honour our special relationship.On this website, you will find Ontario’s offer to Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) to attempt to resolve the conflict with the mining company Platinex Inc as well as other supporting documents.

There should be no doubt that Ontario did not ask for jail time for the Chief and Council of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug and in fact suggested alternatives. Our government always seeks negotiation over litigation, and worked very hard to avoid this result through very extensive negotiation with KI Chief and Council. I traveled to KI three times this year. In addition, I have also spoken many times to Chief Morris and his council, in person and on the phone.

I remain committed to working with KI in an attempt to reach agreement on these matters. First Nations have my continuing commitment towards addressing the issues that affect northern communities, including rights, claims, economic development and social issues.

This is a government that is determined to build stronger relationships with the Aboriginal peoples of Ontario. We have already successfully negotiated and concluded a $3-billion agreement with First Nations, including more than $200 million that has already been transferred to First Nations. The recent Ontario budget doubles the budget of the new Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs, providing for an annual budget of more than $50 million, and it will guide more than $600 million in programs across government. Together with the continued strong leadership of First Nations across Ontario our new relationship can only get stronger.

Sincerely,

Michael Bryant
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs