The Ontario government's controversial Bill 5 is facing its first lawsuit.
Several First Nations are challenging the legislation in Superior Court, claiming it threatens the environment, fundamental human freedoms, and their right to self-determination.
The Bill will allow the province to fast track projects without having to do proper due diligence. This is the case for Dresden Landfill, which is moving forward without environmental assessment (EA) requirements.
"Our case is not a fight against development, it is a fight against dangerous development pushed ahead by factless, thoughtless and reckless decision making from government Ministers behind closed doors with little accountability," said Taynar Simpson, Chief of Alderville First Nation.
Last month, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent stated it wouldn't start it's own lawsuit and would instead reach out to other communities and groups considering legal action to discuss the possibility of joining.
A statement sent to CK News Today said the municipality is not involved in this lawsuit.
"We have not been in contact with these specific First Nations about this lawsuit. The Municipality learned about this lawsuit through the media, and is gathering information about the lawsuit now," read the statement.
It also claimed the municipality will continue to explore the possibility of legal challenges.