The Chief of Kettle and Stony Point says a new economic partnership between area First Nations and the province will be a huge benefit to all of those involved.
On Thursday, the Ford Tories unveiled the Three Fires Nations-Ontario Southwestern Ontario Infrastructure and Economic Opportunities Table.
KP Chief Jason Henry said the table is all about relationships.
"It's a very new relationship, I'll say, and many times the government and First Nations end up being in adversarial positions. But this collaboration, this table which is First Nations led, it puts us in the driver's seat and that is a very respectful place, respectful arrangement that we have with the province, and just that relationship in itself is something that we're really proud to have."
In a media release, the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs said the joint table will advance billions of dollars in critical infrastructure, transformational investments, and clean energy projects in the region, while creating a space for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and partnership between First Nation leaders and the province.
Henry said advancements such as this are only possible by collaboration between the two groups.
"We understand that southern Ontario is going to be the hub of development for at least a decade. With the amount of infrastructure and economic growth happening, by being part of this table and being shoulder to shoulder with the province, it puts us in a position to be at the table when the table is being formed and to be part of development going forward."
Henry said the table also puts them in a position to look towards economic sovereignty.
"Not requiring money from any other sources but the sources that we can grow ourselves by partnerships like this. By having tables like this where we can set the tone and set the pace for development in our region. And we're set to have a very quick pace in business."
Henry added that the province, the country and the continent need to grow, and they need to grow on clean energy.
"It needs to be on environmental restoration and environmental protection. That is the business that I think that southwestern Ontario and Sarnia-Lambton in particular can be very, very influential in making changes here."
Henry complemented Premier Doug Ford and Labour Minister Monte McNaughton for playing a big role in the development of the table.
Three Fires Nation includes the Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point, Aamjiwnaang, Caldwell and Bkejwanong First Nations.
