First Nation Communities
Take a GREEN Step Forward

 

 

Serpent River First Nation citizens, Chief, council and Elders were present as George Smitherman, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, introduced the Ministry’s Green Energy Act (GEA) to the Ontario legislature on behalf of his government .

The GEA seeks to achieve two things: First, to make energy conservation and renewable energy primary parts of energy projects across the province. Second, to position Ontario as the jurisdiction of choice for businesses invested or seeking to invest in the green economy while providing much needed stimulus for Ontario’s sputtering economy.

Serpent River citizens were there for another important aspect of the Act -Aboriginal engagement.

“The Green Energy Act is a signal that the Ontario government is serious about getting down to the business of First Nation partnerships,” said Isadore Day Wiindawtegowinini, Chief of Serpent River First Nation. “This bill focuses on respecting the environment, and providing Ontario and other consumers with a secure source of energy, not one that will leave us in the dark. We must commend Premier McGuinty and Minister Smitherman for this new Green Energy Act that now gives call to strategic partnerships in the private sector, First Nation community and government.” Chief Day, Lake Huron Treaty Commissioner also stated “the Green Energy Act is a signal that governments and industry need to consider Aboriginal and treaty rights; how that happens will depend on the strength of the consultation and accommodation process as the energy sector evolves.”

A key provision within the Green Energy Act allows for resources to be applied specifcally for engagement with First Nation communities in energy projects. In addition, it moves the responsibility for planning these projects, along with the accompanying regulations, from the municipalities to the province.

 

 

 

 

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