First Nations Complete Communities' Land Use Plans

 
 

July 12, 2011 9:30 AM

McGuinty Government Moves Ahead With Northern Development And Protection

Pauingassi and Little Grand Rapids First Nations are among some of the first communities to complete their land use plans. These plans help identify economic opportunities and areas for protection under the Far North Act.

Both plans identify tourism as an important economic opportunity, and the Pauingassi plan also identifies an area where mining may be possible.

The plans also help support a bid to protect 34,500 square kilometers of land to have it proclaimed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Other World Heritage Sites include the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the pyramids of Egypt.

This is part of the McGuinty government's commitment to working collaboratively with First Nations to establish positive and constructive relationships. It is also part of the government's plan to support the region's economy and environment.  

QUICK FACTS

 
  • If successful, this UNESCO bid would become the second World Heritage Site in Ontario and one of the biggest sites among the nearly 900 worldwide.
  • Land use plans have already been completed with Pikangikum and Cat Lake/Slate Falls First Nations communities.
  • Four other First Nation communities are making significant progress towards the preparation of a community based land use plan and 25 First Nation communities are engaged in discussions with the province regarding land use planning.
  • The Far North Act supports the eventual protection of at least half of the Far North or approximately 225,000 square kilometres through community based land use planning.

CONTACTS

  • Media calls only: Maya Gorham
    Minister's Office
    416-314-2198
  • Media Desk
    Communications Services Branch
    416-314-2106



Ministry of Natural Resources
ontario.ca/natural-resources


 

"The land is an integral part of the cultural, economic and spiritual existence of First Nations communities. The creation of these community land use plans speaks to the commitment of both our government and the First Nation communities to respect both the land and the economic opportunity it provides."

 – Linda Jeffrey
Minister of Natural Resources

"Rooted in mutual faith and respect between the Pauingassi First Nation and the Ontario government, this final plan provides guidance for future land use activities in our planning area. We have worked together for the benefit and health of people, lands and waters. Having a vision for the land in this plan is very much a vision for ourselves - one which ensures for the well-being of future generations."

 – Harold Crow
Pauingassi Chief

"The people of Little Grand Rapids believe that we are part of the land and this Final Plan conveys a sense of our people and reaffirms our relationship to the land. This Final Plan gives us a foundation from which to build strong communities with residents who are excited about protection and economic development opportunities and hopeful for the future."

 – Martin Owens
Little Grand Rapids Chief

 
 
 
 Print this page