First Nations leaders say they're concerned about auditor general's report regarding changes to the Greenbelt
A group of First Nations leaders in Ontario are calling for the resignation of Housing Minister Steve Clark and his chief of staff.
The Chiefs of Ontario, which represents 133 First Nations, is expressing concerns over the auditor general's report on the decision to open up protected Greenbelt land to develop housing.
"As the Chiefs of Ontario continue to monitor this situation, it has become glaringly clear through the Auditor General’s Report findings that the processes in which these events took place were not transparent or fully informed, nor did they consider the need for consultation with First Nations before taking actions that directly affect First Nations inherent, treaty, and constitutionally protected rights."
According to the report, the plans favoured developers connected to the minister's chief of staff, Ryan Amato.
It also found possible environmental, financial and agricultural risks were ignored.
In response to the allegations, Premier Doug Ford's office has asked the integrity commissioner to investigate Amato.
The Chiefs say they'll keep working with the ministry, but won't work with Clark until the issue has been resolved.
They add they plan to request a meeting with Premier Doug Ford and the Minister of Indigenous Affairs to discuss the issue.
They're also calling for the OPP and Integrity Commissioner to investigate the matter.
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