Listen Live
HomeNewsNFN Chief says minister's portfolio could lead to conflict

NFN Chief says minister’s portfolio could lead to conflict

Nipissing First Nation Chief Scott McLeod believes provincial cabinet minister Greg Rickford will run into problems trying to handle three portfolios.

Rickford wasn’t only named the Minister of Energy by the Premier last month, he’s also the Minister of Northern Development and Mines as well as the Minister for Indigenous Affairs.

McLeod is worried about the effect the latter two portfolios will have when considering First Nation issues.

“A lot of issues involving mining companies are somewhat at odds with First Nations when it comes to accessing resources in the north,” McLeod said.

- Advertisement -

“I’m not sure how that’s not going to be a bit of a conflict for him dealing with the mining industry on one hand and trying to solve disputes and issues with Indigenous people on the other hand.”

McLeod says this is a concern First Nations have and there will need to be a discussion to see how it can be dealt with.

McLeod adds there is a positive element to Rickford being named Indigenous Affairs minister.

The Northwestern Ontario MPP has had a lot of experiences with First Nations in Northern Ontario when he was an MP under the former Harper government.

(With files from Rocco Frangione)

- Advertisment -
- Advertisment -
- Advertisement -

Continue Reading