The northwestern region contains massive deposits of critical minerals like nickel, copper, platinum and cobalt that could be worth tens of billions of dollars
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre pledged to approve federal mining permits in Ontario's Ring of Fire within six months, committing $1 billion over three years to build roads connecting mining sites and First Nations communities. He proposes allowing companies to pay a portion of their federal taxes directly to First Nations. The Ring of Fire contains critical minerals and Poilievre suggests infrastructure spending could contribute to Canada's NATO defence commitment. Some First Nations support development, while others are still consulting. Critics, including NDP candidate Nadia Verrelli, raise concerns about proper consultation and consent.
