OTTAWA- Indigenous leaders across Ontario are calling for the repeal of a new housing bill that they say was passed without consulting First Nations and could put their communities at risk. The Chiefs of Ontario, which represents 133 First Nations, say Bill 23, aimed at spurring housing development,  could fast-track projects that might have adverse affects on Indigenous lands, waters, wildlife and treaty rights. The Ford government passed the bill as part of its plan to build 1.5 million homes in 10 years but critics have said it will lead to higher property taxes, weaken conservation authority powers and not actually make homes more affordable. The Grand Council Chief of the Anishinabek Nation says the province failed to engage with First Nations before passing the legislation last month, despite a requirement

The post Ontario Chiefs say province failed duty to consult First Nations on new housing bill appeared first on The Turtle Island News.