The Ford government is drawing criticism for its plan to accelerate mining projects.

The Ring of Fire is poised to be a special economic zone where permitting would be fast-tracked.

Premier Ford says the area contains critical minerals the world needs, and mining can help boost Ontario’s economy to combat the trade threats from the United States.

NDP leader Marit Stiles says it should not be an excuse to override First Nations and the government’s duty to consult.

“It’s not just a box to check,” says Stiles.

“It’s very clear that there is a requirement for free prior and informed consent.”

NDP’s Deputy Leader Sol Mamakwa says it is important that all First Nations people have a say, not just a community’s Chief and council.

“I think that the current approach, when we talk about duty to consult from this government, they do the bare minimum, and that’s not good enough,” says Mamakwa.

“That’s why there are court cases against this government from several First Nations because they continue to again do the bare minimum.”

Liberal leader Bonnie Crombie supports the development of the Ring of Fire, but the way it is happening raises concerns for her.

“Creating the zone of interest at the Ring of Fire, speeding up permits, eliminating oversight and eliminating consultation with the Indigenous community is very concerning,” says Crombie.

“Where will there be accountability and oversight? This government, unfortunately, has a track record of doing things behind closed doors and not being accountable. And this is yet another example.”

Crombie says it is one thing to speed up the permit process, but not without the proper consultation and oversight.