Frank Iacobucci aims to build a relationship with First Nations before Ring of Fire negotiations start
Ontario’s chief Ring of Fire negotiator says he is making a series of trips to Matawa First Nation communities as a way to ensure good lines of communication with First Nations. Frank Iacobucci says he’s already visited Eabametoong and Marten Falls this week — and will be going to other Matawa First Nations as well.
“I’ve been up in the north before, but I haven’t been to all these First Nations,” he said. “I want … First Nations [to] know who I am and what my mandate is — and they get it from me and not from just reading about it.”
Iacobucci said it’s important for him to learn more about the communities as he prepares to start formal negotiations with Bob Rae.
‘No one side that sets the agenda’
Iacobucci was accompanied Thursday by Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle. The pair met with reporters at Thunder Bay Airport before boarding for a two-hour flight to Neskantaga. “I’m very pleased to spend time travelling with Mr. Iacobucci,” Gravelle said.