Strong turnout at rally against Bill 5 in North Bay

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More than 100 people gathered outside Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli’s office Thursday afternoon to protest proposed provincial legislation.

The rally, organized by Nipissing First Nation, drew members of the First Nation and local residents, with passing vehicles frequently honking in support.

First Nation representatives raised concerns about the potential impacts of Bill 5.

“This bill, as it is proposed, gives individuals – people like the minister – so much ability to wipe away things like environmental assessments, archaeological assessments,” said Cameron Welch, Nipissing First Nation’s director of lands, natural resources, the environment and economic development.

Coun. Samantha Stevens of Nipissing First Nation said the bill threatens treaty rights.

“This goes against our inherent treaty rights under Section 35. Anybody – all Canadians – should be worried about their sovereignty if this bill were to go through,” she said.

“They are trying to go against federal legislation. Our treaty is federal, and this is provincial.”

Nipissing First Nation Chief Cathy Stevens attended a simultaneous rally at Queen’s Park in Toronto.

Organizers described the North Bay event as respectful and honest.