Scott Reid to Bring Mining Concerns to Parliament

Ottawa – Local MP Scott Reid met today with Algonquin representatives who have travelled to Parliament Hill by canoe to deliver a memorandum to the federal government outlining their concerns with planned uranium mining activities in North Frontenac. The memorandum, signed by members of Algonquin First Nations from across the country, called on the federal government to put a stop to uranium mining scheduled to take place in part on Crown land in North Frontenac Township, to which there is an unresolved land claim, and in part on private property.

“The first duty of an MP is to receive petitions from their constituents, and present these concerns to Parliament,” said Reid. “It will be my responsibility–and an honour–to present the concerns of the Algonquins to the House of Commons. In the event that there are any procedural questions as to whether this document is in the accepted format for petitions to the House of Commons, I will be seeking the unanimous consent of the House to bring it forward.”

Reid also reiterated his opposition to existing mining policies in Ontario, which separates surface rights from mineral rights. Under the current law, companies are legally allowed to begin mining development on the private property without the consent of the landowner.

“The unjust separation of surface and subsurface rights is the source of much of the frustration felt by both Algonquins and non-natives in Frontenac,” Reid stated. “Under Ontario law, mining companies can lay claim to your property and begin excavating – without permission from the landowner.”

Referring to property-rights activist Randy Hillier, who is now the PC candidate for the provincial riding, Reid noted, “Randy and I have prepared a three-point plan to re-unite surface and mineral rights. We’re confident that if our plan is put into action, the injustice that is occurring in Frontenac County will be ended, and others like it will be prevented.”

For more information or to speak with Mr. Reid
Please call (613) 257-8130 or (613) 947-2277.

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