WCS Canada Statement: Terms of Reference published for regional assessment in Kawana ‘bi ‘kag

We’re pleased that the finalized Terms of Reference for a Regional Assessment covering the Ring of Fire area (known by local First Nations as Kawana ‘bi ‘kag) in northern Ontario has been published.

WCS Canada has had a long-standing role in promoting regional-scale, proactive approaches to assessing cumulative effects of development in northern Ontario and promoting processes that respect Indigenous jurisdiction. The finalized Terms of Reference is a major milestone and significant example of government-to-government collaboration, co-led by 15 First Nations and the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada.

We are encouraged to see that consideration of ecological integrity and forest ecosystems is now woven into these revised Terms of Reference. We remain concerned about the lack of emphasis on climate change, both in terms of its potential impact on this landscape, and on the potential impacts of development on ecosystems such as peatlands that are important in fighting climate change.

The impacts of development and climate change, both now and in the future, must be assessed to fully understand impacts to the lands, waters, wildlife and communities of this area. We will continue to follow closely and engage with the Regional Assessment process as the next phase begins, and much-needed studies get underway.