Balancing Boom and Respect: Ontario’s Ring of Fire Dilemma
June 6, 2025
The development of Ontario’s Ring of Fire region presents a critical opportunity for sustainable economic growth, not only for the province but for Canada as a whole. Rich in crucial minerals like nickel and gold, this area has the potential to significantly bolster our economy, particularly in the face of external pressures such as those posed by a hostile administration in the White House. However, realizing this potential requires balancing development with respect for Indigenous rights and environmental sustainability.
At the centre of this debate is Bill 5, the “Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act,” which aims to expedite the approval process for large infrastructure projects, including those in the Ring of Fire. While the bill is designed to reduce project approval times from 15 years to just two, it has been met with significant opposition. Critics argue that it undermines treaty rights and environmental protections by creating “special economic zones” that prioritize rapid development over due process.
Premier Doug Ford’s recent comments about Indigenous communities coming “hat in hand” for government support have added fuel to the fire. While his intent may have been to highlight opportunities for self-sufficiency and economic partnership, the language used was perceived as insensitive and disrespectful. Such remarks risk evoking historical stereotypes that overlook the systemic challenges faced by Indigenous communities and can undermine the trust needed for meaningful collaboration.
There is a general consensus among many stakeholders that advancing sustainable development in the Ring of Fire is essential. However, this must be pursued with a commitment to thorough and genuine consultation with Indigenous communities. Their voices and rights are pivotal in any development plans, as they have a direct stake in the land and its resources.
Opposition to development is inevitable, and there will always be dissenting voices. These positions should be respectfully considered and addressed, ensuring that the government truly represents the will of the majority while honouring its commitments to Indigenous peoples. This is not just a matter of legal obligation but a moral one, integral to the fabric of our national identity and values.
The broader societal debate reflects a tension between economic aspirations and the need to uphold environmental and Indigenous rights. It is crucial for political leaders, like Premier Ford, to navigate these discussions with sensitivity and respect. The language used in political discourse can either bridge divides or deepen them, and it is the responsibility of our leaders to foster unity and understanding.
As we contemplate the development of the Ring of Fire under Bill 5, let us strive for a future where economic growth does not come at the expense of our principles or the well-being of Indigenous communities. It is possible to achieve a balance that respects both the land and its people, ensuring that the benefits of development are shared equitably and sustainably. This requires thoughtful leadership, open dialogue, and a commitment to reconciliation—a path that acknowledges our past and looks forward to a prosperous and inclusive future.
Premier Doug’s Inappropriate Dance
The Ring of Fire region in Ontario presents a significant opportunity for economic growth due to its rich mineral deposits. Bill 5 aims to speed up development, but it has ignited controversy over potential impacts on Indigenous rights and the environment. Premier Doug Ford’s comments about Indigenous communities seeking “handouts” have been criticized, highlighting the need for respectful dialogue. While many see development as essential, it must be pursued with careful consideration of Indigenous perspectives and environmental protections. By fostering open communication, Ontario can find a path that benefits all stakeholders and respects the land’s heritage.
Ontario’s Ring of Fire holds immense economic potential with its rich mineral resources. Bill 5 aims to fast-track development, but it’s sparked debate over Indigenous rights and environmental concerns.
Doug Ford’s comments about Indigenous communities seeking “handouts” have been criticized as lacking sensitivity. While the goal is self-sufficiency, it’s crucial to engage in respectful and meaningful dialogue with Indigenous groups who have a deep connection to the land.
He wisely took the unexpected step of apologizing alongside Indigenous leaders in a press conference after the meeting. Unfortunately for Dougie, his mea culpa came too late for my deadline.
Most agree that development is important, but it must be done thoughtfully. We need to balance economic growth with respecting Indigenous rights and environmental protections. By fostering open and honest communication, we can find a path forward that benefits everyone and honours our commitments to Indigenous communities.
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In a time when quick progress is often seen as vital for economic growth, the introduction of Bills 5 (Better Municipal Governance Act) and 14 in Ontario, along with the federal Bill C-5 (One Canadian Economy Act), raises important concerns about how fast-tracking decisions can affect Indigenous rights and local governance. While these bills aim to streamline processes and promote economic development, the lack of meaningful consultation with Indigenous communities and other levels of government could undermine the very progress they intend to achieve.
At first glance, Bills 5 and C-5 seem to have similar goals, both designed to enhance economic growth and simplify decision-making. However, introducing federal and provincial legislation simultaneously can create confusion among those affected regarding their specific impacts and the consultation processes involved. In a competitive economy, the need to attract investment and create jobs is clear. Yet, rushing to put these laws in place without engaging with impacted communities creates an environment filled with tension and conflict.
The main issue is that insufficient consultation can lead to significant problems. When Indigenous communities are not meaningfully involved in decisions that affect their lands and resources, they may feel excluded and distrustful of government actions. This can lead to protests and opposition, as seen with the planned rallies against Bills 5 and C-5. Additionally, failing to consult properly can result in legal challenges, as Indigenous leaders have indicated that they will take action if their rights are overlooked. This can delay projects and deepen historical tensions between Indigenous communities and governments.
Consultation is not just a legal obligation; it can also lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. Indigenous communities often have valuable knowledge about land management and environmental stewardship that can improve project results. Ignoring their input is not only unfair but can also hinder economic progress. Moreover, the urgency to pass these bills might come from a desire to avoid controversy, which can appear autocratic and alienate constituents who feel their voices are not valued. Good governance requires open dialogue and compromise.
As Ontario faces the challenges of economic development, the need for genuine consultation with Indigenous communities and other stakeholders is more important than ever. The introduction of Bills 5 and 14, along with federal Bill C-5, reflects a push for progress, but without proper consultation, we risk damaging the trust and cooperation necessary for sustainable development. To build an economy that respects the rights and voices of all Canadians, both the Ontario government and the federal government must prioritize dialogue and compromise. Only through real engagement can we create a future that honours Indigenous rights and promotes a fair and prosperous society for everyone.
Doug Ford’s Bill 17 – Yet Another Step Backwards for Ontario’s Future
May 29 2025
Doug Ford is at it again, pushing through Bill 17, the “Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act,” with the same disregard for environmental protections that characterized his earlier attempts to dismantle the Greenbelt. Ford seems unfazed by previous voter backlash, perhaps feeling invincible with a third majority government—never mind that it was supported by less than half of the voting populace. It seems apathy has its price, and in this case, it’s a mediocre government that prioritizes quick wins over genuine progress.
Bill 17 epitomizes Ford’s governance style: quick fixes, shortcuts, and a focus on appeasing developers and well-connected allies at the expense of everyday Ontarians. By overriding local green building standards, this bill undermines cities like Toronto and Hamilton, which have been proactive in setting their own climate benchmarks. This disregard for local needs could lead to higher emissions and weaker climate defences in new developments.
Adding insult to injury, Bill 5 complements this approach by cutting Indigenous communities out of the consultation process. Ford’s administration seems to have little interest in meaningful engagement, opting instead for expediency over respecting Indigenous rights and fostering true reconciliation.
This isn’t Ford’s first run-in with environmental neglect. His track record includes cancelling the Green Energy Act and the cap-and-trade program, decisions that not only forfeited potential revenue but also missed opportunities for sustainable job creation. Ford’s approach mirrors a wider trend where governments, both in Canada and the U.S., are rolling back environmental protections. Ottawa’s recent rollback of the carbon tax/rebate program is yet another example of this troubling regression.
October 31, 2023
In Ontario, Ford’s frequent use of Ministerial Zoning Orders (MZOs) to fast-track development without public debate only further underscores his disdain for democratic processes. This tactic creates a shadowy parallel bureaucracy that lacks transparency and accountability.
The path Ford has chosen is one that turns back the clock on conservation and trivializes the impacts of climate change. It disenfranchises communities striving for sustainable growth. As Ontarians, we must demand better from our leaders. We deserve a government that values comprehensive reforms, respects environmental protections, and champions a sustainable future. Doug Ford’s Bill 17 and Bill 5 are steps in the wrong direction, and it’s crucial for the people of Ontario to demand more thoughtful and planet-focused policies.
Ford’s Familiar Tune
Here I am again, feeling like a broken record, lamenting yet another one of Doug Ford’s government’s anti-environmental moves. It seems like this is what we signed up for when less than half of the voting public handed him a third majority government. Sure, Ford played the Captain Canada role brilliantly, taking a strong stand against Trump earlier this year, and his dramatic flair continues to win him applause. But beneath that performative exterior, we’re stuck with the reality of what the next few years are likely to look like.
Ironically, Ford’s approach mirrors a “Trumpy” disregard for genuine consultation and environmental responsibility. It’s full steam ahead for his developer pals and provincial power brokers, with little concern for the impact on our planet. It’s almost amusing—almost—how he can be hailed as a brave critic of the U.S. President while simultaneously mirroring that same President’s approach when it comes to ignoring the climate crisis. It’s a frustrating echo, and one that I fear we’ll be hearing more of in the years to come.
From Santa Carney to the Provinces: Canada’s New Unity
December 18, 2024
The recent premiers’ meeting in Saskatoon has ushered in a refreshing wave of optimism and collaboration that Canada hasn’t experienced in over a decade. With the transition from Justin Trudeau to Mark Carney as Prime Minister, there’s been a noticeable shift in the dynamics between federal and provincial leaders. Ontario Premier Doug Ford captured the positive spirit of the gathering by likening Carney to Santa Claus, with a sled full of possibilities, ready to consider options that could benefit the entire nation.
Under Trudeau, the relationship between the federal government and provincial leaders, especially those from the Western provinces, was often fraught with tension. The interim period following his resignation only added to the uncertainty and lack of direction. However, Carney’s approach seems to have brought a new sense of unity and hope, with a focus on “nation-building projects” that aim to foster economic growth and national cohesion.
The meeting was marked by a commitment from Carney to fast-track approvals for projects deemed in the national interest, while keeping the door open for new ideas and initiatives. Key discussions covered areas such as trade, energy infrastructure, and critical minerals, laying the groundwork for potential progress.
Yet, challenges remain on the horizon. The proposal to build a pipeline through northern B.C. remains a contentious issue, as regional priorities differ. Alberta is pushing for new pipelines as part of its energy strategy, while B.C. emphasizes shovel-ready projects that are immediately actionable. Additionally, First Nations have expressed concerns about potential rights violations in the forthcoming “one Canadian economy” legislation, highlighting the need for meaningful engagement and dialogue.
Ford’s analogy serves as a reminder that while Carney can guide and support these initiatives, the real work lies with the premiers. They must collaborate and address the regulatory and infrastructure barriers that currently impede progress. Removing interprovincial trade barriers and boosting the economy will require technical expertise, political will, and cooperation across all levels of government.
This meeting in Saskatoon marks a hopeful shift in the relationship between the federal and provincial governments. While the federal government under Carney provides a vision and framework, it’s evident that the provinces will play a crucial role in executing these plans. The path forward will involve navigating challenges and differences, but the foundation for future cooperation seems more promising than it has in years. Both federal and provincial leaders have an opportunity to work together towards meaningful progress, making the potential for a stronger and more cohesive Canada more attainable than it has been in a long time.
Premiers in Portrait
Wednesday June 4, 2025 – The recent premiers’ meeting in Saskatoon marks a hopeful shift in federal-provincial relations, with renewed collaboration and shared goals under Prime Minister Mark Carney.
The premiers’ gathering in Saskatoon has brought a fresh sense of hope and teamwork to Canadian politics, a welcome change from the tensions of the Trudeau era. With Mark Carney leading, federal and provincial leaders talked about big projects to boost the economy and unite the country. While challenges like pipeline disagreements and Indigenous rights remain, the meeting set a positive tone for cooperation. With everyone on board, real progress finally seems possible.
Let’s hope this isn’t just the usual burst of optimism that comes with a new government. We’ve been here before, where initial excitement fades and things return to normal. The real test will be whether Carney and his team can turn this positive energy into real actions and lasting change. Fingers crossed that this time, the momentum leads to real progress.
There’s some talk of the Premiers building up Carney as a kind of folk hero, ready to work wonders. Doug Ford’s comparison of the PM to Santa Claus plays into this idea and is the focus of today’s editorial cartoon.
Speaking of editorial cartoons, here’s how I approach drawing the Premiers. When I started as a cartoonist, I learned quickly that respect in this field means getting good at drawing group caricatures. As a kid, I drew funny classroom portraits, which made me popular and even helped me stand up to bullies. Drawing caricatures gave me a unique advantage.
As I got older and became interested in the news, I naturally gravitated toward satire. The patience I learned from those classroom scenes paid off when I saw professional cartoonists create group caricatures. These weren’t the usual amusement park portraits; they captured powerful people from all angles. I studied these cartoons closely and kept clippings in a journal. One of my favourites is by Tony Jenkins from the Globe & Mail, who cleverly mixed the 20th anniversary of “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” with a meeting of Canadian Premiers. Jenkins turned unrelated news into a timeless classic, and he’s still a great cartoonist and friend.
Jenkins and others taught me early on that to succeed in editorial cartooning here, you must be able to draw the Premiers. I see it as a personal challenge to sketch a group shot of them occasionally, keeping my skills sharp. Here’s a look back at some of my past Premier group portraits:
Sketch studies of premiers (c1995) Pat Binns, Russell MacLellen, Frank McKenna, Glen Clark, Brian Tobin, Lucien Bouchard, Mike Harris, Ralph Klein.
Fathers of Confederation – illustrated in 1995. I’ve drawn various renditions of the premiers cast in this classic portrait, here in 2006, and here in 2014.
Friday October 14, 2005 – The Alberta government announced a $10 million plan to distribute $400 cheques to residents as part of a $1.4-billion “resource rebate” initiative, funded by the province’s surplus from oil and natural-gas royalties.
Sunday June 17, 2007 – On occasion of Father’s Day, Prime Minister Harper’s aggressive tactics in the past federal-provincial dispute over the Atlantic Accord and equalization payments overshadowed the facts, with Nova Scotia’s demands to remove the fiscal capacity cap being seen as unreasonable and unfair.
Thursday November 22, 2012 – Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty and other premiers criticized Prime Minister Stephen Harper for not attending a meeting to collaborate on a national economic strategy, viewing it as a missed opportunity to build on past federal-provincial cooperation during economic challenges. McGuinty had recently announced his departure from public life.
Wednesday October 12, 2016 – the federal government under Justin Trudeau announced a carbon pricing plan starting at $10 per tonne in 2018, rising to $50 by 2022, to reduce emissions and meet climate commitments, which provoked backlash from several provinces.
Thursday, July 25, 2013 – Kathleen Wynne chaired a historic Council of the Federation conference in July 2013, where women led the majority of Canada’s largest provinces, marking a shift from the traditional male-dominated leadership and focusing on collaborative discussions on national issues. In this cartoon I simply had to imagine what a carriage load of first husbands looked like.
Tuesday November 24, 2015 – Ahead of the Paris climate talks, Justin Trudeau and premiers aim to unify Canada’s climate message, balancing existing provincial leadership and economic growth with national climate commitments.
Tuesday February 7, 2023 – Justin Trudeau’s Liberals were struggling to regain momentum and hoped a health care deal would help them reset their agenda and address Canadians’ concerns.
This has been posted to Substack, which you can subscribe to. Substack is a great platform for me as a cartoonist. I’m mindful of the layoffs hitting many talented people, but I’m keeping a positive outlook. Take a look at the animation of my June 4, 2025, cartoon, and thanks for your support!
Ford’s Fast Track: Mining Progress or Consultation Overlook?
October 22, 2022
Back in 2019, Premier Doug Ford’s government tried to push through Bill 66, which threatened the Greenbelt and ignored environmental protections. Public outrage forced them to backtrack. Fast forward to 2025, and it seems the government hasn’t learned its lesson with Bill 5.
Bill 5 aims to speed up mining in the Ring of Fire region by creating “special economic zones.” This move is supposed to boost the economy, but it has angered Indigenous leaders and the public. Critics argue it’s like a repeat of Bill 66, ignoring the need for proper consultation with those affected.
To Ford’s credit, he has skillfully tackled the challenges posed by the Trump administration’s trade actions, which threatens Ontario’s manufacturing base. By focusing on developing the mining of critical minerals, he has aligned with voter support for economic resilience and growth. However, what’s lost in this expectation granted by citizens is the crucial need for proper consultation with Indigenous communities.
Despite offering amendments to allow Indigenous-led economic zones, the government’s promise to consult with First Nations after the fact seems insincere. Indigenous communities should be involved from the start, not as an afterthought.
Reader comments highlight the need for genuine engagement and respect for Indigenous rights. The government’s approach of rushing development without proper input feels like a misstep, echoing past mistakes.
Consultation isn’t just a formality; it’s essential for fair and democratic decision-making. By not learning from the past, the Ford government risks repeating history with Bill 5. It’s time for a more inclusive approach that values the input of all Ontarians and respects the rights of Indigenous Peoples. Only then can we ensure a future that’s fair and sustainable for everyone.
A Test for Doug – Editorial Cartoon for Thursday May 29, 2025
After all these years since Canada kicked off its reconciliation efforts with Indigenous Peoples, you’d think we’d have the basics down by now. One of the most fundamental practices is meaningful consultation, especially when it comes to economic development that impacts our environment—whether it’s the sea, air, or land. And when it comes to something like mining, this should be a no-brainer.
December 11, 2018 – Environmentalists and critics accused Premier Doug Ford of breaking his promise to protect the Greenbelt, claiming that the changes introduced in Bill 66 undermined environmental protections and opened the area to development.
Yet, here comes Doug Ford, ready to defy common sense and try to limit consultation once again. This isn’t the first time he’s taken this approach, and it seems like another case of lessons not learned. It’s as if he’s trying to sneak this by, testing the waters to see how far he can push things.
Considering that less than half of Ontario’s voters bothered to cast a ballot, it might seem like Ford reads the 55% who didn’t vote as a kind of silent approval. But relying on voter apathy or disengagement is risky business. Silence doesn’t equal consent, especially when it comes to respecting the rights and voices of Indigenous communities.
Tuesday November 28, 2023– The Ontario Liberal Party is set to announce its new leader, facing the challenge of overcoming voter apathy and past election setbacks to compete against Doug Ford in future elections.
In today’s animated editorial cartoon, which Substack subscribers get to preview before it hits the Hamilton Spectator, I’m being upfront about a new technique I’ve started using: AI for adding voice to the characters.
According to YouTube’s policy, it’s essential to disclose when content is altered or synthetic, especially if it seems real. This includes realistic sounds or visuals created with AI. With today’s technology, the line between real and fake is increasingly blurred, and AI-generated voices are impressively accurate.
One of my critiques of animated satire has always been the voiceovers for political figures. While some might be as skilled as David Levine at caricaturing, they often fall short of Rich Little when it comes to voice impressions. Now, with AI, replicating political voices is not only easy but also a bit unsettling.
In the animated clip below, I’ve used software to mimic the voice of Doug Ford. I believe it’s clear that it’s not really him, but for those who might be too convinced, there’s a disclaimer in place.
This is uncharted territory, and I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you have any feedback or want to start a conversation, now’s your chance.
Substack is an invaluable platform for me, especially given the uncertainties that come with being a staff editorial cartoonist. While I remain optimistic about my future, I am acutely aware of the unfortunate layoffs and newspaper closures that have impacted many talented colleagues in our field. Please Enjoy the animated making of my May 29, 2025 editorial cartoon below and thank you for your continued support!
