Saugeen Ojibway Nation’s Environment Office says it was not consulted on the development of the federal government’s nuclear strategy.
They say in a statement, “On June 22, 2026, the Government of Canada released its Nuclear Energy Strategy confirming Canada’s commitment to expanding and accelerating nuclear energy development, with Ontario playing a key role. The strategy outlines a plan to build up to ten new large-scale nuclear reactors across Canada, which could include the proposed Bruce C project.”
The federal nuclear strategy says it will enable construction of up to ten new large-scale reactors within Canada.
SON continues, “We, the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, were not involved in the development of the strategy, despite the significant impacts that nuclear development will have on our Lands, Waters, and People.”
They say before the release of the strategy, the SON Joint Chiefs and Councils wrote to the prime minister to raise concerns about the lack of early engagement with SON.
SON says, “By making nuclear energy a key part of Canada’s energy and industrial strategy, Canada risks repeating a pattern of putting industry priorities ahead of SON rights and stewardship responsibilities.”
Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation Ogimaa Kwe (Chief) Veronica Smith says in a statement, “History cannot repeat itself. Canada and Ontario cannot continue to treat SON Territory as an energy sacrifice zone – an area where the Land, Water and People bear the risks while the benefits flow elsewhere.”
SON says, “Commitments to Indigenous rights without clear actions and accountability are not meaningful commitments.”
The SON Joint Chiefs and Councils say they, “Continue to make it clear that SON’s consent is required for any new nuclear development in or affecting our Territory.
Chippewas of Saugeen Acting Chief Randall Kahgee says, “The SON Members are central to the decisions on major nuclear development projects.”
They say, “The SON will not accept a nuclear future built on the same marginalization and exploitation that has defined the past.”