Ferrochrome smelter 'will not proceed' without support of Indigenous partners, says Provenzano

Sault Ste. Marie Mayor Christian Provenzano has issued the following statement to SooToday about today's refusal of Batchewana First Nation to endorse the proposal for a local ferrochrome smelter.

As we reported this morning, Batchewana council is asserting that, as caretakers of the land and waterways, it must prohibit construction of a ferrochrome processing facilty within its territory.

The city’s position has been consistent from the outset of this project. In order for the project to proceed Noront will have to demonstrate to the community-at-large and our Indigenous partners that the project will not have an adverse effect on people’s health or the environment.

There is a multi-year assessment and engagement process that has not started. If the project is not supported by the community at large or our Indigenous partners at the end of the process, the project will not proceed.

Our relationship with Batchewana First Nation, Garden River First Nation, the Historic Métis Council and Missanabie Cree First Nation is important to the city.

We respect the importance of their engagement and we will continue to work with them for the betterment of our relationship and the quality of life in our communities.