TORONTO — Premier Doug Ford, alongside Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development and Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation, and Chief Sonny Gagnon of Aroland First Nation, has signed a Shared Prosperity Agreement aimed at advancing economic growth and critical infrastructure in Northern Ontario. The agreement includes key upgrades to Anaconda Road and Painter Lake Road, two vital routes that will help connect communities to the Ring of Fire, along with major investments in infrastructure and energy transmission. It also builds on existing agreements with other First Nations along the proposed road corridor and paves the way for future partnerships.

“With growing trade uncertainties, it’s more important than ever to work together to keep Ontario competitive,” said Premier Doug Ford. “Unlocking the economic potential of the Ring of Fire is a top priority, and these partnerships will create new jobs, growth, and opportunities across Northern Ontario. I want to thank Chief Sonny Gagnon and the Aroland First Nation for their leadership and commitment to this historic agreement.”

The agreement will drive long-term economic opportunities for Aroland First Nation and Northern Ontario through strategic investments and collaboration, including:

  • Upgrades to Anaconda Road and Painter Lake Road to improve access to Northern communities. A Road Advisory Body may be established to oversee these upgrades. This builds on commitments made in June 2024, when Ontario confirmed maintenance and upgrades to Highway 584 and Highway 11. These roads serve as key connections to the Marten Falls Community Access Road, Northern Road Link, and Webequie Supply Road, ultimately linking communities to the Ontario highway network and the Ring of Fire region.
  • $70 million investment in planning the Greenstone Electricity Transmission Line, working in collaboration with Aroland First Nation, Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek, Ginoogaming First Nation, Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek, Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek, and Red Rock Indian Band.
  • Support for Aroland First Nation in exploring the development of a transload facility and potentially hosting a smelter.
  • $20 million for community infrastructure projects aimed at fostering business development, enhancing community well-being, and preparing Aroland First Nation for economic opportunities tied to mineral development. An additional $2.27 million will be allocated for a comprehensive community plan to promote business growth and community wellness.
  • Discussions on revenue sharing between Ontario, Aroland First Nation, and other interested First Nations, ensuring that communities benefit from forestry and mining operations in the region.

“This agreement marks a significant milestone in our partnership with Aroland First Nation,” said Minister Greg Rickford. “By working together, we’re laying the groundwork for a future of economic prosperity—one that strengthens Northern Ontario’s infrastructure, creates sustainable growth, and positions Aroland First Nation as a leader in the region’s economic development.”

First Nations partnerships are key to unlocking the Ring of Fire’s mining potential, as well as supporting projects like the Greenstone Gold Mine. Investments in infrastructure will ensure that Indigenous communities in Ontario’s north benefit from long-term economic opportunities.

Quick Facts:

  • Aroland First Nation is located 60 kilometres north of Geraldton at the Gateway to the Ring of Fire, along Highway 584/643.
  • In June 2024, Ontario signed agreements with Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek, Aroland First Nation, Ginoogaming First Nation, and Long Lake #58 First Nation to support economic and resource development in Northern Ontario.
  • In April 2024, Ontario partnered with Webequie, Nibinamik, Neskantaga, Eabametoong, and Marten Falls First Nations to develop clean and reliable electricity solutions, reducing their reliance on diesel power.
  • In November 2024, Ontario completed critical highway infrastructure improvements in the Greenstone area, enhancing connectivity to the provincial highway network and strengthening economic access for First Nations.