Anishinabek Nation raises concerns about Ontario's Permit to Take Water changes

The Anishinabek Nation says proposed changes to Ontario's Permit to Take Water program would let some projects avoid new permits, environmental review and meaningful consultation; Ontario's environment ministry says permit renewals for the same water-taking can be processed under a streamlined approach while applications and Duty to Consult requirements are reviewed.

The Anishinabek Nation has raised concerns about proposed changes to Ontario's Permit to Take Water program. The Nation says a recent Environmental Registry posting would exempt some mining exploration projects from needing a permit and allow companies to assume or renew permits without new applications, environmental review, or meaningful consultation. Ontario's environment ministry responded that holders taking the same amount of water from the same location for the same purpose can apply to renew under a streamlined process, and that applications and Duty to Consult requirements continue to be reviewed. A University of Waterloo researcher noted an increase in some types of water-taking permits in recent years and said some category 3 permits proceeded despite environmental impact assessments. Current status: - The Anishinabek Nation says the registry posting proposes exempting some mining exploration from PTTW requirements and easing permit renewals without fresh applications or reviews. - Aamjiwnaang Chief Janelle Nahmabin reported permit transfers tied to property sales and raised questions about water volumes and return quality in her territory. - The ministry says permit holders can apply to renew the same taking from the same location under a streamlined renewal process and that Duty to Consult is being reviewed before decisions. - Research cited an uptick in new PTTWs in some regions and noted that some category 3 permits moved forward despite environmental impact findings. Summary: The Anishinabek Nation says the proposed changes weaken First Nations consultation, environmental oversight and public accountability. The province has stated it is reviewing applications and Duty to Consult requirements while the Anishinabek Nation has called for an immediate pause to the new procedures. Undetermined at this time.