Statement: Idle no more takes critical action to protect health of our communities, environment, land and water

All Ontarians can draw inspiration from the Idle No More movement.  
I commend the leaders of the Idle No More movement for taking action on critical issues that affect us all: the health of our communities, environment, land and water. I believe the provincial government should take this opportunity to make a commitment to addressing issues regarding First Nations’ sovereignty in 2013. 
 
The issues at the heart of this movement transcend geography and levels of government. 
 
We need to work in partnership with and learn from Indigenous people to ensure that Ontario’s land and water are used wisely, protected and conserved for future generations. This includes a commitment to improving the standard of living in First Nations’ communities.
 
We cannot stand idly by and watch the erosion of constitutionally protected rights and the deterioration of our environment and the standard of living in First Nations’ communities continue in the New Year.
 
Today is the time to commit to an equitable, sustainable future for First Nations in Ontario. 
 
—
Mike Schreiner
Leader, Green Party of Ontario