Ottawa and Ontario sign deal to fast-track Ring of Fire mining projects with unified reviews.

Ottawa and Ontario will sign a deal on December 17, 2025, to streamline approvals for major infrastructure and mining projects, including roads to the Ring of Fire region. The "One Project, One Review and One Decision" approach will eliminate duplicative federal and provincial assessments, with both governments committing to complete their reviews on the Ring of Fire roads by the same timeline. This aims to accelerate construction, supporting plans by Webequie and Marten Falls First Nations to begin work in 2026. The region holds key minerals like nickel, copper, and platinum, vital for clean technology. Major mining companies are advancing feasibility studies, though not all First Nations support the development. Prime Minister Mark Carney and Premier Doug Ford will sign the agreement in Ottawa, with no public comments from either government.