OFL Condemns Disrespectful Remarks Toward Grassy Narrows Mercury Survivors

Press Release

The Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) strongly condemns recent remarks made by Prime Minister Mark Carney during a March 30 press conference that dismissed a Grassy Narrows woman living with the lifelong impacts of mercury poisoning.

These comments are deeply disrespectful and underscore a long‑standing failure by governments to treat the people of Grassy Narrows and Wabaseemoong with the dignity, seriousness, and urgency they deserve. Survivors of mercury poisoning are not political props. They are community members who have endured decades of preventable harm.

Workers across Ontario unite in solidarity with Grassy Narrows and Wabaseemoong. These communities have been fighting for justice for generations and should not have to fight to be heard or be demeaned when they speak out.

An apology is not only necessary, it is the bare minimum that is needed. What is required is real action: fair compensation for those harmed by mercury poisoning, an end to ongoing contamination, and the closure of the Dryden mill that continues to poison the river these communities depend on.

Enough delay. Enough excuses. Justice delayed is justice denied. Justice for Grassy Narrows now!

ILR5