First Nations can mine $650 billion – Winnipeg Free Press

If you have been wondering what all the fuss about resource extraction and development on First Nations land means, you need look no further than a recent report by the Fraser Institute. It reveals the enormous potential in wealth and jobs that can be created by developing these resources.

According to the report, 600 projects worth $650 billion depend on co-operation between First Nations and mining companies within the next 10 years.

With much of this development to take place in rural and northern Canada, where most First Nations are located, you might say a huge chunk of this country’s future is at stake, especially when you recognize the population of First Nations and Métis is growing by almost 50 per cent while the rest of the Canadian population is increasing by only eight per cent.

If a fair share of the jobs and profits from that $650 billion in estimated value doesn’t go to First Nations, which are plagued by poverty and unemployment, this country is going to face an economic mess like never seen before.