I thank the member from Hastings–Lennox and Addington for the question. It is also National Indigenous History Month, and yesterday we were reminded of that by the member from Kiiwetinoong in his member’s statement, and I appreciate his reflections. There’s always more work to do.

But over the course of this month, we’ll have an opportunity to reflect on some of the painful legacies in this country’s history with respect to Indigenous people, but also focus on the opportunities. Those are the things this government has been focused on over the past five years. We’ve made progress, and that was reflected in our discussions yesterday with the Premier, a number of my cabinet colleagues and my parliamentary assistant.

Mr. Speaker, there are a number of events across this province for us all to participate in. I’ve sent out a caucus package. Anybody from the other parties who is interested in events that are in their area, feel free to reach out to me, and we’ll be happy to provide those to you.

Sitting down with the Chiefs of Ontario and setting up a prosperity table led by Indigenous political and business leaders; matching the funding through the Indigenous Economic Development Fund for them to do things like supply chain mapping, to encourage access to capital for Indigenous-owned and -operated businesses: In the past business quarter, we saw a 19% increase in the resources going to Indigenous communities in northern Ontario, to ensure they have the tools moving forward for a prosperous Indigenous community.

But I might say to the member opposite a couple of important points. It was his party that decided to support a carbon tax and fuel surcharges that are driving up those costs. It’s that member opposite who voted against our initiative to reduce the cost of fuel for planes flying into the remote communities. And, so far, we have not been encouraged by the member opposite or his party to build the kinds of corridors that would provide reliable road access into many of our northern communities.

Now, if that member opposite wants to rally around that, planes cannot take in the kind of infrastructure that would put those communities in a better position from a perspective of health, social and economic development—

My question is for the Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Northern Development. June 1 marks the start of National Indigenous History Month, a time to celebrate rich traditions, heritage and the contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across the province and across the country. We look forward to many cultural activities and events planned for this month.

With 133 First Nations in Ontario, there are many vibrant communities that are located from Windsor in the south to the northern shores of Hudson Bay. Indigenous communities contribute significantly to Ontario’s economy, with many thriving businesses across a variety of sectors.

That’s why it’s vital that our government remains committed to building and maintaining strong relationships with First Nations and Indigenous partners. Speaker, will the minister please share how our government is working with Indigenous communities to build a stronger Ontario?

As we continue to build partnerships with our Indigenous communities, our government must strive to acknowledge, understand and address their concerns. Our province is enriched because of the accomplishments of Indigenous leaders and communities. First Nations and Indigenous communities deserve only our best and respect when it comes to working together as part of the reconciliation process to ensure a prosperous future for everyone.

Speaker, can the minister please explain what actions our government is taking to engage in meaningful reconciliation with Indigenous peoples?