Ontario must resolve a longstanding land claim with Magnetawan First Nation to proceed with expanding Highway 69, states Chief William Lloyd Noganosh. The highway stretches from Sudbury to near Nobel, Ontario, where it connects to Highway 400. A 68-kilometer stretch remains a undivided two-lane road, passing through reserve lands of Magnetawan First Nation, Henvey Inlet First Nation, and Shawanaga First Nation.
Negotiations and First Nations’ Position
Negotiations to widen Highway 69 in this section have been underway since 2008. Magnetawan First Nation fully supports twinning the highway but insists on addressing their land claim, filed in 2021. “We need to resolve that land claim in cooperation or side by side with the expansion of Highway 69,” Chief Noganosh said. “We’re waiting to hear from the province, and it’s up to them to acknowledge that.”
The Land Claim Dispute
The claim concerns the boundaries of Magnetawan First Nation’s territory under the Robinson Huron Treaty of 1850. Officials note that the First Nation asserts the surveyed reserve boundaries differ from what they were promised. Lawyer Stephen O’Neill, a retired Ontario Superior Court judge working with Magnetawan, explains the issue stems from the treaty using “miles” instead of “leagues.” “This is a problem that’s been known to the Crown since August of 1851,” O’Neill said. He adds that while some communities resolved it on the ground, issues persist.
“We have to get certainty and finality [of the lands] in order to construct a highway,” O’Neill emphasized. “When we can’t sit with Ontario and have the discussion … it puts a question mark on the certainty and finality and legal status of these lands.” Ontario plans to assess the claim within three years but lists the filing date as 2022, making it overdue according to O’Neill.
Safety Urgency and Community Support
Chief Noganosh stresses his community’s commitment: “We are all in on twinning the highway.” He highlights frequent accidents, noting, “We are very concerned and we want to get this done.” Even if speeding contributes, a four-lane highway would enhance safety significantly.
O’Neill, who has traveled the route extensively, addresses misconceptions: Magnetawan First Nation clarifies they support the project and continue meeting with the Ministry of Transportation. “It can be done and it will be done, but we need [Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation] really to come to the table.”
Government and Other Nations’ Updates
The Ministry of Transportation confirms expansion work continues. Construction on remaining sections south of the French River starts once property is secured and all environmental, regulatory, and Indigenous consultation requirements are fulfilled.
Shawanaga First Nation reached a tentative agreement with the province in November 2024. Henvey Inlet First Nation anticipates a deal by June 2025.
