THUNDER BAY - Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Stan Beardy says NAN communities will be full participants in any and all development happening in NAN territory. Beardy made his comments during the Ontario pre-budget consultations today at Lakehead University facilitated by Finance Minister Dwight Duncan.

"We are no longer willing to sit on the sidelines of economic development in our territory," said NAN Grand Chief Stan Beardy. "As development continues in our region royalties, taxes and spin-off spending must be part of a resource revenue sharing package that my people benefit from. If we do not benefit we will have no choice but to block future development on our traditional lands".

There are several new opportunities for economic growth and development within NAN territory. „Ring of Fire? located near Marten Falls First Nation has the potential of becoming the site of one of the biggest Chromite explorations in the world.

The diamond mine outside Attawapiskat was initially valued at 8 billion dollars and has the potential for other developments stretching across NAN territory from the Quebec border to Manitoba. NAN territory also contains untapped electrical energy that could offer greater opportunities for industry development and entrepreneurial activity in NAN communities.

"The 2010 Ontario budget must include investment in all-weather roads, in producing a reliable source of energy and ensuring reliable telecommunications," said Beardy. "Investment in these three areas will form the foundation needed for the potential of two hundred years of wealth and prosperity in the north and by extension, throughout Ontario".