RC117 MarApr 2025 - Magazine - Page 7
As the first executive director and CEO of the FNMPC, Niilo Edwards helped grow the
organization from 50 members participating in four projects in 2019, to 157 member
nations involved in 19 projects across Canada.
FNMPC
FNMPC ANNOUNCES
PASSING OF NIILO EDWARDS
and that has informed and willing hosts.
As the project now advances into
the regulatory decision-making
process, Canada will take another step
forward on this long-term management
solution for its used nuclear fuel, which
will protect people and the environment,
including water, while supporting its
goals around energy security and climate
change.
“As our government expands our
zero-emissions nuclear 昀氀eet to meet rising
energy demand, Ontario is cementing its
position as a world leader in all parts of
the nuclear lifecycle—this achievement
by NWMO is just the latest example,”
said Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s Minister of
Energy and Electri昀椀cation.
RENEWCANADA.NET
IT IS WITH PROFOUND SADNESS that the First Nations Major Projects Coalition
(FNMPC) shared the passing of Chief Executive O昀케cer, Niilo Edwards, just
before Christmas, after a sudden and unexpected turn in his 昀椀ght against
cancer.
Niilo was not only a leader but a visionary. As the 昀椀rst executive director and CEO of FNMPC, he took on the challenge with an unwavering
commitment to economic inclusion, shaping the organization into what it
is today: a driving force for First Nations participation in major projects
across Canada. Niilo believed sincerely in the power of partnerships rooted in respect, trust, and
shared prosperity—principles that will continue
to guide the FNMPC as
it moves forward.
“We are heartbroken
by the loss of Niilo, who
is like family to us here
at the FNMPC. As a
founding member of the
FNMPC, his legacy and vision will continue to inspire and guide us as
we move forward,” said FNMPC Executive Chair Sharleen Gale. “Niilo’s
unwavering dedication and visionary leadership have been instrumental
in advancing the FNMPC to where we are today. His commitment to
economic inclusion and supporting First Nations to lead in meaningful
partnerships has set a standard for us all. While there may be some adjustments as we navigate this di昀케cult time, the Coalition will continue to
serve its members while we mourn Niilo.”
Moving forward, the FNMPC Board of Directors announced the appointment of Mark Podlasly as the Chief Executive O昀케cer. As co-founder, Podlasly has been integral to the FNMPC’s development since its
inception.
“Niilo’s unwavering dedication and
visionary leadership have been instrumental in
advancing the FNMPC to where we are today.”
MARCH/APRIL 2025 – RENEW CANADA 7
