The Daily Press is the city of Timmins broadsheet newspaper.
Company, two First Nations sign memorandum of understanding
An agreement has been reached between a mining firm and two First Nations over mineral rights to about 60,000 hectares of land. Ring of Fire Resources Inc. has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Matachewan and Mattagami First Nations with respect to its mineral exploration activities in 10 townships just north of Timmins.
The memorandum sets out the provisions of a co-operative approach to developing the Ring of Fire Inc. interests within the territorial homelands of the two First Nations. The agreement provides for business and employment opportunities that encourage First Nation participation in the mining industry.
The parties have also committed to negotiating an Impact and Benefits Agreement should the project warrant a mining operation.
“We are very pleased to have reached this agreement and we look forward to working with both First Nations,” said Vance White, president and CEO of ROF Inc. “The leadership of their respective communities is exemplary in advancing their people’s interests and participating in the natural resource sector.
“We are delighted to have their support in advancing the exploration activities of the Company on Project 81. Of particular note we would like to thank the offices of the Wabun Tribal Council for facilitating this agreement.”
Chief Walter Naveau from the Mattagami First Nation was pleased a MOU was reached.
“This agreement is critical to the future of the Mattagami First Nation as it will allow our community to begin to create our own destiny and shape a future that goes beyond the Indian Act,” he said. ‘The sharing of the natural resources between Nations is truly what our Grandfathers had in mind when they signed Treaties.”
Chief Alex Batisse added, “Matachewan looks forward to working alongside Ring of Fire to ensure the project proceeds in a manner that is respectful of the Land. As a community, Matachewan understands that responsible development benefits all of Northern Ontario and this company has ensured our people through the signing of the MOU that our rights as First Nation people will be respected.”
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