GOLD-COPPER: Seabridge, Nisga’a Nation ink benefits agreement for KSM

BRITISH COLUMBIA – As Seabridge Gold of Toronto prepares for a $15-million, 19,000-metre drilling program at the KSM project (see below), the company announced that it has signed a comprehensive benefits agreement with the Nisga'a Nation covering the project.

The deal establishes a long term co-operative relationship between the two. The Nisga'a Nation agrees to support the project, participate in economic benefits, and provide ongoing advice. Seabridge is committed to offering jobs and contracting opportunities at KSM to the Nisga'a. The agreement also covers education and training, financial payments and a framework for the two sides to work together on ongoing matters. Finally, it addresses concerns about the potential environmental and social impacts of the project.

Mitchell Stevens, president of Nisga'a Nation, commented, "We appreciate Seabridge's open and direct approach to working with the Nisga'a Nation. They began consulting with us very early on in the development of the KSM project design. They listened to our concerns and took them seriously."

Seabridge chairman and CEO Rudi Fronk said, "We are proud that a strong, trusting and mutually respectful relationship with the Nisga'a Nation has grown out of our work with them over the last six years. Their support of the project reflects their detailed, independent assessment that the project can be built and operated in an environmentally responsible way."

Readers can enjoy two videos about the KSM project by clicking here.