GOLD: First Nations, Goldcorp sign resource development agreement

TIMMINS, Ontario – The recently signed resource development agreement between Goldcorp's Porcupine Gold Mines (PGM) in Timmins and four First Nation communities delivers hope, opportunity and the promise of future prosperity. This...

TIMMINS, Ontario – The recently signed resource development agreement between Goldcorp's Porcupine Gold Mines (PGM) in Timmins and four First Nation communities delivers hope, opportunity and the promise of future prosperity. This agreement between PGM and the Mattagami First Nation, Wahgoshig First Nation, Matachewan First Nation and Flying Post First Nation was five years in the making.

The accord establishes a consultation framework related to existing and future mining operations by PGM and outlines long term benefits for the four First Nations communities. Under the terms of the agreement, PGM recognizes and respects aboriginal rights and interests and these communities, in turn, support Goldcorp's rights and interests as a mining company.

"Goldcorp recognizes the importance of working with and learning from the local First Nation communities in areas where we operate," said Marc Lauzier, mine general manager for PGM. "This agreement creates the foundation for a lasting relationship built on trust, mutual respect and constructive engagement."

"This is an important milestone for our First Nation," said Chief Murray Ray of Flying Post First Nation. "This signing also gives our people hope for the future, as this partnership gives us an opportunity to become more self-sufficient so that our families and children have a better future."

"I am pleased that we have managed to enter into an agreement with Goldcorp that has benefits to Matachewan First Nation and will provide hope and opportunity for the future," said Chief Elenore Hendrix of Matachewan First Nation. Mattagami First Nation Chief Walter Naveau also spoke in support of the agreement.

"Goldcorp has demonstrated a willingness to work with the First Nations surrounding Timmins and provide real and tangible benefits and opportunities to help build capacity," said Chief David Babin of Wahgoshig First Nation. "This agreement will be another example of how industry and First Nations can work successfully together."

The agreement also provides scholarships for young people in these First Nations and it includes opportunities for training, employment and business opportunities. "This agreement is about building capacity in the communities and fostering a lasting partnership through transparent and open information sharing," added Lauzier.

Provisions for consultation on regulatory permitting and environmental protection are contained in the accord along with support for aboriginal social and cultural practices. Goldcorp has three operations in Ontario: PGM, Musselwhite mine and its Red Lake mine. Goldcorp is a Canadian company with headquarters in Vancouver, BC, that employs more than 15,000 people worldwide.

The Mattagami First Nation, Wahgoshig First Nation, Matachewan First Nation and Flying Post First Nation are all located in and around the Timmins-Porcupine area. All parties involved deserve praise for the vision they have projected and the respect and co-operation they have shown.


*Peter McBride is manager of communications at the Ontario Mining Association. Contact him at 416-364-9301 or pmcbride@oma.on.ca.

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