Ring Of Fire First Nations Commit To Cooperation
September 16, 2010
McGuinty Government Supports Effective Consultation With Aboriginal Communities
The Ontario government and two First Nations in proximity of the Ring of Fire in Ontario’s Far North have reaffirmed their commitment to addressing issues related to the development of the mineral-rich deposit.
Marten Falls First Nation Chief Eli Moonias and Webequie First Nation Chief Cornelius Wabasse joined Northern Development, Mines and Forestry Minister Michael Gravelle and Natural Resources Minister Linda Jeffrey to sign a Letter of Intent, the first formal step towards a Memorandum of Cooperation for mineral development issues, including land use planning in their traditional land use areas.
The Letter of Intent acknowledges the need to develop a working relationship between the First Nations and the Ontario government, as it relates to potential impacts of the proposed developments on their traditional areas. It builds on previous and ongoing dialogue between the parties to address outstanding concerns around development in the McFaulds Lake area.
QUICK FACTS
- With more than 30 companies exploring in the Ring of Fire, current estimates suggest the possible potential for decades of chromite production, as well as significant production of nickel, copper and platinum.
- Mineral development in the Ring of Fire could mean thousands of direct and indirect permanent jobs, direct and indirect construction jobs over the next five years and significant economic development opportunities for a number of First Nation communities in the region.
- The aboriginal communities of Marten Falls and Webequie are among the First Nation communities that could be most directly impacted by the McFauld’s Lake development.
