Rubicon Minerals has signed an exploration agreement with Lac Seul First Nation that covers property near Red Lake.
The site of the mining company's flagship Phoenix Gold project is on land that the northwestern Ontario First Nation community claims is part of their traditional territory.
Rubicon president/CEO David Adamson said having the support of Lac Seul to carry out exploration work will provide “meaningful economic benefit” to the community.
The agreement sets in motion the plan for a future deal regarding employment opportunities and contract jobs for local Aboriginal businesses.
The band council said they will support Rubicon's application for licences and permits.
Chief Clifford Bull said the agreement “reflects the mutual respect” of both parties and demonstrates the community's “interest to work with industry.”
Lac Seul First Nation is 38 kilometres northwest of Sioux Lookout.
.jpeg;w=120;h=80;mode=crop)
