Gold miner signs resource sharing deal with northwestern Ontario First Nations

Osisko Mining Corp. has signed a First Nations resource sharing agreement as part of its development of a gold deposit in northwestern Ontario.

The deal announced Dec. 10 between Osisko Hammon Reef Gold Ltd., the Fort Frances Chiefs Secretariat and Lac Des Mille Lacs First Nation binds the parties to engage in "active consultation and collaboration" as part of an advanced exploration program at the Hammond Reef gold project near Atikokan.

In a statement, company president Sean Roosen said the agreement is the result of a “respectful and considered” process between all parties that will result in a “mutually beneficial development and operation” with lasting educational, employment and economic benefits.

Tammy Ryll, executive director of the Fort Frances Chiefs Secretariat, called it a “significant next step” in the relationship with Osisko that respects traditional lands and treaty rights.

Tony Marinaro, economic development advisor for Pwi-Di-Goo-Zing Ne-Yaa-Zhing Advisory Services said the agreement provides local Aboriginal people with a new opportunity that allows them to grow the development of the Hammond Reef Project.