How to develop the Far North, the First Nation way

 
The process of exploration and developing mines in a part of Ontario's Far North will now have a how-to guide.

The Matawa First Nations, a tribal council of nine communities, has introduced an Interim Mineral Measures Process at an Aboriginal mineral exploration symposium in Thunder Bay, Feb. 9.

The guide was first passed by resolution by Matawa Chiefs last September. It provides guidelines on how communities interact with the mineral exploration and mining industry, and brings new ideas to terms like consultation and accommodation.

Aroland First Nation Chief Sonny Gagnon said communities can build “productive and positive relationships” with the mining industry provided they are consulted and included in the benefits derived from development on traditional lands. “This new process is meant as a starting point for dialogue between First Nations and mineral companies, and will serve as a guide to help avoid potential conflicts in the North.”