Junior base metal miner partners with First Nations

Sudbury junior miner Canadian Arrow Mines has signed an exploration agreement with six First Nations in northwestern Ontario.

The agreement, involving the Chiefs of Grand Council Treaty No. 3, clears the path for exploration activities on First Nations traditional land.

The participating First Nation communities include Big Grassy River, Northwest Angle No. 33, Northwest Angle No. 37, the Ojibways of Onigaming, Naotkamegwanning and Wauzhushk Onigum.

In a March 24 news release, company president Kim Tyler said the agreement ensures a positive relationship with the First Nation communities.

The company has an advanced base metal deposit near Sioux Narrows and other exploration projects across the region.

In return for their consent, the First Nations will be offered opportunities for employment and business contracts related to exploration work.

"This agreement is a precedent for how we expect all companies seeking to work in our traditional territories to engage with our First Nations," said Anishinaabeg of Kabapikotawangag Resource Council executive director George Kakewa. "It is a clear signal to other companies that we are not anti-development and that our clear support is only an agreement away."