Vale and Sagamok Anishnawbek, located on the north shore of Lake Huron, have signed an impacts and benefits agreement (IBA) regarding Vale's Totten Mine.
The IBA outlines the relationship Vale and Sagamok will have during the building and operation of Totten Mine, an underground nickel-copper mine located west of Sudbury, near Worthington. The mine, which is expected to reach commercial production late next year, has an estimated nominal capacity of 8,200 metric tons per year.
The IBA provides for participation in environmental aspects of the project, the development of a human resource strategy, and established contract processes that will support local Sagamok suppliers during each phase of the mine, from construction through to operation and eventual closure. A financial contribution will support community initiatives outlined in the First Nation’s Ten-Year Action Plan for Healing and Community Development.
“The signing of this agreement represents the culmination of many years of fruitful discussion with Vale as well as commitment by our community to a prosperous future” said Sagamok Chief Eshkakogan in a news release. “It provides a basis for Sagamok Anishnawbek to effectively participate in the Totten Mine project, to share directly in the economic and other benefits associated with it, and to continue to fulfill environmental stewardship responsibilities within our traditional and treaty territory.”
“Vale is honoured to engage in this partnership with Chief Paul and the community of Sagamok Anishnawbek,” said Kelly Strong, Vale’s vice-president of mining and milling for the North Atlantic region. “We are committed to working with our partners at Sagamok throughout the development, operation and eventual closure of Totten Mine to ensure our mutual success.”
The agreement is effective immediately.
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