Matawa First Nations to Host Mining and Mineral Symposium in Thunder Bay
Press Release
Matawa First Nations to Host Mining and Mineral Symposium in Thunder Bay, Ontario
Thunder Bay ON, January 22nd, 2010- Matawa First Nations Chiefs will host their own consultation session this February, as Matawa First Nations introduces a new process geared toward the Mining and Mineral Industry.
The Interim Mineral Measures Process is set to be unveiled February 9th 2010, at Matawa First Nations first ever Mineral and Exploration Symposium. The process will provide guidelines on how communities interact with the mineral exploration and mining industry.
Matawa First Nations Chief Executive Officer David Paul Achneepineskum says; “The Interim Mineral Measures Process will help establish effective, positive working relationships, which will in turn provide benefits for our communities. Matawa is sharing this guide in the spirit of cooperation, with the intention of removing any uncertainty that may impact the mineral exploration business and the communities in a negative manner”.
Currently the Matawa region is the most active mineral exploration region in Northern Ontario, with over sixty mining and mineral companies working in First Nation’s territories.
Matawa Economic Development Manager Brian Davey says; “The Mining and Minerals Industry is invited to review the Interim Mineral Measures Process and provide comments and feedback. The purpose of the symposium is to introduce the mining industry and service related companies to the Matawa region, its communities and its leaders.”
In October 2008, the Matawa First Nations Chiefs signed a Letter of Intent with the Minister of Northern Development and Mines that committed both parties to effective, positive and collaborative working relationships. During the course of discussion, it was felt there was a need to create an interim process which would bring First Nations and mineral companies together on some common understandings.
Davey says; “Although the mining act is being revised, development and consultation must continue. As a result, a technical committee of First Nations representatives and the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines was formed to work on an Interim Mineral Measures Process”.
The “How to Guide” was passed through resolution by Matawa Chiefs in September of 2009.
The Mineral Exploration Mining Symposium will be held February 9th and 10th, 2010, at the Italian Cultural Centre in Thunder Bay. Several large Mining and Mineral Companies are expected to attend, along with the Honourable Minister of Northern Development, Mines, and Forestry, Michael Gravelle.
For further information please contact:
Amanda Bay-Communications Officer
Firedog Communications
T- (807) 767-4443 Ext#223
E-amanda@firedogpr.com