The Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN) is announcing the signing of an collaboration agreement with a Vancouver B.C based mining company.
In a media release sent out Monday the First Nation announced the agreement signed with Foran Mining Corporation would emphasize education and diverse training avenues, which hope to create employment and business opportunities for membership. Foran Mining are the owners of the Mcllvenna Bay Project, which is on PBCN’s traditional territory.
In the media release PBCN Chief Karen Bird said the agreement will be beneficial for members and businesses that are owned by the First Nation.
“This agreement ensures that our nation and our members can develop an economic base which provides prosperity and self reliance while recognizing that we are stewards of our traditional lands,” she said.
Chief Bird added the First Nation will continue to work with Foran Mining through their joint environmental committee and will also be continuing with their community led monitoring programs.
Dan Myerson, Foran’s executive chairman and CEO said the company was excited to announce the signing of the agreement. He said the company is committed to providing PBCN membership with training and employment opportunities. Myerson added they are also committed to working with businesses owned by the First Nation.
Overall Myerson said the company believes agreements like the one signed with PBCN are important for the company.
“We believe that in order for a company to succeed over the long run it must build deep and meaningful relationships with local rights holders and stakeholders and prioritize those groups’ needs,” he said.
(Top Photo: PBCN Chief Karen Bird and Foran Mining Executive Chairman & CEO Dan Myerson Signing Collaboration Agreement CNW Group/Foran Mining Corporation)