Agenda for BC First Nations Mining Summit released

“This summit is an historic opportunity for First Nations, federal and provincial governments, mining companies, and NGOs to find new and better ways to pursue sustainable resource development that respects both Aboriginal rights and title and provides opportunities and benefits for everyone.” - Tribal Chief David Luggi, Carrier Sekani Tribal Council

The co-hosts of the B.C. First Nations Mining Summit have released the agenda for day 1 of the forum. The topics to be covered, with a Q & A for each, are:

1. State of the Mining Industry
2. Environmental Assessment
3. Effective Engagement & Decision-Making
   
4. Case Studies

Here's a list of confirmed speakers:

• Tribal Chief David Luggi, CSTC
• Regional Chief Shawn Atleo, BC AFN
• Grand Chief Steward Phillip, UBCIC
• Grand Chief Edward John, FNS
• Dave Porter, Kaska Nation
• Peter Penashue, Deputy Grand Chief of the Innu Nation – Voisey’s Bay Experience
• Hon. Stephen Kakfwi, Former Premier, Northwest Territories
• Dave Parker, Mining Association of BC
• Rick Meyers, Vice-President, Mining Association of Canada
• Gordon Hogg, Minister of State for Mining
• Joe Truscott, Mining Sector Lead, BC Environmental Assessment Office
• Larry Innes, Canadian Boreal Initiative
• Tony Pearse, Environmental Consultant

Incidentally, here's a recent CBC news report on the latest development involving Mr. Penashue and the Innu Nation's negotiations with Newfoundland Labrador on a proposed major hydro-electric mega-project and compensation for another.