"There's a high concentration of development proposed in our area and our people need to have a say in what is developed, and what isn't. ... We want to find a balance between protecting the land and providing employment for our people." - Annita McPhee, Talhtan Central CouncilThis Globe and Mail report looks at the Talhtan Nation's new relationship with the extraction industry.
“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 CouncilThe 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:
"Most of the majors, including ourselves, are waiting to see when do you pick it off. People are positioning themselves to take it out when the stock price goes low enough." - Ray Collier, Lehigh Hanson Co.Polaris Minerals Corporation, a sand and gravel operation near Port McNeil, is facing a likely takeover, according to this National Post report. The 'Namgis First Nation is a minority-holder (12%) in the company's Orca Quarry. Whereas, the company's undeveloped Eagle Rock Quarry near Port Alberni is minority-owned by the Hupacasath (10%) and Ucluelet (10%) First Nations, with a further 10% held in trust for the Tseshaht First Nation.
'Nak’azdli wants to have their environmental concerns addressed, and are not prepared to sell out their people for a quick buck.' - News ReportIn response to the provincial government's recent acceptance of Terrance Metals' "Mt. Milligan" gold-copper mine application for review, the Nak'azdli First Nation once again raised concerns with the project, in this Omineca Express article.
"Tse Keh Nay would like to remember the five-year struggle to protect Amazay Lake." - Tse Keh Nay Chiefs: Grand Chief Gordon Pierre, Tsay Keh Dene, Chief Dolly Abraham, Takla Lake First Nation, Chief Donny Van Somer, Kwadacha First NationIn a letter to the editor published in the Prince George Citizen today, First Nations impacted by Northgate Minerals' failed Kemess North Gold-Copper Mine application acknowledge the one year anniversary of an environmental review panel's historic decision to recommend against the project.
"His wisdom continues to resonate with us, reminding us that together we can face any challenge, as long as we do it in a spirit of mutual respect, recognition and reconciliation." - Gordon Campbell, Premier of British ColumbiaChief David Spintlum was posthumously honoured yesterday when Premier Campbell, Lytton First Nation Chief Byron Spinks, and Village of Lytton Mayor Chris O’Connor came together to rename the Thompson River Bridge along Highway 12 at Lytton after the respected leader. In 1858, Chief Spintlum was instrumental in ensuring peace prevailed between local Nlaka'pamux tribes and encroaching gold miners.
"Mining and industry sectors along with governments need to encourage and engage Aboriginal peoples and communities in a manner that is inclusive, transparent and characterized by mutual respect." - Bill Boyd, Mines Ministers' Conference Host and Saskatchewan Energy and Resources MinisterClick here to view release.
“The First Nations Leadership Council has highlighted the need to implement the FN-BC New Relationship in the mining sector in order to recognise the importance of building ties between B.C.’s First Nations and the mining industry.” - Grand Chief Edward John, First Nations SummitThe provincial government has publicly rolled out the Council on Mineral Exploration and Mining. According to a government news release, the Council is expected to:
"The main concern is the environment -- we want to make sure that is protected as best as possible." Chief Fred Sam, Nak'azdli First NationThe Prince George Citizen reports that Vancouver-based Terrane Metals' 9,000-page environmental impact assessment report, as part of its application for a provincial environmental assessment certificate, has been accepted. Now, a six-month review period follows on the $917-million Mount Milligan gold and copper mine application. The Nak'azdli First Nation, whose traditional name for Mount Milligan is Shus Nadloh, took the opportunity to again express dissatisfaction with the environmental assessment process, particularly the lack of input into the review [more].
