IQALUIT - A new educational tool will help Aboriginal peoples become more informed about the mineral industry. The Honourable R. John Efford, Minister of Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), and the Honourable Rick Bartolucci, Ontario's Minister of Northern Development and Mines (MNDM), announced today that their governments are helping respond to the needs of Aboriginal communities by producing a video on the mining cycle. "Mineral exploration can help create a better life for northern Canadians, particularly Aboriginal people," said Minister Efford. "This video and other information products will help Aboriginal communities identify opportunities and make informed decisions about their participation in mineral-development activities." "Our government is committed to helping remote, northern Aboriginal communities become stronger and more prosperous by providing the necessary tools to pursue economic development opportunities that respect heritage and cultural values," said Minister Bartolucci. "By working to build a strong and trusting relationship, we are gaining a greater mutual appreciation of the important issues surrounding resource development opportunities in the region." "Exploration and mining activity can provide rural and remote communities with economic development options," said Chief Charlie Okeese of the Eabametoong First Nation. "By ensuring Aboriginal communities are more informed about these options, we will help strengthen relationships and partnerships between the community and the industry, and therefore contribute to a positive investment climate for mining and exploration companies." As a first step in raising awareness and knowledge of mining activity, the governments are collaborating to support the production of the video, as well as an accompanying information package. Chikâk Communications, an Aboriginal-owned firm based in Winnipeg, is producing the video, which it expects to release this fall. The products take the viewer through six phases of the mining cycle, from pre-competitive geological survey work to early exploration through to the construction, operation and eventual closure of a mine and reclamation of the land. The video includes the participation and perspectives of First Nation, mineral-exploration and federal¿provincial government representatives filmed on-site in remote First Nation communities and mineral-exploration properties in northern Ontario. NRCan and MNDM will showcase the completed video and associated information package in targeted Aboriginal communities through a variety of forums and media, including workshops jointly conducted by the two government departments. The products may also be useful for Aboriginal communities elsewhere in Canada and, potentially, indigenous people in other countries. This initiative reaffirms the commitment of the governments of Ontario and Canada to work with First Nation communities to increase and enhance Aboriginal participation in the exploration and mining industry. It also enhances our quality of life by contributing to a strong society and communities - supporting the Government of Canada's agenda of strong social foundations, a strong economy for the 21st century and ensuring Canada's role of pride and influence in the world. For more information, media may contact: Alexandra MuirDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the MinisterNatural Resources CanadaOttawa(613) 947-8246 Ghyslain CharronMedia RelationsNatural Resources CanadaOttawa(613) 992-4447 Tammy BenderOffice of the MinisterNorthern Development and Mines(416) 327-1176
