CanNor Encourages First Nations Participation in Yukon Mining Sector
CanNor-12-020
Ross River, Yukon (December 7, 2012) – The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), Minister of Health and Minister for the Arctic Council today announced an investment that will enable Yukon First Nations to take advantage of economic opportunities related to a mining project in the Selwyn Mountains.
"The Government of Canada recognizes the tremendous opportunities in the North's resource sector, and supports development that benefits Northerners," said Minister Aglukkaq. "We are investing in this project so that First Nations can work with mining companies to plan for their participation in resource development on their lands."
"This project will assist the Ross River Dena Council and the Liard First Nation to make informed decisions about the development of the resource industry on their lands and help set a foundation for long-term economic growth and create new job opportunities for local citizens," said Ryan Leef, Yukon Member of Parliament.
The CanNor investment in this project will support the Ross River Dena Council and Liard First Nation to develop a Protocol Agreement and Socio-Economic Partnership Agreement (SEPA) with North American Tungsten Corporation Ltd. related to the Mactung mining project. The SEPA will address employment, training and business opportunities for area residents during the construction and operation of the mine.
"I would like to thank CanNor and Minister Aglukkaq for this support. It speaks to our intentions with the mining company working in our traditional territory," said Ross River Dena Council Chief Jack Caesar. "The funding will help our community engage in meaningful negotiations with North American Tungsten and to make informed decisions about potential benefits that will come from this project."
Investment in this project is made possible through CanNor's Community Economic Opportunities Program (CEOP), part of the Aboriginal Economic Development (AED) suite of programs. The CEOPprovides project-based support to First Nation and Inuit communities for community economic development. The Northern Projects Management Office at CanNor will continue to work closely with the community and the project proponent as the Mactung mine moves forward.
Cailin Rodgers
613-957-0200
Erin Macpherson
Communications Manager
867-667-3849
Chief Jack Caesar
867-969-2277
