Historic First Nations Signing For Ring Of Fire Discoveries

TORONTO, Sept. 16 /CNW/ - Marten Falls First Nation and Webequie First Nation announced today that both communities have signed a Relationship Protocol with each other. The two Chiefs of the First Nations also signed a Letter of Intent with the two Ministers of Ministry of Northern, Mines, and Forestry and Ministry of Natural Resources.

The Relationship Protocol was signed by Chief Moonias of Marten Falls First Nation and Chief Wabasse of Webequie First Nation. The purpose of the Relationship Protocol is to begin joint discussions and collaborative planning on how to minimize impacts and maximize benefits for their community members within their adjacent traditional territories where the Ring of Fire mineral discoveries are located.

The Relationship Protocol reinforces the reality that companies and governments have to directly engage, consult, and accommodate the most directly affected First Nation communities. The Relationship Protocol begins to address issues and opportunities associated with the potential mine site and that the Chief Moonias and Chief Wabasse encourage the other regional First Nations to discuss how they will work together on regional infrastructure.

A Letter of Intent was also signed today by Chief Moonias of Marten Falls First Nation and Chief Wabasse of Webequie First Nation as well as Minister Jeffery and Minister Gravelle. The Letter of Intent supports that position that the directly impacted communities need to build relationships, build consensus, and build capacity at the local level.

Chief Cornelius Wabasse of Webequie First Nations stated "I am very happy to come together with Marten Falls First Nation as neighbours in the Ring of Fire and seek to create a positive framework of understanding for our communities. I look forward to working with MNR & MNDMF in addressing issues and providing support for our communities associated with the Ring of Fire opportunities and community-based land-use planning."

Chief Eli Moonias of Marten Falls First Nation stated: "I am glad Marten Falls First Nation and Webequie First Nation are on the journey to establishing a community-based process in resolving the differences in overlapping traditional territories. Hopefully, we can begin dialogue with our other neighbours in this same fashion."