Tuesday, 09 March 2010 12:18 --- Written by James Murray

TORONTO - Due to unprecedented levels of mining activity in the Far North on lands associated with what is known as the Ring of Fire, four Far North First Nations have determined the need to form a collaborative relationship to ensure that future generations inherit a safe and healthy environment.

Today the Ontario Minister of Northern Development Mines and Forestry, along with the Minister of Natural Resources, witnessed the Chiefs of Eabametoong First Nation, Neskantaga First Nation, Nibinamik First Nation and Webequie First Nation sign a Statement of Relationship. The Chiefs from the four communities have recognized the need for a coordinated approach and to work collaboratively.

Chief Lewis Nate of Eabametoong First Nation said “This new partnership will see that our communities will share long-term benefits of community economic development and ensure a collective approach that reflects the shared responsibilities of each First Nation to allow access to their shared traditional territories”.

Neskantaga First Nation Chief Roy Moonias stated “There is a tremendous economic opportunity for our communities in the Ring of Fire, but First Nations are not working together. We need to work collectively to ensure we can capitalize on these benefits. Our First Nations all have the same issues, and the same expectations of industry. It is time we work together to ensure that we each receive our fair share of the social and economic benefits that will accrue from the development of this area.”

The four First Nations recognize the need for a regional collaborative approach while at that same time allowing individual community land use planning exercises to move forward. The First Nations will be seeking provincial and federal assistance to support these and other community-based initiatives to address the intense demands being placed upon their communities.

Chief Roger Oskineegish of Nibinimik First Nation commented “In the past our communities didn’t always benefit from mining activity that was taking place in our traditional territory. This new relationship will assist us in presenting a united front to industry and government and allow us to reap the benefits from activities taking place on our traditional lands.”

Webequie First Nation Chief Cornelius Wabasse said “All parties looking to access our traditional territories need to recognize that the only acceptable point of contact will be the community leadership, that is, the Chief and Council.”

The four First Nations recognize that this relationship is a first step towards a collaborative approach to planning and developing our traditional and shared territories.