JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – Vancouver-headquartered Goldcorp has signed a resource development agreement with four First Nations communities, providing a framework for consultation on existing and future operations in the Timmins area, in Ontario.
The TSX-listed company said on Monday that the agreement concluded five years of negotiations with the Mattagami, Wahgoshig, Matachewan and Flying Post First Nations.
Under the agreement, Goldcorp recognises aboriginal rights and interests in the area of its Porcupine Gold Mines subsidiary and the four First Nations recognise and support the mining company’s rights and interests in the operation and future development of the mine.
The agreement includes provisions for training, employment, business and contracting opportunities along with a consultation framework for regulatory permitting. Scholarship and bursary opportunities would also be provided for the youth of the First Nation communities.
"Goldcorp recognises the importance of working with and learning from local First Nation communities in areas where we operate. This agreement creates the foundation for a lasting relationship built on trust, mutual respect and constructive engagement. It contributes to the sustainable development of our operations and provides long-term economic benefits to Mattagami, Wahgoshig, Matachewan and Flying Post First Nations," said Porcupine Gold Mines GM Marc Lauzier.
"This agreement is about building capacity in the communities and fostering a lasting partnership through transparent and open information-sharing," he added.