New mining advisory council in Manitoba to benefit First Nations communities

1 of 1Chief Ron Evans is co-chair of the new Mining Advisory Council. — Photo courtesy of Norway House Cree Nation

It's the first of its kind in Manitoba and its presence is expected to ensure positive change comes to First Nations communities affected by mining, exploration and development. The new Mining Advisory Council in Manitoba was created in November of 2013 and is made up of First Nations chiefs, senior mining industry representatives from Manitoba mining companies such as Vale and Hudbay Minerals, as well as representatives of the province of Manitoba.

Mining is the second largest resource sector in Manitoba, with 40 companies active in mineral exploration and mining employing more than 900 aboriginal workers. The advisory council is the first of its kind in Canada.

Chief Ron Evans of Norway House Cree Nation is co-chair and believes the council is an important step in opening up lines of communication.

"The council was established as a forum to deal effectively with the ongoing setting of policy, regulation and control of the mining industry in Manitoba," Evans said. "Its purpose is also to establish an efficient and collaborative working relationship for First Nations with the Crown and with the private sector, thus providing certainty for all stakeholders."

The council has already had a few monthly meetings and on March 14, 2014, its first recommendations are expected to be generated. The priority issues of the council, according to Chief Evans, include revenue benefit sharing formulas, benefit agreements and the process variables for the duty to consult and accommodate aboriginal rights.

"Environmental issues are also first and foremost, along with these issues, in the minds of communities that have the potential for developing mining opportunities in their areas," said Evans. "We need to address these concerns, which are usually raised in our northern communities. And again, the only way we can address these issues is through an open dialogue."

According to Mineral Resources Minister Dave Chomiak, the council will provide advice and recommendations to the government of Manitoba on:

• resource revenue and benefit sharing with First Nations communities
• promoting and increasing First Nations procurement and business opportunities including joint ventures
• creating education, training and employment opportunities and equity
• strengthening environmental protection and stewardship
• ensuring full consultations continue with First Nations communities throughout this process

“First Nations that want to participate will be partners every step of the way as new mines are brought on line and they will share in the benefits of resource development,” Chomiak said in a press release. “There will be new training opportunities, good jobs, revenue sharing and a range of social and economic benefits for First Nations communities. This will also send an important message to those who want to invest in Manitoba’s mining sector that we’re open for business.”

Evans said he is looking forward to the meetings and progress ahead and hopes to inspire other provinces to take heed. He said they are being cautious as they want to ensure the success of the council and do things the right way.

"This council is very significant, as it provides a defined forum for direct and effective First Nations involvement in the setting of policies and standards, the definition of benefits and also meaningful participation in the control of the mining industry in Manitoba," said Evans.