This article was provided by the Ontario Mining Association (OMA), an organization that was established in 1920 to represent the mining industry of the province.
Ontario Mining Association member Osisko Mining has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Metis Nation of Ontario (MNO) concerning the development of its Hammond Reef gold project in Northwestern Ontario. The MOU defines how the parties will be consulted and commits both parties to work together to address potential impacts of the mineral development project on Metis rights, interests and way of life.
“The signing of the MOU is the result of a respectful consultation process between the signatories,” said Sean Roosen, Osisko President and Chief Executive Officer. “The agreement represents a milestone in our continuing working relationship with all the local communities in the region and underscores Osisko’s commitment to continue developing a strong relationship with Aboriginal people.”
“This agreement is an important step in building a mutually respectful and sustainable relationship between the Metis community and Osisko Hammond Reef. It sets out a consultation process through which Osisko Hammond Reef can engage with the Metis Community at the local and regional levels in order to better understand Metis rights and interests that may be impacted in the local area around the project,” said Gary Lipinski, President of the MNO.
“There is a real need for economic development in the northwest and we see MNO’s involvement with the Osisko Hammond Reef project as an opportunity to foster opportunities for Metis businesses and citizens, while protecting our traditional values and way of life,” said MNO Regional Councilor Theresa Stenlund.
In Ontario, Osisko Mining is developing its 100% owned Hammond Reef gold property, which is located about 30 kilometres north of Atikokan in Northwestern Ontario. The Hammond Reef property, which was acquired in 2010, has an inferred resource of more than 10.5 million ounces of gold.
A preliminary assessment indicates a 14 year mine life with a workforce of 465 people when production commences. Current plans envision a completion of the Environmental Assessment by the end of 2012, followed by permitting and construction with a production start-up target of early 2016.
Osisko’s main property is Canadian Malartic, which is located about 25 kilometres west of Val d’Or. It started production in June 2011, six years after the first exploration drill hole was struck on the property. It is estimated this mine will produce on average about 575,000 ounces of gold annually over its anticipated 16 year mine life. The company’s head office is in Montreal.