THUNDER BAY ON – MARCH 25, 2015: Matawa First Nation Chiefs re-affirmed their commitment to a community based processes for Ring of Fire Development, including creating environmental protections and economic opportunities which are driven by their community members, not just industry plans.
The recent purchase announcement by Noront goes against the Matawa First Nations Unity Declaration signed in Webequie First Nation June 2011. The Chiefs have repeatedly signalled that genuine partnership in development will be the only way forward in the Ring of Fire, and Noront seems intent on driving its agenda, rather than working together.
The Matawa Chiefs are examining legal and political options on both the purchase agreement and the rumored advancing of the Environmental Assessment process beyond the draft Terms of Reference phase. These moves are seen as a barrier to future opportunities with the First Nations as well as threatening Aboriginal and Treaty Rights. The Chiefs were informed of the deal at the same time as being told that the province has set an April 1 deadline for a decision on the next step in Noront’s environmental assessment for a proposed nickel mine in the Ring of Fire.
The Matawa Chiefs are well-aware that private investors are most interested in a stable and secure investment, and that none of the proposed projects will receive financing for development without the support of the First Nations. Media is invited to come speak with the nine MAtawa Chiefs at 4:00pm at the Matawa First Nation offices in Thunder Bay.
Media Invite Details:
4:00pm
Matawa First Nations Management
233 South Court Street
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 2X9
TEL: (807) 344-4575 | FAX: (807) 344-2977
Available for interviews during this time:
Chief Sonny Gagnon, Aroland First Nation
Chief Elizabeth Atlookan, Eabametoong First Nation
Chief Fred Sackaney, Constance Lake First Nation
Chief Celia Echum, Gingoogaming First Nation
Interim Chief Bruce Achneepineskum, Marten Falls First Nation
Chief Peter Moonias, Neskantaga First Nation
Chief Johnny Yellowhead, Nibinamik First Nation,
Chief Allen Towegishig, Long Lake #58 First Nation
For more information please contact:
David Paul Achneepinskum, CEO Matawa First Nations Management
CELL: (807) 627-2032 | davidpaul@matawa.on.ca
Kelsea Pelletier, Communications Intern
CELL: (807) 632-9663 | kpelletier@matawa.on.ca
Kelsea Pelletier
Communications Intern
Communications Department
Matawa First Nations Management
233 Court Street South
Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 2X9
Phone: 807-344-4575
Direct Line: 807-346-6505