In an historic first, Beaverhouse First Nation signed an impact benefit agreement (IBA) with Agnico Eagle Mines Limited regarding the company’s Macassa gold mine on December 16.
“We are appreciative that Agnico Eagle was willing to work with our community regarding the historic Kirkland Lake Macassa Mine site,” said Beaverhouse Chief Wayne Wabie. “They carried on the legacy of previous owners when they took ownership of this mine site, and they came to the table to work with us on this milestone agreement.”
The opening and closing prayers were conducted by Elder Sally Susan Mathias, a past Chief who was involved in negotiations leading to the IBA signing.
“This agreement demonstrates our commitment in sustainable development and in respecting the First Nations that are part of the territory where we operate,” said Agnico Eagle vice president Andre Leite. “We want to focus on sustainability and in ensuring that our relationships with First Nations are based on respect and trust.”
The community was represented by lead negotiator John Kim Bell of Bell and Bernard Limited, a research and consulting firm that specializes in relations between First Nations, corporations and governments. Bell is a well-known Canadian Indigenous leader and activist in the arts, philanthropy and First Nation resource development.
“I can sense that we are moving towards more modern, respectful and positive relationships with the industry, in this case with Agnico Eagle and we are very grateful for this partnership,” stated Bell. “This is so meaningful for the community because it diversifies and increases their revenues. This is life changing for Beaverhouse and it launches them to another level. We are all very happy with the outcome.”
Bell is highly regarded in the industry, having negotiated many agreements both for First Nations and corporations.
“We put together a team of great environmental and legal experts as well as a mining analyst who deeply understands the mine’s economics,” commented Bell. “Together we formed a unit that represented Beaverhouse very well on consultation, mitigation, environmental and other issues as well as the compensation. I’m very proud of the team.”
The agreement is significant as this is the first major resource development agreement signed by Beaverhouse, which achieved federal recognition in May 2022. The community was not originally included in the creation of the Treaty 9 signing between government and Indigenous people in northern Ontario in 1905-06.
The lack of official First Nation recognition made it difficult for Beaverhouse leadership to develop social, health, education and administrative activities for its membership.
“This is an historic event for our community,” stated Wabie. “This signing is another recognition of our people’s rights to these lands, and we want to thank our community members, past leaders and more importantly our past and present Elders who have always stood for Beaverhouse First Nation. If it weren’t for our ancestors who are part of this territory, we would not have had a leg to stand on to push for a major agreement such as this IBA.”
The IBA is set to provide the community with training, employment and business opportunities as well as financial compensation.
“This will place our people on a good footing and foundation for the future in terms of proper training and opportunities to work in the industry” said Wabie. “The royalties and revenues that will be generated will also provide additional support services for our membership.”