Mishkeegogamang First Nation and First Mining Gold have entered a long-term relationship agreement (LTRA) for the Springpole gold project in northwestern Ontario, Canada.

The agreement outlines a cooperative framework for the development, operation and closure of the project, ensuring environmental respect and benefits for the First Nation.

The agreement, signed following a process agreement in 2021, was crafted through community-based consultations to incorporate the First Nation's interests and address their concerns comprehensively.

Mishkeegogamang First Nation chief Merle Loon stated: “This agreement is the result of a five-year process of technical review, traditional knowledge study and relationship building with First Mining. 

“The agreement ensures that Mishkeegogamang's interests will be represented in the development and operation of the Springpole Project and will deliver long-term value by creating concrete opportunities for our community and our members. Together with First Mining, we are shaping the direction of a modern and long-term collaboration that is in keeping with our values.”

The LTRA encompasses aspects of the Springpole project's lifecycle, ensuring Mishkeegogamang's involvement in environmental management and monitoring, the application of adaptive management strategies, and measures to enhance training and employment opportunities for the community.

The agreement provides for the First Nation's equity stake and participation in the economic success of the project, and promotes business opportunities throughout the construction and operational phases of the mine.

Crucially, the LTRA recognises Anishnaabe culture, incorporating cultural safety measures. It also details the financial benefits sharing arrangement from the Springpole project, ensuring that the First Nation receives direct economic advantages from the project's progression.

First Mining CEO Dan Wilton stated: “I would like to thank the Mishkeegogamang community and their leadership for the many years of hard work that they have put into information sharing, understanding and helping us shape and improve the plans for Springpole. 

“This modern agreement provides clear avenues for Mishkeegogamang's participation in the development and operation of the project from an environmental, cultural, economic and business opportunities perspective. We thank the leadership of Mishkeegogmang for their openness, collaboration and trust and look forward to continuing to advance the project as long-term partners.”