Mining Deal Reached

A Vancouver exploration company has signed an memorandum of agreement with several area Rainy River district first nations regarding its activities in the Atikokan area.

The deal between Brett Resources and the Fort Frances Chiefs Secretariat and the Lac Des Milles Lac First Nation recognizes the company's use on traditional native land and sets out processes toward an Impact Benefits Agreement.

Company president Patrick Soares says it's believed to be the first of its kind for the area.

"There were a lot of skeptics that it wouldn't be done," says Soares, "but all of our dealings with Fort Frances Chiefs Secretariat and Lac Des Milles Lac has been very positive and we've come to an understanding. We have a high respect for them. I think they trust us and I think its going well."

Soares says the agreement, among other things, will allow first nation communities to bid on the work related to exploration of the Hammond Reef Gold Deposit.