(Left: Rainy River Resources President Raymond Threlkeld and Rainy River First Nations Chief Jim Leonard (right) sign Memorandum of Understanding)There is a new memorandum of understanding in place between mining company Rainy River Resources and seven area First Nations.
It was signed yesterday afternoon at the company's gold properties, 20 kilometres north of Barwick.
Company president Raymond Threlkeld says it's important to work with the Native communities as they move forward on the development of possible mines.
"They're one of the largest stakeholders around here," says Threlkeld, "and for us to move forward we have to be partners."
Rainy River First Nations Chief Jim Leonard says its an important document to have.
"It means we're able to participate in this mining activity from a sense of providing some employment to our community," says Leonard. "And also gaining a knowledge of the mining industry and exploration work."
Leonard says it also provides for area First Nations to have input and dialogue into the operations.
The document outlines such things as consultation, employment opportunities and ways to resolve disputes.
