Cooperation between Crees and development companies is possible.
This is the message that the Mistissini First Nation and the Inmet mining company are sending out two years after signing an agreement to open the Troilus copper-silver-gold mine on October 13,1994.
The company entered into negotiations with Mistissini despite protests from mining and forestry companies and the Quebec government under Parizeau’s administration. They opposed the negotiations because of the precedent they would set on involving First Nations in resource development.
Two years later, Sam Etapp, an advisor to the Mistissini First Nation, says the community is pleased that Inmet agreed to enter into a formal agreement with the community.
The Mistissini Crees looked at the impacts from a social and environmental viewpoint, and sat down to negotiate.
Etapp says that even though both parties were from different cultures, they were able to sit down and work something out.
He is quick to point out that this agreement was specific to this project, and might not work for different peoples and companies with different needs.
“I think agreements need to be flexible. It should not be assumed that each community has the same needs and interests,” said Etapp.
The results of the negotiations are seen and felt today by the Crees. Out of a workforce of 203 employees at Troilus, 51 are Cree and a total of $15 million has been awarded to Cree companies and joint ventures involving Crees.
Etapp says that in most cases goals have been exceeded. He also suggests that students in post-secondary or planning studies should look to positions within organizations like Inmet.
“Not everyone can trap, hunt or work for a Cree organization or company. We have to look at other ways that Crees can enter a wage economy. We have to look at the opportunities and ways to get the doors open. This is the message and interest we have to pass on to the students,” said Etapp.
He added that Inmet is also active with the Mistissini community in promoting new employment opportunities for residents.
When asked if this is the future for Crees, Etapp said each of the nine Cree communities have to study their own needs. Mistissini can’t dictate what the other communities’ needs are. Each one will have to define them and work for achieving them with their own people. Mistissini, though, is pleased with the results and with Inmet’s actions in Eeyou Astchee, he said.
“This proves what we have been saying all along,” Etapp added. “The Crees have never been against development. We proved this in Mistissini. We have shown that we support it when development is undertaken in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. When Cree rights and interests are respected and recognized as well as when our people benefit, the Crees will support development.”
