KENORA – Bob Nault, Member of Parliament (Kenora riding), made the following statement regarding the signing of two historical documents in Thunder Bay:
“This signing is a prime example of the achievements that can be accomplished through collaboration,” stated Nault. “Aspects of this initiative date back to by my previous term in office, so it is an honour to be here today to see it come into fruition. There is an old adage that says: there is strength in numbers – we are stronger together, and cooperation often results in the most successful endeavours.”
The Friendship Accord was originally signed in 2012 by Lac Seul and Slate Falls First Nations, alongside the Municipality of Sioux Lookout. Today’s signing signifies its continued expansion with the Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) adding its name to the 2017 Friendship Accord. Cat Lake, Lac Seul, Slate Falls, and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI), and the Municipality of Sioux Lookout are now official signatories to the 2017 agreement.
In a second signing that took place during the event, Lac Seul, Cat Lake and Slate Falls First Nations signed the Shared Territory Protocol which is the governing document that establishes the means to monitor and control projects.
The Shared Territory Protocol will be instrumental in the relationship between First Nations and the First Mining Corporation in the development of three major deposits in Northwestern Ontario.
“While much work remains to be done, I view this signing as a big step in the right direction, and the continuation of a very mutually beneficial relationship between the municipalities and First Nations,” concluded Nault. “It’s critically important that working as one rather than as individual communities increases the likelihood of success in their endeavors. Those involved should be very proud of the example they’ve set for our region and other regions in the province.”
