I think this one got missed...
First Nation members are considering potash exploration
Veronica Rhodes - Regina Leader-Post
Friday, March 07, 2008
REGINA -- With an eye on investing in their children's futures, Piapot First Nation members are considering potash exploration on their reserve.
On Friday, roughly 35 councillors, elders and community members attended an information seminar put on by Encanto Resources Ltd., an Alberta-based resource exploration and development company.
"We have to create revenue ... for our children, our grandchildren," said Piapot Chief Johnny Rockthunder.
The Encanto presentation explained the company's interest in the area, how seismic readings would be taken on the land, and possible production methods that could be used, and also included a draft of the memorandum of understanding that could be signed between the two parties. A company representative translated every step of the presentation to Cree to ensure everyone in the group understood the information.
"One of the key things I was impressed with Encanto was they have an aboriginal person with them ... I think he is genuine and he is very fluent in Cree, same as we are. We are Cree people. I always resort to the elders' support and advice and direction," Rockthunder said following the seminar.
He explained his eagerness to pursue economic opportunities for the band but admitted appropriate time and consultation are needed to ensure everyone in the community is supportive of the initiative. While the band wants to be competitive and a part of the labour force, members expressed concern about protecting the treaties through the project.
"I want to get going. I want this project to go," said Rockthunder.
"Before we do all that, we have to develop a plan that's suitable for 2008 and forward, making sure that I'm in the process of dealing with this for the next 20 years, 25 years on and on, making sure this is a process that is comfortable for everyone."
Ross Moulton, vice-president of exploration for Encanto, said the company has identified an area of interest in southern Saskatchewan where potash has been found but several First Nations in the area haven't had any exploration done. The company, which has worked with Alberta bands before, is holding similar information sessions with roughly a dozen Saskatchewan First Nations.
"Companies have not worked with First Nations historically so what you see is development come to a reserve boundary and all of a sudden stop, go past it, around it, and it starts again ... They're almost virgin areas you can get into. A lot of places are developed, (but) First Nations bands aren't for whatever reason," explained Moulton.
Part of the reason some companies may shy away from working with First Nations is due to an increased level of consultation, because there is not just one property owner but several. Moulton said any agreements must also go through Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, which adds another level of bureaucracy to the process.
Bands often have different concerns when it comes to considering mining exploration and are looking for more benefits for the community. For example, Moulton said a farmer who owns property where oil drilling is occurring likely won't be interested in getting a job with the crew, whereas a development on a First Nation could offer employment opportunities for residents.
"They have more respect for cultural things, environmental things overall. They revere the land more," said Moulton.
Rockthunder explained his next step is to approach some of the community's academics and university students to get their opinion on the possible project. If there is mutual agreement from the community, a traditional feast will be held to show respect for Mother Earth. Following that, a general meeting will take place.
If an agreement is signed with Piapot, Encanto will come in immediately to conduct seismic tests and analyse readings. Moulton estimated it could be up to two years before it is known whether a mine should be built.
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