Conversations are taking place around the potential re-opening of the Kearney graphite mine.
The currently dormant mine is located outside of the community of Kearney, south of Burk’s Falls.
According to officials, Global Battery Materials intends to re-open the mine to produce graphite, a critical mineral used in battery manufacturing.
Five local First Nations, including Dokis, Henvey Inlet, Magnetawan, Shawanaga and Wasauksing, have signed a Letter of Agreement with the company, creating framework for ongoing discussions.
Officials say the agreement will allow the Nations to collectively explore matters such as environmental stewardship, potential economic opportunities and possible future business arrangements, including the potential for equity participation.
“Early engagement with industry operating in our Treaty territory is an example of our Nations’ exercising our inherent rights and jurisdiction,” said Wasauksing First Nation Chief Shane Tabobondung. “This early engagement can influence how industry operates, can serve to protect our lands and waters, and can ensure our Nations benefit from the resources within our territories.”
According to Tabobondung, no decisions have been made regarding First Nation support for the project. He said Chiefs and Councils will continue to listen carefully to community feedback as the process moves forward.
“This agreement does not constitute our support for the Project,” said Tabobondung. “It is however an important first step that ensures our Nations have a structured process to evaluate opportunities, protect our lands and waters, and advance the interests of our peoples as rights-holders and stewards of our lands and waters.”
