First Nations Sign Deal With International Firm

First Nations Sign Deal With International Firm

Thursday, February 14, 2008 at 15:28

The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations’ Winter Legislative Assembly got underway in Saskatoon yesterday with a signing agreement.

The deal is between seven First Nations and Edmonton-based company Triple Five Energy, which is involved in the development of natural resources such as uranium.

It’s also a division of Triple Five Worldwide Organization, which might be best known for creating the West Edmonton Mall and the Mall of America.

The First Nations involved are the English River, Ahtahkakoop, Moosomin, Red Pheasant, Saulteaux, Stoney Knoll, and Sweetgrass.

Part of the agreement stipulates there will be exploration and development of uranium on English River’s territorial lands at Slush Lake.

The deal also “recognizes ERFN’s determination to protect their interests in the land, water resources, medicine and spiritual values in their traditional territory”.

English River Chief Ralph Paul says it’s time for First Nations people to see the benefits of development on their land — a sentiment echoed by many First Nations leaders at the assembly.