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For Immediate Release
November 28, 2008

News Release

Building Relationships Through Consultation

Ontario, First Nations And Industry Reach Agreement On Mineral Exploration In Eastern Ontario

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News
First Nations, industry and the Ontario government are working together to build stronger relationships in eastern Ontario.

The Shabot Obaadjiwan and Snimikobi Algonquin communities, together with the Algonquins of Ontario, Frontenac Ventures Corporation and the Ontario government, have successfully consulted on the company's proposed uranium exploration plans in Frontenac County, north of Kingston.

All participants in the consultations agreed on specific measures to protect health, safety, the environment and respect and protect Aboriginal values and interests. A steering committee with Algonquin and Frontenac Ventures Corporation representation will visit proposed drilling sites and engage in ongoing discussion throughout the exploration program.

As well, the company volunteered to remove some of the lands at issue from its exploration plans. Ontario has withdrawn those lands from further mineral staking.

Quotes
"This is an example of how by working together in a spirit of cooperation and respect, we can find creative solutions in the face of challenging situations," said Brad Duguid, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs.

"I'm pleased all parties were able to find a workable solution that balances the interests of the Algonquin communities and industry while protecting the environment," said Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines.

"I'm glad to see that a peaceful solution could be reached and that all the parties will be working together to protect the environment and the interests of the Algonquins," said Chief Randy Malcolm, Snimikobi Algonquin Community.

"As a result of sharing knowledge, meaningful collaboration, dialogue and understanding between Aboriginal people, government and industry, we have Aboriginal values, environmental concerns, health and safety issues, best practices and a host of other matters as part of a consultation and accommodation process that balances the interests of all parties," said Chief Doreen Davis, Shabot Obaadjiwan Algonquin Community.

"The consultation process has been a valuable learning experience for all parties. Frontenac embraces the opportunity to pursue the first phase of its exploration program with the benefit of a productive and respectful relationship with the Algonquins," said George White, President of Frontenac Ventures Corporation.

Quick Facts
The Shabot Obaadjiwan Algonquin community is located in Sharbot Lake, Ontario.

The Snimikobi Algonquin community is located in Ardoch, Ontario.

This phase of the consultations began in June 2008, focusing on health, safety and environmental concerns as well as Algonquin Aboriginal values, interests and assertions.

Learn More
Ontario Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs

The Minerals Industry and Ontario's First Nations

Algonquins of Ontario

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Scott Cavan, MAA Minister's Office, 416-314-7395
Michel Payen-Dumont, MAA Communications Branch, 416-314-9455
Anne-Marie Flanagan, MNDM Minister's Office, 416-327-0655