Taseko and Indigenous Nation sign framework agreement

Yellowhead has the potential to be one of the largest opencast copper mines in North America. The project is in the Thompson-Nicola area of British Columbia, Canada, approximately 150 km north-east of Kamloops near Vavenby. The project includes a 90 000 tpd opencast copper mine with a 25-year mine life.

The agreement represents Taseko’s commitment to recognise and respect the Nation’s inherent right to govern its lands, and the importance of assessing the project in accordance with its values, laws and community aspirations to make an informed decision on the Project.

Russell Hallbauer, CEO of Taseko, commented: “We are pleased to have come to an agreement to move forward with open discussions. Our communication with the leadership over this past year have been good, frank and insightful. We have gained significantly in our understanding of their role as caretakers of the lands and their approach to stewardship and economic opportunity, and we thank them for taking this first important step with us."

"Taseko is confident that a robust environmental assessment of Yellowhead, one which takes into consideration the full array of factors important to indigenous people and communities from Kamloops to Blue River, will result in a favourable regulatory decision. Advancing this project now is especially timely given the economic and human needs of the region and the province. Construction and operation of a long life mine will significantly elevate opportunities for the people of this area for decades into the future,” concluded Hallbauer.

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/27052020/taseko-and-indigenous-nation-sign-framework-agreement/