Deninu Kue First Nation wants equal voice on mining projects

The Deninu KueFirst Nation does not feel as if they've received equal treatment on consultation for proposed mining projects in their traditional territory, according to a letter sent byChief Louis Balsillieearlier this week.

The letter, sent to Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Bernard Valcourt,says DeninuKue has been able to negotiate Impact Benefit Agreements for two proposed mining projects, but withlittle help from the federal and territorial governments.

In late December, Deninu Kuesigned its first Impact Benefit Agreement with the owner of a diamond mine, DeBeers Canada, for its Gahcho Kuemine. Diamond companies had long argued if the First Nation,south of Great Slave Lake in Fort Resolution, N.W.T., had anyright to claim benefits from the diamond mines.However, the band did its homework and looked at band members' traditional activities north of the lake where the diamonds are.

In the letter, Balsilliesays the First Nation had to fight for over a decade with DeBeers to negotiate over the Gahcho Kue mine.He says no other First Nation has had to argue or produce so much evidence in support of their rights on the land.

Ballsillie has invited the Minister to meet with the First Nation in the community on two earlier occasions.He says the Minister has yet to respond.