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A historic forestry cooperation agreement for the Abitibiwini First Nation

Project carried out in collaboration with the Abitibiwini First Nation

Between 2020 and 2022, we supported the Abitibiwinni First Nation in its negotiations with GreenFirst Forest Products. Negotiations finally concluded with a landmark collaboration agreement signed on December 1, 2022.

In fact, this agreement represents the first “impact-benefit agreement” in forestry in Quebec. It includes measures to protect sites of interest, as well as mechanisms to increase employment and business opportunities for members of the Abitibiwinni First Nation.

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"Finally, the parties wish to acknowledge the professional guidance of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Sustainable Development Institute (FNQLSDI), which was present throughout the process of developing the agreement."

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"The exploitation of natural resources on our traditional territory by companies must be done on the basis of respect for our rights and values. In this sense, we are pleased with the collaboration agreement reached with our partner GreenFirst Forest Products. I would like to emphasize the company's commitment to being responsible partners, and I thank all those who worked to develop and implement the agreement.

Monik KistabishChief of the Abitibiwinni First Nation Council
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"As a Council, we have a responsibility to ensure the sound management of natural resources on our traditional territory. We also ensure the sustainability of these resources, while making sure that our members and businesses benefit from the economic and social spin-offs. The agreement with GreenFirst Forest Products meets our expectations and consolidates our business relationship.

James CananassoAbitibiwinni First Nation Council Vice-Chief

Ensuring the sound management of natural resources on the territory

Our collaboration with the Abitibiwini First Nation continues as we implement the agreement. This step will ensure that the mitigation, accommodation and compensation measures put in place regarding the impacts that the company’s activities could have on Abitibiwinni aki rights and territory are put into practice.

This historic agreement sets out how we will interact and work harmoniously to minimize impacts

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Land use

The agreement includes measures to facilitate occupation of the territory by members of the Abitibiwinni First Nation.

Site protection

Measures to protect sites of interest for the practice of traditional activities by members of the Abitibiwinni First Nation

Promoting employment

The agreement includes measures to promote the employment and training of First Nation members in the logging project.

Business opportunities

Measures are in place to promote business opportunities for Abitibiwinni companies.

Collaboration

The agreement formalized the collaboration between the First Nation and Chantiers Chibougamau's La Sarre sawmill.