De Beers Canada has entered into an impact benefit agreement (IBA) with the T???cho? government for the proposed Gahcho Kué Mine.
“Our relationship with the T???cho? is important to us,” said Glen Koropchuk, chief operating officer (COO) for De Beers. “This impact benefit agreement builds on the relationship we have already established for the Snap Lake Mine and confirms our commitment to work together for the benefit of the T???cho? people with the Gahcho Kué project. I would like to congratulate both negotiating teams on this important accomplishment.”
De Beers Canada is operator of the Gahcho Kué project, which is a joint venture with Mountain Province Diamonds. Gahcho Kué will employ close to 700 people during the two years of construction and about 400 people during its operational phase.
“The Gahcho Kué project is located within M?whì Gogha Dè N????t?èè, an area which the T???cho? have traditionally used and occupied—protection of the land, water, wildlife, and our way of life has guided our negotiating team,” said Grand Chief, Eddie Erasmus.
“This agreement confirms our relationship with De Beers, so that we will work together over the life of the mine to ensure there are many training, employment, and business opportunities from the project for T???cho? citizens. It also includes financial provisions that enable the T???cho? government to participate in the opportunities the project provides.”
