Agreement reached. (Mining News).

After weeks of negotiations, Attawapiskat First Nation and De Beers have finally reached an agreement to move ahead with the possible development of a diamond mine. The announcement of the deal was made public. on Oct. 22 and allows for the two parties to proceed with the winter program for the Victor diamond project, 90 kilometres west of the First Nation community on the James Bay coast.

As part of the deal, De Beers has agreed to build a permanent education and training facility in Attawapiskat. Once developed, the facility would be owned by the Attawapiskat First Nation, regardless of whether or not a mine is constructed at the Victor site.

In addition, both parties have agreed to address environmental issues and will begin negotiations, starting Jan. 15, for an Impact Benefit Agreement (IBA). Before any decision to construct a mine is made, a successful negotiation of an IBA is required, as is a feasibility study, an issuance of necessary permits, and a provision of funding by the De Beers board. An official with the Attawapiskat First Nation says the long-term success of the partnership will also depend on the First Nation Treaty with the government.