Northisle Copper and Gold Inc. (TSXV: NCX) has announced that its 100% owned subsidiary North Island Mining Corp. has entered into an agreement with Quatsino First Nation, which the company has stated is the culmination of many years of mutually respectful engagement between the parties.
The agreement reportedly covers all NIMC mineral claims within Quatsino Territory and provides for an open, honest, transparent, and fair process through which NIMC can conduct certain activities to determine the viability of developing mines, mills, or related facilities for the commercial production of minerals in a manner which recognizes Quatsino Rights.
Sam Lee, president and CEO of Northisle commented, “We deeply appreciate the time and effort Quatsino First Nation Council and representatives have invested in building our relationship to date. We acknowledge that our work does and will continue to have an impact on the traditional and unceded territories of Quatsino and other First Nations on the North Island while we seek to further advance the opportunity that our project could bring in the area. This agreement is a significant step and provides a clear process for us to ensure mutual understanding of and support for our activities.”
Quatsino Chief Tom Nelson stated, “This agreement represents a good first step and sets a strong foundation for our relationship with Northisle. We look forward to working with Northisle to further explore how we can work together to create a stronger future for our Nation today, and for the generations to follow, while standing firm in our duty as stewards of the land. The recognition of Quatsino rights embedded in the agreement will allow us to work together to continue to evaluate Northisle’s mineral projects within Quatsino Territory.”
Fruthermore, Northisle continues to execute on its surface exploration programme, the company’s 2023 drilling programmes are currently being finalized and will be advanced in collaboration with Quatsino through the Joint Implementation Committee, which is anticipated to augment existing BC government permitting and referrals processes.
To find out more, please visit www.northisle.ca
