First Nations near Timmins to build infrastructure for new Crawford mining project

Canada Nickel is still waiting on some government approvals to launch its promising Crawford mining project near Timmins, but it's already picked who will help build some of the needed infrastructure.

Mattagami, Matachewan and Flying Post will have first dibs on contracts to build a railway line and a temporary highway overpass. 

Companies from those communities will also be given preferential access to do the work required to relocate part of Highway 655 to make way for the new mine. 

The agreement was announced on the second day of the annual Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) convention, which focused heavily on First Nation participation in mining. 

Ontario's Minister of Mines, George Pirie, was present at the announcement, and said agreements like this "pave the way" for other mining projects looking to partner with Indigenous communities. 

"Ensuring everyone shares the wealth that our resources sector generates is key to Ontario's economic reconciliation with Indigenous people," he said. 

Canada Nickel CEO Mark Selby says the company hasn't yet reached an official impact benefits agreement with the First Nations near the mining project. 

"[But] this contracting agreement ensures that meaningful opportunities for First Nations start now," he said. 

Mattagami, Matachewan and Flying Post are all members of the Wabun tribal council. 

Playing a 'central role' in resource development 

The organization's mineral development advisor Nicole Charbonneau says this agreement builds on a history of good relationships between the three First Nations and Canada Nickel. 

"But to us, that award wasn't just about past successes," she said. "It was a challenge to keep setting the bar even higher. And that's exactly what this agreement represents. 

Another step forward, another opportunity to ensure our nations play a central role, not just in the workforce, but in shaping the future of resource development on our lands."

Matachewan First Nation chief Sonny Batisse said the project is set to benefit everyone generally. 

"It means jobs, business opportunities, economic partnerships and [First Nations] having a say on how this project moves forward," he said.

Canada Nickel says it's on track to receive its federal permits by the end of the year, and hopes to launch the Crawford project soon after. 

If successful, the beginning of this new mine would be a boon for Timmins' economy, which could be hurt by the planned closure of the prolific Kidd Creek Mine in 2026.

On Monday, leadership with the Wabun Tribal Council and the Chiefs of Ontario also seized the opportunity to speak to the industry at PDAC. 

They urged mining companies not to deal with the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO), and instead focus on agreements with First Nations. 

Asked how Canada's three First Nation partners would feel if Canada Nickel also reached an agreement with the MNO, Charbonneau said "as far as we are aware, these are our lands."