Mineral Exploration is the official publication of the Association of Mineral Exploration British Columbia.
Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/225045
prospecting to mechanized exploration; principled guidance and practical advice for any stage of exploration; guidance on exploration-stage agreements; and additional resources. Lana Eagle, chair of the AME BC Aboriginal Relations Committee, says the process of Aboriginal engagement takes time. "The key to engagement is to get in early and start a conversation," says Eagle. "Even if both parties don't agree, you can agree to talk through your disagreements. Start early and keep at it and allow your relationship to evolve." Engagement should be a two-way conversation. "Be forthright and manage expectations," advises Eagle. "Don't go in thinking engagement requires that you deliver a convincing sales pitch." She adds that starting early and creating relationships can be time-consuming at the beginning, but is less costly in the long run. Emery says the key elements of engagement are respect and communication. "It's important for mineral explorers to develop direct relationships with elected chiefs and councils, band office staff, elders and youth. Spend time with p108-109_AboriginalEngagement.indd 109 "The guidebook is intended to be an honest picture of very real challenges that are being encountered in the field" — Sheriden Barnett senior director, Aboriginal relations and land use all of them and find out who the influential people and the decision makers are." She points out that Aboriginal engagement is no different from any other relationship, "so don't become preoccupied with the legal aspects of engagement." Richard LeBourdais, honorary chief, Whispering Pines Band, an AME BC board member and Aboriginal Relations Committee member, says there is a simple way for a mineral exploration company to make contact with a First Nation. "After the company has decided to explore a certain area, it should contact the band's administration to set up a dialogue with the chief and council. It can initiate the contact in writing or by telephone. Because the area in question might be culturally sensitive, first contact is extremely important." Barnett says the Aboriginal Engagement Guidebook is a living document and it will be updated as the relationships between industry, First Nations and government evolve over time. "Engagement is an evolving concept which needs to reflect the current thinking in law and in practice." She also believes the guidebook can be a model for other Canadian jurisdictions and for other industries. "Canada has always been looked on as a leader in Aboriginal engagement. The guidebook shows that we are continuing our leadership role." ■ 13-11-27 10:19 AM