Mineral Exploration

A glimpse of one of First Pac West's longhouses. Reception area at a First Pac West longhouse. 12 Mineral Exploration | amebc.ca PHOTOS: FIRST PAC WEST Helping Communities Address Mental Health Practical ideas for exploration and mining companies working with remote communities By NATASHA GIBSON and KYLIE WILLIAMS U nemployment, lack of education opportunities and poor living conditions are contributing to a state of emergency in remote Canadian communities, particularly for First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples. Recent waves of suicide, like the crisis in Attawapiskat, northern Ontario, have increased awareness throughout Canada that health workers in these communities are overworked and lack the resources to cope with complicated grief. Exploration and mining companies often work near these communities in the search for mineral resources. A 2011 study published in the international journal Resources Policy found that community well-being is as adversely a‹ected by mining cycle changes (i.e., boom and bust) as the health of employees, with increased anxiety, stress, depression, and alcoholism in downturns. Companies are more aware of the impacts their activities have on the mental health of their own workers and sta‹, and on the residents in communities where they operate. Practical solutions To lessen any negative economic and social impacts their activities have on the people in the impacted communities, many of these companies are extending mental health initiatives to mine workers and their families, as well as to neighbouring communities. Also, the Canadian government and industry bodies such as the International Council on Mining and Metals and the International Finance Corporation are investing in rural communities reliant on resources; they are also highlighting the importance of companies supporting the mental health and general well-being of communities in their voluntary best practice principles. Although the underlying cause of mental health issues for isolated, resource- dependent communities in Canada may predate the modern mineral exploration and mining industry, it is an issue companies can't ignore if they wish to gain a social licence to operate today. Two recent initiatives – developed by First Pac West, a Vancouver- based property developer, and Livecare, a medical services company from Surrey – are helping resource companies achieve this aim. A second life for exploration camps First Pac West designs and builds unique longhouse-style accommodation for remote worksites that can be repurposed by communities as a public space at the end of the project. The patented Solace System Longhouse is designed with First Nation traditions in mind. It includes a large treated, tensioned, fabric membrane that is supported by an aluminum substructure that is independent of the timber interior, with customizable internal timber partitions and furniture for creating living, working or recreational spaces. "The design allows for an open feeling of space, with 40- to 50-foot ceilings for ambient natural light, and the proven health benefits of wood create a warm, welcoming environment," says Dan Caldwell, manager of business development for First Pac West. Several First Nations and municipalities, including Martensville in Saskatchewan and Fox Creek in Alberta, have partnered with First Pac West to construct recreation facilities for their villages. The spaces can be customized, reconfigured and even relocated to serve as interconnecting sites for schools, clinics, administration buildings or recreation centres. Repurposing these longhouses for the community at the end of a project provides benefits to both the community and the company, and "creates a legacy in the community," says Caldwell. The community acquires a valuable, permanent asset, enabling it to become more self-su‹icient at minimal capital expense. For the company, the gift can form a core part of a Community Impact Agreement, often required by many municipalities before construction on a work camp can begin. Also, the longhouses have a 40 per cent smaller footprint than portable o‹ices and trailers, and are 50 per cent more energy e‹icient. Companies can also reuse

• Cover