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GreenFirst, Abitibiwinni First Nation Council conclude collaboration agreement

The Abitibiwinni First Nation Council and GreenFirst Forest Products (GreenFirst) reached a five-year collaboration agreement aimed at providing for mitigation, accommodation and compensation measures in relation to the impact that the company’s activities could have on the Abitibiwinni aki territory and Rights.

This agreement, based on trust and mutual respect, results from a common desire to formalize an already well-established relationship, says GreenFirst in a press statement. It provides for the manner in which the parties will interact to ensure harmonious cohabitation on the territory. It also provides plans for agreeing on the ways of operating to protect the sites of interest and minimize the impacts.

“The exploitation of natural resources on our traditional territory by companies must be done based on respect for our rights and values. In this sense, we are satisfied with the collaboration agreement concluded with our partner GreenFirst Forest Products. I would like to emphasize the company’s willingness to be responsible partners and I thank all those who worked on the development of the agreement and its implementation,” said the Chief of the Abitibiwinni First Nation Council, Monik Kistabish.

“We are honoured to have this long-standing relationship with the Abitibiwinni First Nation formalized today. GreenFirst always aims to build strong, mutually beneficial partnerships with First Nations on the traditional territories where we operate, in keeping with the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) forest certification to which we subscribe,” said Michel Lessard, president of GreenFirst.

The agreement includes training to raise awareness on First Nations realities for the company’s employees. Mechanisms to promote the hiring and retention of Abitibiwinni First Nation members within GreenFirst are planned through internships, employment or contracts. It also promotes business opportunities on both sides and supports infrastructure development projects in the community. A work plan has been agreed upon and the implementation of the agreement is ensured by a bipartite monitoring committee.

GreenFirst owns seven sawmills and one paper mill across Ontario and Quebec.