#Canada #First Mining #Duparquet Gold Project #MOU #Duparquet

Community Development in Duparquet: A New Era of Collaboration

The community of Duparquet, located in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region of Quebec, is taking a significant step towards sustainable development through a recent agreement with First Mining Gold Corp. On September 15, 2025, the municipal council ratified a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at fostering collaboration between the city and the mining company, focusing specifically on the development of the Duparquet Gold Project.

This MOU marks a historic milestone for Duparquet, which has a population of approximately 700 residents. As the city looks to the future, it emphasizes the importance of aligning economic ambitions with community needs and aspirations. The memorandum sets a framework for a mutually beneficial relationship that prioritizes both the advancement of the mining project and the sustainable growth of the community.

Key Features of the MOU

The agreement encompasses several critical initiatives designed to enhance synergy between the Project and community development:

• - Co-habitation Plan: A comprehensive plan will guide the coexistence of the gold project development with the city’s urban planning efforts.
• - Relocation Mechanism: The MOU outlines a strategy for addressing the necessary relocation of certain residential properties to facilitate the project.
• - Golf Course Design: A redesign of the Duparquet golf course will be implemented to accommodate the project's needs.
• - Land Transfer: First Mining has committed to transferring over 100 acres of land to the city for immediate municipal development, with the potential for further land transfers in the future.

Commitment to Community

First Mining has a history of engaging with the citizens of Duparquet since acquiring the gold project in 2022. Open discussions aimed at sustainable solutions have been ongoing since early 2023, evolving into this formalized agreement. Dan Wilton, CEO of First Mining Gold, remarked, “This agreement demonstrates First Mining's commitment to working with the City and citizens supporting the City's sustainable development in concrete ways as we advance the Duparquet Gold Project.”

A Collaborative Future

Mayor Denis Blais of Duparquet expressed the significance of the MOU: “The signing of this MOU is a historic moment for our municipality. It illustrates our determination to advance the interests of our community while creating the conditions for harmonious economic development, prosperity, and well-being for current and future generations.” This optimistic view underscores a shared vision between First Mining and the City of Duparquet, signifying a cooperative approach to economic growth.

The Duparquet Gold Project Overview

Geologically located within the rich Abitibi Greenstone Belt, the Duparquet Gold Project lies about 50 kilometers north of Rouyn-Noranda. This strategic positioning offers easy access to essential infrastructure, including roads and power resources. Currently, the project hosts an NI 43-101 compliant gold resource of 3.44 million ounces in the Measured and Indicated category and an additional 2.64 million ounces in the Inferred category, highlighting the immense potential of this mining endeavor.

As First Mining progresses towards further delineating the project's geological framework, the company’s commitment to environmentally conscious practices and community development initiatives further enhances its reputation as a responsible gold developer.

Conclusion

The MOU between the City of Duparquet and First Mining Gold Corp. paves the way for a landmark partnership centered on sustainable development. With collaboration at its core, this agreement demonstrates a shared commitment to fostering community growth while leveraging the rich mineral resources of the region. As this venture progresses, it is poised to benefit not only the local economy but also the well-being of its residents for generations to come.