Denison Mines and Ya'thi Néné Office Sign Historic Nuhenéné Benefit Agreement

In a landmark development, Denison Mines Corp. and the Ya'thi Néné Land and Resource Office have signed the Nuhenéné Benefit Agreement. This agreement represents a collaborative effort involving three First Nations—Hatchet Lake, Black Lake, and Fond du Lac Denesułiné—and four municipalities: Stony Rapids, Uranium City, Wollaston Lake, and Camsell Portage. This critical agreement underscores a commitment to responsible development while ensuring that the voices of Indigenous communities are heard and respected.

The Significance of the Agreement

This agreement is more than just a document; it acts as a framework for the development and operation of Denison's Wheeler River Project and Waterbury Lake Project in northern Saskatchewan. It also covers Denison's minority interest in the Midwest Project and its involvement in the McClean Lake Project. With its approval, Denison can advance the projects, which will not only contribute to the local economy but also integrate environmental oversight and community benefits.

David Cates, the President and CEO of Denison, expressed his pride in reaching this significant milestone, emphasizing that the agreement is a product of extensive negotiations that began after signing an exploration agreement with the Athabasca communities in 2022. Cates remarked on the foundation of trust and respect established over time between Denison and the communities, stating, “We are honored to sign this agreement.”

Voices from the Community

Chief Bart Tsannie of Hatchet Lake Denesułiné First Nation echoed the importance of the agreement, stating, “This agreement shows what we can achieve when we put our people and our land at the center of every decision.” He emphasized the expectation for responsible development that yields tangible benefits for local communities.

Chief Coreen Sayazie of Black Lake Denesułiné First Nation added that the negotiations were led with dedication by YNLR and praised Denison for their honesty and integrity in discussions, culminating in a fair and meaningful agreement. Chief Ronnie Augier from Fond du Lac Denesułiné First Nation asserted that this partnership would pave the way for long-term prosperity in the Athabasca region while maintaining a balance between development and land protection.

Terri Daniels, Chairperson of Wollaston Lake Post, highlighted the concrete opportunities created through this agreement, including job creation and local business growth, while Mayor Daniel Powder of Stony Rapids reflected on the hard work that has led to recognizing and protecting local rights and lifestyles.

Fair Benefits and Environmental Oversight

The Nuhenéné Benefit Agreement lays the groundwork for a shared vision of mutual development and sustainability among the parties involved. It commits to specific environmental protections, notably for the Woodland Caribou, stipulating that the Athabasca Communities will have a significant role in environmental monitoring.

Importantly, the agreement outlines various benefits to be shared from the successful operations of Denison's projects, which includes opportunities for employment, training, community investments, and financial compensation. This collaborative framework seeks to ensure that the local communities will have a sustainable and prosperous future, rooted in their traditional land and customs.

Denison Mines: A Commitment to Community

Denison Mines has established itself as a leading player in uranium mining, with a direct interest in several projects within the Athabasca Basin of Saskatchewan. The company has consistently worked towards aligning its business objectives with the well-being of the communities in the region.

Operating majority interests in the Wheeler River Uranium Project, which is the largest undeveloped uranium project in the region, Denison is poised to deliver not only on economic fronts but also on social responsibilities. Their long-term vision includes responsible mining practices that respect the land and its Indigenous inhabitants, which is further underscored by this recent agreement.

With its history dating back to 1954 and a continual focus on sustainability and community engagement, Denison Mines is committed to creating a positive legacy through partnerships like the Nuhenéné Benefit Agreement. As this agreement unfolds, it sets a precedent for future collaborations between corporations and Indigenous communities across Canada.

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