History was made on February 28 when the National Government of the Red River Métis, the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), and Potash and Agri Development Corporation of Manitoba (PADCOM) signed an unprecedented Royalty Agreement.
The agreement showcases PADCOM’s commitment to honouring and respecting the MMF as a National Government, as well as our inherent rights as Red River Métis to self-determination and self-governance.
“There is a direct relationship between the Manitoba Métis Federation and PADCOM. The extraction of resources is taking place on our homeland, and this agreement signifies a joint commitment to acknowledging the historical significance of Red River Métis rights, land, and continue amplifying our voice as the National Government of the Red River Métis in the decision-making process,” said David Chartrand, MMF president.
Traditionally, mining companies and Indigenous groups will come to agreements based on the potential infringement of Section 35 rights. The agreement between the MMF and PADCOM acts as a proactive response, bringing Red River Métis recognition and interests to the forefront of conversations.
This unique agreement is independent from the province, ensuring royalty payments will be made from PADCOM directly to the MMF, with the MMF having full discretion of the funds received. The royalties generated by the project will be allocated towards supporting key initiatives and services for Red River Métis citizens, as well as driving economic development in the region.
“With the state of the world, we need to focus on protecting our homeland and one of the key ingredients for this is working with leading environmentally conscious companies like PADCOM,” said Chartrand. “As a government, we have fought to protect Red River Métis interests during these trying times and this new Royalty Agreement ensures our lands and rights as a Nation are protected. This is a game changer for our people.”
PADCOM president Daymon Guillas acknowledged the significance of this historic mining deal.
“We are excited to be part of this historic event,” said Daymon Guillas, PADCOM president. “The National Government of the Red River Métis has taken all the leadership in creating this unprecedented, but logical and important step. It complements our hope to be part of better solutions for relationships with the Red River Métis in the mining industry and represents our ongoing commitment towards the right relationships between business and governments, and between mining and Indigenous peoples.”
PADCOM operates Manitoba’s first-ever selective solution potash mine in Harrowby, about 16 kilometres west of Russell, Man. PADCOM owns and operates the project and has been granted the right by the Province of Manitoba to explore for, mine, work, recover, procure, remove, and sell potash, a critical mineral, derived by the project.
Due to the nature of the agreement and the efforts in environmental stewardship displayed by PADCOM, a pathway has been paved for potential future partnerships and investment opportunities.
“PADCOM has set a new standard for the mining industry and their relationship with the Red River Métis,” said Vincent Mark Parenteau, MMF minister of mining. “This agreement with PADCOM marks a key deliverable under my mandate to explore and build partnerships in the mining sector.”
The MMF encourages companies in the mining industry to follow the lead of PADCOM by placing a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship and Indigenous governance.
Visit mmf.mb.ca to stay up to date on all related Red River Métis news.
