“The scale of this investment by First Nations is a first in Ontario,” said Chief Keith Corston, Chapleau Cree First Nation. “One tree at a time… We’ve got to be part of the business to be able to manage the resources within our territories, and ensure the integrity of our forests. We’re investing here as an investment in our people, our community, our lands, and our future.” “This is about creating resources to invest back in the healing of our people and to create opportunities for our people to live a good life,” added Chief Johanna Desmoulin of the Netamisakomik Anishinabek. “This investment creates real opportunities both at the facilities and in the forest operations for members of the First Nations.” said Chief Jason Gauthier of the Missanabie Cree, “Our populations are growing, and as the sector’s workforce ages, our people will be the logical choice for employment.” Hornepayne Lumber restarted production in January of 2017 and now employs 90 people. Hornepayne Power Inc was purchased in 2016 and currently has 17 employees. “Following the successful model we created with our purchase of White River Forest Products, working with the township and the Pic Mobert First Nation, we are delighted that the local First Nations are participating as equal partners in wealth creation and resource management for Hornepayne Lumber and Power.” Dottori said. “The investment helps to address the capital needs of the cogen facility and to complete our modernization program at the mill, making us more competitive, and thereby ensuring a more stable future.” “This is what full participation can look like,” said David Flood, President of Northeast Superior First Nation Investment LP. “This model can be replicated in other communities with First Nations as an important community development catalyst.” A multi-million dollar re-investment program is ongoing at all three sites, and the three companies are hiring. www.wrfp.ca www.hp-lumber.ca www.hp-power.ca Cheif Keith Corston of the Chapleau Cree First Nation, Cheif Johanna Desmoulin of the Netamisakomik Anishinabek (Pic Mobert First Nation), Frank Dottori, President and CEO of Hornepayne Lumber and Hornepayne Power Inc., and Chief Jason Gauthier of the Missanabie Cree First Nation, toured the cogen facility in which they are all now owners. Chief Johanna Desmoulin of the Netamisakomik Anishinabek (Pic Mobert First Nation) (left) and Chief Keith Corston, Chapleau Cree First Nation (right) present Frank Dottori (middle) with a Star Blanket. Star blankets are presented by a man and a woman to honour individuals and to record significant events, such as this partnership. Hornepayne Mayor Morley Fiorster and CAO Gail Jaremy learn about the Hornepayne Power cogen facility in the control room.