b'SECTOR FEATUREopportunities. I think in the long term, this will definitely have a positive impact inour communities.Its about doing things the Tc h way,he adds. Our people are involved fromthe start, and we will decide whatmoves forward.WHATS NEXT FROM FNMPCAs momentum builds across the sector, FNMPC is continuing to support First Nations through research, tools, andpolicy development focused oncritical minerals.The team is mapping the entire value chain, from exploration and extraction to refining and recycling, to help identify where opportunities exist for Nation-led participation. One area drawing particular attention is permitting, where lengthy and Tch Government signs MOU with Fortescue at the Association for Mineral Explorationcomplex processes often act as barriers to in January 2025. (Credit: Sarah Pruys Photo.) First Nation involvement.To get projects over the finish line, responsible development, meaningthat we signed off with the Governmentimprovements to regulatory processes protecting the environment and alsoof Canada and the Government ofare essential, says Pierre Gratton, respecting our cultural way of life and theNorthwest Territories in 2005. MAC president and CEO. While we benefits of our people. Our people arehave seen some improvement, the involved in engagement right from The Fortescue agreement is expected tocurrent system is not set up to support the start. bring tangible benefits to the community.the scale of development we need. In We need to connect with the outsidethe face of unprecedented economic For the Tc h, this goes well beyondworld, whether it be the investors or theuncertainty, accelerating mine permitting economic benefits. Its always been ourexperts that are coming in, Lafferty says.has never been more urgent. Shorter ancestors that protected our environment,This is a company that we studied andtimelines are possible while ensuring that our land, and our wildlife, Lafferty says.researched, and we wanted that companyIndigenous Rights are respected, leading This would include respecting our Tchto work with us to identify opportunitiesenvironmental standards are implemented, modern treaty self-government Rightsand secure contracts and trainingand with the meaningful involvement of First Nations. FNMPC is also developing new resources to support communities in leading their own impact assessments, weighing both risks and benefits and making decisions grounded in stewardship. These tools will include a report, a toolkit, and other materials designed to support early and informed decision making.We want our members to feel confident in making informed decisions based on their values and goals, says Fantauzzo.These resources will help FNMPC members engage with potential projects early in the process, something Deputy Chief Archibald attributes as key to the success of Taykwa Tagamou Nations partnership. Being involved from the beginning allowed us to monitor each stage of development and build a strong relationship, he shares. This ensured our concerns were heard and that environmental responsibility remaineda priority.32NATIONS FORWARDIssue 12025'