Tłı̨chǫ Government and Explor Reach Agreement on Mineral Claims
Behchokǫ̀, November 16, 2022 - The Tłı̨chǫ Government and Explor Silica (Explor) have arrived at a significant agreement to safeguard an important part of Mǫwhì Gogha Dè Nı̨ı̨tłèè.
Both parties have agreed that Explor will relinquish four of its mineral claims in the Dınàgà Wek’èhodì Candidate Protected Area. This means that Explor will not develop the four relinquished claims, which include the K’ıchıı (Whitebeach Point) area, an area of significant cultural importance and ecological value for the Tłı̨chǫ. Instead, these areas will be set aside as part of the Dınàgà Wek’èhodì Candidate Protected Area.
When Husky first came to the Tłı̨chǫ Government in 2014 with a proposal to develop silica mining claims in Mǫwhì Gogha Dè Nı̨ı̨tłèè, Tłı̨chǫ citizens expressed grave concerns relating to the potential development of the four claims within the Dınàgà Wek’èhodì Candidate Protected Area. The Tłı̨chǫ Government heard its citizens’ concerns and after Explor signed a Mining Option agreement with Husky in 2016, the Tłı̨chǫ Government advised Explor that the four claims would need to be relinquished before the Tłı̨chǫ Government could consider evaluating the potential development of any of Explor’s other mineral claims in Mǫwhì Gogha Dè Nı̨ı̨tłèè.
The Tłı̨chǫ Government and Explor will now begin evaluating the potential development of Explor’s other mineral claims in Mǫwhì Gogha Dè Nı̨ı̨tłèè. Both Explor and the Tłı̨chǫ Government appreciate that it is difficult to fully understand how potential development could affect the land, water, wildlife and Tłı̨chǫ rights and culture without the involvement of Tłı̨chǫ Citizens, and are eager to hear from Citizens on this important matter.
Quotes:“By relinquishing the four claims around Whitebeach Point (K’ıchıı), Explor has shown its willingness to work with the Tłı̨chǫ Government in a good and respectful way that acknowledges the longstanding wishes of Tłı̨chǫ Elders and Leadership. Tłı̨chǫ Government and Explor are pleased to celebrate this important agreement as an example of what can be achieved when companies come with open minds, respect for Tłı̨chǫ rights and values, and willingness to work together in true partnership. This gives us the foundation to begin exploring the next steps for a successful future together.”
- Tłı̨chǫ Government, Grand Chief Jackson Lafferty
“Explor has always understood that a partnership with the Tłı̨chǫ people is essential to moving the project forward. In 2020, Explor was able to acquire Husky’s interest, giving Explor 100% ownership of the mining claims and leases, which in turn allowed us to negotiate this groundbreaking agreement directly with the Tłı̨chǫ Government. We are thrilled to be working closely with the Tłı̨chǫ Government to move forward with the development of this world-class and strategically important resource.”- Explor President, Allan Châtenay
For more information, please contact:
Ms. Grace Mackenzie,
Tłı̨chǫ Government, Mines Liaison Coordinator
Mr. Allan Chȃtenay,
Explor, President
