First Nations Opposed to Noront’s Proposed Purchase of Cliffs’ Assets

The chiefs of the Marten Falls First Nation and Aroland First Nation put out a press release reaffirming their opposition to Noront Resources Ltd.’s (TSXV:NOT) proposed purchase of Cliffs Natural Resources Inc.’s (NYSE:CLF) chromite assets.

As quoted in the press release:

Interim Chief Bruce Achneepineskum of Marten Falls First Nation and Chief Sonny Gagnon of Aroland First Nation met for two days this week with their advisors at a Bay Street law office in Toronto to review the status of the proposed Noront purchase of Cliffs chromite assets in the Ring of Fire. The Cliffs assets are in Marten Falls’traditional territory. The proposed North-South corridor, which is essential to haul ore out of the Ring of Fire, is in the traditional territory of both First Nations.

Chief Gagnon commented:

With Noront’s announcement that it is trying to acquire the Cliffs assets, our First Nations have effectively been denied a real opportunity to benefit from key resources in our lands on our terms. This unilateral move by Noront is unacceptable to our First Nations.

We are very disappointed that Cliffs Natural Resources Canada failed its Duty to Consult First Nations before selling the chromite assets. Most Canadians would find it offensive for someone to sell resources in their backyard without their consent. We will do everything in our power to make sure that without our free, prior and informed consent, nothing will ever leave our backyard.

Click here to read the full Marten Falls First Nation and Aroland First Nation press release.