De Beers Attawapiskat Impact Benefit Agreement: What It Means for Canada`s Indigenous Communities
Mining companies often operate in areas that are home to Indigenous communities. In recognition of this fact, Canadian law requires mining companies to enter into Impact Benefit Agreements (IBAs) with Indigenous communities impacted by their operations. The De Beers Attawapiskat IBA is one such agreement that has garnered attention in recent years.
The De Beers Attawapiskat IBA was signed in 2005 between De Beers Canada and the Attawapiskat First Nation, located in northern Ontario. The agreement was reached in relation to De Beers` Victor diamond mine, which began operations in 2008 on land that falls within the traditional territory of the Attawapiskat First Nation.
The IBA outlines the benefits that the Attawapiskat First Nation would receive from the Victor diamond mine. These benefits include financial compensation, job training and employment opportunities, and the creation of community investment programs.
Under the IBA, De Beers also committed to engaging in certain environmental and social practices. This included the development of a local environmental monitoring program and a commitment to hiring Indigenous people and businesses for services and supplies whenever possible.
While the De Beers Attawapiskat IBA was a positive step towards recognizing the rights of Indigenous communities impacted by mining operations, it has not been without its challenges. In 2011, the Attawapiskat First Nation declared a state of emergency due to poor living conditions and a lack of adequate housing in their community. Many members of the community felt that the Victor diamond mine, despite the IBA, had not done enough to address these issues.
In response, De Beers provided additional funding for housing and infrastructure projects in the community. The company also began engaging in more regular consultations with the Attawapiskat First Nation to address their concerns and ensure that the provisions of the IBA were being met.
The De Beers Attawapiskat IBA is an example of the importance of Impact Benefit Agreements in protecting the rights and interests of Indigenous communities impacted by mining operations. While the agreement was not without its challenges, it helped to ensure that the Attawapiskat First Nation received benefits and protections from the Victor diamond mine.
As the mining industry continues to operate in areas that are home to Indigenous communities, Impact Benefit Agreements will become even more important. These agreements can ensure that Indigenous peoples receive benefits from mining operations and that mining companies engage in responsible and sustainable practices.