A group of algonquins that has been protesting uranium exploration north of Sharbot Lake spent yesterday with provincial government and mining company officials trying to hammer out a solution to the nearly year-long controversy.
The Shabot Obaadjiwan, the province, and Frontenac Ventures Corp. last month began working on a framework to discuss concerns and possible solutions, but they are now holding regular meetings, said Lynn Daniluk, a spokeswoman for the Community Coalition Against Mining Uranium.
"They are probably meeting three or four times a week for the next while," said Daniluk, who often works as a liaison for First Nation people.
Members of the Shabot Obaadjiwan couldn't be reached yesterday. In a release, they said the consultations involve sharing information, talking about potential impacts of uranium exploration and the development of a plan to create a co-operative strategy.
Concerns include health, safety and environmental issues, as well as aboriginal values, the release said.
The Shabot Obaadjiwan are one of two groups of Algonquins who have been protesting the proposed uranium mine north of Sharbot Lake. More than one year ago, they joined the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation in preventing Oakville-based Frontenac Ventures from entering the site.
The Ardoch Algonquins are not involved in the ongoing consultations. That's because they haven't been recognized by the federal government as a legitimate First Nation group, Daniluk said.
"It's my understanding the Shabot Obaadjiwan have no say whether the Ardoch Algonquins are involved in the negotiations," she said.
Representatives of the Ardoch Algonquins couldn't be reached for comment yesterday.