PDAC 2016 Convention brings Aboriginal communities and the mineral industry together

PDAC 2016 Convention brings Aboriginal communities
and the mineral industry together

Toronto, March 2, 2016 – The Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) is set to launch its annual Aboriginal Program at the PDAC 2016 Convention. The program proudly brings Aboriginal communities and Aboriginal-owned companies together with Canada’s mineral exploration and mining industry—the largest private sector employer of Aboriginal Peoples in the country.

“The Aboriginal Program is a unique opportunity for mineral industry professionals, Aboriginal communities and companies, and governments to share experiences and exchange information,” says PDAC President Rod Thomas. “The event is a venue for discussion on key and emerging issues, including the development of mutually beneficial relationships to help fuel a successful mineral industry in Canada and generate important opportunities for Aboriginal peoples.”

The 2016 Aboriginal Program is held on March 7 and 8 during the PDAC Convention at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. It is split into four sessions as follows:

Collaborative projects for indigenous community development – Canadian and international experiences

A session to explore key issues and partnerships between companies and Indigenous communities. Panelists will present community development initiatives and programs established collaboratively between mineral companies, Indigenous communities and non-governmental organizations.

The Aboriginal Forum: Sharing knowledge, enhancing participation

The Forum will include a presentation by the Native Women’s Association of Canada on its Barriers and Opportunities in the Resource Development Sector project, as well as a panel with Aboriginal women who will share their experiences with mineral development.

Aboriginal law, indigenous frameworks and regulatory regimes: Examining the evolving landscape

Examine some of the recent legal decisions, frameworks and regulatory initiatives, as well as key challenges and opportunities that arise for mineral companies and Aboriginal communities in relation to resource development.

Exploring Aboriginal procurement and joint venture business models in the mineral sector

This session includes presentations and case studies that focus on Aboriginal procurement and joint venture models. The mineral industry and Aboriginal communities continue to explore ways to develop positive relationships that translate into mutually beneficial outcomes.

See the full Aboriginal Program for more details and list of speakers.

Media Contact:
Kristy Kenny
Coordinator of Communications
416-362-1969 x 233
kkenny@pdac.ca

About the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada

The Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) is the national voice of Canada’s mineral exploration and development industry. With a membership of over 8,000, the PDAC’s mission is to promote a responsible, vibrant and sustainable Canadian mineral exploration and development sector. The PDAC encourages leading practices in technical, environmental, safety and social performance in Canada and internationally. PDAC is known worldwide for its annual PDAC Convention, regarded as the premier event for mineral industry professionals. The PDAC Convention has attracted over 25,000 people from 125 countries in recent years and will next be held March 6-9, 2016, in Toronto. Please visit www.pdac.ca.