BEARDMORE, ON, May 6, 2013 / Markinch Resources Inc., Advandtel Minerals (Canada) Ltd., and Tashota Resources Inc. (together, “the Tashota Group”) and Aroland First Nation (“Aroland”) and Animbiigoo Zaagi'igan Anishinaabek First Nation ("AZA") today signed an Exploration Agreement regarding the Tashota Group's mineral exploration project in the Beardmore-Geraldton Gold Camp, north-east of Thunder Bay, Ontario.
The Exploration Agreement was formally executed with the unanimous consent of the Chiefs and Councils of Aroland and AZA First Nations, representing the support of these communities and ensuring a stable environment for the Tashota Group's exploration and related activities.
Under the agreement, the Tashota Group recognizes and respects First Nations rights and environmental interests and similarly, the First Nations recognize and support the Tashota Group's rights and interests in its exploration project.
The Agreement provides for the participation of First Nations in the economic aspects of the Project; including employment, related business opportunities, and training and education initiatives. It also aligns the Tashota Group and First Nations financial interests in the future success of the project.
AZA Chief, Theresa Nelson, declared that, “This Agreement recognizes the significant contribution our First Nations communities can make in the exploration activities of mining companies such as the Tashota Group. My people can proudly stand with the Tashota Group as we do everything we can to ensure the success of the project and to preserve the environment and culture of our people.” Sonny Gagnon, Chief of the Aroland First Nation said, "This agreement marks the beginning of a collaborative relationship between the First Nations and the Tashota Group based on respect for our rights as well as environmental and economic sustainability. Furthermore, it demonstrates that with the participation of the First Nations, mineral exploration can take place and prosper in Northern Ontario."
"This partnership with the First Nations is built on mutual respect and trust," said Colin Bowdidge Ph.D., P.Geo, President and CEO of Markinch Resources Inc. on behalf of the Tashota Group. "This Agreement represents our commitment to working closely with the First Nations to advance their economic opportunities while acting as responsible stewards of the land."
About the Tashota Group
The Tashota Group is comprised of Markinch Resources Inc., Advandtel Minerals (Canada) Ltd., and Tashota Resources Inc., all of which are Canadian-based junior mining companies and signatories to the Exploration Agreement along with Aroland and AZA. The members of the Tashota Group are joint-venture partners conducting exploration activities for precious metals on approximately 14,600 acres in the Beardmore-Geraldton Gold Camp, north east of Thunder Bay, Ontario. Each member of the Tashota Group is focused on providing increased value to its respective shareholders and doing so in a socially and environmentally responsible manner.
