Denison Mines Signs Key Agreement with Métis Nation–Saskatchewan

Denison Mines Corp. and Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) celebrated a significant milestone on Thursday with the signing of an Impact Benefit Agreement for the Wheeler River Project. This agreement marks a crucial step in advancing the development of one of Canada’s promising uranium mining projects.

During the signing ceremony held at the Sheraton Cavalier, MN–S President Glen McCallum expressed the importance of the agreement, stating that the collaboration would help improve economic opportunities for the Métis community. “The industry plays a factor in how we’re going to create development for our people,” McCallum said.

David Cates, CEO and President of Denison Mines, highlighted the significance of obtaining the consent and support of the Métis community. “Our project is in the Métis homeland. Having this consent and support is significant for our ability to advance the project,” Cates remarked.

A Partnership for Economic Growth

The signing event brought together numerous MN–S members from across the province, reflecting the community’s involvement in the project. McCallum emphasized the dual focus of the agreement on economic development and education, stating, “We keep promoting economic development and education, but at the same time, educating our people on the ground to capitalize on available opportunities.”

Located on the southwestern edge of the Athabasca Basin in northern Saskatchewan, the Wheeler River Project is positioned approximately 35 kilometers southeast of Cameco’s McArthur River mine. The project hosts two high-grade uranium deposits: Pheonix and Gryphon. Discussions regarding the agreement have been ongoing for six years, illustrating the depth of collaboration between the two groups.

Speakers at the event underscored the importance of partnership and collaboration, noting that the agreement encompasses a range of considerations that reflect the input and needs of the Métis community. McCallum stated, “When we use the word partnership and collaboration, these are simplifying words because the backing behind these agreements is deep.”

Next Steps for Denison Mines

The Impact Benefit Agreement aims to ensure that Denison Mines and MN–S uphold environmental commitments, provide training and employment opportunities for Métis individuals, and allocate ongoing royalties from resources extracted from the Wheeler River mine to the Métis citizens. A significant portion of these royalties will be reserved for future generations.

McCallum expressed optimism about the evolving relationship, saying, “We’re players now. We’re being listened to, and we got to trust each other — and we do.”

In July 2023, Denison received environmental approvals from the provincial government, paving the way for further progress. The next critical step involves public hearings scheduled by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission from December 8 to 11, 2023, in Saskatoon. If the commission grants approval, Cates indicated that construction of the mine could commence as early as March 2024.

The successful signing of this agreement not only reinforces Denison Mines’ commitment to responsible development but also highlights the potential for collaborative efforts between industry and Indigenous communities in Canada.