RR Resources signs deal with Metis

News Release

TORONTO, July 10, 2013 /CNW/ - The Métis Nation of Ontario (“MNO”) and Rainy River Resources Ltd. (“Rainy River” or the “Company” (RR.TSX)) are pleased to announce that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) to guide their working relationship in regard to the development of the Rainy River Gold Project in the Township of Chapple, approximately 65 kilometers northwest of Fort Frances, Ontario.
“The MNO is pleased with the positive relationship-building efforts that Rainy River has demonstrated by signing this agreement,” stated MNO President Gary Lipinski. “We developed this MOU collaboratively to guide engagement and consultation with the regional rights-bearing Métis communities in the Treaty #3/Lake of the Woods/Lac Seul/Rainy River/Rainy Lake traditional territories. I am pleased that the MNO was able to foster a strong foundation upon which consultation and accommodation can take place with Rainy River and I applaud Rainy River’s efforts in working with the Métis Nation. This initial agreement represents a milestone in our continuing working relationship with the Company.”
Raymond Threlkeld, President and CEO of Rainy River Resources Ltd. added: “We are delighted to have reached this milestone agreement with the Métis Nation of Ontario. We thank the MNO for working in collaboration and consultation with us to develop this strong foundation for continued partnership.”
The MOU lays out the way in which the local Métis community, as represented by the MNO’s Treaty #3/Lake of the Woods/Lac Seul/Rainy River/Rainy Lake Regional Consultation Committee and the MNO Community Councils that are part of the committee, will be consulted regarding the development of the project. It also provides details about how the parties will work together to address potential impacts on Métis’ rights, interests and way of life.
MNO Regional Councilor Theresa Stenlund, Chair of the Region One Consultation Committee commented: “Our regional Métis community would like to acknowledge Rainy River Resources in working with the Treaty #3/Lake of the Woods/Lac Seul/Rainy River/Rainy Lake Consultation Committee. Through this MOU, the MNO will continue to strengthen its relationship with Rainy River while protecting our traditional values and way of life.”
Subject to the project impacts on Métis rights and interests (if identified through the consultation process), the parties also agreed to negotiate an Impact Benefit Agreement (“IBA”) based on the goals and objectives of the MOU.