The Labrador Inuit Association (LIA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Newfoundland government aimed at prohibiting mining and mineral processing in the proposed Torngat Mountains National Reserve, between Ungava Bay and the Labrador Sea.
The MOU outlines protected territory, and any map-staked licences on these lands will continue until they are cancelled, surrendered or expire. The provincial government would then consult with Inuit leaders before approving any more applications for mineral exploration.
The government would also be required to consult the LIA before issuing any new applications or renewals for Crown land in the proposed national reserve area.
The MOU is an agreement-in-principle that establishes the Torngat Mountains National Reserve and designates land to be included in the Torngat Mountains National Park. The agreement follows the negotiation of Inuit land claims in May, which involved representatives of the LIA and the federal and Newfoundland governments.
“I consider the signing of this MOU a significant step forward in the settlement of Labrador Inuit land claims,” says William Barbour, president of the LIA. “It moves the LIA and the federal and provincial governments one step closer to completing the Labrador Inuit land selection negotiations.”
Newfoundland Premier Brian Tobin is expected to sign the MOU shortly.
The Torngat Mountains stretch south from Cape Chidley, Labrador, to Hebron Fjord.
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