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In 2002, our efforts to build mutually beneficial relationships led to the final negotiation and signing of Impact and Benefits Agreements (IBAs) with Innu Nation, representing Labrador's 2,200 Innu, and Labrador Inuit Association (LIA), which represents the region's 5,500 Inuit.
In an excerpt from his paper “Anatomy of a Deal,” presented to the Canadian Aboriginal Minerals Association in Halifax, Nova Scotia on November 3, 2003, Natan Obed, Impact and Benefits Coordinator for LIA, stated, "Our IBA is a strong agreement, but it also relies on good intent, not only by VBNC and LIA, but from many stakeholders who have or will service or assist the Project from construction to reclamation. All parties, whether it be LIA, government, or VBNC, are responsible for its implementation. And I will say now, if all parties implement with respect - respect for people, for the land, and for aboriginal culture, our IBA will not fail."
While details of the Voisey's Bay IBAs are kept confidential by all parties, the agreements describe employment and business opportunities for Labrador's Innu and Inuit peoples. As well, they articulate principles for joint environmental stewardship and community development.
Throughout 2002 and 2003, VBNC worked diligently to realize the ideals and goals of the IBAs. Particularly, the company promoted aboriginal employment and business opportunities. “Our employment and procurement principles are articulated in our Adjacency Principles,” says Tom Paddon, Manager, Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs. “These principles state our intent that individuals living in Labrador have priority for working and supplying services to Voisey's Bay.”
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