PDAC 2015 Convention Brings Aboriginal People and the Mineral Industry Together

TORONTO, ON--(Marketwired - February 24, 2015) - The Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) is set to launch its annual Aboriginal Program during the PDAC 2015 Convention at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC). The sessions bring Aboriginal communities and Aboriginal-owned companies together with the mineral industry to share experiences, learn more about working together successfully, and discuss challenges and opportunities.

"The Aboriginal Program is always a highlight of the PDAC Convention," says PDAC President Rod Thomas. "It provides an opportunity for Aboriginal communities and the mineral industry to foster relationships, create partnerships and share knowledge."

Over the years, the Aboriginal Program has been expanded to include four sessions that offer a diverse range of information on subject matter related to Aboriginal affairs and the mineral industry. Attendance at the Aboriginal Program sessions has grown significantly over the past five years and attracts representatives from industry, Aboriginal leadership and community members, government officials and non-governmental organizations.

Aboriginal Forum: Sharing experiences and strategies from Canada's North

The Aboriginal Forum, held on Monday, March 2 will bring together mineral industry practitioners, Aboriginal communities and companies, as well as governments to share experiences and highlight the outcomes when working constructively together. This session will include a brief overview of Canada's three territories and will feature case studies from Canada's North on leading practices in community engagement, partnership development, and Aboriginal participation in the mineral industry.

Current issues in Aboriginal law: Examining the evolving landscape

The morning session on Tuesday, March 3 will examine recent Supreme Court of Canada decisions and the key challenges and opportunities that arise for mineral companies and Aboriginal communities in relation to resource development. A panel discussion will also be held to discuss different perspectives on the duty to accommodate.

Aboriginal participation in the mineral industry: Considerations and complexities

During this session there will be panel discussion that examines the unique nature of exploration agreements, as well as a presentation by the Working Group on Natural Resources Development. There will also be a presentation on the subject of consent, followed by a panel of community leaders who will speak about their perspectives on consent in relation to mineral development projects.

For the full Aboriginal Program agenda and list of speakers, click here.