Cree Nation Government sign the Kapisikama Agreement regarding the James Bay Lithium Project

The Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee), the Cree Nation Government, the Cree Nation of Eastmain and Galaxy Lithium (Canada) Inc. announce that they have entered into the Kapisikama Agreement on December 14, 2023, regarding the development and operation of the James Bay Lithium project in Eeyou Istchee, a lithium open-pit mine in the traditional territory of the Cree Nation of Eastmain.

Community approval was expressed through the support of the Chief and Council of the Cree Nation of Eastmain on November 22, 2023. The approval of the Kapisikama Agreement by the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) and the Cree Nation Government on December 6, 2023 represents the support of the Cree Nation as a whole, and ensures a stable regional environment for the development and operation of the James Bay Lithium project.

The Kapisikama Agreement will govern the relationship between the parties while respecting Cree traditional activities and ensuring the promotion of Cree economic and social development based on mutual trust and respect during all phases of the Project through a sustainable development approach. It provides for training, employment and business opportunities for the Crees and particularly the Crees of Eastmain at the Project, as well as for the cooperation and involvement of the Cree parties with Galaxy in the environmental monitoring during all phases of the Project. The Kapisikama Agreement also ensures financial benefits for the Cree parties on a long-term basis, consistent with the Cree Nation Mining Policy and with Galaxy’s approach to develop the Project while ensuring the promotion of Cree economic and social development in a mutually beneficial manner.2023-12-15 – Press Release

“The Kapisikama Agreement illustrates the partnership that the Crees and Galaxy have forged over the years of extensive discussions. The Kapisikama Agreement will allow for the sustainable development of the Cree Nation. The signing of the Kapisikama Agreement shows once again the commitment of the Cree Nation to be a key partner in natural resources developments in Eeyou Istchee while protecting our traditional way of life and the environment.” said Mandy Gull-Masty, Grand Chief of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee)

“I am proud to witness the signing of this Kapisikama Agreement, which marks a significant milestone in securing the rights and prosperity of the Cree Nation of Eastmain and of our community members. The Kapisikama Agreement reflects our determination to protect our lands, culture, and future generations while building meaningful and sustainable partnerships respectful of heritage and values.” said Raymond Shanoush, Chief of the Cree Nation of Eastmain

The Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) is the political body that represents the approximately 18,000 Crees or “Eeyouch” (or “Eenouch”).  The Board of Directors of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) is constituted of twenty (20) members including: the Grand Chief and Deputy Grand Chief elected at large by the Eeyouch, the Chiefs elected by each of the nine (9) recognized Cree communities, and one (1) other representative elected by each community.  The head office of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) is in the Cree community of Nemaska. The Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) also has offices in Montreal, Quebec City and Ottawa.

The Cree Nation Government (formerly the Cree Regional Authority (“CRA”) established pursuant to the James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement) exercises certain municipal powers on Category II lands and is responsible for land use and development planning, environmental protection, the hunting, fishing and trapping regime, economic and community development, Cree governance and other matters as decided by the Board of Directors. The Council of the Cree Nation Government is composed of the same representatives as the Board of Directors of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee). These two bodies often act jointly and are commonly referred to as the “Council/Board”.

Eastmain, ᐙᐸᓅᑖᐤ / Wâpanûtâw, meaning “Lands east of James Bay”, is located on the east coast of James Bay, on the south shore of the Eastmain River. With a population nearing 1000, the main economic activities of the community are its services sectors. Eastmain is also the headquarters for the Cree Regional Trappers Association, whose role is to support all local Cree Trappers by maintaining the practices of their traditional activities.

Flora Weistche

Political Attachée to the Grand Chief

Email: flora.weistche@cngov.ca

Cell: (438) 838-0228