June 13, 2003

Industry, Trade and Mines Minister MaryAnn Mihychuk today congratulated 11 students who have graduated as prospectors from a community-based training program developed in partnership with the Sagkeeng First Nation.

"This intensive program has helped students develop employable skills in prospecting, the critical beginning of the overall mining process," said Mihychuk. "I am confident that this co-operative effort will help strengthen our province's mining industry while enhancing professional development opportunities for program graduates."

The Mineral Resources Division of Manitoba Industry, Trade and Mines facilitated the course at Sagkeeng First Nation, located in a historic mining district in southeastern Manitoba. The program emphasized the role of innovative technology including the use of global positioning systems and geophysical instruments to locate potential ore deposits.

"We are proud of our partnership with Industry, Trade and Mines in the development of this pilot project for our community," said Don Courchene, director of economic development for Sagkeeng First Nation. "We are encouraged by this win-win partnership and the vision of a government that fosters, encourages and creates access to economic opportunities for all Manitobans to prosper."

"Prospecting training is long overdue for this region, especially for our community, which has a long history in the mining industry," said Donavan Fontaine, council member of Sagkeeng First Nation. "Our history dates back to the original discovery of gold in the Bissett area. In fact, a Sagkeeng resident, the late Duncan Twohearts was instrumental in developing the San Antonio Gold Mine that originated from the Gabrielle Claim."

The pilot project reflects the goals and objectives of the Manitoba Minerals Guideline: Building Relationships and Creating Opportunities, guidelines developed in 1998 by First Nations, Metis Nations, the Northern Association of Community Councils, the Manitoba minerals industry and the Province of Manitoba. The goal is to foster relationships and economic development opportunities among those involved in or affected by mineral activities in Manitoba.

"Our government is very pleased to support this training program as we believe it will enhance education and skills training in the local workforce," said Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Oscar Lathlin. "It also represents another potential economic diversification opportunity for the local community. "

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