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Anglesey Mining highlights Labrador Iron Mines progress at Schefferville

Published: 02:04 11 Sep 2010 AEST

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Anglesey Mining's (LON:AYM) 41%-owned associate Labrador Iron Mines (TSX:LIM) is set to begin commercial iron ore production next spring.

Schefferville mine development has moved forward considerably over recent weeks, after LIM resolved disputes with local First Nations - the Innu Matimekush and Innu Takuaikan Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam Nations.

LIM has now agreed a deal with one of the area’s other First Nations, the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach, which “formalises a mutually beneficial relationship” and demonstrates Naskapi’s support for the project.

On the ground, LIM said it has already begun clearing the Schefferville mine site in Western Labrador, Canada.

Contractors have been mobilised, and a significant portion of the infrastructure and plant equipment has been transported by the TSH aboriginal railroad - which is part owned by the Naskapi.

Last week, a deal was struck between LIM and other First Nations (the Innu Matimekush and Innu Takuaikan Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam, mentioned above), leading to the immediate removal of barriers that had restricted normal access from the town of Schefferville to adjacent mining properties.

Today’s announcement underlines the improving relations with the communities in the Schefferville area, Anglesey said.

LIM and the Naskapi have signed an Impact Benefits Agreement (IBA).

As such the Naskapi Nation has agreed to respect the rights, licenses and permits that have been granted to LIM, and provide the company with continuing access to its properties.

The agreement considers that LIM will develop the project in an environmentally and socially responsible manner, and it will address and mitigate any environmental, cultural, economic and spiritual concerns of the Naskapi Nation.

Furthermore, LIM will make ‘best efforts’ to employ Naskapi members in the project workforce, as well as engage Naskapi aboriginal businesses for contracts. LIM will also provide ‘some support for education, training and social programs’ and provide opportunities for the Naskapi to participate in the project’s economic development.

The Naskapi have also agreed to make reasonable efforts to enter into co-operation agreements and/or working relationships with other First Nations, with whom LIM may enter into other IBA agreements.

"We are also continuing our IBA negotiations with the Quebec Innu communities and we look forward to establishing co-operative and mutually beneficial relationships with all our First Nation partners,” LIM chairman & chief executive John Kearney said.

LIM highlighted that the IBA will be in effect throughout the mine’s life, and it represents the culmination of a long period of co-operation since the initial MOU was signed between the parties in April 2008.

“Since that time, LIM has been working cooperatively with the Naskapi people, employing members of the community and awarding various business contracts,” the company said.

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