The event is organized by the Secretariat to the Cree Nation – Abitibi-Témiscamingue Economic Alliance, an organization bringing together all Northern Quebec Cree Nation communities and the municipalities of Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Lebel-sur Quévillon and Matagami. The objectives of the conference are to promote business links and to foster the Cree Nation proactive involvement in all mining related activities. Furthermore, this conference will showcase opportunities, good practises and discuss challenges.

 

Chaired by Mr. Jack R. Blacksmith, president of the Cree Mineral and Exploration Board (CMEB) and the Mayor of Val-d'Or, Mr. Fernand Trahan; the CMEB is committed to the development of mineral exploration in Eeyou Istchee and promotes active participation of the Crees in all activities related to prospecting, exploration and development of natural resources in the territory.

 

"The Cree Nation is demonstrating its willingness and enthusiasm to take an active part in mineral exploration and opportunities related to our territory, this is why we gladly accepted to be part of this major gathering," says the President, Mr. Jack R. Blacksmith.

 

This conference will be attended by Aboriginal representatives, mining companies and business organizations, anticipated attendance of 350 delegates. It will offer many opportunities to learn, share, and discuss business opportunities particularly with the Cree Nation. Welcome to all.

 

For more information and to register please contact the Secretariat to the Cree Nation – Abitibi-Témiscamingue Economic Alliance by visiting our website at www.creenation-at.com or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by telephone at 819-824-9888.

 

In addition, the Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT) is organising its 8th Annual First Peoples Symposium. The event, under the theme 'First Peoples and Employment: Training, Cooperation, and Canvassing', will take place on May 29 and 30, 2012, at the First Peoples Pavilion on the UQAT Val-d’Or Campus, for more information see www.uqat/cpp.