On September 20, Newmont’s Musselwhite mine commemorated 25 years of commercial operation by hosting several hundred guests, including mine employees, Indigenous leaders and community members, government leaders and business partners.
Musselwhite was one of the first mines in Canada to enter into a comprehensive agreement with First Nations communities.
It has formal agreements with the North Caribou Lake First Nation, Cat Lake First Nation, the Windigo First Nations Council, Wunnumin Lake First Nation, Kingfisher Lake First Nation, the Shibogama First Nations Council and Mishkeegogamang First Nation.
At the celebration, Frank McKay, CEO of Windigo First Nations Council, offered his remarks.
“As we look toward to the future and another 25 years, let us learn from the lessons of the past. If we continue to work cooperatively and towards common interest, communicate honestly and with transparency, and respect each other for the knowledge and strength each of our parties brings to the table, I know we will face and conquer all challenges ahead. Miigwech.”
Ontario’s Minister of Indigenous Affairs and of Northern Development commended Musselwhite and Indigenous communities:
“I’m pleased to congratulate Musselwhite mine and Newmont on an incredible 25 years of sustainable mining and fostering of historic partnerships. Our government recognizes the value that these mines deliver to our northern and Indigenous communities, which is why we continue to work hard to find impactful ways to support the industry. Mining has delivered pivotal economic success in Ontario and together we’ll continue building on our established strengths and setting the right conditions to ensure that the sector’s best days lie ahead.”
– Greg Rickford, MPP for Kenora–Rainy River, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Minister of Northern Development
Thunder Bay’s mayor also offered his congratulations:
“I want to congratulate the ownership, management and staff of Newmont Musselwhite as you celebrate 25 years of commercial production. Your contributions to the City of Thunder Bay and many other communities in the North are substantial. You were one of the first companies to develop strong relationships with Indigenous communities, and partners, leading to shared wealth. Your leadership in this regard is a model for many and contributes to building a stronger and healthier Northern Ontario.”
– Bill Mauro, Mayor of Thunder Bay
Ontario’s Minister of Mines contributed a video message:
“Congratulations to the Musselwhite mine on the tremendous accomplishment of 25 years of commercial production. It has been a critical element in the mining industry in the North, which in turn is a key element of Ontario’s economy and one that will continue to grow.“
– George Pirie, MPP for Timmins, Minister of Mines
Since 1997, Musselwhite has produced more than 5 million ounces of gold. In 2021, the mine employed 737 people and invested $320,000 in local communities.
Musselwhite’s commitment to safety and sustainable production has been applauded by Newmont leadership:
“I’d like to extend my congratulations to all employees, Indigenous community members and partners who were involved with this 25-year milestone of the first gold bar pour at Musselwhite in 1997. Musselwhite demonstrates the value of the northwestern Ontario mining jurisdictions and reinforces the commitment made by all to safe and responsible mining.”
– Mark Rodgers, Newmont Senior Vice President for North America