Gowest Gold signs exploration pact with Mattagami and Matachewan First Nations

Junior bullion company Gowest Gold (CVE:GWA) said on Thursday that it has struck an exploration pact with the Mattagami and Matachewan First Nations to promote an ongoing co-operative discussion between the parties tied to its Frankfield East deposit, in Ontario, and other targets as part of its North Timmins gold project.
The Frankfield East gold project, comprised of 42 claims on 2,444 hectares, currently is estimated to contain 348,000 ounces of gold in the indicated category and 839,900 ounces of gold in the inferred category. The deposit is situated 42 kilometres north east of Timmins in the southwest part of Tully Township.
The exploration agreement establishes the framework for discussions by setting out provisions, which include business, employment and training opportunities activities for members of the two First Nations groups to participate in the exploration around the project.
In addition, Mattagami and Matachewan First Nations, along with Gowest, have agreed to negotiate an impact benefits agreement should the project continue as planned.
Gowest’s chief executive, Greg Romain, said: "The signing of this agreement is a further demonstration of the positive working relationship established with both Mattagami First Nation and Matachewan First Nation, two key stakeholders in our North Timmins gold project."
In a statement, Jason Batise from the Wabun Tribal Council, added: "The signed exploration agreement between the parties shows a respect by this mining interest with regard to First Nations traditional territory and the community understanding as to the needs of the company to develop its property."
Gowest, formerly Gowest Amalgamated Resources, is a gold explorer looking for additional gold targets in its Frankfield land package.