PMET Formalises Structured Dialogue Framework with Cree Nation on Quebec Project

Formalising Dialogue with Cree Nation of Chisasibi

PMET Resources Inc. (ASX:PMT) has taken a significant step in its community engagement efforts by signing a non-binding Letter of Intent (LOI) with the Cree Nation of Chisasibi. This agreement lays out a structured framework for ongoing engagement and information exchange regarding the company’s 100%-owned Shaakichiuwaanaan Project, located within Chisasibi traditional territory in Quebec, Canada.

The LOI explicitly does not amount to consent or endorsement of the project but is designed to facilitate respectful dialogue during an Engagement and Assessment Period. This phase aims to allow the Cree Nation to assess project information, raise questions or concerns, and consider potential benefits, risks, and mitigation measures through its own governance processes.

Building Working Groups Around Community Priorities

Under the LOI, PMET and Chisasibi plan to establish time-limited, subject-focused working groups. These forums will tackle specific topics such as training, employment, skills development, local economic development, environmental stewardship, and transportation. While these groups will provide recommendations, they hold no decision-making authority or binding power.

Ken Brinsden, PMET’s CEO, highlighted the company’s ongoing commitment to community consultation and employment initiatives, noting that in 2025, approximately 25% of the project’s workforce were Cree. The LOI is positioned as a continuation of this engagement, aiming to deepen mutual understanding and explore opportunities for training, employment, and business development, while respecting the Cree Nation’s governance.

Context of Shaakichiuwaanaan’s Strategic Importance

The Shaakichiuwaanaan Project stands out as a major critical minerals asset, boasting a Consolidated Mineral Resource of 108 million tonnes at 1.40% Li2O and significant tantalum and caesium deposits. A positive lithium-only Feasibility Study was announced in late 2025, underpinning the project's potential to produce up to approximately 800,000 tonnes per annum of spodumene concentrate through a streamlined Dense Media Separation process.

These developments position Shaakichiuwaanaan as a potential North American powerhouse in critical minerals, aligning with broader industry trends towards securing supply chains for lithium and associated metals. PMET’s engagement with the Cree Nation is a crucial component of advancing the project through permitting and planning stages.

Environmental and Social Considerations in Focus

The LOI emphasises transparency, respect for Cree governance, and care for land, water, wildlife, and community well-being. It encourages two-way dialogue to identify and discuss environmental and social impacts, capacity constraints, and community priorities. These principles reflect the increasing importance of Indigenous engagement and environmental stewardship in mining project development.

As the company navigates the next phases of permitting and feasibility, the establishment of working groups and ongoing discussions under the LOI will be critical in addressing community concerns and exploring potential Impact Benefit Agreements, though no such agreements are currently in place.