A Calgary-based mining company got a whole lot of attention following a recent announcement related to a property in central Newfoundland, but it’s probably not the kind they wanted.
Aurwest Resources Corporation last week announced the acquisition of 23,600 hectares of land in central Newfoundland. They posted the news on Facebook, with someone asking if they were a First Nation stakeholder. The company’s social media person responded that “Newfoundland is attractive because they’re isn’t any aboriginal issues.”
That prompted a quick response from John Nick Jedorre, a member of the Conne River Mi’kmaq Band who stated: “Well, this Aboriginal has an issue.”
While the comment is up for some interpretation, Jedorre says whatever way you look at it, it isn’t good.
He says he can’t find an example of an “aboriginal issue” that isn’t racially-charged.
Well, this Aboriginal has an issue. pic.twitter.com/5v5GivVqIt
— John Nick Jeddore (@JohnJeddore) November 20, 2020
Meanwhile, the company is apologizing for the comment, saying it was made “in error.”
In a statement to VOCM News, company president Colin Christensen says he has spoken with their social media manager, adding the comment was “inappropriate.”
He says that with their business background it would not be possible to advance projects without good relationships with indigenous groups, who he says plays an important role in what they do.
Statement from company President Colin Christensen
I had a discussion with our representative who manages our social media, and we sincerely apologize to anyone and everyone with this inappropriate comment, made in error, who may have been impacted. It was never our intent.
My background in the mineral business extends over several countries and includes interaction with many different people from all walks of life, backgrounds and cultures, including Indigenous. It is one of the many pluses about being in the mining business in that it does provide you with the opportunity to work with such a diverse population. And I welcome it.
With our business background it would not be possible to advance projects without the good relationships you develop with the various Indigenous groups who become our partners, and they play an important role. Where possible we also try to include them in working opportunities, and work to understand each other, and we would operate in the same way in Newfoundland. Again, we extend our sincerest apologies.
Sincerely,
Colin Christensen
President
