The Tahltan Nation has voted in favor of the Impact Benefit Agreement linked to the development and future operation of Skeena Resources’ Eskay Creek gold and silver project in British Columbia. Support for the agreement was confirmed following a referendum held among Tahltan Nation members.
Skeena, which is dual-listed and owns the Eskay Creek project outright, said the IBA sets out a comprehensive framework for shared benefits between the company and the Tahltan Nation. These include employment and business opportunities for Tahltan members and enterprises, training and education programs aimed at building long-term capacity, funding for a facility to support Tahltan elders, and meaningful financial participation in the project.
The company noted that a decision by the Tahltan central government board on whether to formally grant consent for the Eskay Creek project is expected to be considered in January 2026.
Skeena executive chairperson Walter Coles said the ratification of the agreement reflects extensive collaboration and trust between the parties, adding that the IBA establishes new industry benchmarks for First Nation involvement in environmental protection and benefit-sharing. Senior vice president of external affairs Justin Himmelright подчеркнул, что соглашение рассматривается как основа долгосрочного и содержательного партнерства, подчеркнув значительную роль Tahltan Nation в формировании экологических, культурных и экономических приоритетов проекта.
According to Skeena, the agreement formalizes years of cooperation and is intended to ensure that Tahltan values are embedded throughout the life of the Eskay Creek project.
