The Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada Congratulates New AFN National Chief

TORONTO, ON--(Marketwired - December 11, 2014) - The Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) congratulates Perry Bellegarde on his election to the Office of National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN). Mr. Bellegarde, from Saskatchewan, is the AFN's 12^th National Chief.

"Mr. Bellegarde's political and leadership experience will serve the AFN well over the next three years," says PDAC President Rodney Thomas. "We look forward to working with him and the AFN to continue enhancing the relationship between the mineral industry and First Nation communities."

In March 2008, the PDAC signed an historic MOU with the AFN to formalize a collaborative, respectful relationship between the two organizations and to outline a commitment to common objectives with regards to First Nations and the mineral industry in Canada. The PDAC has undertaken initiatives that reflect commitments made in the MOU, including the creation of an exploration and mining guide for Aboriginal communities, as well as a related trainer's manual in partnership with Natural Resources Canada and the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers.

"The MOU and the relationship that has developed between the PDAC and the AFN is reflective of the importance the mineral industry places on working with First Nation communities," says Mr. Thomas. "There is great potential in continued collaboration between the PDAC and the AFN to support mutually beneficial outcomes for the mineral industry and First Nations people."

The PDAC supports greater participation by Aboriginal Peoples in the mineral industry, in addition to a greater understanding and cooperation between Aboriginal communities and mineral exploration and mining companies. Among its other work, the Aboriginal Program at the PDAC annual Convention is a venue through which to discuss issues, opportunities and stories of success in relation to mineral development and Aboriginal engagement. 

About the PDAC
The Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) is a national association representing the mineral exploration and development industry, with over 10,000 individual and corporate members. The PDAC exists to promote a responsible, vibrant and sustainable Canadian mineral exploration and development sector. The PDAC encourages leading practices in technical, environmental, safety and social performance in Canada and internationally.