Blockade ends

After two months of blocking the access point to the Ring of Fire First Nation leaders announced Thursday they're stopping the protest.

The news came as Ontario's Minister of Mines Michael Gravelle met with the chiefs in Marten Falls and Webequie First Nations to talk about the massive exploration area.

First Nation representatives have been protesting at the landing strip at the area known as the Ring of Fire since the middle of January. Marten Falls Chief Eli Moonias said the government's visit is a positive sign and added that they have also received positive responses from mining companies in response to their list of concerns.

Moonias detailed a number of issues to Ontario's Minister of Mines and provided a history of the traditional lands where the Ring of Fire is situated. He also presented a draft Memorandum of Understanding to Michael Gravelle.

Gravelle said they will be working with the community on making an agreement. The Minister also spent time in Webequie First Nation and took part in a community event to discuss the concerns of their chief and council.

Chief Cornelius Wabasse spoke on six items including a new agreement with the province.

Gravelle said he and his ministry will be working closely with the communities.

Wabasse said they'll be closely monitoring the process over the next six months and looking at issues including the environmental impact, employment and training for First Nations.