Diatreme CEO Neil McIntyre and Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council CEO Steve Linnane.
Emerging silica sands developer and explorer Diatreme Resources has advanced its engagement with the Hope Vale community, signing a Memorandum of Cooperation with Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council aimed at maximising local economic benefits from Diatreme’s Northern Silica Project.
Under the agreement, Diatreme will maximise economic benefits and employment opportunities for native title holders and other Hope Vale residents affected by the NSP’s development, including the creation of training and development programs aimed at enhancing the skill sets of the local workforce.
Diatreme will also develop strategies to manage potential project impacts, aimed at balancing economic viability with community benefits, such as local employment and cultural preservation.
A cultural heritage management plan will be developed in consultation with the relevant Aboriginal parties to ensure the protection of significant sites and traditions.
Diatreme said it was committed to providing regular updates to the council and the community on the NSP’s development as part of its governance approach anchored in accountability, integrity and transparency, focused on ensuring a sustainable future.
Diatreme CEO Neil McIntyre said it was a significant step forward in the company’s engagement with the Hope Vale community.
“Diatreme is delighted to sign this agreement with Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council, highlighting our commitment to an open and trusting relationship with the local community,” he said.
“Diatreme is focused on generating impactful Indigenous business and employment programs, working closely with the community to tailor such opportunities to local needs. Ongoing engagement with Hope Vale community is vital and we look forward to making an important contribution to the community’s sustainable development, while ensuring traditions are respected and protected and environmental impacts minimised.”
Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council CEO Steve Linnane said it could be a win-win.
“Council is eager to ensure that there is effective dialogue and cooperation to help unlock significant economic and employment opportunities for the Hope Vale community,” Mr Linnane said.
“Therefore, council considers that the Memorandum of Cooperation is an important step in ensuring economic benefits are delivered to the broad Hope Vale community, while balancing environmental stewardship with sustainable development.
“Council looks forward to ongoing communication with Diatreme to make this agreement a success, ensuring a sustainable future for the region.”
