The City of Duparquet and First Mining Gold Corp. have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on September 15, 2025, marking a significant step toward a collaborative partnership centered on the Duparquet Gold Project. This agreement aims to foster sustainable community development and economic growth while ensuring alignment with local development needs.
Since acquiring the Duparquet Gold Project in 2022, First Mining has prioritized a cooperative relationship with the city and its residents. In 2023, discussions commenced, paving the way for finding viable solutions that balance city development with mining operations. The recently ratified MOU formalizes this framework, outlining key provisions that will guide future actions.
Among the principal measures outlined in the MOU are:
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Co-habitation Plan: A plan will be developed to harmonize the Project’s progression with the City’s urban development strategy.
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Relocation Mechanism: A structured approach will be put in place for relocating certain residential properties that are necessary for the Project’s advancement.
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Golf Course Reconfiguration: A design plan will be created for modifications to the Duparquet golf course, which are necessary to facilitate the Project’s development.
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Land Transfer: First Mining will transfer over 100 acres of land to the City to support immediate municipal development needs and offer the potential for further land contributions in the future.
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Residential Lot Transfer: The agreement includes the transfer of residential lots currently held under historical emphyteutic leases within the City but outside of the Project’s development area.
Dan Wilton, CEO of First Mining, expressed that the MOU signifies the company’s commitment to transparent collaboration with the City and its citizens. He emphasized the goal of developing the mining project with respect for community interests and objectives.
Mayor Denis Blais hailed the signing of the MOU as a historic milestone for Duparquet. He highlighted it as evidence of the municipality’s commitment to advancing community interests while fostering economic prosperity. Blais also acknowledged First Mining’s proactive approach and their ongoing commitment to the community since assuming ownership of the Project.
The Duparquet Gold Project is strategically located in the southern part of the Abitibi Greenstone Belt, approximately 50 kilometers north of Rouyn-Noranda. The Project holds significant resources, including an NI 43-101 compliant gold resource of 3.44 million ounces in the Measured & Indicated category and an additional 2.64 million ounces in the Inferred category. First Mining completed a Preliminary Economic Assessment of the Project in 2023, establishing a framework for future development.
First Mining Gold Corp. is recognized as a gold developer advancing multiple large gold projects in Canada, including the Springpole Gold Project in Ontario and the Duparquet Gold Project in Quebec. The company’s establishment dates back to 2015 under the leadership of founding President Keith Neumeyer.
The City of Duparquet, with a population of around 700 residents, is rich in mining history. Incorporated in 1933, it has developed significantly since the establishment of the Beattie Gold Mine during the early 1930s. This history continues to shape the community’s identity as it strives for sustainable development in partnership with First Mining.
