Dumont Project – Signature of the very first IBA in the history of the Abitibiwinni First Nation

Pikogan, May 2nd, 2017 – RNC Minerals (TSX: RNX) (RNC) and the Abitibiwinni First Nation have announced today the signature of an Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA) as part of the Dumont Project. A source of pride for the Abitibiwinni Nation, the signature of this first IBA represents a significant milestone and a turning point in the development of relations with large corporations.

This agreement makes Abitibiwinni the first Algonquin community in Quebec to successfully conclude such proceedings with a mining firm. According to Chief David Kistabish, the agreement will serve as the model to be followed for cooperation and collaboration. In the scope of the Dumont Project, the IBA signed with RNC Minerals provides for a meaningful contribution from the Abitibiwinni First Nation in terms of training, employment, business opportunities, and environment protection.

“The signature of this very first IBA represents a historic moment for the Abitibiwinni First Nation and the Algonquin people. We are proud and satisfied of having concluded this agreement with RNC Minerals, and we thank them for acknowledging the importance of mutual collaboration within the framework of the Dumont Project. We are now enthusiastically envisioning the future of this project, as we encourage our members to make tangible contributions for its development. Through its various facets, this agreement will considerably contribute to our community’s self-reliance and economic development”, said Chief David Kistabish.

After a negotiation process with the mining firm, Chief Kistabish and his negotiation team gained valuable experience to confidently engage or continue discussions with other mining corporations wishing to access natural resources at the core of the Abitibiwinni territory.

“Today, we make our first IBA official, and we can assure you that it will not be the last one. This first agreement will set the basis for future negotiations with the mining industry. We are committed to economic development and we are vital partners when accessing natural resources on the Abitibiwinni territory”, concluded Alain Hervieux, responsible Natural Resources and Territory Advisor.

About Abitibiwinni First Nation

The Abitibiwinni Algonquin community, known also as Pikogan, is located approximately 3 kilometers from Amos, on the western bank of the Harricana River, and accounts for nearly 600 residents. The Abitibiwinni First Nation Council is led by a Chief, a Vice-Chief, and three Counselors, elected according to local customs.

-30-

NT5