Relations with First Nations

In an effort to follow sound business practices while respecting the traditional rights of First Nations, we have taken steps to ensure that members of these communities are active participants in the management of public lands.

We have cooperated in the establishment of employment opportunities for members of First Nations and fostered sustainable development in these communities. By forming business partnerships with communities such as the Nabakatuk sawmill with the Waswanipi Cree First Nation of Northern Quebec, Domtar paves the way for sustainable economic development that benefits both parties.

Indeed, we make it a priority to recruit employees from local First Nations communities. We keep a list of all the First Nations in the area of each of our operations. When a job opening is available, we send the information to the local bands. We also encourage young Aboriginals to choose forestry as a career through college and university bursary programs, some of which offer students summer employment.

In deference to the traditions of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, which resides near our mill in Woodland, Maine, we transferred the deed to Gordon’s Island on Big Lake to the community in 2001. The island had special cultural significance to the members of this First Nation and the land will now be preserved for posterity.