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The Patterson Lake South Project site. (Image Credit: Paladin Canada)
mutual benefits

BNDN signs agreement for uranium project to proceed

Aug 31, 2026 | 5:08 PM

Paladin Canada Inc. and the Birch Narrows Dene Nation (BNDN) have signed a Mutual Benefits Agreement (MBA) in respect to the Patterson Lake South Project.  

A media release issued by the company on Monday states the MBA will cover the lifespan of the project, which lies within BNDN traditional territory in the southwestern Athabasca Basin. It details how Paladin Canada and the First Nation will work together to shape and share in the economic and social benefits the development of the project will bring to the region.  

It also confirms the support and consent of BNDN for the project in all its phases, from development to production, and subsequently through to decommissioning and reclamation. It also demonstrates to provincial and federal regulators that BNDN supports the project, and mechanisms for continued meaningful engagement are in place as the project advances through its permitting and licensing phase. 

“We are pleased to reach this important agreement with the BNDN and our goal is to be a good neighbour and long-term partner with their community in Saskatchewan, so that they receive a positive benefit from the development of the project for many years to come,” Paladin CEO Paul Hemburrow said.  

The MBA with the BNDN is the third agreement signed for the PLS Project, with previous MBAs being concluded with the Buffalo River Dene Nation and the Clearwater River Dene Nation in February 2025. 

BNDN Chief Jonathon Sylvestre, who couldn’t be reached for an interview, is quoted as saying the agreement reflects BNDN’s commitment to exercising their rights and responsibilities as a nation while creating meaningful opportunities for members. 

“Strong environmental protection must remain at the heart of development in our territory, and this agreement provides an important framework for that,” he said. 

“At the same time, our community expects to see significant and lasting benefits from the project. We look forward to being a meaningful partner in the Patterson Lake South Project and working with Paladin Canada to ensure it is developed responsibly, respectfully and in a way that creates lasting value for our people.” 

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com