Rio Tinto Alcan returns traditional lands to the Cheslatta Carrier Nation

MONTREAL, Jan. 30, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Rio Tinto Alcan has officially completed the transfer of sixty three district lots totalling just over 11,000 acres of land to the Cheslatta Carrier Nation in British Columbia.

"This important event is the culmination of over ten years of discussions between us and the community to return these traditional lands to the Cheslatta Carrier Nation. Today is an important milestone and represents how we can move forward cooperatively," said Jean Simon, president and chief executive officer, Primary Metal, Rio Tinto Alcan. "I am honoured to be the one, on behalf of our company, to bring this long standing issue to conclusion for the benefit of the Cheslatta Carrier Nation people."

"Today we get back what we lost 60 years ago." said Cheslatta Chief Richard Peters, "Land is the backbone of any community and this land is truly the foundation for our future.  We are most grateful for the hard work and dedication of former Cheslatta leaders and we also thank Rio Tinto Alcan for being a modern and progressive corporation that understands the significance of the land to the Cheslatta people.  We are fully committed to continue working together."

"I am proud of the respectful and effective relationship that we have developed with the Cheslatta Carrier Nation. I am also proud that both parties demonstrated great patience, support and commitment to this process that allows us to recognize the past while opening a new door to a brighter future," said Paul Henning, vice president, Strategic Projects, Western Canada for Rio Tinto Alcan.

About Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK, combining Rio Tinto plc, a London and NYSE listed company, and Rio Tinto Limited, which is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.

Rio Tinto's business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminium, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt) and iron ore. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with significant businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and southern Africa.