The Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation has given the green light to Denison Mines and dropped the court challenge over the Wheeler River Project, a uranium mining project, in northern Saskatchewan.

In a news release, PBCN said their concerns over potential impacts to its traditional territory from the project have been addressed subsequently PBCN has provided its consent and support for the project.

The terms of the agreement are confidential, but PBCN said it includes funding to launch a community-based environmental monitoring program that will be owned and run by the Nation, rather than administered by the company or the province.

Chief Peter Beatty said the agreement strengthens the Nation’s role in decisions affecting its territory. “Through environmental monitoring, training and employment, this agreement creates real opportunities while supporting responsible development.” The Nation also noted that it will have a role in overseeing the project which is a position the Nation has sought for years.