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NewAgreement could move Dene Tha’
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n October the PTI Group, a company that specializes in modular workforce accommodations and catering services, signed an “exclusive business relationship and alliance” with the Dene Tha’ First Nation of northwest Alberta. The Dene Tha’ number some 1,800 people on reserve and another 600 off. Three communities on reserve lands already boast member-owned retail businesses, a coffee shop, construction services, natural gas distribution, taxi service, small engine repair and a laundromat, but this move takes the people into support services for the oil and gas industry. The Nation’s reserve lands fall within the Horn River Basin where there is a great deal of interest in developing the resources, especially the shale gas. The Dene Tha’ are possibly better known for their successful efforts in stopping oil and gas developments where they felt it was inappropriate, such as the removal of oil and gas wells from the Hay-Zama Lakes Wildland Park, which Chief James Ahnassay negotiated in 2008. Then in the summer of 2010, the Dene Tha’ forced Ottawa to pony up $25,000,000 for the portion of the Mackenzie gas pipeline that would run across Dene Tha’ lands. This deal with PTI Group is different. According to Pat Cabezas, President of Ndeh Limited Partnership, “The relationship between PTI and the Dene Tha' First Nation, through its Ndeh Limited Partnership, is a positive evolution in the methodology of economic engagement with First Nations. It is based on sound business practices, and seeking mutually beneficial outcomes through active participation of the partners.” Sandy Sanderson, Director of Aboriginal Relations for PTI, describes the new agreement as a “key alliance.” 36 DECEMBER 2010 • NATIVE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MAGAZINE
The PTI Group’s Sandy Sanderson says a new, less rigid agreement between his company and the Dene Tha’ First Nation should provide jobs, training and help to form viable Dene-owned businesses.
Sanderson says, “As one of the largest gas plays in North America, PTI’s ability to participate provides collaborative benefits for the Dene Tha and PTI.” Calling the deal an exclusive alliance, but not a joint venture, Sanderson says it was created in a new, less formal way. “Under the working alliance model, PTI and the community contractually agree to work together