06/12/2026
PRESS RELEASE
The Chief and Council of the Cree Nation of Mistissini Reaffirms Sovereign Authority and Firm Opposition to Uranium Activity in Its Territory
Mistissini, Eeyou Istchee, June 12, 2026 — The Chief and Council of the Cree Nation of Mistissini reaffirm its inherent rights and jurisdiction over its traditional lands and waters, and its firm opposition to any uranium exploration, development, or activity within its territory.
In early spring, Consolidated Uranium Inc., a subsidiary of IsoEnergy Limited, submitted a request to meet with the Chief and Deputy Chief of the Cree Nation of Mistissini. Following its acquisition of the Matoush Project in 2021, IsoEnergy Limited is now seeking to resume exploration activities, with plans to proceed during the summer of 2026.
The intention of IsoEnergy Limited. to revive exploration and possible development of the same uranium deposit—previously and successfully opposed by the Cree Nation of Mistissini—has prompted the Chief and Council to reaffirm their decision to continue opposing all uranium development.
“There will be no discussions regarding uranium exploration or development projects in or around the lands of Mistissini. To be clear, the Chief and Council have unanimously decided that no uranium exploration or development will be permitted on Cree traditional territory. We uphold any decision made by our community,” Chief Michael Petawabano.
“The leadership remains steadfast in upholding this position against any potential proposals or external pressures related to uranium,” said Deputy Chief, John S. Matoush. “This enduring position reflects a clear commitment to safeguarding the environmental integrity, Cree cultural heritage, and future well-being of the community for present and future generations.”
Between 2009 and 2012, the Cree Nation of Mistissini conducted extensive consultations, expert reviews, and community engagement regarding the Matoush uranium project. Despite generally supporting responsible mining, strong concerns arose about the long-term environmental, health, and cultural risks of uranium development.
In a 2010 community vote, Mistissini strongly opposed the project, leading Mistissini to formally reject it. Subsequently, Quebec refused to authorize the Matoush project in virtue of the environmental and social impact regime of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement based on Cree opposition to uranium development.
Strateco Resources had instituted legal proceedings against Quebec to obtain the authorization of the Matoush project. The Cree Nation of Mistissini intervened in those proceedings along with the Grand Council of the Crees of Quebec in support of the refusal by Quebec to authorize the project. Eventually, the court upheld the refusal of Quebec to authorize the project, primarily on the basis of Cree opposition.
Mistissini opposition to uranium development has thus not wavered and reflects a long-standing commitment to protecting the land, the environment, and the health and well being of present and future generations.
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