Created in partnership with the Helpdesk on Business & Human Rights
In October 2013, BHP Billiton Potash cemented its relationship with three First Nations in the region of Saskatchewan, Canada, by signing an Opportunities Agreement at the Jansen Project. Built through collaboration between the BHP Billiton Potash Community Engagement team, the Kawacatoose First Nation, Day Star First Nation and Muskowekwan First Nation, the agreement represents the first of its kind in the Potash industry. The central aim of the agreement is to ensure that the people of the three First Nations benefit from BHP Billiton’s presence at Jansen. Relevant terms address issues such as capacity building, the creation of mutually beneficial opportunities in employment, business and community development, as well as BHP Billiton’s assistance in the development of First Nation business capacity.
Since the signing of the Agreement, BHP Billiton Potash has provided mandatory Aboriginal Awareness training for all employees to ensure respect and understanding of indigenous populations and culture. Additionally, throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, BHP Billiton Potash provided CAD3 million to local indigenous business partners through a reduction in payment terms to seven days (from 30 days) for six months and an immediate payment of outstanding invoices.