Innu Mikun Airlines was awarded the fixed wing transportation contract for the construction phase of the Voisey’s Bay Project in October 2003.  Torngait Services Inc. (TSI) was one of the busiest contractors at the mine and concentrator construction site in 2003.  Lily Chambers is a lead hand camp attendant with Labrador Catering.

From the outset of this project, we have recognized the need to establish a procurement and contracting philosophy that balances our need to receive the best-value on the goods and services we purchase with our goal of maximizing opportunities for companies in Newfoundland and Labrador. We also knew there were long term benefits associated with having a strong base of local suppliers that could support the Company once operations begin.

In Labrador, we recognized the importance of working closely with Innu Nation and Labrador Inuit Association to see that Aboriginal businesses developed the business skills and technical expertise necessary to capitalize on opportunities presented by the construction and operations phases of the mine and concentrator project. We believe that having such a capability developed within Aboriginal businesses is a key ingredient in improving long-term sustainability of the communities in which those businesses operate.

To that end, we developed a process governing how suppliers are selected to provide goods and services that is aimed at maximizing the participation of businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador. Through this effort, more than 90 per cent of the contracts and procurement awards made in 2003 went to Newfoundland- and Labrador-based companies.

It is also worth noting that Aboriginal businesses were awarded contracts with a total value of $290 million or 60 per cent of total contracts awarded during the year. These results demonstrate VBNC’s commitment to Aboriginal people and all residents of the province.