VAL-D'OR, QC, Nov. 8, 2016 /CNW/ - Orbit Garant Drilling Inc. (TSX: OGD) ("Orbit Garant" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the signing of an important partnership agreement (the "Partnership") with the Cree First Nation of Waswanipi (the "CFNW") in the province of Québec. Through the Partnership, Orbit Garant will provide mineral drilling training and job opportunities for the CFNW, access a skilled local work force and enhance its position as a preferred partner for drilling contracts on the CFNW traditional lands.

"We are delighted to be partnering with the Cree First Nation of Waswanipi. We look forward to supporting Waswanipi skilled labor development by sharing our industry-leading drilling expertise," said Eric Alexandre, President and CEO of Orbit Garant. "Mining and exploration activities are increasing in the Eeyou Istchee/James Bay territory and we believe the underexplored CFNW traditional lands will become an important mining region in the years ahead. We are confident this partnership will be mutually beneficial." 

Chief Marcel Happyjack of the Cree First Nation of Waswanipi stated: "Our community and Council have increased collaboration with the mineral exploration and mining industry in recent years. Orbit Garant's training facility, rigid environmental standards, and reporting obligations, combined with a strong industry track record were key selection factors. The signing of this agreement ensures that there will be meaningful opportunities and benefits for our community members without sacrificing sustainability."

About Cree First Nation of Waswanipi
As the southernmost Cree community, the Cree First Nation of Waswanipi is the gateway to Eeyou Istchee (Northern Quebec). While the development of the region has had an impact on our lands and community, we are committed to the sustainable management of our resources. Our hard work and dedication with the model forest networks is an example to what can be achieved through proper consultation and research on development with our respective traditional territory. We welcome visitors and guests with open arms ready to explore new cultures and to experience a unique and distinct way of life.

About Orbit Garant
Headquartered in Val-d'Or, Quebec, Orbit Garant is one of the largest Canadian-based mineral drilling companies, providing both underground and surface drilling services in Canada and internationally through its 226 drill rigs and more than 900 employees. Orbit Garant provides services to major, intermediate and junior mining companies, through each stage of mining exploration, development and production. The Company also provides geotechnical drilling services to mining or mineral exploration companies, engineering and environmental consultant firms, and government agencies. For more information, please visit the Company's website at www.orbitgarant.com.

Forward-looking information
This news release may contain forward-looking statements (within the meaning of applicable securities laws) relating to business of Orbit Garant Drilling Inc. (the "Company") and the environment in which it operates. Forward-looking statements are identified by words such as "believe", "anticipate", "expect", "intend", "plan", "will", "may" and other similar expressions. These statements are based on the Company's expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections. They are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to control or predict. These risks and uncertainties are discussed in the Company's regulatory filings available at www.sedar.com. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate as actual outcomes and results may differ materially from those expressed in these forward-looking statements. Readers, therefore, should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Further, a forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any such statement or to reflect new information or the occurrence of future events or circumstances.

SOURCE Orbit Garant Drilling Inc.