Zhashagi’s approach to independent reviews is not limited to regulatory requirements but intended to ensure that Indigenous communities have been provided sufficient information to conduct meaningful consultation. Therefore, Zhashagi’s objectives for independent reviews are to:

• • Examine the proposed project holistically considering implications throughout the life of project, and into final closure;
  • Where appropriate, request additional information that will be required by Indigenous communities to support a better understanding of the potential impacts to their lands and members;
  • Identify potential effects of the Project on the natural environment and Indigenous values (e.g. wildlife, fish, trapping, country foods, and other uses of the land etc.) that may not necessarily have been evaluated through typical Western standards, standard engineering practices or protected by regulatory requirements;
  • Identify possible/perceived gaps, inconsistencies, and environmental management challenges that would benefit from being addressed prior to filing of the closure plan and to ensure long term, operational commitments are captured;
  • Provide the proponent with early feedback that may be relevant to streamline future planning, permit applications, and consultation efforts; and
  • To provide a professional opinion to proponents on what Indigenous communities may request in terms of their participation and contributions to the project.

Following the review, a “walkthrough” session is offered to be held in the community to present a summary of the information reviewed and Zhashagi’s findings. Community participants are given the opportunity to ask further questions and share their thoughts on the review findings during the walkthrough session and in the week following the session.”