New research: Sameby was affected more than expected by mining

The study is the first empirical research that has shed light on the effects of the mining industry on Sami reindeer husbandry.

The study was conducted in collaboration between the Stockholm Environment Institute, Muonio Sami Village and the Swedish Sami National Association, and shows extensive effects on the Sami village.

- It has had an impact on land use, wear and tear on the land and economic effects, says Rasmus Kløcker Larsen from the Stockholm Environment Institute, who is one of the authors behind the study.

No compensation

According to the study, there is no agreement concerning compensation or financial compensation between Muonio Sami village and Kaunis Iron, despite the fact that the mining operations have been going on for several years.

Rasmus Kløcker Larsen believes that this is an example of the mining company Kaunis Iron having complied with the legislation for the permits, but made the least possible for the Sami village.

The Sami village has never received financial compensation for the losses that mining has entailed.

Kaunis Iron: "Believes we have a very good dialogue"

But Klas Dagertun, CEO of Kaunis Iron, does not agree with the study's conclusions.

- I do not know that the mining industry has underestimated the consequences of mining, and we have entered into the business with the permit that Northland Resources had and in that permit it is regulated that we should consult with the Sami village about the negative consequences that the mining industry entails, with a view to contribute with harm reduction measures.

I think we have a very good dialogue with the Sami village.

The time with Northland affected

Muonio Sami village also says that they are satisfied with the negotiations and dialogue with Kaunis Iron.

According to the Sami village, the end result of the study depends on what happened during Northland Resources' time.

- We have had a good dialogue with Åsa Allan, Deputy CEO, at Kaunis Iron.

But there are many members who became a little sullen when it became as it was for Northland Resources, says Hans Holma, chairman of Muonio Sami village.