Taseko Mines may continue to have issues with First Nations members around its New Prosperity site near Williams Lake, but another potential mine in the North is moving ahead with full aboriginal support.

The company has signed an agreement with the Tsay Keh Dene supporting exploration and environmental study work at the Aley Niobium site north of Mackenzie.

Taseko Vice-President of Corporate Affairs Brian Battison says the agreement provides for contracting and other opportunities for Tsay Keh Dene businesses.

"They have a view to the future and they're I think oriented to business development and having economic development take place in the region and that always helps communities and helps people," said Battison.

Battison says the agreement also provides a framework to come to a future benefit agreement for an operating mine at the site.

Taseko is spending $20 million this summer on exploration work at the niobium deposit, a mineral used in the creation of high strength steel. 

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