IOC takes first concrete step to promote the hiring of Innu students

(Canada) Montreal, Sept-Îles, Labrador City, June 14, 2007 - An initial concrete step has been taken to promote the hiring of Innu students at the Iron Ore Company of Canada (IOC). Three (3) Innu students from the Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam community have begun their summer jobs, representing the initiation of a program to hire and integrate Innu employees at IOC.

"For a number of years, we have been working with the Innu Band Council to adapt various employment options to meet the specific needs of Innu communities, while respecting our hiring criteria. The hiring of these three students is just a first step. We hope that they will enjoy their experience at IOC and that we will attract even more Innu employees in the years ahead," confirms Caroline Hupé, IOC Human Resources Manager.

"The hiring of these first Innu students at IOC clearly demonstrates the willingness of both parties to collaborate in an effort to assist Innu youth, who are constantly seeking valuable work experience that allows them to pursue their studies," adds Chief Élie-Jacques Jourdain.

IOC is the largest manufacturer of iron ore pellets in Canada and its customer base covers North American, European and Asian steel producers. The Company operates a mine, concentrator and a pelletizing plant in Labrador City, Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as port facilities located in Sept-Îles, Quebec. It also operates a 418-kilometre railroad that links the mine to the port. IOC has approximately 1,900 employees and its major shareholder and operator is the international mining group Rio Tinto, which has activities in more than 40 countries throughout the world.