Catalyst Paper (Richmond, B.C., Canada) this week announced that the Halalt First Nation has discontinued two lawsuits previously commenced against Catalyst. 

"We are pleased Halalt has chosen to discontinue its participation in the litigation against Catalyst," said Joe Nemeth, president and CEO. "Catalyst is focused on improving its long-term relationship with the Halalt First Nation and working collaboratively to safeguard the environment along with developing mutually beneficial economic opportunities."

The first claim was filed by Halalt against Catalyst, alleging that Catalyst has illegally trespassed on, and caused damages to, Halalt's asserted territories and fisheries resources through the operation of Catalyst's Crofton Mill since 1957. The Notice of Discontinuance filed by Halalt in this lawsuit brings this piece of litigation to an end.

The second claim was filed jointly by Halalt, Sunvault Energy Inc., and Aboriginal Power Corp., alleging that Catalyst disclosed certain confidential information pertaining to a proposed anaerobic digester facility in breach of a confidentiality agreement. The Notice of Discontinuance filed by Halalt in this lawsuit removes Halalt as a plaintiff. Sunvault Energy Inc. and Aboriginal Power Corp. remain as plaintiffs in the lawsuit. Catalyst denies the remaining allegations contained in this claim.