The Jesuits in English Canada and Recycling Specialties Incorporated (RSI) have reached a conditional agreement concerning the proposed recycling facility site at 1001 Franke Kindred Road, Mayor Gordon McKay has announced.

"The Jesuits in English Canada have a historical presence in the area and were concerned about the proposed location of a recycling facility. RSI wanted to bring new jobs to our area while being responsive to the broader concerns of the community.

"The arrangement is a welcome solution that satisfies the interests of both parties and the municipality," McKay said.

"During the negotiation period the Town of Midland played a supportive role. The town will now become more involved as RSI evaluates a new site and the Jesuits in English Canada consider a more substantive relationship with the municipality.

"I am very pleased that the Jesuit Fathers and RSI were able to work together to come up with a solution that is in everyone's best interests. We are looking forward to working with both parties in the days ahead." said McKay.

A statement issued by the Jesuits in English Canada said they will buy the property at 1001 Franke Kindred Road from one of the related companies of Recycling Specialties Inc., who have agreed to sell it. The agreement is contingent on Recycling Specialties Inc. finding a satisfactory alternate site, as well as securing the necessary approvals, by 2014. The property will remain undisturbed while RSI seeks an alternate site.

If the conditions are satisfied by this time, the Jesuits intend to revitalize the property on Franke Kindred Road, and ensure it will serve as a green buffer to protect the integrity of the Martyrs' Shrine and Sainte-Marie. The two sites attract over 180,000 visitors annually.

"I want to complement the Jesuits in English Canada and Recycling Specialties Inc. for working together to resolve a challenging situation" said Mayor of Midland, Gord McKay. "It provides a solution that will work for all parties."

Jan Gray, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks, commented: "The strong support and leadership of the Jesuits to find a solution to ensure our visitors will continue to have a peaceful experience at Sainte-Marie is greatly appreciated."

"We are really grateful to the residents of Midland and surrounding areas, as well as supporters of Sainte-Marie and the Martyrs' Shrine around the province, the country, and the world," continued Father Peter Bisson. "It was the incredible outpouring of support that led to this agreement being reached, and - we hope - to this land being protected forever. We are also very appreciative of the efforts by Recycling Specialties Inc. and the Town of Midland which allowed us to reach this understanding - a key step in protecting these amazing sites."