December 2011 Edition

The federal government is bringing in legislation to make hundreds of First Nations across Canada release the salaries of their chiefs and band councillors.

The Winnipeg Free Press said in a report out of Ottawa that Aboriginal Affairs Minister John Duncan will speak to the details of the bill at a news conference November 23rd in Saskatoon.

The legislation brings back to life a bill from a Saskatchewan Tory backbencher that died when the election was called last March.

Kelly Block’s bill required First Nations to include details of chief and councillors salaries and reimbursements for expenses in annual audited financial statements.

If the information isn’t made public by the end of November each year, the minister would have legal authority to make it public.

Duncan’s office would not comment on the legislation until after it is introduced.

Block said she was introducing her legislation because she had heard from too many Canadians who could not get information about their band’s finances.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper pledged during the election to reintroduce Block’s bill as a government bill and it’s expected to be quite similar and have the same objectives as Block’s legislation.

Colin Craig, prairie director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, said the bill is a welcome change.

“We’ve been pushing hard on this issue for two years so it’s good to see the government is following through,” said Craig.

Last fall, the Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) released a report detailing salaries of hundreds of chiefs and band councillors from across Canada alleging too many of them make more than they should.

The report found 600 chiefs and band councillors earned more than $100,000 in 2008-09 and 50 took home the tax-free equivalent of more than the prime minister’s salary of about $315,000.

First Nations leaders criticized the CTF for the report and said it was misleading because some of the amounts included costs such as travel expenses and per diems.

The AFN said actual salaries showed no chiefs earned more than the prime minister and only 21 leaders earned more than their provincial premiers.

AFN National Chief insists on commitment to transformative change

In response to the November 23rd introduction of legislation that would require First Nation Chiefs and councilors to make public their salaries and expenses, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo expressed the urgent need to move forward on First Nation plans and priorities that will achieve real change for First Nation governments, citizens and communities.

“First Nations support and are committed to the principles of accountability and transparency to our citizens. We do not support unilateralism that further entrenches us in a system that doesn’t work for our people or Canada,” said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo. “First Nations want to work together with government to address the real issues and achieve real change based on need. We must transform the relationship to one that is based on respect for First Nation rights, jurisdiction and Treaties and jointly develop an approach to achieving real accountability and efficiency of all governments. This is the way forward to strengthen First Nations’ capacity to take greater responsibility and control over the decisions that impact the lives of our citizens and the future of our communities.

Last December, AFN Chiefs-in-Assembly unanimously passed a resolution reaffirming their commitment to maintaining transparent and accountable decision-making structures in their communities. The resolution also confirmed that the primary reporting and accountability relationship is to their citizens, and committed to designing mechanisms to ensure open and informed involvement in community decision-making.

First Nation plans to transform the relationship and achieve real change are clearly set out in the AFN federal pre-budget submission and a recent presentation to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance.

Building on its pre-budget submission, AFN released a discussion paper November 23rd called “Delivering Fairness, Stability and Results: Transforming Fiscal and Accountability relationships between First Nation Governments and the Government of Canada” which outlines specific principles required to transform the fiscal relationship reflecting First Nation led initiatives.

“First Nations are advancing plans based on our rights and the clear principles of accountability, transparency and achieving mutual standards,” said National Chief Atleo. “Our people are saying that action is needed now and that the government must heed the advice of the former Auditor General Sheila Fraser to fundamentally transform the current systemic barriers to progress.”

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.

AFN honours the sacrifice and contributions of First Nation Veterans on Remembrance Day

Assembly of First Nations National Chief ShawnA-in-chut Atleo met with Yukon First Nation leaders and veterans in November and had the opportunity to personally honour the many contributions of World War II First Nation veterans including, Alex Van Bibber, a member of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations.

“We honour all First Nation veterans and their incredible contributions. I am always deeply appreciative and inspired by our veterans. Alex is one of our most decorated World War II First Nation veterans,” National Chief Atleo stated. “He served Canada with dignity and passion and has been a role model looked upon for many years in the Yukon as a true keeper of the land. He symbolizes our many veterans and the tremendous contributions they have made and continue to make to their First Nations and to all of Canada.”

All First Nations leaders stand with our veterans in seeking full recognition of their roles in serving this country. We advocate strongly for their full inclusion in the benefits owed to them equally as with all veterans. First Nation veterans embody the fulfillment of our promises in Treaty relations – a solemn commitment to alliance and mutual respect. Our veterans honour our Treaty responsibilities and we seek this same recognition and respect from Canada.”

Alex Van Bibber was born on the banks of the Pelly River in April of 1916 and is a citizen of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations. He has taught several generations to love and respect the land. A trapper, outfitter, teacher, guide and leader, his life work has influenced many. Alex served as a member of the Canadian Rangers since its inception in 1947 and he received the Order of Canada in 1992 in recognition of his dedication to the community and a lifetime of outstanding achievements. Alex is an active and valued participant in the Assembly of First Nations’ veteran’s activities.

The Assembly of First Nations proudly supports all First Nation veterans and their families as First Nations from coast-to-coast-to coast gather in ceremony to pay their humble respects to the remarkable dedication of veterans of the past and of today.

Anishinabek salute warriors

Anishinabek paid tribute on Remembrance Day to generations of warriors who have put their lives at risk in defence of their First Nations and Canada.

“Going back to great leaders like Pontiac, the Anishinabek can point to a proud heritage of warriors who protected our citizens from their enemies,” said Glen Hare, Deputy Grand Chief of the Anishinabek Nation.

“The last traditional Chief at Alderville-- John Shawundais (Sunday) -- was one of many warriors who joined Tecumseh’s confederacy to help the British successfully fend off American invaders in the War of 1812. In World War I, Francis Pegahmagabow of Wasauksing won the Military Medal three times for battlefield heroism - no other enlisted Canadian soldier has ever done that.”

Hare said each of the 39 member communities of the Anishinabek Nation can name citizens who have honoured the 1764 Treaty of Niagara and fought for the Crown in international conflicts in which Canada has been involved.

“The list goes on – Clifford George from Stoney Point and Daisia Nebenionquit from Atikameksheng Anishnawbek served with distinction in World War II. Right now Anishinabek are defending their homelands in Canadian uniforms around the world.

“We also remember those left behind. Beatrice Faubert Whiteduck of Nipissing First Nation is a perennial Silver Cross Mother. At the age of 31 she was left widowed to raise nine children when her husband Lawrence was killed in action August 8, 1944 in France.

“There are many others we could name from all across Anishinabek territory.

The Deputy Grand Council Chief said it is appropriate to remember these brave men and women on the first anniversary of Canada’s endorsement of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

“We call on Canada to respect our rights and to live up to the promises made to us by the Crown at Niagara in 1764. We were told we would be treated on a nation-to-nation basis, that our lands would be inviolable, and that we would never be poor.

“We are still waiting for Canada to keep its word.”

The Anishinabek Nation established the Union of Ontario Indians as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a political advocate for 39 member communities across Ontario, representing approximately 55,000 people.

The Union of Ontario Indians is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact.

Aboriginal business group and Government of Canada working together to promote Aboriginal entrepreneurship

The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, along with the Honourable Peter Penashue, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada, and Chris Warkentin, Member of Parliament for Peace River, Alberta, participated in the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business’ Aboriginal Entrepreneurs Conference and Tradeshow held in Ottawa October 24 and 25, 2011.

The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development.

“Strengthening Aboriginal entrepreneurship is a key priority of our Government’s Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development”, said Minister Duncan. “2011 was declared ‘Year of the Entrepreneur’ by Prime Minister Stephen Harper and it certainly has been a year filled with progress. Our Government is proud to partner with the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (http://www.ccab.com/) and we look forward to working with them, and other partners, to ensure the continued prosperity of Aboriginal businesses.”

Clint Davis, CEO of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business.

The Government of Canada and its partners announced investments towards three projects and one investment fund that will help Aboriginal entrepreneurs to expand and grow their businesses and create jobs across the country.

“Aboriginal business is growing at a significant rate, despite recent downturns in the economy. We were pleased to host this conference that identified major opportunities for Aboriginal business across the country, and we had an opportunity to review the necessary tools for success”, said Clint Davis, CEO of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business.

A contribution of $3,112,000 is going toward funding for the Métis Entrepreneurship Fund (MEF), which was established to respond to a demand for mid-market loan financing for Métis entrepreneurs and will serve as a financial tool to generate opportunities for Métis businesses in the Prairies. The MEF is managed by three Métis capital corporations: the Apeetogosan Métis Development Inc. (http://apeetogosan.com/) (Alberta), SaskMétis Economic Development Corporation (http://www.smedco.ca/) (Saskatchewan) and the Louis Riel Capital Corporation (http://www.lrcc.mb.ca/) (Manitoba).

Kitsaki Mining Limited Partnership (http://www.kitsaki.com/index.html) received an investment of $1,236,000 to assist the Lac La Ronge Indian Band’s Kitsaki Mining Limited Partnership to participate in mining activities in Lac La Ronge, Saskatchewan. This project is expected to provide significant economic benefits to Lac La Ronge Indian Band and the surrounding communities, including the creation of many jobs, as well as skills training opportunities for First Nation people.

The Government of Canada is also funding a pilot project that will support Inuit women in business. The Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada (http://www.pauktuutit.ca/) are receiving $348,633 to lead a project entitled, Inuit Women in Business Network. The funding will establish the Network, create a toolkit of resources supporting Aboriginal entrepreneurship in the North, financial literacy and business development, an information sharing web portal, a peer/mentorship program model, a national roundtable, and an in-depth final report and evaluation.

The Cooperative d’Ivujivik is receiving $200,000 for the construction of a new 16 room hotel for tourists, business people and officials travelling and working in the Nunavik region of Quebec. The new hotel will create full and part-time employment opportunities in the Inuit community of Ivujivik.

The Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development represents a fundamental change to how the federal government supports Aboriginal economic development. The Framework makes use of a modern and comprehensive approach to Aboriginal economic development that is opportunity-driven and places emphasis on building strategic partnerships with Aboriginal groups, the private sector, and the provinces and territories.

Among other things, the federal government is working to improve access to capital, encourage increased Aboriginal participation in procurement activity and support greater access to business expertise and services. Increasing Aboriginal participation in the economy and strengthening entrepreneurship creates jobs and improves the well-being and quality of life for Aboriginal people, and all of Canada.

AFN congratulates Viola Robinson and Shirley Bear on receiving the Order of Canada

Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo has issued the following statement

congratulating Viola Robinson and Shirley Bear on their appointments as an Officer of the Order of Canada and a Member of the Order of Canada respectively:

“Viola Robinson is a tireless advocate for the Mi’kmaq people of Nova Scotia and the advancement of Aboriginal and Treaty rights in Canada. Throughout her career she has been at the forefront of many groundbreaking initiatives, including the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples and development of the Made-in-Nova Scotia Process, and will be remembered in history for her role in changing the political landscape for First Nations in Canada. She is a role model and an inspiring example of the success that can be achieved when one sets their sights on bringing about positive change.

“Shirley Bear is a remarkable artist, cultural activist and proud member of the Tobique First Nation. Indigenous artists play an integral role in shaping our communities and societies. Through her work, Shirley has commemorated important political and critical developments during her lifetime that will serve to inspire and educate future generations.

“On behalf of the Assembly of First Nations, we congratulate Viola and Shirley on these prestigious awards.”

Viola Robinson is the Senior Mi’kmaq Advisor for the Kwilmu’kw Maw-klusuaqn, Mi’kmaq Rights Initiative.She was the founder of the Native Council of Nova Scotia and served as president of the Native Council of Canada. She was one of seven commissioners with the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples. Ms. Robinson received the Order of Nova Scotia in 2009.

Shirley Bear is a multimedia artist, writer, traditional First Nation herbalist and Elder. The 2002 recipient of the New Brunswick Arts Board’s Excellence in the Arts Award, she studied art in New Brunswick, New Hampshire, Boston, and Vancouver. She has worked extensively as a lecturer, performer, activist and curator including serving as Cultural Advisor to the British Columbia Institute of Technology, First Nations Education Advisor at Emily Carr Institute of Art & Design, and Resident Elder for First Nations House of Learning at UBC. She has exhibited internationally and her work has been purchased by collections across Canada. Her writing has been included in several anthologies.

Established in 1967, the Order of Canada recognizes a lifetime of outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. The Order recognizes people in all sectors of Canadian society.

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter at @AFN_Updates, @AFN_Comms and @NCAtleo.

B.C. Aboriginals make human rights claims against Canada in Washington, D.C.

By Dirk Meissner

Southern Vancouver Island Aboriginals donned traditional vests and headdresses at an international hearing in Washington, D.C. October 28th as they accused Canada of long-standing human rights abuses.

History was at the forefront of the appearance of the Duncan, B.C., area’s Hul’qumi’num Treaty Group before the Organization of American States, which counts 35 independent states in the Americas, including Canada, as its members.

The Hul’qumi’num human rights dispute with Canada dates back to 1884 when the federal government gave more than 200,000 hectares of what they considered their land to industrialist James Dunsmuir to build the Esquimalt and Nanaimo Railway through Vancouver Island.

The claim isn’t new, ancestors of the group once took their land concerns to Buckingham Palace, where in 1906 British newspapers reported on the extraordinary meeting between the Aboriginals and King Edward.

Hul’qumi’num spokesman Robert Williams told the OAS hearing that the federal government expropriated, without compensation, almost two-thirds of their territory, and much of that land now is controlled by three large forest companies who are clearcutting timber and selling land to real estate developers.

Williams said the Aboriginals want Canada to negotiate boundaries and title to the lands with them or offer some compensation for their cultural, social and territorial losses.

One Hul’qumi’num Elder told the hearing he is forced to sneak onto what now is considered private property to access areas for medicinal plants and a sacred bathing spot.

“If we go there we would be trespassing,” he said. “We live in fear of signs, private property, trespassing, trespassers will be prosecuted.”

Canada’s lawyer Jane Arbour, who said she was representing Canada and British Columbia, said the petition by the Hul’qumi’num raises issues of great importance to Canada, but she cautioned about what she called “misinformation in these briefs.”

“Canada does not agree with these allegations,” she said. “Canada takes issue to all aspects of the petition.”

There are about 200 First Nations in British Columbia and currently 100 per cent of the province’s land mass is the subject of a land-claim by a B.C. First Nation.

The Hul’qumi’num, which is currently in treaty negotiations with the federal and B.C. government’s, has 18 other First Nations claiming part or all of their claimed territory, the hearing was told.

Arbour said Canada and B.C. are committed to the current modern-day treaty negotiation process, which has yielded two treaties in the past 20 years.

She said the Hul’qumi’num’s land claims have never been proven by a court and suggested that they may want to head to court.

University of Victoria anthropologist Prof. Brian Thom attended the hearing as an observer and said the action represented the first time a Canadian First Nation appeared before the OAS.

He said he believes it signalled the moment where B.C. First Nations may turn away from the treaty negotiation process and move towards settling their issues as human rights abuses.

“They’re reframing the whole discourse today,” said Thom. “The decisions of this commission could be crucial in reframing the next generation of Aboriginal leadership. We’ve just had 20 years of that process and the current generation, I think, is tired of that discussion.

“The next generation may be thinking about human rights for a good long time.”

The OAS is expected to announce its decision in March.

Catholic organizations congratulate former National Chief Phil Fontaine on Distinguished Canadian Leadership Award

On November 3rd, the group of Catholic organizations involved in Canada’s Indian Residential Schools (IRS) system congratulated Phil Fontaine, former Assembly of First Nations National Chief, on recently being named a 2011 recipient of the University of Ottawa’s Distinguished Canadian Leadership Award.

Archbishop Gérard Pettipas, Chair of the Corporation of Catholic Entities Party to the Indian Residential Schools Settlement (CCEPIRSS), said “We have worked with Phil Fontaine over many years and have great respect for his personal commitment to First Nation issues, including his dedication to healing the wounds left by Canada’s Indian Residential Schools. We can think of few other people who embody the values of this prestigious award.”

The award recognizes service to the community at large, impact on the community, innovative approaches to national concerns, persistent effort, and contributions to the creation of a strong sense of Canadian community.

“Former National Chief Fontaine has sought to foster dialogue on healing and reconciliation with various religious communities that worked within the Indian Residential Schools system,” said Archbishop Pettipas. “We deeply appreciate his recognition that many priests, brothers and sisters gave generously of themselves in a flawed system in the sincere belief their contributions were in the best interest of IRS students, but have nevertheless been subject to unjust blanket condemnations.”

“His leadership and forthright approach were demonstrated yet again last week as a participant in the IRS Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Atlantic national event in Halifax,” continued Archbishop Pettipas. “We are proud to have the opportunity to continue working with him to ensure a healthier and more respectful future for Canada’s First Nations.”

CCEPIRSS was created in 2006, to oversee the undertakings of the group of 54 Catholic dioceses and religious congregations under the IRS settlement agreement.

Chronically flooded MB reserve must be moved permanently

By Chinta Puxley

It’s going to cost millions and could take years but Ottawa’s special ministerial flood liaison says a chronically flooded Native reserve in Manitoba must be permanently moved to higher ground.

Sid Dutchak was appointed by the minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development in June to examine the impact of flooding on a cluster of Manitoba’s First Nations north of Lake Manitoba.

He said it’s going to take time to relocate Lake St. Martin reserve – the hardest hit – but there is no point in rebuilding some parts of the community.

Flooding has destroyed homes and since the water is still high, he said many others are threatened by ice this winter.

“I don’t see any choice,” Dutchak said in an interview. “Some of that land always was low land and this year it’s become more of a problem. It will never come back to being adequate.”

Hundreds of residents of the northern reserve were evacuated from their homes in the spring and have been unable to return since. They are living scattered about Winnipeg in hotels while their children are also dispersed – some attending school in two church basements while others are enrolled in various schools around the city.

Aboriginal leaders – including Shawn Atleo, national chief of the Assembly of First Nations – have said the constant turmoil is taking its toll. Students have missed out on school and are being exposed to drugs, alcohol and gangs, they say. Residents are disconnected from each other and their traditional way of life.

Chiefs, the province and Ottawa have been looking into a temporary home closer to the reserve while studying possible sites where the community could relocate permanently.

Many complain things are not being done fast enough but Dutchak said finding a new home for a reserve takes time.

“It’s very expensive,” he said. “It’s a lot of money when you relocate people and you need to build infrastructure and housing. It’s a very expensive undertaking so you try to minimize the mistakes.”

But Manitoba’s Aboriginal Affairs Minister Eric Robinson is getting impatient.

Robinson said he has never met Dutchak or had a phone call from him, despite the fact that Robinson’s office has been working with the Lake St. Martin First Nation since the spring. The relocation of the chronically flooded reserve is long overdue, Robinson said.

“It should have happened back in 1961,” he said. “This is something that has been long needed. The longer we’ve waited . . . the issue has dragged on and it’s worsened. Who is suffering? It’s the people from Lake St. Martin.”

In the meantime, Robinson said the province is focusing on establishing a temporary home for evacuees at a vacant radar base near the reserve. The province has bought the land and is now looking at purchasing enough pre-fabricated homes to accommodate homeless residents.

“We’re committed to ensuring that the people of Lake St. Martin no longer have to suffer.”

Lake St. Martin Chief Adrian Sinclair could not be reached for comment.

Spring flooding was particularly damaging and prolonged this year in Manitoba. For weeks well into summer, the province struggled to contain the swollen Assiniboine River by operating the Portage Diversion – a channel that funnels water from the river into Lake Manitoba – well over its design capacity.

That pushed water levels up on the two lakes, cutting off roads and damaging homes and cottages. The province is currently constructing a $100-million, eight-kilometre-long channel to siphon water from Lake Manitoba and adjoining Lake St. Martin into Lake Winnipeg.

Dikes are also being elevated around Lake St. Martin in an attempt to prevent damage from frazzle ice this winter.

Labrador Innu Nation inks compensation deal paving way for Muskrat Falls project

An agreement signed November 18th that provides compensation and more hunting grounds will benefit generations of Aboriginals, leaders of the Labrador Innu Nation say.

The federal and provincial governments and representatives from the Innu Nation were in the northern Labrador reserve of Natuashish for a signing ceremony of three documents that collectively have become known as the New Dawn agreement.

The agreement offers Innu hunting rights within 34,000 square kilometres of land, plus $2 million annually in compensation for flooding caused by the construction of the Churchill Falls hydroelectric dam 40 years ago.

It also marks the culmination of nearly two decades of negotiations regarding Innu land claims establishes economic areas assuring Innu participation in resources projects.

“These agreements will change the course of Innu history,” said Mushuau Innu deputy Chief Simon Pokue in a statement. “The benefits from these agreements will be felt in our communities for literally hundreds of years.”

Peter Penashue, the federal intergovernmental affairs minister, said the Innu have been waiting for this moment for a long time.

“I am here today to congratulate all the leaders in the communities who, throughout the years, have believed in this accomplishment,” said Penashue in a release.

Nick McGrath, the province’s Aboriginal affairs minister, said the settlement of land claims brings clarity to management of resources and a more stable environment for Labrador’s economic development.

The deal also represents a major step towards the development of the proposed $6.2-billion Muskrat Falls hydroelectric power project, which could export 824 megawatts of energy to Newfoundland, Nova Scotia and beyond if it proceeds.

Innu leaders signed the 600-page agreement in principle in February 2010 and received overwhelming support during a ratification vote by Innu members in late June of this year.

There are about 2,400 Innu in Labrador living in Sheshatshiu and Natuashish.

National Chief calls for respect for First Nations rights as key to economic progress

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo expressed concern November 8th about plans and Northern Ontario without respecting the rights and interests of First Nations.

“As we near the first anniversary of Canada’s endorsement of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, we must achieve respectful, practical approaches that will lead to mutually-beneficial economic development,” said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo. “As recently pointed out by the UN Special Rapporteur James Anaya, resource development projects are one of the most significant sources of abuse of Indigenous rights worldwide and run counter to the self determination of Indigenous peoples. We must be committed to turning this around - it is an imperative of our rights and necessary to unleash Canada’s full economic potential.”

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo

National Chief Atleo’s comments come after two recent decisions by CEAA.

On November 7th CEAA announced that the controversial proposed “New Prosperity Mine” would undergo an environmental review despite national opposition from First Nations. The project had previously been rejected on environmental grounds from then Minister Jim Prentice.

“It is hard to understand why CEAA did not reject the so-called New Prosperity Mine proposal which is essentially one of the options in the first proposal that CEAA has already rejected, said AFN BC Regional Chief Jody Wilson-Raybould. “The credibility of the Canadian Environmental Assessment process is at stake. We need to move forward to create a strong but sustainable economic future for everyone in British Columbia rather than create barriers and waste time and energy on unnecessary processes. There can only be one legitimate outcome of the second review and that is rejection.”

CEAA’s approval of an environmental assessment for the proposed “New Prosperity Mine” comes shortly after a controversial decision to allow a limited review of the Cliffs Chromite Project in Ontario.

In late October, CEAA turned down requests by Matawa First Nations Chiefs for a Joint Review Panel Environmental Assessment of a proposed chromite mine in the Ring of Fire, an area in the James Bay lowlands of Ontario. Matawa Chiefs were in Ottawa yesterday announcing their launch of a judicial review which they hope will overturn this decision.

National Chief Atleo and Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse stood with Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Stan Beardy and Matawa Chiefs Sonny Gagnon from Aroland First Nation, Chief Peter Moonias of Neskantaga First Nation and Chief Roger Oshkineegish of Nibinimik First Nation as they continued calls for their full engagement.

“First Nations are not opposed to development, but not at any cost,” said National Chief Atleo. “We want to see environmentally sound community development that respects our rights, reflects our relationship to our land, our resources, and our traditions. The international community recognizes that the path towards economic progress for everyone rests on the principles of respect, transparency, and consent. If Canada wants to promote new mining ventures, it must allow the environmental review process to do what it was designed to do by listening to the people who will inherit the costs and benefits of projects in their communities.”

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN and National Chief Atleo on Twitter @AFN_Updates, @AFN_Comms and @NCAtleo.

Harper government introduces Eeyou Marine Region Land Claims Agreement Act

The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, introduced the Eeyou Marine Region Land Claims Agreement Act in the House of Commons on November 4th. This legislation would bring into effect the Eeyou Marine Region Land Claims Agreement signed on July 7, 2010 by the Government of Canada, the Government of Nunavut and the Grand Council of the Crees.

“The introduction of this legislation demonstrates the important work that can be done when partners work together toward a common goal,” stated Minister Duncan. “I want to thank and congratulate all the people who worked so hard to help make this a reality, especially Grand Chief Matthew Coon Come and his team.”

“This Agreement is important to the Cree People because it secures recognition for the occupancy, use and ownership of islands in the offshore that they have used since time immemorial. Equally important are the administrative regimes created under the Agreement and related rights that give the Crees a large role in deciding future developments and in managing the area. I commend the Ministers who led the negotiations process and their teams,” said Matthew Coon Come, Grand Chief of the Grand Council of the Crees.

Canada formally accepted this land claim for negotiation in 2003 and negotiations began. In 2009, a Final Agreement was reached by the parties. In March 2010, a ratification vote was held by the Crees and an overwhelming 70.5 per cent of all eligible Cree voters endorsed the Agreement.

The Agreement covers an area of approximately 61,270 square kilometres off the Quebec shore in James Bay and south-eastern Hudson Bay. The islands in this area represent approximately 1,650 square kilometres of land mass, of which almost 1,050 square kilometres will be owned exclusively by the Crees. Ownership will include rights to the land and subsurface resources. Islands in the southern Hudson Bay, which cover an area of nearly 400 square kilometres, will be jointly owned with the Nunavik Inuit.

The Agreement will also provide the Crees with the opportunity to create jobs and wealth. For example, through the land, resources and financial benefits they receive from the Agreement, the Crees will be in a better position to undertake new business ventures and partnerships.

As new economic development initiatives get underway, jobs and other opportunities may be created from which the Crees and local residents in the region will benefit.

The Government of Canada will provide the Crees a capital transfer of approximately $67.5 million to be paid over a period of 10 years. A one-time implementation payment of approximately $5.7 million will also be provided to the Crees upon the coming into force of the Agreement.

Royal Assent of the proposed legislation by Parliament would be the final stage of ratification. The date of coming into force of the Agreement would then be determined by Government in consultation with the Crees.

With this passing of this legislation, the Agreement will provide for clarity and certainty over rights to ownership and the use of lands and resources that will foster a stable environment for future development and investment.

APTN named top Manitoba employer

APTN has once again been chosen as one of Manitoba’s Top Employers in an annual competition organized by Toronto-based Mediacorp Canada Inc. This designation recognizes Manitoba employers that offer exceptional places to work. This is the fourth straight year that APTN has received this designation.

The Winnipeg Free Press announced the 2012 winners on November 19th in a special supplement.

“Winning this award for the fourth year in a row confirms that we’re on the right track,” states APTN’s Chief Executive Officer Jean LaRose. “APTN places a very high value on its employees and is committed to creating a positive work place that enables them to contribute their talents and expand their skills.”

Mediacorp Canada looks at criteria such as physical workplace; atmosphere; benefits; vacation; time off; training and skills development; and community involvement. APTN is a top employer because it offers a progressive and forward-thinking place of employment in Manitoba, with its headquarters based in Winnipeg.

September 1, 2011, marked the 12-year anniversary of the launch of the first national Aboriginal television network in the world with programming by, for and about Aboriginal Peoples to share with all Canadians and viewers around the world. APTN is available in approximately 10 million Canadian households and commercial establishments with cable, direct-to-home satellite, telco-delivered and fixed wireless television service providers. The network launched its high definition channel APTN HD in the spring of 2008. APTN does not receive government funding for operations but generates revenue through subscriber fees, advertising sales and strategic partnerships. APTN broadcasts programming with 56% offered in English, 16% in French and 28% in Aboriginal languages. For program schedule visit www.aptn.ca.

Native bands in Ontario, Manitoba sue Ottawa over right to education

By Chinta Puxley

More than two dozen Aboriginal communities have filed a multimillion-dollar lawsuit accusing the federal government of violating a promise made more than 130 years ago.

Grand Chief Diane Kelly, who represents the 28 Anishinaabe bands in Manitoba and northern Ontario, says they were promised equal education and a school on every reserve when they signed Treaty 3 in 1873.

But, she says, Ottawa hasn’t upheld its part of the bargain.

Instead of a school on every reserve, many of Anishinaabe’s 15,000 children are often bused outside their communities, Kelly said November 23rd. When they do attend on-reserve schools, their communities get half the funding of public school students.

The Treaty 3 First Nations have tried to engage the federal government in negotiations but to no avail, she said.

“After 137 years, it’s now time that we have to stand up for our children,” she told a Winnipeg news conference. “We have too many children with such high potential that will never reach that potential.”

Chief Chuck McPherson of the Couchiching First Nation said kids in his community are bused to schools off the reserve. They are educated by others and are getting increasingly alienated from their own culture, McPherson said. Very few in the community speak their own language.

The reserve would like to have its own school, but even then the funding wouldn’t be on par with that for public school students, McPherson said.

“That itself is indicative of Canada’s policy of assimilation,” he said. “They don’t want us to educate our own.

They don’t make the resources available.”

Genevieve Guibert, spokeswoman for Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, said the department hasn’t formally been served legal notice and can’t comment on the claim.

The federal government is working to improve Aboriginal education, she said. A national panel on First Nations elementary and secondary education has just wrapped up its hearings.

“There is a general consensus that we must take immediate action to improve the educational outcomes of First Nation students,” Guibert said in an emailed statement.

“We are committed to working with First Nations on the changes needed to make meaningful progress on First Nations education and addressing the structural challenges impeding the delivery of education services on reserves.’’

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty said he would like to see the province take the lead in improving Aboriginal education – but Ottawa should still foot the bill. On the same day the lawsuit was filed in Ontario court, McGuinty’s minority Liberal government pledged to improve First Nations education in its throne speech.

“I just think we have a moral obligation to ensure that every child growing up in this province has all the opportunities they need to grow up strong and to become the very best they can be, and to realize all their potential,” McGuinty said following the speech.

“That’s not just a moral obligation. It’s a matter of enlightened self-interest when we want to take on emerging economies, when we want to succeed in a very competitive and sometimes turbulent global economy.”

Ottawa “isn’t good” at providing education, but the province has expertise in that area, McGuinty added. The province could take on a much larger role, such as developing a curriculum that speaks to Aboriginal needs and history.

“We only ask that they provide funding for kids living in Aboriginal communities to the same level that we fund other kids right around the province, and let us take this on,” McGuinty said.

“We need everybody at their best, and so I’m hoping we’ll be able to engage the feds in this.”

The lawsuit was filed in Ontario court.

Lawyer Robert Janes said the lawsuit isn’t about the cash. The First Nations are hoping the court action will prompt the federal government to negotiate and honour its treaty obligations.

“The Anishinaabe, at the time, really did want to enter into a world where they could benefit from the changes that were coming while maintaining their way of life. It hasn’t panned out that way,” Janes said.

“There were serious promises made. There were serious compromises made. The time has come for the government to honour those promises.”

TRC announces call for submissions to host National Research Centre

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) posted the Call for Submissions on November 22nd to host the National Research Centre on residential schools.

The establishment of the National Research Centre (NRC) will help to create the infrastructure that will house the permanent record of the residential school system in Canada.

The NRC will be a permanent resource to educate all Canadians on what happened within the residential schools.

It will be accessible to former students, their families and communities, the general public, researchers and educators.

The entity selected to host the NRC will be responsible for the preservation of one of Canada’s largest collections of oral history. The host will work with the Commission to preserve and archive millions of records including Survivor statements, documents, photos and other digital records imaged from Government and Church archives alongside materials created and received during the Commission’s work.

“When the work of the Commission is complete, we will ensure the whole world hears the truth about residential schools, so that generations to come – Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Canadians alike – will hold to the statement that resonates with all of us: ‘This must never happen again,’ says Justice Murray Sinclair, TRC Chair.

Through the Call for Submissions, the Commission will ensure that a National Memory is preserved and recognized for future generations of all Canadians.

The deadline for submissions is February 16, 2012.

For more information visit trc.ca. A copy of the Call for Submissions can be downloaded at trc.ca.

Inuit walrus hunter weeps recalling his tragic rescue from icy waters

By Bob Weber

A young Inuit hunter wept tears of gratitude and sorrow on October 31st as he recalled how he and his father were plucked from ice-choked waters in a dramatic rescue that resulted in the death of a search-and-rescue airman.

“I keep crying,” said Lester Aqqiaruq, who was resting at his home in the Arctic hamlet of Igloolik from where the two set out to go walrus-hunting.

“It was really awful,” said Aqqiaruq, sobbing through his halting English. “I feel so sorry for the rescue team, really bad.”

Sgt. Janick Gilbert, one of three search technicians who parachuted into the Arctic dark night October 27th, died during the rescue of Lester, 17, and his father David Aqqiaruq.

Lester said he and his father have hunted walrus in the area, about 90 minutes by boat from Igloolik many times. Both are experienced on the land, and both survived a rescue about two years ago from the same spot, the Fury and Hecla Strait between Baffin Island and the Melville Peninsula.

“Since when I was really young I’ve been out with my dad,’’ said Lester.

The two set out in good weather Wednesday morning and were soon successful, bringing down a walrus to take back to Igloolik to share with their family and the community.

But the weather deteriorated. The winds rose, temperatures fell and sea ice began to form.

“We tried to go home, but the ice was too thick and we couldn’t move. It was really a big surprise.”

When they didn’t return the evening of October 26th, searchers set out from Igloolik. The Aqqiaruqs had registered their destination and had an electronic signal device with them, but nobody could find them in the moonless, snowy Arctic dark.

All night and into the next day, Lester and his father, who were in an open aluminum boat, were tossed on stormy seas in blizzard conditions that included 70-kilometre-an-hour winds. Their camp stove, the only source of heat, soon ran out of fuel.

“I was scared,” said Lester. “I thought we were going to die.”

Eventually rescue planes spotted them and tried to drop a phone, but the two couldn’t get to it. On the morning of October 27th, crews dropped a survival boat, but even though the Aqqiaruqs were able to reach it, that didn’t end their ordeal.

“There was a little food but we were really cold and we couldn’t really eat it,” said Lester. “Our hands were cold. It was really hard to open (the packages).”

A stove in the survival boat got too wet to light. Their original boat slowly sank beneath the ice, taking all their gear with it.

By late afternoon, three search-and-rescue technicians parachuted down to try to save the father and son.

“I didn’t watch (the jump),” Lester said. “We were just there and waiting. It was all dark.
“I was really happy to see them. I said, ‘He saved my life.’”

About three hours later, a helicopter from Gander, Nfld., arrived, pinpointed the boat with its spotlight and hauled everyone to safety.

Lester didn’t know about Gilbert until he saw the unresponsive body of the airman on board the chopper.

“He wasn’t breathing at the helicopter.”

The military said Gilbert was “unsuccessful” parachuting into the water. The RCMP indicated he was found non-responsive in the water. Military officials said the death remains under investigation.

Later, at the hospital in Iqaluit, Lester learned his rescue had cost Gilbert’s life.

“If you could tell that rescue team, I feel sorry for them,” he requested.

Lester has some frostbite to his back and feet.

His father remained in hospital, but Lester said he’ll be fine.

The two have lost all their gear and Lester doesn’t know when they’ll return to the land. He may never return to those walrus-hunting grounds.

“I don’t know,” he said. “It’s too early.”

Elders right all along: scientists find huge caribou herd thought lost

By Bob Weber

A vast herd of northern caribou that scientists feared had vanished from the face of the Earth has been found, safe and sound – pretty much where Aboriginal Elders said it would be all along.

“The Beverly herd has not disappeared,” said John Nagy, lead author of a recently published study that has biologists across the North relieved.

Those scientists were shaken by a 2009 survey on the traditional calving grounds of the Beverly herd, which ranges over a huge swath of tundra from northern Saskatchewan to the Arctic coast. A herd that once numbered 276,000 animals seemed to have completely disappeared, the most dramatic and chilling example of a general decline in barren-ground caribou.

But Nagy’s research – and consultation with the communities that live with the animals – concludes differently.

His work springs from recent studies that question the long-held theory that caribou always return to the same calving ground. It holds that different herds use different grounds, and that’s what sets them apart.

“In the past, herds have been defined based on their calving grounds,” said Nagy. “However, it’s been shown that not all herds maintain fidelity to their calving grounds.”

Herds are now defined by which animals hang out together, not by where they give birth.

“It’s actually behaviour that structures these herds, not calving grounds.”

It turns out that the Beverly herd has simply shifted its calving grounds north from the central barrens near Baker Lake, Nunavut, to the coastal regions around Queen Maud Gulf. Nagy’s analysis of radio-tracking data showed caribou in the region once thought to belong to the Ahiak herd are, in fact, Beverly animals.

“It showed that there were two different subpopulations of caribou within that area that calved along the Queen Maud Gulf,” he said. “One is migratory, which I believe is the Beverly herd.”

The new theory hasn’t been entirely accepted, but it’s starting to convince wildlife regulators.

“We’re leaning that way,” said Ross Thompson of the Beverly-Qamanirjuaq Management Board.

Nunavut government biologist Mitch Campbell, one of Nagy’s co-authors, said early results from a survey of the rediscovered herd suggest Beverly numbers are lower than their peak, but remain healthy.

“There’s no indication that the herd is as large as it used to be,’’ he said. “We did find a healthy size caribou population there.

“We saw lots of calves. The animals seem to be in good condition.”

While scientists are excited, Aboriginal Elders are more likely to shrug.

Said Campbell: “When the initial alarm bells were ringing about the Beverly herd disappearing, right away we went in to talk to the communities and they said: ‘No, no, no. These caribou have

moved north and we’ve been told by our Elders that they do that.’”

Thompson heard _ the same.

“Many of the community people reported that Elders think this is nothing new. Caribou move.”
Next time, said Campbell, scientists should pay them a little more mind.

“We needed to engage the communities much sooner,” he said.

“The communities were the first to say this may not be an issue.”

Still, he defends the previous science.

Long-term information on caribou was sketchy, but numbers did seem to be declining at the same time as mining exploration and development was expanding. Nobody wanted to be the biologist on whose watch the caribou disappeared, said Campbell.

“We were all freaking out,” he said.

“We knew that there was development and things going on in that area. What would be the responsible thing to do – just keep going until we know, or to say: ‘Put the brakes on. We’ve got a problem?’

“That’s what we all did.”

Campbell and Thompson agree that the Beverly herd is likely to eventually return and that both calving grounds must be protected. But for now, it’s just good to know the caribou are still around, said Thompson.

“We haven’t screwed up and lost a major caribou herd after all.”