NEWS
News Briefs for Aug. 27 - Sept. 2/10
Barriere Lake First Nation miffed with INAC over Indian Act imposition
The community of Barriere Lake First Nation in Quebec is angry that Indian and Northern Affairs has imposed Indian Act election rules.
Spokesperson Tony Wawatie says the community has come together to oppose the imposition.
Acclaimed Chief Casey Ratt is also against the election and has written a letter to INAC to decline his nomination.
In the letter, Ratt states he continues to stand with the community against the imposition of Section 74 of the Indian Act.
He also says the community will see to its own well-being and not surrender their rights nor allow the Department of Indian Affairs do away with their customary selection process.
AND - the Assembly of First Nations has also weighed in on this issue.
National Chief Shawn Atleo has sent INAC emergency resolutions from AFN's Chiefs in Assembly in support of Barriere Lake.
Wet'suwet'en Nation hands out trespass notices
Enbridge representatives have been handed trespass notices by the Likhts'samsiyu of the Wet'suwet'en Nation.
The Enbridge Pipeline reps were providing an update to Smithers Town Council in B.C August 24th.
The reps discussed the recent Michigan pipeline spill and explained their plans regarding mitigation measures Enbridge will be employing for their proposed gateway pipeline project.
The Vancouver Media Coop reports - After the presentation - Likhts'samsiyu hereditary Chiefs Hagwilkaw and Toghestiy - explained their nation's opposition to the project along with Wet'suwet'en jurisdiction and authority over their unceded lands.
Toghestiy told the reps, there will be NO PIPELINES like Enbridge, the KSL Looping Project, Kinder Morgan, or Pembina pipelines going through their territories.
He said Enbridge ignored their last statement in December 2009 when the company was warned not to trespass onto Wet'suwet'en territory.
Toghestiy gave the representative eagle feathers for trespass - then told them if they were caught in the territory ever again, Enbridge would be dealt with according to Likhts'samsiyu Law.
He said that municipal, provincial and federal governments have no jurisdiction or authority over unceded lands.
New study reveals toxicity of oil sands industry
A new scientific study released earlier this week shows that air pollution from the oil sands industry combined with extensive watershed destruction has released a toxic brew of heavy metals into northern waterways.
And The Tyee reports these findings directly contradict government claims that the world's largest energy project doesn't contaminate the Athabasca River.
The study has been published in the National Academy of Sciences.
The study also found that heavy metal levels detected from snow runoff or downstream of industrial development exceeded Canadian and Alberta guidelines for protecting fish and aquatic life for seven out of 13 pollutants studied.
The Tyee also reports the new study will possibly re-ignite elevated cancer rates among First Nation living downstream of the mega-project in Fort Chipewyan.
A study last year by the Alberta Cancer Board confirmed cancer rates are 30 per cent higher than what they should be.
Mi'kmaq Consultation Agreement
The Mi'kmaq in Nova Scotia have signed what's being called a Landmark agreement on Aboriginal consultation.
Gerard Julian is the Chief of Paq'tnkek First Nation and Co-Chair of the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq Chiefs.
He says it means there are formal consultation processes under the new agreement. Not only that, Julian says the Mi'kmaq will be sitting at table with provincial and federal government and industry at the same time and hammer out agreements. Gerard says the consultation agreement took eight years to work out.
The Agreement was signed August 31st in Millbrook, Nova Scotia.
Brokenhead Ojibway Nation to co-manage Petroform sites
The Brokenhead Ojibway Nation will be working with the province of Manitoba to co-manage petroform sites in Whiteshell Provincial Park.
In a joint statement with the province, Brokenhead Chief Debra Chief said the community " wants to have a say in maintaining the sacred sites."
The Winnipeg Free reports Thursday's meeting was hastily arranged the week before in a bid to avoid a Labour Day weekend blockade of Whiteshell Provincial Park...
That was after the province rejected four parcels of land that the First Nation had chosen in the park as compensation under the Treaty Land Entitlement process.
The Treaty Land Entitlement process allows affected First Nations in the province to select crown land for being ripped off when reserves were established.
The community had selected four parcels of land in the park that were recognized as sacred sites containing petroforms.
The First Nations were concerned that the sites weren't maintained properly and there had been lost opportunities to explain cultural and spiritual significance of the sites.
Petroforms are boulder outlines or rock illustrations created by Indigneous People.
Need Aboriginal bone marrow donor
A couple are waiting for a bone marrow transplant for their five month old daughter.
But - they need bone marrow from an Aboriginal donor.
It's the only hope for baby Leona's survival. She was born with Cartilage-Hair Hypoplasia.
Canadian Blood Services says C-H-H is a rare genetic disorder characterized by short stature, fine, sparse hair, and immunodeficiency requiring bone marrow or stem cell transplantation.
The Ontario couple are being supported in their search for a donor by Canadian Blood Services' OneMatch Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Network.
Harold and Lindsey Bost have also become advocates of the need for more Aboriginal people to register in the program.
Dakota Dunes Resort expanding
Dakota Dunes resort in Saskatchewan is planning a $25 million expansion.
The golf resort and casino - owned by Whitecap Development Corporation of Whitecap Dakota First Nation is looking to add a $25 million hotel and spa.
According to the Star Phoenix, the idea has been in the works for quite some time, and only recently concept drawings have been released.
Darrel Balkwill, Chief Economic Officer with Whitecap Development says, "financing is almost finalized and construction will get underway by next spring on the expansion project."
The corporation is also looking at turning its spa into a destination location.
Balkwill says a market analysis will determine the size of the spa - and he says a destination spa is an unfulfilled market in the Saskatoon area...and could be a draw for residents.
Whitecap Dakota First Nation is located about 27 kilometres south of Saskatoon.
Ottawa has been ordered by the federal court to produce all documents relating to the Loan Loss Reserve Initiative.
The federal program has created controversy among Aboriginal Financial Institutions.
And the Tribal Wi-Chi-Way-Win Capital Corporation says the program threatens the viability of A-F-I's.
Gord McIntosh is the spokesperson for T-W-C-C. He says the feds only extend the program to mainstream financial institutions - even though the program is supposed stimulate lending to Aboriginal businesses. McIntosh also says AFI's knew nothing about the program once it rolled out. He says AFI's could eventually be pushed out of business.
Right now, negotiations are underway to receive documents relating to consultation - and a court date has not yet been set.
Archeological Digs
Red Rock First Nation Chief Pierre Peltier maintains his community was not consulted over the excavation of thousands of artifacts near Thunder Bay.
Peltier says as far as he knows - there hasn't been any consultation.
The Ministry of Transportation came across the artifacts during a highway expansion project and referred the items to a consulting firm.
Meanwhile, in an email -- the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario maintains it sent letters out in January with follow up emails.
Peltier says the community is keeping an eye on the dig.
MTO has declined to comment.
The artifacts - believed to be 6 to 9 thousand years old have been sent to Lakehead University.
Meanwhile, Lakehead University's Dr. Scott Hamilton is working with Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug on the discovery on a 46-hundred year old burial site, found at the mouth of the Bug River.
Staying in the field of Archeology - a Huron Wendat Nation spokesperson in Quebec has said the province must band the bulldozing of important native sites by developers without the consultation or notification of First Nations people.
The Toronto Star reports Luc Laines comments came after the archeological excavation of a small soybean field in Vaughn.
He says Native stakeholders found out about the dig by accident..
The dig is thought to be near the site of a historical and culturally important Huron village from the 13th and 14th centuries.
Flight Camp for First Nations youth
The third Flight Camp for First Nations Youth in northwestern Ontario has recently wrapped up.
Joe Viara, Dean of Aviation and Technology and Trade at Confederation College says the week-long camp introduces youth to the aviation industry.
The youth were from ages 13 to 15.
Viara says its hoped to recruit youth into the aviation field which includes aviation, mechanics and airport operations.
Far North Act
The Nishnawbe Aski Nation in northeastern Ontario have launched a campaign against Ontario's Far North Act.
Grand Chief Stan Beardy says the Act - or Bill 191 says First Nations must have a say in how and when our land will be developed - and Bill 191 takes away that right for our remote communities in the far north.
Bill 191 was introduced in the summer of 2009 to permanently protect at least half of Ontario far north.
The area covers about 225, 000 square kilometres.
Beardy also points out the provincial legislation doesn't recognize First Nation jurisdiction and authority over their homelands.
First Aboriginal in Australian Parliament
The Indigenous community Down Under is celebrating the first Aboriginal in Australian parliament.
Australia's Press TV reports --- 58-year-old Liberal Ken Wyatt has pledged an all-out battle against racism in the pacific nation.
Since his victory, Wyatt has been receiving racist hate mail.
About 500, 000 people in Australia's 22-million-strong population claim Aboriginal heritage.
Amnesty International has recently criticized the country for what it described as racially discriminatory policies.
Indigenous communities are considered the most marginalized in the country and they suffer higher rates of imprisonment, unemployment, illness and child mortality.
Wyatt said he also came from a life of poverty and through his own efforts, now stands in the national arena.
News briefs for Aug. 20 - 26/10
First Nations are joining the Paddle for Wild Salmon event
The paddle is going to take place along the Fraser River in late October, and is being organized by group - Salmon are Sacred.
June Quipp, a councillor with Cheam First Nation which is located in the upper Fraser Valley supports the Paddle and will be participating.
Quipp says they are trying to bring awareness to thediminishing number of sockeye salmon.
A big part of that problem, Quipp says is caused by wild salmon catching sea lice from farmed salmon - which made for a bad season last year. Quipp says her community is very dependent on salmon, and when there the numbers aren't there, the people suffer. She also says they are supporting the implementation of in-land fish farms.
Stewart Phillip - President of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs supports the paddle because he says its vital to protect and defend wild salmon stocks. He adds First Nations have long depended and continue to depend on the many runs of salmon of the rivers along the BC coast.
Clarence Pennier - President of the Sto'lo Tribal Council hopes the paddle will bring more awareness to the plight of wild salmon, and the paddle will demonstrate that there are lots of people who want to see wild salmon protected by switching to land-based fish farms.
A new justice project to begin on the east coast
It's called the health to wellness court and will be established in the community of Elsipogtog in New Brunswick.
The court will deal with crime and its underlying causes, such as mental health and substance abuse. Eligible clients will participate based on offence type and be required to take responsibility for their actions and comply with a treatment plan as ordered by the court.
Community Elders will help supervise the plan along with medical and mental health professionals.
The project was developed by community members along with the Department of Justice of Consumer Affairs, Department of Public Safety.
The 3-and-a-half year long project will be launched in October.
A High Arctic research station will be housed in the community of Cambridge Bay
CTV reports the community of about 1400 was chosen over Resolute Bay and Pond Inlet.
The facility will help researchers explore the cutting-edge of Arctic science and technology.
In a statement, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said, "By building the research station, we are advancing Canada's knowledge of the Arctic's resources and climate, while at the same time ensuring that Northern communities are prosperous, vibrant and secure.
It's not known when the facility will open.
The location of the facility was announced on Harper's annual tour of the arctic.
Cambridge Bay is located on the Northwest passage.
CTV also reports the area is of great interest to Canada and other nations that border the region - like the U.S, Russia and Denmark.....with all hoping to lay claim to various parts of the north.
CCAB to conduct new business survey
The Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business is gearing up to conduct a business survey.
Stephen Scotts is the Research analyst at CCAB. He says there are three reasons for the survey. Scotts says according the 2002 Census, there are over 40-thousand Aboriginal Entrepreneurs in the country, and he hopes more than 5-thousand of those will respond to the survey.
The survey kicks off September 13th and will wrap up October 10th - Survey results will be available on CCAB's website by next Spring.
OCAP upset over Caribou plan
The Ontario Coalition of Aboriginal People is feeling left out of a national consultation plan on caribou does not include non-status Indians and Metis in Ontario.
Brad Maggrah of OCAP is urging the federal Environment Jim Prentice to include the OCAP constituency in gathering traditional knowledge of the woodland caribou.
Maggrah says there's no excuse for Environment Canada to ignore non-status and Metis in Ontario....He adds, the Woodland Caribou are an important part of Ontario's northern forests and the species is ecologically, culturally and spiritually valued by Aboriginal people.
OPP take Cultural Awareness Training
Ontario Provincial Police in northern Ontario have been participating in cultural awareness training.
A local Kenora newspaper reports the sensitivity course is aimed at peeling the layers of the divide between police and First Nation community members. 24 officers from the Northwest region stretching from Manitoba to Thunder Bay attended the training which was held at the healing centre in Washagamis Bay.
The training program also looked in the impact residential schools had on First Nation communities.
The program also examined the background of area treaties and the history of those agreements to help build an understanding within the officer.
Feds kick in training funding for Pacific Trail Pipeline
The Pacific Trail Pipeline Project in BC has received a cash injection from the federal government to train about 600 Aboriginal workers.
The feds spending $9 million for the training program for the $1.2 billion pacific trail pipeline project.
The funding is part of the government's Economic Action Plan.
The pipeline is a 463 kilometre natural gas conduit to connect the proposed Kitimat LNG gas liquefaction plant to export terminal at Kitimat with the Spectra Energy gas transmission system at Summit Lake, north of Prince George.
AFN Chief Shawn Atleo challenges bureaucrats
At an annual meeting of the Institute of Public Administration of Canada, Assembly of First Nations Chief Shawn Atleo challenged bureaucrats to help move a public policy project....
He's calling to have that replace the Indian Act.
Atleo spoke at the meeting on August 24th before an audience of about 700 public servants who work for several different levels of government from municipal to federal.
Atleo also told the crowd that a first step to respecting First Nations would be the endorsement of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.
He also pressed for legislated funding to guarantee per-student funding of Aboriginal schools is equal to the rest of Canadian schools.
Cultural Entrepreneurship study about to get underway
In Quebec, researchers will be studying how cultural entrepreneurship can contribute to sustainable economic development in Aboriginal communities.
Elisabeth Kaine is the lead researcher from Universite du Quebec a Chicoutimi.
She says the five year research project will combine traditional knowledge with innovative ways to sell local art.
The research project has received about one million dollars to be spread over five years from the federal government.
Vote for Playground in Attawapiskat First Nation
Voting for Wesley Prankard's charitable idea to build a playground in Attawapiskat will be wrapping up August 31st.
The 12-year-old sent his idea for the Pepsi Refresh Everything Project when he learned the community didn't have a playground for the children.
Rosie Koostachin is a community member in Attawapiskat and she's all for Wesley's idea. He wants to build a $20,000 playground in Attawapiskat.
His idea can be found in the $25,000/neighbourhoods category on the Pepsi Refreshes Everything - Canada website.
Blackstone mini-series out next year
The filming of a First Nations mini-series is underway. The mini-series is called Blackstone and will premiere early next year.
Ron Scott is the Executive Producer and Director of Blackstone. He says the series is about rez politics. Scott says they're currently shooting a 'truancy' scene.
Watch for Blackstone on Showcase and APTN in early 2011.
News briefs for Aug. 13 - 19/10
Northern Saskatchewan Aboriginal communities interested in storing nuclear waste?
CBC has reported some Aboriginal communities in northern Saskatchewan are interested in the possibility of storing nuclear waste.
But, that's something the province hasn't made up its mind about yet.
Representatives from the Metis village of Pinehouse visited the Nuclear Waste Management Organization in Toronto last week.
Nuclear fuel is stored at reactor sites throughout the country - however, the organization is looking for a community to host a national storage facility.
Jamie Robinson, a spokesperson for the Nuclear Waste Management Organization told CBC that a few Metis towns and First Nations in Saskatchewan have heard presentations.
To be chosen, the Metis community or First Nation would have to pass a resolution expressing interest in the plans...
Robinson said some Aboriginal communities in Saskatchewan are in the first stages of being placed on the eligibility list, so it wouldn't be fair to say which ones have been spoken with.
Meanwhile, the provincial government doesn't step into the process until proposals are well into the regulatory process.
The organization has only one formal application to host a nuclear waste storage site - and that's from Northern Ontario.
AFN National Chief calling for Public Inquiry
Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn Atleo has added his voice calling for a Public Inquiry in the Pickton Case.
The National Chief said in a statement, "Many of the victims were First Nations and Aboriginal women and a full and comprehensive public inquiry, with the participation of Aboriginal People, is the only way to address the need for respect, justice and a better understanding of how we can prevent these tragedies in the future."
Other groups calling for the public inquiry include the families of the missing and murdered women, Vancouver Police, RCMP, Civil Liberties Association, the Union of BC Indian Chiefs and Amnesty International.
The Times Colonist has reported the BC government has delayed its decision for a public inquiry so Attorney General Mike De Jong can read the Vancouver Police and RCMP internal reviews of the case.
The government has also added that an inquiry would have to approved by cabinet- which does not meet again until next month.
An inquiry would attempt to zero in on the police failure to nab Pickton far sooner and prevent the deaths of more than a dozen women.
Robert Pickton was charged with murdering 26 women whose body parts were found in his farm in Port Coquitlam - and was convicted on six counts in late 2007.
Meanwhile, the Crown has stayed another 20 charges after the Supreme Court rejected Pickton's bid for a new trial.
Batchewana First Nation Repatriation Ceremony
In Ontario, Batchewana First Nation members have held a repatriation ceremony.
The remains of six ancestors more than 200 years old arrived in the community from the Smithsonian Institute in Washington.
Chief Dean Sayers says the remains were taken in the late 1800's. Sayers says the repatriation process actually began six years ago. He says community Elders have been a lot of help for the repatriation ceremony.
The remains were buried August 19th, in a site overlooking Lake Superior.
Meanwhile, in the Northern Lake Superior region, Anishinabek leadership are upset over not having been consulted over the thousands of artifacts that have been dug up and shipped to Lakehead University in Thunder Bay.
The artifacts are reported to be about 9,000 years old and is being called on the most significant archeological finds in Northern Ontario.
In a statement, Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee said, "It has become common knowledge in Canada, especially Ontario, that First Nations have a significant connection to history and the artifacts represent the history of the people and relationship to the land."
The Grand Council Chief said it doesn't matter that the artifacts may not belong to the specific indigenous people that reside in the Lake Superior region today, what's important -- that the area First Nations today have been consulted and engaged in the process.
Madahbee also points out the Ipperwash Inquiry report included recommendations on Heritage and Burial Sites.
Private Property ownship law kicking in soon for Nisga'a Nation
In just a few months from now, the Nisga'a will be embarking on new ground.
A new Nisga'a law will be taking effect in October, which will allow for private land ownership on parts of their territory.
The Postmedia News reports that many leaders are wary of the new law as the Nisga'a will become the first First Nations government in the country to allow individuals - native and non - to own homes, raise mortgages and buy and sell property on First Nations land.
Some First Nation leaders are worried that private ownership would diminish what little land base First Nation communities have left.
But the paper also reports - Manny Jules - Chief Commissioner of the First Nations Tax Commission has argued for years that property holds the key to unlocking prosperity, and solving the social problems that plague so many First Nation communities.
Environmental groups have joined with First Nations in Alberta, in a call to protect caribou herds.
The groups are urging the federal government to provide emergency protection for caribou herds in northeastern Alberta.
The environment groups filed a letter earlier this week calling for a halt to further industrial activity in caribou ranges until a recovery plan and habitat protection measures - mandated by species legislation is put in place.
The letter echoes a demand made by First Nations a month ago... when the Beaver Lake Cree Nation, Enoch Cree Nation, Chipewyan Prairie Dene First Nation and Athabascan Chipewyan First Nation demanded Environment Minister Jim Prentice provide emergency protection for herds on their traditional territory.
12 year-old wants to build a playground for Attawapiskat
A 12-year-old boy has entered the Pepsi Refresh Everything Contest to win money to build a playground in Attawapiskat.
He is Wesley Prankard and lives in southern Ontario and visited the community and noticed the lack of infrastructure for kids.
Wesley was with his family delivering aid to the community for charity organization True North.
The Pepsi Refresh Everything contest has 300 different charity projects - which people can vote for up to ten favourites everyday.
Voting ends August 31st.
A former Nipissing University student is sending back his diploma to protest the naming of the library
Amidst controversy and protest, the university went ahead and named its new library after former Ontario Premier Mike Harris.
First Nations were not happy with the naming because of Harris' role in the Ipperwash incident.
That was when Dudley George, was shot and killed in Ipperwash Provincial Park more than twelve years ago when he and other community members were protecting a burial site....
Ron Fisher just doesn't understand why the university would make that move. Not only is Fisher returning his diploma, he's also attaching a copy of the Ipperwash Inquiry recommendations report.
CCAB looking for Aboriginal Business Hall of Fame nominations
The Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business is looking for nominations for its next round of inductees in the Aboriginal Business Hall of Fame.
Angela Bishop, Director of Programs with CCAB says they are looking for a few key things in the nominations.
The deadline for nominations is September 30th, and the jury will make its selections early in November then new inductees will be notified.
National Aboriginal Firefighters competition
The National Aboriginal Firefighters competition is on this weekend in B.C.
The firefighters in the competition are from across Canada who have moved on from the regional competitions.
The Atlantic region will be represented by Pictou Landing First Nation, Fond du Lac will represent Saskatchewan, Norway House will represent Manitoba, Gitanyow will represent BC, Muskwachees will represent Alberta, Walpole Island will represent Ontario, Chisabi will represent Quebec and Nunavut has team members from through the territory.
The teams will compete in many events including, Stretcher rigging, Fire Fighter survival, Primary Search and Rescue and Auto extrication.
The winner of last year's competition was Team Quebec which was held in Listiguj, Quebec.
Vote in the next round of Aboriginal People's Choice Music Awards
Voting is on for the Aboriginal People's Choice Music Awards.
Derek McCorrister is the Director of Operations for the Aboriginal People's Choice Music Awards. He says the five year old awards show has been growing every year.
Voting in nominees has wrapped up - but you can still cast your vote in the final round to vote for your favourite artist - final round voting begins August 25th and runs until October 6th.
The Aboriginal People's Choice Music Awards will be held November 5th in Winnipeg.
News briefs for Aug. 6 - 12/10
New Minister of Indian Affairs
North Vancouver Island MP John Duncan has been appointed the new Minister of Indian Affairs.
Duncan has replaced Chuck Strahl, who has been shuffled to Minister of Transport.
In a press release, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn Atleo, welcomed Strahl's replacement.
Atleo also said he's well acquainted with Duncan, and looks forward to working with him in his new role.
Meanwhile, Stewart Phillip - President of the B.C Union of Indian Chiefs told Straight.com, the newly appointed minister needs to convince Prime Minister Stephen Harper to fully endorse the U.N Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.
Since Duncan was previously the parliamentary secretary to the former Minister of Indian Affairs - Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Patrick Medahbee hopes the issues will keep moving forward.
The Globe and Mail reports Duncan is a long-time advocate of encouraging private home ownership on First Nations. That concept is the subject of Tom Flanagan's latest book - Beyond the Indian Act. The Globe also reports private home ownership advocates see private home ownership as the key to investment and wealth in native communities, and critics fear it will undermine treaties and allow reserves lands to be sold off to outsiders.
Duncan could not be reached for comment.
Seismic Testing will not happen in Nunavut
A Nunavut judge has blocked seismic testing in Lancaster Sound.... just one day before testing was to begin.
It was a major legal victory for the Inuit community after court found a long planned study posed too many dangers to marine life and the people who depend on them.
The ruling further cements the right of Inuit to be fairly consulted on activities taking place in their lands.
Okalik Eegeesiak is the President of the Qikiqtani Inuit Association and she says the communties around Lancaster Sound were not consulted about the research project. She hopes the court victory means a new relationship with government.
Government scientists say seismic testing work involves firing an air gun underwater to gather data, and presents little risk to wildlife.
But the Inuit say previous seismic testing involving older, more intrusive methods, using dynamite, produce dead and deaf seals and altered whale migratory patterns for decades.
Funding for Nurse Training in Manitoba
The Manitoba and federal government have announced they'll spend $9.47 million to provide nurse training for northern First Nations.
They're partnering with three Aboriginal organizations to deliver the year-and-a-half long licenced practical nurse training program in six First Nation communities.
Manitoba's contribution totals four million dollars - and will help fill recruitment needs in a high-demand health care sector.
Fill the Gaps with Aboriginal workforce
It's been predicted there will soon be a labour shortage in Ontario.
And according to Jack Falkins with the Ontario Native Literacy Coalition - tapping into the Aboriginal workforce could solve that issue.
Falkins told a Simcoe newspaper, The Aboriginal population in Canada is the fastest growing, and the youngest population - perfectly positioned numbers-wise and age-wise to fill the gaps.
Falkins spoke at a meeting - a latest in a series of consultations across the province to determine local employment needs in the public and private sector.
Information from the consultations will be used to ensure programs offering skills development and employment training for Aboriginal people are geared toward fulfilling the most urgent needs.
Falkins also said the demand for workers in Ontario is expected to out strip the labour supply in four years, with a potential shortfall of more than 360-thousand by 2015.
No Amount of money will move Tsilqot'in Nation to approve Prosperity Mining Project
The Tsilhqot'in Nation Chiefs in B.C maintain their opposition to the Taseko-Prosperity mining project. Taseko mining company has proposed to turn Fish Lake into a tailings pond for its gold and copper mining activities.
And Fish Lake is not only sacred to the Tsilqot'in Nation, it has also been listed at one of the top ten fishing lakes in the province.
Energy and Mines Minister Bill Bennett has announced a plan to make a public offer to First Nations in the Fish Lake area for royalty sharing on the proposed mining project.
Tsilqot'in Tribal Chief Joe Alphonse calls THAT a desperate move. Alphonse says the province can continue make offers but the Tsilhqot'in Nation have court precedence to back up their case. Plus he says the project is not a new one.
Alphonse adds in a worst case scenerio that the mining project is approved, they will do everything in their means to stop development from happening in Tsilqot'in Nation territory.
Sentencing Circle for man convicted of Manslaughter
A 32-year-old man will face a sentencing circle in his community after pleading guilty to the manslaughter of his common-law wife two years ago.
The Pauingassi First Nation member in Northern Manitoba entered his plea in court August 9th.
The Winnipeg Free Press reports he'll also have to face his victim's family along with his community next month.
Sentencing circles bring together offenders, their victims and community members in a traditional setting which concludes with recommendations for the judge - who still ultimately decides punishment.
INAC over-rules Chapel Island First Nation's BCR to keep sex offender from becoming Chief
In Nova Scotia, CTV reports The Department of Indian Affairs has upheld the election of a convicted sex offender as chief of Chapel Island First Nation.
The decision by INAC cancels out the band council resolution passed by 5 of 6 councillors aimed at keeping Wilbert Marshall from taking office after he was elected to the post last month.
An INAC spokesperson told media the decision was reviewed and has been determined to in violation of Indian Act election rules.
Former Chief Kenneth Basque lost to Marshall by just five votes, and has until the end of this month to file an appeal of the election.
Basque told CTV it's shameful and contrary to Mi'kmaq tradition - that the federal act allows a sexual offender to hold office.
He added the Indian Act should be abolished and replaced with something else.
Green Energy Participation Agreement in BC
Finavera Renewables Incorporated has signed a participation agreement with the McLeod Lake Indian Band in B.C.
The agreement sets out guidelines for engagement between Finavera and the McLeod Indian Lake Band and represents a commitment by the parties to enter into discussions and develop further agreements.
In a statement, Chief Derek Orr says, the community supports Finavera and others in the wind energy business as they represent the future for electric power generation. He adds, when done in a responsible way, wind energy, unlike hydro dams, gives power without destroying the land.
Jason Bak, CEO of Finavera says the Participation agreement illustrates their commitment to building a long term, mutually beneficial relationship with the McLeod Indian Lake Band.
Under the agreement, several key areas will be addressed, including training and employment opportunities, assessment of potential project impacts and economic development opportunities.
It's been 160 years since the signing of the Robinson-Huron Treaty
To mark that - a conference has been held in Sault Ste. Marie - organized by Karle Hele with Concordia University's First People's Program.
Hele says the conference's theme includes history of the treaty to contemporary global issues.
Hele says although issues haven't changed much, there's more empathy.
The conference entitled Engaging Indigenous Communities was held August 10th to the 13th.
News briefs for July 30 - Aug 5/10
AFN National Chief urges provincial and territorial leaders for better education
Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn Atleo has met with provincial and territorial premiers.
The National Chief has challenged the leaders to improve education, boost earning power and end violence against Aboriginal women.
The Council of the Federation met with Aboriginal leaders August 4th.
Atleo also recommended the council to pressure Ottawa to increase spending for First Nation schools.
He said, "When we open a door to a school, we close a door to a jail cell."
Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger has promised he would write the Prime Minister to request a national meeting.
Atlea also urged the provinces to adopt four other measures in his action plan. The actions include developing resource revenue sharing agreements that recognize Aboriginal title in each province and territory, Create a national strategy to study and stop violence against Indigenous women, Establish a first minister's meeting on Aboriginal issues, and Sign onto the U.N Declaration in the Rights of Indigenous People.
State of Emergency for Ontario First Nation
In Ontario, Constance Lake First Nation is without clean water.
The Toronto Star reports the community of about 900 has been in a state of emergency for more than a week.
Chief Arthur Moore has demanded Indian and Northern Affairs address the issue of think blue-green algae that covers large areas of the lake.
The algae can't be filtered through the towns old water purification plant.
The community has been shipping in bottled water as well as boiling water.
Moore also noted the irony of his community declaring a state of emergency on July 28th, the same day the United Nations General Assembly overwhelmingly passed a resolution recognizing water as a basic human right....and several powerful nations, including Canada abstained.
Though the resolution is not binding - global organizations are working on legislation that would be binding.
Long Plain First Nation and Winnipeg sign municipal services deal
Long Plain First Nation in Manitoba has signed a land deal for an urban reserve in Winnipeg.
The community has signed a municipal services development agreement late last week.
The agreement includes a 1.4 hectare piece of property to be established as the Long Plain Economic Zone.
The property will be the site of a five story office building, Yellowquill College, and a gas station.
Chief David Meeches says the site will also include a depot where citizens can have their items delivered for tax-free purchases.
In the agreement, the property will not be taxed by the municipal government, but city services will be provided under a negotiated fee structure.
Meeches adds the deal will benefit the community, especially the youth.
Long Plain has 3800 members, and the community established another urban reserve in 1981 in Portage.
Posted Kijiji ad looking for 'Good Chief' to run in next Waycobah First Nation election
A Waycobah community member has posted an ad on Kijiji - looking for a Good Chief to run in the next election.
A community member - unhappy with the current chief posted the ad.
Troy Gould wants the Indian Act Band council to be reverted back to customary mi'kmaq traditional government.
Right now, Gould says the situation in the community is not good and wants to see the end of Indian Act band council governments.
The community's elections are coming up this fall.
The Kijiji ad: GOOD CHIEF WANTED
Fraser River fishing given the go ahead
For the first time in four years, Commercial salmon fisherman are getting the all clear to fish in the Fraser River in B.C.
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans had forecast that 11-point-4 million sockeye would return to the Fraser this year.
But, Sto"lo fishery adviser Ernie Crey told the Burnaby Newsleader, that he's concerned DFO is moving too fast to let commercial boats take sockeye, particularly given the notorious inaccuracy of preseason forecasts in recent years.
Fraser returns for 2008 and 2009 ended up below two million sockeye.
That issue is the subject of a judicial inquiry which will resume this fall.
Manitoba apologizes to Sayisi Dene for forced relocation more than 50 years ago
The province of Manitoba has apologized to the Sayisi Dene.
The province has also offered land compensation for the it's role in the forced relocation of the Sayisi Dene from Duck Lake to Churchill in 1956.
Steven Thorassi is a member of Council for the community. He says the apology is welcome and its a big deal for the community.
The province has proposed to provide more than 13,000 acres of Crown land - separate from any treaty land entitlement, to help address the effects of the relocation.
Tsilhqot'in Nation Chiefs dismiss BC's money offer to support mining project
Tsilhqot'in Nation Chiefs in B.C are not happy with the province's announced plan to make a public offer to revenue sharing to First Nations over the Taseko Prosperity Mining project.
The Chiefs have said that no amount of money can compensate for the devastating impacts the Prosperity mine would have on Tsilhqot'in traditional lands and culture.
The proposed copper and gold mine would have devastating impacts in a lake considered sacred by the people.
An environmental report issued in July proposed the project would have significant high magnitude impacts on productive fisheries, threatened grizzly bear populations, traditional use and cultural heritage along with Aboriginal rights.
The panel also specifically noted that First Nations have frequently stated that financial benefits could not compensate for the destruction.
Meanwhile, David Hill is a director and advisor with GMG consulting in BC....
says conflict could have been avoided had the company consulted the Tsilhqot'in in the beginning of the project proposal.
And Chief Joe Alphonse - Tribal Chair of the Tsilhoqot'in National Government has dismissed the province's plan to make a public offer to First Nations 'as a desperate government trying to salvage a desperate mining company'.
Metis celebrations in Penetanguishene
This weekend the Metis in Midland are celebrating Metis Day.
The Metis Fiddler Quartet are joining the celebrations August 7th.
The quartet comprises of four sibliings.
Nicholas Delbaere-Sawchuk is the spokesperson for the quartet.
He says Metis fiddle music is steeped with traditional and has adapted different cultural styles throughout its history.
The fifth annual Bo'jou Neejee Metis Celebrations are being held August 7th at Discovery Harbour in Penetanguishene.
News Briefs June 18-24/10
Aboriginal protests
National Aboriginal Day, June 24th, leads into the G8 and G20 Summits this weekend.
Several First Nation and grassroots organizations have organized events for the day in Ontario.
Red Power United - a Native Rights movement has organized a road and railway
blockades, as well as a protest during the G20. The RPU say the decisions made at the G20 affects everyone and will have an effect on the earth, and future generations.
The Defenders of the Land - a network of Indigenous Nations- say they reject the G8 and G20 as decision making bodies. and that they don't operate on behalf of Indigenous Peoples and don't recognize or respect Aboriginal and treaty rights.
Arthur Manuel, board member of the Defenders of the land says if he could bring a message to the G8 and G20 leaders it would be to recognize Aboriginal rights. The group has also organized an Indigenous Summit to take place before the summits take place.
G8 Unity Gathering
Just before the Summits took place, a Unity Pow Wow was quietly held in the town of Huntsville on National Aboriginal Day, June 21st.
Huntsville Mayor Claude Doughty worked in partnership with local First Nations to ensure something happened - because he acknowledges the area is in First Nation territory.
The Town of Huntsville worked with the communities of Wasauksing and Mjikaning to organize the pow wow, since the town sits in the traditional territories of the Anishinabek Nations.
Norman Tabobondung, organizer from Wasauksing says although none of the world leaders were present, he hopes leaders will take notice of the Unity symbols.
The day began with a sunrise ceremony on the summer solstice, and grand entry at noon, with about one-thousand people in attendance at Memorial Park in Huntsville.
The Chiefs of the Innu Strategic Alliance have denounced their intimidation by federal minister of Indian Affairs Chuck Strahl
The group, in a press release, says the Minister of Indian Affairs is threatening the Innu communities in northern Quebec with substantial funding cuts.
The communities have erected barricades to prevent mining operations from continuing in Schefferville.
Vice-Chief Mike McKenzie says the move is a last resort to protect Aboriginal rights over land and resources. He adds that the federal government's attitude is scandalous.
The alliance maintains the mining companies did not consult them or gain consent from the Innu communities before beginning their operations in their ancestral territories.
Prairie First Nations best governed
A prairie think tank has identified the best governed First Nations in the country.
The Frontier Centre for Public Policy began its initiative - The Aboriginal Governance Index - four years ago. Since then, the organization has put out an annual list of best governed First Nations - from survey results. This year, Frontier Centre for Public Policy found that eight of the top ten First Nations were located in Saskatchewan.
Joseph Quesnel - a policy analyst with the organization told the Leader-Post that the highest participation for the survey came from Saskatchewan.
78 prairie-based First Nations participated in the survey - 42 in Saskatchewan, 21 in Manitoba and 15 from Alberta. The index rates First Nations on elections, administration, human rights, transparency, and economy to good governance.
First Nations children lagging
A new report by the Canadian Council of Provincial Child and Youth Advocates has found that First Nations children lag behind the general population.
The report also states that - thats an issue for all Canadians because First Nations children and youth are the fastest growing segment of the population.
Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn Atleo has said in a press release on June 23rd, "As Canada prepares to host the international community at the G8 and G20 meetings, theres yet another report setting out the harsh reality that Canada is failing First Nation children right here at home. "
The National Chief also stated the report points out time and time again that across almost every area of responsibility, from child welfare to education to criminal justice, there are no adequate, national, coordinated strategies in place.
The report included four recommendations: to create a statutory officer independent from the Parliament of Canada: begin a national initiative to measure and report on child welfare, education and health outcomes; create a national Aboriginal children and youth participation initiative; and convene a First Ministers meeting on this issue that includes Aboriginal leaders and child and youth delegates.
First Nations Win tax exemption battle
It's a hard fought win for First Nations in Ontario, who have been fighting to maintain the point-of-sale exemption when the Harmonized Sales Tax kicks in.
First Nation negotiators in the province succeeded June 17th to secure an agreement from federal finance minister Jim Flaherty that would see First Nations continue to receive exemptions from paying the eight per cent provincial sales tax on off-reserve purchases beginning September 1st.
Chiefs of Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse says the delay from July 1st to September 1st is needed to get vendors on track. Toulouse is confident the government will hold up it's end of the deal.
Meanwhile, Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee says he's pleased with the deals and praises Anishinabek itizens whose voices and actions brought the federal and provincial governments to the negotiating table on the eve of the G8 and G20 summits in the province
MNO support Metis in Alberta
The Metis Nation of Ontario is supporting the Metis Nation of Alberta in its Harvesting rights court battle.
Closing arguments in the year long court battle were to wrap up June 22nd and 23rd in Medicine Hat. The case of Regina versus Jones and Hirsekorn stems from the denial of Metis harvesting rights throughout much of the province by the current Alberta government.
The government had cancelled the Interim Metis Harvesting Agreement in 2007 - which had been negotiated in 2004 between the Metis Nation of Alberta and the previous Alberta government. That agreement had implemented the Powley decision in Alberta which allowed Metis harvesters to hunt, fish and trap for food.
But since the agreement was cancelled in 2007, Metis harvesters continued to exercise their rights....which resulted in charges from the provincial government.
Over the past year, the court has heard 42 days of testimony from 35 witnesses, including six experts and 30 Metis community witnesses.
TRC moving to Inuvik
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada has concluded its first national event.
The four day event was held in Winnipeg last week, which saw about 40-thousand people attend.
TRC Chair Justice Murray Sinclair said the commission was grateful to those who came forward to share their experiences of residential school. He said the commission has started a national dialogue that sheds light on a terrible chapter in history.
The Truth and Reconciliation will now be gathering in Inuvik , North West Territories.
Aboriginal Peoples Television is appealing the exclusion of cameras at a human rights tribunal over child welfare.
Tribunal Chairwoman Shirish Chotalia ruled late last month against allowing television cameras in to record the tribunal's hearings into the complaint against the federal government.
The tribunal is to decide on if the Canadian government is discriminating against First Nations children through its funding of on-reserve child welfare agencies.
The complaint was first launched several years ago by The First Nations Child and Family Caring Society and the Assembly of First Nations.
First Nations Bank opens new bank
The First Nations Bank of Canada has announced the launch of another full service bank.
The new bank has just opened in Iqaluit, Nunavut earlier this week.
The First Nations Bank of Canada has branches in Saskatchewan, Ontario, Manitoba, Quebec, Yukon and Nunavut.
Keith Martell, Chair and CEO, says, " The First Nations Bank of Canada is The Aboriginal bank, independently owned and operated for Aboriginal people.
He says the expansion into Nunavut reflects the ownership and investment of Inuit people in the bank and re-inforces the bank's commitment to grow in communities where shareholders live and work.
The First Nations Bank was founded in 1996, and is a member of the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Canadian Payments Association and is also an approved lender with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.
News Briefs June 4 - 10/10
New Drinking Water Legislation doesn't come with extra funding
The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations doesn't think the proposed Safe Drinking Water Legislation goes far enough. FSIN Vice Chief Lyle Whitefish says the proposed legislation doesn't address the current lack of funding for First Nation drinking water infrastructure. He says the bill also places too much responsibility on First Nation Chiefs and Councils without providing adequate resources to meet the objectives of the new legislation.
Currently across the country, there are 114 First Nations that under drinking water advisories, and in Saskatchewan, there are 14 boil water advisories.
Whitefish adds, "First Nations pride themselves on having higher water standards than other jurisdictions and that's why communities want funding to develop legislation and standards that are acceptable for safe drinking water that ensures the health of First Nation citizens. "
Haida Nation Conservation and Heritage Sites
The Haida Nation is receiving kudos from the World Wildlife Fund for its work to establish its own conservation area and Haida Heritage site near the Queen Charlotte Islands.
The Haida Nation tabled an amendment to the Canada National Marine Conservation Areas Act to formally establish the sites. The site will encompass about 3400 square kilometres of ocean in the southern archipelago of Haida Gwaii.
The W-W-F says the landmark designation will set the stage for a new model of conservation, sustainable use, and integrated ecosystem management on BCs North Pacific Coast.
Once parliament passes the amendment, the designation will become official.
Following that, the Haida Nation and Canada will develop a management plan for the sites.
Mining Regulations Unfair to BC First Nations
A recently released Harvard Law School report has concluded that the mining regulations in BC are unfair to First Nations. The report - Bearing the Burden: The effect of Mining on First Nations in British Columbia is authored by Bonnie Docherty - an expert on international human rights law.
Docherty says the Aboriginal consultation process should be improved. Docherty says the report also recommends more stringent environmental regulations plus encourages mining companies to voluntarily consult Aboriginal communities and recommends First Nations to clearly outline how they want to be consulted.
Fighting HST in BC
First Nation leaders in BC are joining together to fight the looming Harmonized Sales Tax. The Union of BC Chiefs has announced the Fight HST campaign which will explore possible legal challenges to the 12-percent tax.
Grand Chief Phillip Stewart says the HST will have a huge impact on First Nations.
He says the majority of First Nation people will struggle just to survive and the tax will severely hurt them. Stewart also says the HST violate Aboriginal sovereignty over taxation for natives.
TB 31 times higher in First Nation communities
Health Canada should improve its plan to fight Tuberculosis and reduce the high rates of the diseases in First Nation and Inuit communities. That's according to a new report prepared by a federal health committee - released earlier this week.
The report also included many recommendations to revamp Canada's TB strategy and amid a renewed push to eliminate the disease.
Committee members reported they were deeply concerned about the high rate of TB in First Nation and Inuit communities - which is 31 times higher than their mainstream counterparts.
Public Health experts and First Nation leaders say the report is a confirmation that the disease can no longer be ignored.
Health Canada has two to three months to respond to the report's recommendations.
Next Alternative buys majority of High Tech Company
Next Alternative has acquired 90% of Keosan High Tech Company Limited, and with it, 13 patents.
Keosan was established in 2000, it’s a leading researcher and manufacturer of technology and products that help in energy saving and producing a cleaner environment.
Keosans research team will continue to experiment -- within the realm of alternative energy -- and the future patented technical output which will belong solely to Next Alternative.
Robert Ireland, CEO of Next Alternative says, with the addition of Keosan’s research, Next Alternative can cultivate an even more complete environment in which the fostering of further advancement can and will flourish.
First Nations and Municipalities working together in BC
Cooperation between First Nation communities and municipalities is a good news story. That from Christopher Alcantara, a Wilfrid Laurier University researcher.
Alcantara co-authored a research paper on the subject with University of Toronto post-doctoral candidate Jen Melles.
Alcantara says the research focused B.C, found 93 different kinds of agreements.
Those agreements included jurisdictional, relationship building, de-colonization and capacity building agreements.
Alcantara says there are also similar agreements in Ontario that have been signed.
Aboriginal People's Choice Awards seeking submissions
The Aboriginal People's Choice Awards are looking for submissions for its 5th annual event. Derek McCorrister is the Manager of Operations for the event. and says the fairly new competition has been growing every year.
McCorrister says the competition so far, has averaged about 125 submissions every year, and this year there are about 90 and he would like to see more.
The deadline for submissions is June 30th.
People can start voting on-line for their favourite artists by mid July for the Aboriginal Peoples Music Choice Awards.
The hardware will be handed out in November at the Manito Ahbee Festival in Winnipeg.