Burchells LLP spoke about the VLT venues in the Mi’kmaw communities and provided an overview of the Province’s response to re-opening Gaming Facilities, in light of COVID-19. The Assembly requested that Burchells LLP develop template by-laws for on-reserve gaming facilities for the Mi’kmaw communities to consider.
The March 31, 2020 KMKNO Audit Report, as prepared by Grant Thornton LLP, was presented to the Assembly. The Assembly approved the audit report.
Chief Prosper provided an update on the Netaway mobile app development for the Band Designate project. The Assembly approved the app’s logo.
An update was provided on the Canso Tickle wharf improvement project. KMKNO sought the opinion of the Assembly on whether they wanted to proceed with acquisition of this wharf. The Chiefs had an in-depth discussion on management, costs and responsibilities. The Assembly decided to move forward with the wharf.
Chief Robinson provided an update on the work of the Governance Advisory Committee. KMKNO staff provided an overview of the conferences, symposiums and discussions with community members that has been had over the past year on Governance.
Chief Googoo provided an update on the report being developed by the Task Force for the Commemoration of Edward Cornwallis and the Recognition and Commemorationof Indigenous History.
Chief Prosper provided an update on the Assembly of First Nations’ Charter.
CMM provided an update on a Human Rights complaint and the Assembly requested that Fraser Hatt Law represent them in these discussions.
A presentation was provided on East Coast Energy’s proposed drilling project near New Glasgow. The Consultation documents state that this project is proposing to use a nitrogen stimulation method in their drilling. The Chiefs discussed their environmental concerns and their 2014 resolution on hydraulic fracturing. Their position on fracing remains unchanged. KMKNO’s consultation department will provide materials so that this discussion can be brought to each Chief and Council, as well as to the Grand Chief for Grand Council discussion.
An update was provided on The Mi’kmaq Native Friendship Centre and Tawaak Housing efforts to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to work together on issues relating to urban Mi’kmaq in the Halifax Regional Municipality. The organizations are aiming to bring the MOU to an upcoming Assembly meeting for the Chiefs to review.
Chief Robinson requested that KMKNO review the consultation request that Acadia First Nation received on Highway 103.
