FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 8, 2021
Today the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs (Assembly) met with the Assembly of First Nations’ (AFN) National Chief RoseAnne Archibald and Nova Scotia and Newfoundland Regional Chief Paul Prosper in Millbrook First Nation on livelihood fisheries in Nova Scotia.
“This meeting with our AFN leaders was an opportunity for us to share information on our collaborative approach to the implementation of our right to fish and sell fish for a moderate livelihood,” said Chief Gerald Toney, Fisheries Lead for the Assembly. “Our goal was to provide National Chief Archibald with the background needed so that that she can help to advocate for the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia’s exercise of Treaty Rights at a national level.”
Over the last year, the Assembly has made significant progress on the implementation of a moderate livelihood through community built Netukulimk Livelihood Plans. Potlotek First Nation successfully fished lobster for livelihood this past spring after finding a cooperative way forward with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and currently, the Assembly is in formal consultation with DFO on Pictou Landing First Nation’s plan and a Kespewitk traditional district plan, which will see harvesting governance collaboratively lead by four communities.
“We know that there is still much work to be done for Mi’kmaw harvesters to confidently be out on the waters exercising their rights, but we are making positive strides,” continued Chief Toney. “Having National Chief Archibald visit Mi’kma’ki and meet with us to hear what we envision for the future of our collective rights-based fisheries is great. We know that she will work alongside us and our Regional Chief to help bring our issues and concerns forward nationally.”