Chief Tma Francis provided an update on the COVID-19 outbreak in Paqtnkek.
Representatives of CMM and KMK presented the Sespite’tmnej Kmitkinu Conservancy’s Communication Plan on behalf of the Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCA) Advisory Committee. The Assembly asked for updates to some of the terminology and Mi’kmaw definitions used and asked that they be incorporated and brought back to the Assembly again at a future meeting date.
KMK provided the Assembly with a copy of a letter received from Alton Gas on their decommissioning of their natural gas project. Assembly directed KMK to review the decommissioning plan and provide feedback to Alton Gas on any Mi’kmaw concerns.
Regional Chief Prosper gave an update to the Assembly on several items including the recent Regional AFN Caucus Session and AFN all Chiefs assembly meeting. Regional Chief Prosper also updated the progress on an active class-action lawsuit for Indigenous children-in-care and a significant contribution that was secured for the Fulcher Foundation. An upcoming meeting with the MP and Liberal Caucus and Nova Scotia Chiefs, scheduled for January 2022, was also discussed.
KMK provided an update on the benefits file and the various projects, including the existing wind and energy projects.
Chief Annie Bernard-Daisley brought up the need for land in We’koqma’q for housing for community members and the difficulty they are having in acquiring additional lands. Many Chiefs expressed they are facing similar issues and agreed that the topic needs to be discussed in further detail. Chief Sidney Peters suggested talking to the federal government about additions to reserve lands.
Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre’s (MNFC) Executive Director, Pam Glode-Derochers spoke on current shelter program challenges, emergency shelters in the HRM and funding needs. The Assembly expressed full support to the MNFC and will issue a media release expressing their support.
