Chief Sidney Peters welcomed Chief Annie Bernard-Daisley as the new Co-Chair for the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs. He also congratulated all new portfolio leads.
Maw-Kleyu’kik Knijannaq (MKK) Initiative provided a review of the Nationhood Conference and discussed future plans for community engagement. The MKK team requested permission from the Assembly to go to Chief and Councils to give a MKK initiative update and overview. The Assembly agreed.
KMK gave an update on the development of mandate letters for the Assembly’s portfolios. Priorities will be discussed with the Leads and brought forward to the Assembly for approval. Oath of Office and Swearing-In ceremonies are also being planned for the new Leads and Co-Chairs.
KMK provided an update on the Netukulimk Livelihood Plans Fisheries that have been developed by member communities. Discussion was had on species that are currently being successfully harvested and how communities are approaching other species. A Food, Social and Ceremonial (FSC) fisheries project is being developed to help Mi’kmaq access FSC and to make it more Mi’kmaq-led. Chief Norman Bernard requested that KMK look into monitoring for Mi’kmaw harvesters and their boats, as there have been issues stolen catch and gear. Harvester safety was also discussed.
Chief Annie Bernard-Daisley shared a thank you letter received from the newly selected sponsor of the CCGS Jean Goodwill.
AFN Regional Chief PJ Prosper provided update on work that is being done to secure funding to further governance discussions and the upcoming AFN annual general meeting. Discussion was had about establishing a charity for accepting funds and donations.
Grand Chief Norman Sylliboy expressed concerns about healing that needs to take place for residential school survivors. Discussion was had on creating healing centers or a lodge in our communities. The Chiefs discussed how they could honour residential school attendees through a building like this.
Burchells LLP provided update on the fisheries litigations still before the courts. The Assembly requested that Burchells LLP to come back to the next Assembly meeting to further discuss these court cases.
