KMK spoke to an invitation sent to the Chiefs regarding a DFO meeting on the commercial elver fishery. The understanding was that this proposed meeting would occur outside the formal consultation process. District Chief also expressed caution on attending certain types of meetings. The Assembly directed a letter to be sent to DFO calling for formal consultation on the issue.
KMK discussed the draft benefits agreement with Signal Gold. Discussion was had on the protection of Rights and archaeology, employment opportunities for community members, and royalties for the Mi’kmaq. The Assembly agreed to move forward with the benefits agreement.
A draft Umbrella Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Incorporation (NSPI) was also discussed with the Assembly. Three communities expressed concerns about possible conflicts with specific community NSPI matters. The Assembly requested KMK go back to NSPI and ask for revision to the Agreement to meet the concerns raised.
Representatives from Membertou and CMM spoke about the possible sale of properties adjacent to the Mi’kmaw petroglyph in the Bedford Barrens. Assembly requested that a letter be sent to the province and property owner about the protection of the petroglyph. A site visit was also requested for members of the Assembly.
Regional Chief Andrea Paul provided update on the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) upcoming meeting in Ottawa and spoke about an honouring ceremony that is being planned for long-standing Chiefs of their communities.
The Assembly resumed discussions about filling the seat of Co-Chair. Chief Leroy Denny was voted as the new Co-Chair of the Assembly. Chief John Bernard was voted to fill Chief Denny’s seat on the Assembly’s Planning and Priorities Committee.
KMK discussed the draft Toqi’maliaptmu’k Arrangement with Parks Canada. At the Chief and Council symposium in October, the need for Band Council Resolutions (BCRs) to approve and sign the Arrangement was discussed. Several BCRs were received but a few were still needed. To read the full draft Arrangement, visit the Governance page on KMK’s website.
