Chief Terrance Paul was honored for his over 40 years of dedicated leadership and service to his community and to the Mi’kmaw Nation. In recognition of his contributions, he was presented with a beautiful piece of artwork by Mi’kmaw artist Loretta Gould from the Assembly.
KMK discussed a draft Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) developed with EverWind, an independent green hydrogen developer. This MOA follows a previously signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with EverWind in May 2023. The MOA aims to establish commitments and principles and allows for additional sub-agreements as the project develops. After much discussion, the Assembly requested more information and for the MOA to be brought back to the Assembly at a later date.
Discussions were had on Nova Scotia’s Bill 6 which includes lifting of bans on hydraulic fracturing and uranium mining. In-depth discussions were had on the environmental implications of fracking. The Assembly agreed to reaffirm their 2014 resolution against hydraulic fracturing. The requested a media release be issued and a letter sent to Premier Houston that clarified their opposition to fracking.
Bishop Dunn from the Archdiocese of Halifax-Yarmouth, spoke to the Assembly about the Church’s reconciliation efforts, and the National Indigenous Reconciliation Fund, which has supported over a hundred projects, mainly in Western Canada. He also talked about the presence of a local fund of about $100,000 for projects on things like reconciliation, language or education. Bishop Dunn also spoke about the establishment of the Mi’kmaq Pastoral Council, chaired by Manson Gloade. This council hosts regular meetings focused on Mi’kmaw pastoral issues and reconciliation efforts.
AFN Regional Chief provided an update on strategic planning, an upcoming meeting with the Grand Council, the need for funding to support future human trafficking awareness sessions and discussed the significant budget cuts that could impact core funding for programs.
The Assembly discussed their portfolio system. Several changes were made to the portfolio leads. The updated portfolio list can be found on KMK’s website here.
