On September 25, 2020, the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs authorized the creation of a new Mi’kmaq public institution that will enable us to govern and manage the new Mi’kmaq enhanced social program. The new structure should be in place by February 1, 2021.
The creation of a new public institution is an important step in the move of the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia to greater independence and autonomy as a Mi’kmaq Nation. The Nova Scotia Chiefs are looking forward to shaping this new public institution with advice from leadership, Elders, and Social Development Administrators.
The New Mi’kmaq focused approach, “enhanced social” brings together four components to support our social clients. These components include basic social with modern rates, health, housing, and training opportunities leading to employment. This new Mi’kmaq focused program means change and should improve the health and wellbeing of our people and will provide additional supports to children, families and elders.
This Mi’kmaw-focused policy replaces the Indigenous Services Canada 1994 Atlantic Region Social Policy, last updated twenty-six years ago.
Mi’kmaq governance over a new social program continues to be one of the Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs’ main priorities.
Role of the Social Development Administrators (SDA’s)
All thirteen Mi’kmaq communities continue to be engaged in the social initiative. SDA’s meet monthly to support the creation of administrative tools and planning for Mi’kmaq control over social (or income assistance) in our communities. Since 2015, monthly participation by the SDA’s has provided community perspective and guidance for the initiative.
Social Development Administrators (SDAs) continue the important work to move forward this new common policy for our communities.
Client Information System
Membertou Geomatics Solutions (MGS) has been working closely with our project team and all social development administrators to create a new client information system. This is a case management system designed to serve the unique needs of any client and to streamline financial allocations and reporting. The system ties directly to the new common policy for all communities and effectively ensures our administrative system is equal to other governments. The new Mi’kmaq common social policy and client information system are key foundations for Mi’kmaq self-government.
Community Meetings
The Social Project Team continues to arrange meetings in all 13 Mi’kmaw communities to share information on the enhanced social governance initiative. Chiefs and Council, Grand Council, and policy stakeholders provide input to the Social Project team to help move this important work forward.
The planning of all meetings in community will abide by all health protocols surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic