Economic Development

File contains a presentation by Acting Chief Elaine Myers, Bartlett's Harbour Indian Band Council. Myers discusses the history of the Band Council, which represents approximately 550 Non-Status people. Myers highlights a variety of concerns including unemployment, education, social problems, policing, family issues, housing issues, a lack of recreation facilities, economic problems, fisheries, literacy concerns, and the need for the Band to be registered. Following this Chief Myers discusses some of these issues with Commissioners Erasmus and Robinson.

File contains a presentation made by Bill Curry on the topic of health care in Northern Saskatchewan. Also contained are comments and questions of the assembled Commissioners. As well as the mention of the closing prayer.

File contains an individual presentation by Bill Gower. Gower, an active member of the community who's on the hamlet Council, discusses the problems he sees with the Education system. He stresses that unless something is done to create jobs in the area in the near future the effects of its failings will be catastrophic. Commissioners Robinson and Blakeney discuss these concerns and possible solutions with Gower.

File contains a presentation by Bill Hanson that initially recalls his 30 years of experience in the Aboriginal political movement in Canada. The rest of the presentation addresses a wide range of subjects, including education, land claims and self-government, economic development and poor management of band funding. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Bill Rogoza and Alanna Downey-Baxter relating to tourism in northern Ontario. The corporation is a non-profit organization formed in 1987 to represent First Nations in the tourism industry. He states that tourism can be a part of an economic development base in northern Ontario, and it is a land-based activity which is culturally appropriate for Aboriginal peoples. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

The file contains a presentation by BillyJo De La Ronde, Labour Canada. De La Ronde discusses his ideas on Metis history, politics, economic development, education, self-governance, and self-determination (between the last two concepts he draws a clear distinction). Following the presentaiton Commissioner Chartrand and Wilson discuss some of the issues raised with De La Ronde.

This file contains a portion of Volume 2 of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at Akwesasne Mohawk School, Cornwall Island, Ontario. This portion of the Volume includes a presentation given by Vincenette Cook for Akwesasne Adult Education Program on the subject of the educational system in Akwesasne. Questions from assembled Commissioners follow.

This file contains a presentation by Bob Moore relating to forestry in the Six Nations Confederacy. Moore states that the federal government is not doing enough to protect the forests in the Six Nations area, and states that "successful management of reserve forests would yield social and economic benefits both to the bands and to the federal government.

File contains a presentation by Brian Williams focusing on social issues in education. He states that each Aboriginal community must have an economic base that provides adequate training that results in jobs and financial security for its residents. He also believes that each community's land base must be acknowledged by the Canadian and British Columbia governments and calls on the Commission to ensure continuing funding to ensure the preservation of the Gitksan culture and language, and all Aboriginal languages.

This file contains a presentation by Bruce MacIntosh relating to tourism opportunities with the communities of Restigouche and Pointe a la Croix, Quebec. Sport fishing and a local ski facility are tourism hotspots and MacIntosh wishes to partner with these communities to create further employment and other economic opportunities. James Blanchard, First School District 14, Campbellton, New Brunswick, is introduced as the next speaker.

File contains a presentation by Buddy Napoleon. Napoleon presents a history of Aboriginal peoples from a legal perspective from early colonization up until the present day in the Treaty Eight area. Napoleon then makes a series of policy recommendations to the Commission to rectify his concerns with government actions in the area. Following Napoleon's presentation, Napoleon and previous presenter Chief Berni Metecheah field questions from Commissioner Georges Erasmus related to issues facing the Halfway River First Nation.

File contains a presentation by Calvin Linstrom. Linstrom discusses Tagish/Tlingit concerns, and ideas for economic development, education and culture. Linstrom also discusses his peoples relations with the Yukon government. Following his presentation the assembled Commissioners discuss some of the issues raised with Linstrom. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Cathy LaValley. LaValley discusses the federal "Pathways to Success" educational and job-training program in Saskatchewan, specifically as it pertains to Metis residents.

The file contains a presentation by Celeste McKay and Joyce Courchene, Indigenous Womens Collective. McKay and Courchene discuss Aboriginal women's issues with relation to self-determination, economics, and the Indian Act. They make some policy recommendations to the Commission with regard to these issues. Following the presentation Commissioners Chartrand and Erasmus discuss some of the issues raised with the two presenters.

File contains a presentation by Charlie Evalik that first describes the life of the Inuit in the Cambridge Bay area beginning in the 1950s, where the Inuit were forced to adapt to a more permanent home life in settlements, rather than continue with their nomadic way of life. He discusses some issues that are affecting Cambridge Bay residents, such as lack of post-secondary opportunities, employment, lack of proper housing, and a high rate of residents on welfare. A lengthy question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Chief Dan Koosees of Kashechewan First Nations in Ontario. He describes living conditions on his First Nations as "below sub-standard" and gives the Commissioners a written proposal relating to a five-year housing and infrastructure construction program on Kashechewan First Nation.

File contains a presentation by Chief Dan Robillard, Prince Albert Tribal Council. Robillard discusses the importance of language to culture, and highlights some economic complaints directed at government policy with relation to freight costs and outfitting. Robillard also highlights his view that the Inuit have been given superior assistance to that recieved by the Dene. Chief John McDonald then discusses multi-jurisdictional issues. Following this, Commissioners Erasmus and Chartrand make some questions and comments on land use in the north.

File contains a presentation by Chief David Walkem, Cooks' Ferry Indian Band, Nlaka'pamux Nation. Walkem presents on natural resource concerns on behalf of the Nlaka'pamux Nation. He makes a series of recommendations including the signing of a Treaty and a direct relationship between the overall Nlaka'pamux Nation (see previous presentation by Chief Robert Pasco) and the federal government. Following the presentation Commissioners Dussault and Chartrand discuss some of the issues raised with Walkem and Pasco.

File contains a presentation by Chief Don Moses, Lower Nicola Indian Band. Moses discusses the economic history of the Nicola Valley, and the history of his people. Moses gives some concrete recommendations to develop a land use and economic development framework for his people, for which Commissioners Dussault and Chatrand thank him.

This file contains a transcript of a part of a portion of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at Prince George, British Columbia. This part includes a presentation by Chief Edward John with the First Nations Summit Task Group, regarding Treaty negotiations between the the government of Canada and the Aboriginal Community in the Province of British Columbia. Questions from the assembled commissioners are also included with the answers that were provided.

File contains a opening remarks by the Chief of the Eskasoni First Nation welcoming the Commission to his territory. It also contains opening remarks by Commissioner Georges Erasmus discussing the beginning of the "hearing phase" of the Commission's work, and the areas to be covered in its mandate including: self-government, treaties, a land base for people, economic development, women's issues, elder's issues, youth issues, the constitution, and "just about anything you might think of that affects aboriginal people. Our mandate covers all aboriginal people in all parts of the country."

File contains a presentation by Chief Flett regarding issues including self-government, Aboriginal and Treaty Rights, land, resources, the environment, gambling, fiscal arrangements, health, social services, economic development, on-reserve policing, the justice system, education, housing, and community infrastructure. Following the presentation is a discussion between Chief Flett and Commissioners Blakeney and Chartrand regarding the issues raised in the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Chief George Fern, Prince Albert Tribal Council. Fern states that he is the Chief of the Fond du Lac First Nation, and that resource co-management and revenue sharing is the position his Nation takes on economic development in the area which he believes is consistent with Treaty.

File contains a presentation by Chief Gerald Beaucage, Nipissing First Nation. Chief Beaucage discusses the de'Medici North Bay Inc. collaborative fur venture, world fur markets, and related issues. Chief Beaucage also discusses other economic activity within the First Nation's industrial park.

File contains a presentation by Chief Gordon Antoine, Coldwater Indian Band. Chief Antoine makes a series of 13 recommendations for the Royal Commission on the relationship of his people with the Canadian government.

File contains a presentation by Chief Harold Turner discussing seven issues that affect First Nations people: self-government, treaties, natural resources and Aboriginal title to land, economic development, taxation, education and First Nations government financial concerns. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains an individual presentation by Chief Ignace Gull. Gull discusses the living conditions faced by Aboriginal people in the area which he describes as third or fourth world. Specifically he discusses water and sewer issues, fire protection, energy, social development, drug and alcohol abuse, and a lack of economic oppotunities and education. Gull also discusses trapping concerns, concerns with the justice system, problems with RCMP and Conservation Officers regarding game law enforcement, proposed hydro developments, and protection of burial sites.

The file contains a presentation by Chief James Firth of the Inuvik Gwi'chin Council. Chief Firth delivers a presentation on the history of Inuvik including the relocation of people by the government from nearby Aklavik to Inuvik; alcoholism and related social and health problems; the need to prepare for future resource development; the need for cross-cultural co-operation and mutual respect; some of the goals of the Council; the relation of self-esteem to quality of life; and the need for a "renewed political arrangement with the Government of Canada."

File contains a presentation by Chief Jim Badger focusing on negotiations with the Natural Sources Conservation Board, training and employment programs, business support programs and disability programs. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Chief Joe Nicholas of the Columbia Lake Indian Band. Nicholas highlights some of his concerns notably in the land management and economic sphere, and argues that First Nations governments must be given direct control over their particular spheres in order for economic and social progress to take place.

File contains a presentation by Chief Leonard Thomas that briefly touches on a number of issues, such as economic development, the environment, education, health care, preserving historical artifacts and Bill C-31. He introduces the next speaker, Fred Sam.

File contains a presentation by Chief Peter Quaw focusing on economic development, employment, and self-government that has been taking place on that First Nations since the 1980s. He calls on the Commission to ensure that funding continues so that conditions on his First Nations will improve.

File contains a presentation by Chief Shirley Prosper, and Gerald Webb of the Corner Brook Band. Prosper discusses some issues facing the band in a brief presentation including government recognition, family problems, women's issues, and the need for the establishment of cultural centres to promote the Micmac culture. Following Prosper's presentation Commissioners Erasmus and Robinson engage her in dialogue after which Webb comments on the economic base of the band.

File contains a presentation by Chief Sidney Sam Senior of the Ahousaht Education Authority. Sidney Sam discusses his views on the on-reserve education system and makes a series of reccomendations (including funding and cultural concerns) regarding what he thinks should be done to enhance it. Following the presentation is a discussion between Sam and Commissioners Erasmus, Robinson, and Keitlah regarding the issues raised in the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Chief Stewart Paul of the Tobique First Nation. Paul welcomes Commissioners Erasmus and Robinson to Tobique, then proceeds to discuss the history of the First Nation, its part in Pre-Confederation Treaties, the creation of their reserve, its war veterans in numerous global conflicts, notable individuals from Tobique, and some of the economic and social concerns faced by the nation. Paul also elaborates on some of the programming undertaken by the community to deal with these concerns.

File contains a presentation by Chief Victor Muse of the St. George's Indian Band Council. Muse discusses the band's history, then goes on to list a variety of concerns. These include: unemployment, illiteracy, the need for education, better social services, revitalization of the Micmac language and culture, infrastructure, self-determination, self-government, and the goal of living in harmony "with Canada and its many people." Following the presentation is a discussion between Muse and Commissioner Erasmus on some of the issues raised.

File contains a presentation by Chief Walter Barry, Beniot's Cove Indian Band. Barry discusses his concerns regarding fisheries, employment, education, and cross cultural understanding. Following the presentation Berry discusses these issues with Commissioners Erasmus, Robinson, and Tony White.

File contains a presentation Christie Clifton, North Coast Tribal Council Education Centre. Clifton discusses her centre's mandate and operations serving Haida, Tsimshian, and Nisga'a people. Clifton discusses its' range of post-secondary programs, its' success in the community, and its' frustration with current funding arrangements. Following the presentation Commissioners Chartrand and Wilson discuss some of the issues raised with Clifton.

File contains a presentation on behalf of the Merritt City Council by Councillor Rick Typusiak. He welcomes the Commission to Merritt. Following this, he delivers a presentation discussing the relations between First Nations and municipal governments, and the City's views and concerns regarding Aboriginal self-government. Typusiak discusses economic issues, and expresses the desire of the Council that the Department of Indian Affairs and the Indian Act both be abolished. Following the presentation Commissioners Dussault and Erasmus thank Typusiak and make some comments on his presentation.

File contains a presentation by Clifton (Francis) Simon, resident of Big Cove, New Brunswick. Simon touches on a number of areas of concern for him: self-government, economic development, discrimination against Aboriginal women, justice and education. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Commission Co-Chair Rene Dussault during the first public meeting of said Commission. Dussault discusses the importance of discussion, and listening in the Commission process. “We know that many Aboriginal people are tired of being studied by others. They want to speak directly to us, and we want to hear from them. We want to hear their views of history and of what the future could or should hold for them. Similarly, we want to hear from the non-Aboriginal Canadians, who have not only a right, but an obligation to participate in this debate.

File contains a presentation by Colleen Nadjiwon-Johnson. Nadjiwon-Johnson, a small business owner from the Walpole Island First Nation, discusses a "number of issues affecting myself and other Native small business owners." These include taxation, economic development initiatives, caisse populaires (credit unions), janitorial and personal services, Aboriginal rights (treaty, hunting, fishing, etc.) advocacy, and human resources issues. Following the presentation Commissioners Erasmus and Chartrand discuss some of the issues raised with Nadjiwon-Johnson.

File contains a presentation by Colleen Wassegijig and Simon Paul. Wassegijig discusses the history of Aboriginal peoples in Canada with respect to formal education systems, and some of the problems that has created which now must be overcome. Simon Paul, a Dene man originally from Northern Saskatchewan, discusses Aboriginal education programs in Scarborough, Ontario for First Nations and Métis residents.

File contains a presentation by Commissioner of the Day Louis Morin. Morin discusses his own life experiences including the relocation of his people from Clear Lake to Turnor Lake by the government, fishing, hunting, and trapping issues. Following Morin's presentation Commissioner Dussault and discusses some of the issues raised with Morin.

File contains a presentation by Wayne Etches, Joe Scout, and Tom Dixon, Creditors of Kainai Industries. The presenters discuss unemployment in the Kainai (Blood) Nation, Kainai Industries organizational history as a constructor of modular housing, its' failure as a business, and the need for its' resurrection. Following the presentation Commissioner Georges Erasmus discusses some of the issues raised with the presenters, after which is a closing prayer to adjourn the day's sitting of the Commission.

File contains a presentation by Dan Haggerty, President and CEO, Robert Hartog, Chairman, and Claude McCabe, Vice-President Canadian Native Programs, Canadian Executive Services Organization. Haggerty discusses the Canadian Executive Services Organization, a non-profit, non-governmental organization with the mandate to provide volunteers as consultants to support the development and management of the Aboriginal businesses and communities in Canada, and of the business and social sectors of developing countries around the world.

File contains a presentation by Darlene McLeod, Band Administrator, Wahpeton Band. McLeod delivers a presentation on housing, mortgages, and education financing concerns. Following McLeod's presentation a discussion takes place between the assembled Commissioners, previous presenter Beverly Waditaka, and Darlene McLeod on the issues raised in their respective presentations.

The file contains a presentation by David Chartrand and Pat Harper of the Manitoba Metis Federation. Chartrand and Harper, representing the Winnipeg Region of the Federation, discuss a brief history of their organization as an urban based entity, Metis membership's issues from an urban perspective, self-determination and self-governance in an urban setting, education and training issues, employment issues, economic development issues, family issues, cultural issues, child care, and cultural issues.

File contains a presentation by Debra Alvisatos, a Mohawk woman and executive director of the Fredericton Native Friendship Centre. Alvisatos presentations deals with her organization whose purpose is to help Aboriginal people (the majority of whom are Micmac and Maliseet) to adjust to urban life. She discusses how urban Aboriginal people have been ignored in the past, and the need to both consult with them and define their rights in order to facilitate self-governance and effective administration.

The file contains a presentation by Irvin Norn of the Deninu Kue First Nation. Norn, the Band Administrator, discusses the historical background, the concerns, and the day-to-day issues that his band experiences with respect to membership. Norn discusses Treaty Eight, social services, education, justice, housing, health, renewable and non-renewable resources, and taxation. Following the presentation Commissioners Georges Erasmus and Paul Chartrand discuss some of the issues raised with Norn.