Economic Development

File contains a presentation by Denise Thomas, Southeast Region of the Manitoba Métis Federation. Thomas discusses the need for Métis economic development in her region of Manitoba, and highlights some ways she thinks this can be done through financial and educational infrastructure measures. Following the presentation Thomas engages in a brief discussion with Commissioner Sillet on women's business issues, followed by a comment on the presentation by Commissioner Chartrand.

File contains a wide-ranging presentation by Dennis Gedeon, New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples' Council, with brief remarks by Carol Wortman of the same organization. Gedeon discusses the history of his organization, its aims, his views on the Constitution, intergovernmental relations, non-status Indians, self-governance, economic development, the Indian Act, Bill C31, Justice and Education issues.

The file contains a presentation by Dennis Riehl, Manitoba Hydro. Riehl makes a presentation on behalf of Manitoba Hydro discussing its composition and operations, its' relations with Aboriginal communities, project impacts, environmental issues, employment issues, and a series of plans being pursued to deal with past issues. Following the presentation Commissioners Chartrand and Wilson discuss some of the issues raised with Riehl and his colleague, Fred Wonnick.

The file contains a presentation by Dick Hill who discusses the administrative, economic, and demographic composition of Inuvik, Northwest Territories. Hill discusses its' ethnic composition (1/3 First Nations, 1/3 Inuit, 1/3 other), its' administrative and institutional apparatus, and related issues in response to questioning from Commissioners Rene Dussault, Allan Blakeney, Grace Blake, and Mary Sillett. Land claims and economic development are also discussed.

File contains a presentation by President Dick MacKenzie of the Sioux Lookout Chamber of Commerce. MacKenzie discusses a pilot project for Aboriginal participation and interaction with the Chamber of Commerce. Commissioner Chartrand discusses the project with MacKenzie, after which the other assembled Commissioners offer comments and thanks. Following this MP Robert Nault offers thanks to the day's participants, and Charles Fox and Stan Beardy make closing remarks to end the day's sitting.

File contains a presentation by Chief Tim Restoule of the Dokis First Nation. Chief Restoule discusses land rights, hunting and fishing, economic development, education and health concerns. Following the presentation the assembled Commissioners discuss some of the issues raised with Chief Restoule.

File contains a presentation by Doris Young of the Indigenous Women's Collective regarding Aboriginal women's issues/views in the realm of the justice system, schools, the Indian Act, training and employment, political systems, and self-governance. Young also stresses the need for Aboriginal women's participation in the establishment of a Charter of Rights for Aboriginal People should such legislation be enacted.

File contains a presentation by Dorothy McDonald, Chief, Fort McKay Indian Band. McDonald discusses tar sand development and how it has negatively effected her people and destroyed their traditional way of life.

File contains a presentation by Dorothy Wynne describing the frustration with continuing the operation of the Friendship Centre in Kapuskasing without federal government funding. She also expresses concern with Kapuskasing being a bilingual town and most job opportunism require that English and French are a requirement for employment. Wynne describes the early stages of a tanning program and the construction of a tannery that would establish an economic base for the Friendship Centre. She calls on the Commission to address the Centre's inability to secure federal funding.

File contains a presentation by Doug Anguish, Member of the Legislature. Anguish discusses his experiences as a life-long resident of what he terms northwestern Saskatchewan (Meadow Lake-Battlefords area), and MLA for the Battlefords Consituency. Specifically he discusses the Indian Act and the need to replace it, the situation of Indian and Metis youth in the area, and economic concerns. Following the presentation is a discussion between Anguish and Commissioners Blakeney and Erasmus on these issues.

File contains a presentation by Doug McCrae, President of Keyano College. McCrae discusses his College's operations and its relations to the Aboriginal community as well as area industries such as forestry and oil sands extraction. Following the presentation McCrae discusses some of the issues raised with Commissioners Blakeney and Chartrand.

This file contains a presentation by Dr. Ann C. Macaulay focusing on three issues: the effect of poor socio-economic conditions on health and the implications for health care planning; the role of traditional medicine; and the importance of first-rate health care workers. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

This file contains a portion of a transcript of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at Hotel Saskatchewan, Regina, Saskatchewan. This portion of the Commission includes a presentation by Dr. John Hylton concerned with the provision and distribution of Social, health and education services to the Aboriginal Community. Questions from the assembled commissioners are also present.

File contains a presentation by Dwayne Desjarlais, Fort McMurray First Nation. Desjarlais discusses the Al-Pac pulp mill near Lake Athabasca, which he states is the largest on earth. Specifically Desjarlais discusses the enviornmental impacts of such development and the need for First Nations input into the process. Following the presentation is a discussion between Desjarlais and Commissioners Chartrand and Blakeney.

File contains a presentation by by Earl Campbell, Joe Baptiste, and Amanda Gail Daniels, Anishnaabe Owayishi. Campbell discusses their organization Anishnaabe Oway-Ishi Inc. (based in Winnipeg, MB) which he describes as "a pre-training program for employment and training opportunities program for Aboriginal youth." Amanda Gail Daniels speaks about racism, employment equity, and the welfare system. Joe Baptiste discusses the government and economics as they pertain to Aboriginal people in Canada.

File contains a presentation by Ed Bianchi from Friends of the Lubicon. Bianchi discusses the situation facing the Lubicon Cree in Alberta, and their struggle for land and resource rights. Following the presentation Commissioners Wilson, Sillet, and Blakeney discuss the issues raised with Bianchi.

File contains a presentation by Eileen Koe. Koe is a civil servant and proclaims herself to be both a Gwich'in, and a proud Canadian. Koe discusses her views on social issues and housing in the community. She discusses residential schools and the loss of the Gwich'in language, and the detrimental effect this has had on her people. Koe discusses alcoholism, housing programs, trapping, and the need for better job training programs.

File contains a presentation on behalf of the Native News Network by Elder Arthur Honyust. Elder Honyust, an Oneida Elder from the Turtle Clan, discusses his views on a new relationship between Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal people, self-determination for Aboriginal people, self-sufficiency, and treaties. Following the presentation Commissioners Chartrand and Erasmus discuss some of the issues raised with Honyust.

File contains a presentation by Elder Moses Smith of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth people. Smith discusses his people historical and traditional society from a standpoint of governance and the family. Commissioner Erasmus asks Smith if there are any special concerns he has and Smith replies by discussing the importance of having an economic land base to his people.

File contains a presentation by Elder Rosie Nelson. Nelson relates her own life history in English and Anishnabe (English translation provided) as well as her views on self-government and economic development (specifically gaming). Following the presentation Commissioner Chartrand concludes the day's sitting of the Commission with closing remarks and thanks the participants.

The file contains a presentation by Elizabeth Hansen, Councillor, Inuvik Native Band. Hansen delivers a presentation on promoting, preserving, and maintaining Gwich'in cultural heritage. Hansen discusses heritage's relation to Economic development; housing; social services; alcoholism, drug, and solvent abuse; justice; and health services.

File contains a presentation by Emma Robert. Robert discusses concerns affecting working women, particularly those with children, in the community. She sees the biggest problems as being a lack of daycare and babysitter facilities. Another concern she raises is rents being too high for working people. She highlights her biggest concern for people in the community in general as being proper job training which isn't available at the moment. Following the presentation, Commissioner Rene Dussault offers a comment and question on daycare and housing which Roberts answers.

File contains a presentation by Eric J. Large focusing on major issues affecting his First Nation - lack of proper housing, education, lack of available capital funds to implement various economic development opportunities, recreation for youth and health care. Chief Carl Quinn gives closing remarks to Large's presentation, and then he and Large engage in a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Everett Lambert. Lambert, a Mohawk-Cree-Metis man, discusses economic development for Aboriginal Canadians. Lambert states that "Natives don't just need money. Natives need jobs. They need meaningful full-time jobs, jobs that keep them busy eight hours a day, 40 houyrs a week, not the part-time underpaying overworked position too many of our people presently hold." Following the presentation Commissioners Blakeney and Shirt discuss employment issues with Lambert.

This file contains a presentation by Fenton Scott that first states: "The Prospectors of Canada and their predecessors have lived in harmony and mutual respect with Canadians of native ancestry for nearly 400 years.

This file contains a presentation by Fred Hall that begins with findings of a 1985 Newfoundland provincial commission stating that "paternalistic policies and programs, however well-meaning and however high-spending, are clearly not working." Hall goes on to say that the federal and provincial governments must change their focus so that Aboriginal and Inuit people can provide for themselves, rather than governments providing for them. Hall is not optimistic that this Commission will be any different than the last one.

File contains a presentation by Fred Shore, President, Aboriginal Staff, Student Network, University of Manitoba. Shore discusses suggestions to enhance and improve Aboriginal experiences and participation in post-secondary institutions. Following the presentation is a brief discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Gary Mitchell. Mitchell, a resident of Makkovik, former mayor and past president of community councils of Labrador, and Inuit field worker, speaks on the topic of economic development and fisheries.

File contains a presentation by Gary Tautenhan. He discusses "a circumpolar perspective on northern Aboriginal people, language and culture, peace in Denendeh and Nunavut and working together." Tautenhan stresses the Aboriginal nature of the Nunavut claim in the context of Dene-Inuit relations, and discusses Greenland and the importance of language to the people there. Following the presentation Commissioner Erasmus thanks Tautenhan for his contribution.

File contains a presentation by Gerri Collins, Second Vice-Chairman, British Columbia Association of Friendship Centres. She introduces Wilfred Price and Wally Samuel, members of the executive of the British Columbia Association of Friendship Centres. Collins gives a brief history of the Canadian Friendship Centre movement. She questions the validity of holding discussions around urban Aboriginal self-government without the involvement of the BC Association of Friendship Centres, the only urban Aboriginal organization which has a mechanism in place already.

This file contains a presentation by Gordon Labillois focusing on self-government and a vision of the future for the Micmac Nation. The presenter outlines a plan for local government that recognizes the competitiveness of his community and our people, and would reflect the realities of the market-driven economy. Labillois provides a "Native Mission Statement" that provides the vision and focus required for self-government at the national, regional and community levels. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

The file contains a presentation by Hari Dimitrakopoulon, Northern Women's Development Network. Dimitrakopoulon discusses a report submitted to the Commission on women's economic development. Dimitrakopoulon highlights some of the content of the report which deals specifically with the socio-economic position of Aboriginal women in Northern Manitoba, and some of the reasons behind that position going back to pre-European contact days. Following the presentation Commissioners Chartrand and Wilson discuss some of the reports findings with Dimitrakopoulin.

File contains a presentation by Harry Baikie focusing on economic development in the Happy Valley-Goose Bay region. He discusses the Trans-Labrador Highway, the industry of pilot training, the resolution of land claims in Labrador, and development of a forestry industry and hydro power. Following the discussion is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Harry Maksagak, whose organization supports territorial Aboriginal training and employment policies, and provides a territorial forum for discussion and possible adaptation of policy that will encourage programs and services for Aboriginal people seeking to enter the unique labour markets of the Northwest Territories. Citing census statistics, he calls on the Commission to help provide more funding for Aboriginal youth to obtain the necessary post-secondary education to fill urgently needed jobs.

The file contains a presentation by President Rocky Simpson of the Hay River Metis Nation. Simpson summarizes a group discussion and its' findings held to discuss a new relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people of Canada, self-determination for Aboriginal peoples within Canada through self-government, economic self-sufficiency for Aboriginal people, and personal and collective healing for Aboriginal people and communities. Simpson makes a variety of recommendations to the Commission on these points.

This file contains a portion of a transcript of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at Hotel Saskatchewan, Regina, Saskatchewan. This portion of the Commission includes a presentation given by the Honourable Bob Mitchell, Marv Hendrickson and Marlee Rasmussen concerned with the relationship of the Province of Saskatchewan Government with the Aboriginal Community of of the province.

File contains a presentation by John Harker, Canadian representative of the International Labour Organization. The International Labour Office is a specialized agency of the United Nations. Harker delivers an international perspective on the issues faced by indigenous peoples, and discusses how his organization seeks to promote the human rights of indigenous peoples and enchancing their position within national societies. Harker also discusses some of the legal history of indigenous issues within the United Nations, and actions taken by his group.

File contains a presentation by Irene Ness focusing on Aboriginal economic programs and Bill C-31 funding. She calls on the Commission to make housing funds available to Bill C-31 persons for use either on or off reserves as per personal situations. She also requests a review of Aboriginal economic programs to ensure the needs of Aboriginal people are met. She speaks personally of being denied program funds for her business despite meeting the required standards for funding. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Jacques Girardin of an unspecified local Chamber of Commerce. Girardin discusses the composition of his Chamber of Commerce, and its relations with the Manawan First Nation. The Chamber's territory includes the "whole northern part of the County Regional Municipality, Matawinie, St. Zenon, St. Michel and Manawan, and the unorganized territories." Girardin discusses the participation of Atikamekw organizations and businesses in the Chamber, as well as some its programs and philosophy.

File contains a presentation by James Johnson. Johnson, a member of the Walpole Island First Nation, discusses his personal views on the Indian Act with reference to economic development, education, assistance, and political structures. Following the presentation the assembled Commissioners discuss the issues raised with Johnson.

File contains a presentation by Jean-Paul Nicolette focusing on Aboriginal employment at the McClean Lake Mine in Saskatchewan. His company welcomes Aboriginal employees and employs them in direct and in-direct jobs relating to the operation of the mine. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Jeff Baldwin, Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace. Baldwin discusses his organization's view of Canadian Aboriginal issues, particularly with regard to economic and spiritual concerns. One key problem he highlights is a great deal of ignorance of Aboriginal society and culture amongst Non-Aboriginal peoples, or as he puts it "We can see this quite easily as a problem for the non-Aboriginal society. Aboriginal people are compelled to encounter our society and our culture. We are not.

File contains a presentation made by Jim Favel on economic development and self-government in Aboriginal communities. Also contained are comments and questions from the assembled Commissioners and those of the Commissioner-of-the-Day.

This file contains a presentation by Joanne De Laurentiis relating to Aboriginals and Canadian banking. As Aboriginal communities continue to acquire funds through treaty negotiations or land claims settlements, and as Aboriginal people continue to develop new business and entrepreneurial skills, banks want opportunities to respond to those new business demands. The banking industry is taking some steps to work with Aboriginal peoples by sponsoring a number of business training programs, providing loans to viable Aboriginal enterprises, and also providing non-lending services as well.

File contains a presentation by John Edsu of Fort McPherson. Edsu discusses his views on the trapping industry in the area and his view of its great importance to people of the north. Edsu protests southerners coming in as transient labour and taking jobs that he feels northerners are qualified to do. He also discusses rival claims over land by trappers and large multinational resource companies. He requests recognition from the federal Government of the importance of the trapping industry to his people, and criticizes the anti-fur movement as destructive and naive.

File contains a presentation by John Jamieson of the PEI Fisherman's Association. Jamieson discusses the fishery in PEI and the Micmac's involvement. He focuses on the need for co-operation to conserve fish stocks, a plan to incorporate Micmac fishermen into the commerical fishery, and relations with the federal government. Following the presentation is a discussion between Jamieson and the Commissioners regarding fisheries in PEI.

File contains a presentation by John Turner. Turner presents on behalf of the Mushkegowuk Traditional Harvesters. Turner outlines three reasons why it is becoming increasingly difficult to make a living off the land: the activities of animal rights groups who oppose trapping, the activities of sport hunting groups who oppose subsistence rights to hunt, and the development of hydroelectric projects which negatively impact habitat. Turner then goes on to discuss how Aboriginal people have increasingly adopted European values and look with disdain upon trapping as a career choice.

File contains a presentation by John Zahradnik. Zahradnik discusses Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal worldviews, ranching in the Nicola Valley, and the need to create a cultural synthesis when it comes to land management and use patterns. Following the presentation Commissioners Dussault and Chartrand thank Zahradnik for his thoughts.

This file contains a presentation by Josie Oltrop, Vicki English-Currie and Gerri Manyfingers focusing on Aboriginal women's issues. The presenters begin with a brief historical perspective on Aboriginal women in society and then discuss the social system "which has determined the lives of all Native women." They state that 75% of all of Alberta's formally educated Aboriginal population are women showing that they are "healing themselves from past incidents and turning to education."

The file contains a presentation by Joy Playford of the Federal Business Development Bank serving Aboriginal people. Playford, Director of Business Management Training Services for the Bank in the prairie provinces and Northwest Territories, discusses what the Bank does and gives some examples of "individual efforts that perhaps would be helpful to others who seek to support Aboriginal peoples and their enterprises." Following the presentation Commissioners Chartrand and Wilson discuss some of the issues raised with Playford.