Economic Development

File contains a presentation by Joy Thorkelson, United Fishermen and Allied Workers Union. Thorkelson, the Union's Northern Representative, delivers a presentation "from a Northern perspective of a fishing community that has a great deal of Native participation and certainly within our Union we have many First Nations people...Seventy-five to eighty per cent of our members." Thorkelson discusses a range of environmental, trade, and economic issues effecting the West Coast fishery, and its various communities.

File contains a presentation by Julia Eweing focusing on her organization's role in Aboriginal economic development initiatives that assist Aboriginal people in working toward increased economic development and self-sufficiency through a number of programs offered by her organization. Eweing calls on the Commission to help deal with obstacles in receiving government funding for essential programming. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Keith Chief Moon, Mohk-E-Saun Committee, Blood Indian Reserve #148. Moon discusses his people's history, and some of their problems with regard to living conditions.

File contains a presentation by Keith Gordon, a Kahnawake Mohawk living in Toronto. His presentation focuses on four points: Canada must exhibit a willingness to be bound by the agreements it vociferously negotiates; Canada must acknowledge through the negotiation process the specific entitlements of Aboriginal peoples and their governments; governments must promote legitimacy to eliminate stereotyping; and all people must utilize the opportunity to promote the evolution of standards.

File contains a presentation by Kelvin Ng whose organization deal with political, economic and social issues at the regional level. Their goal is to lobby for changes which will benefit all residents of the region. Subjects discussed are education, economic development, the establishment of a financial institution that would serve area residents, a housing shortage and high rates of employment. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Ken Noskiye whose organization in 1989 signed the Metis Settlements Accord with the Alberta government. The Accord established principles for a partnership for Metis self-determination, giving the Metis a land base within to govern themselves in the legislative framework for governance. Noskiye calls for the Commission to ensure the Metis are not left out of government negotiations in the future. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

This file contains a portion of a transcript of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at Regina Friendship Centre, Regina, Saskatchewan. This portion of the Commission includes a presentation made by Ken Thomas of the Saskatchewan Indian Agriculture Program, concerning treaty rights in agriculture, investment in Indian Farm Units and distribution of treaty land entitlement. Questions from the assembled commissioners are also included.

File contains a presentation by Kevin McCormick, representative, Inuik Fisheries, and a resident of Pangnirtung. He feels that the Canadian government should be dealing with important economic and social issues in the Baffin region and that negotiations relating to the formation of Nunavut should not take precedent over these issues. He calls for the Canadian government to subsidize airfares and hotel costs in the Eastern Arctic to create growth in the tourist industry.

File contains a presentation by Kim French. French, a local businessman, discusses his views on on-reserve Casino development at Roseau River, and why he thinks it would be a positive thing for both his community and the First Nation. Following French's comments the Commissioners thank him for his contribution.

File contains a presentation by Judy Coocoo Whiteduck of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Council. Whiteduck delivers a summary of her views on economic development including business competetiveness, development, and the idea that developing an adequate economic base should precede self-government. Whiteduck discusses federal programs as they pertain to small business development, and some of the economic developments already in place under Kitigan Zibi. Following this Commissioners Dussault and Robinson discuss some of hte issues raised with Whiteduck.

The file contains a presentation by Chairperson Kris Ramchandar and Harold Rampersad, of the Community and Race Relations Committee of the City of Winnipeg. The presenters discuss the position of Aboriginal peoples in Canadian society, some of the history of colonization, and make a series of recommendations to the Commission regarding government policy in the social and economic spheres.

File contains a presentation by Lexine Phillips, Ktunaxa/Kinbasket Tribal Council, Land and Resources Department. Phillips discusses Constitutional issues, particularly with reference to self-governance and the "no" vote in the nationwide Charlottetown Accord referendum. Phillips then makes a series of recommendations to the Commission with respect to land rights, assistance, education, and associated economic concerns.

File contains a presentation by Sophie Pierre, Ktunaxa/Kinbasket Tribal Council. Pierre discusses a variety of issues in a general fashion on behalf of the Tribal Council including: justice concerns, housing and capital programs, the Council's wellness program, economic development, and fiscal arrangements in existence between the Tribal Councils and the federal government.

File contains a presentation made by the Lac Seul First Nation. Deputy Chief Roger Bull, Jack Brightnose and Harry Ignace all spoke to the topic of social plights on the Reserve and conditions of the First Nations reserve community. Also contained are questions and comments from the assembled Commissioners.

The file contains a presentation by Larry Soldier, Ma-Mow-We-Tak Friendship Centre. Soldier discusses the background of the Friendship Centre, its' operations, and some of its' organizational history. Amongst the issues Soldier raises are race relations; elder's issues; recreation and youth issues; cultural programming; self-governance; housing; addictions; education; and service delivery. Following the presentation Commissioners Wilson and Chartrand discuss some of the issues raised with Soldier.

File contains a presentation by LaShelle Brant of the First Peoples Fund of Toronto. Brant discusses her organization's origins and its accomplishments to date. The fund is intended to provide credit for Aboriginal entrepreneurs. Following the presentation is a discussion between Brant and Commissioners Blakeney and Wilson on business development issues.

File contains a presentation by Leon Sock, Economic Development Officer, Big Cove, New Brunswick. Sock says that "the failure of deal seriously with the question of Indian economics in Canada can be rated as one of the greatest failures in our national policy." He lists obstacles the Canadian government must overcome to work with Aboriginal leaders and proposes the reorganization of the defunct Big Cove Economic Development Program to start the process on his home First Nation. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Leonard Morin, Regional Representative, Metis Society of Saskatchewan. Morin gives a demographic overview of northern Saskatchewan, relates some of the issues faced by northerners, then gives a beif overview of Metis history. Morin stresses the importance of gaining a Metis land base, and discusses possibilities for Metis self-governance. Morin then speaks on an issue of importance to his home community of Cumberland House, the construction of a traffic bridge connecting the community with the mainland across the river.

The file contains a presentation by Archie Catholique, Joe Boucher, and Ellen Bielawski of the Lutsel'Ke Dene Band. Catholique discusses concerns with a nearby hydro dam, flooding, and the loss of two experienced Elders through the ice due to it. Boucher, an Elder who speaks via a translator, discusses the impact of flooding at Nonacho Lake on gravesites, animal populations, and Dene life in general. Follwoing the presentation Commissioner Georges Erasmus makes some comments on the contents.

This file contains a presentation by Lex Ross and Billy McReady that states: "Aboriginals without basic literacy and academic skills will never secure and retain gainful employment." A new curriculum should be implemented that would enhance the self-image of young Aboriginals as to their culture and history. Amulet Consulting's teaching technology "doesn't replace existing teaching systems, it enhances them" with that new curricula. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

Historical note:

File contains a presentation by Lillian Sanderson. Sanderson presents her views on the condition of Aboriginal people in the north. Throughout her presentation she critiques the actions of multinational companies and governments in their dealings with Aboriginal people. Specific points of grievance include resource exploitation with little benefit to the people of the area, unfair treatment from the justice system, trappers being abused by the forestry industry, and a lack of investment in community development and social spending.

File contains a presentation by Lindberg Louttit that covers a number of topics, including residential schools, hydro projects, river pollution and economic development. A lengthy question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Lionel Whiteduck, Director, Health and Social Services, Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Council. Whiteduck discusses his personal experiences with health delivery across the country, gives a brief historical background to health delivery in traditional society, discusses the need to integrate traditional ideas with modern technologies, discusses some of the social and health issues facing Aboriginal communities such as high suicide rates, the importance of self esteem, funding and juridisdicitonal concerns.

File contains a presentation by Lisa Raven, Hollow Water Band, Wanipigow School. Raven discusses her theory that the government has deliberately underfunded Status Indian education which she equates with an act of genocide. She also discusses the need for significant investments in education and economic development on reserves.

File contains a presentation by Louis-Edmond Hamelin, Specialist on Aboriginal Matters. Hamelin discusses the concept and the history of the term "aboriginal" in the English and French languages. Hamelin then discusses Aboriginal culture and land claims processes. Following the presentation Commissioner Dussault thanks Hamelin. Page 152 is missing.

File contains a presentation by Lucassie Arragutainaq, Vice-President, Arctic Co-operatives Limited. Arragutainaq discusses the Co-operative movement in the North, its principles, function, and history across the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. He discusses its importance to Inuit and Dene people, and the need for government policies that are helpful to this kind of community development, particularly in the finanical sector (Credit Unions).

File contains a presentation by Lyle Boland. Boland, representing the SaskNative Economic Development Corporation, discusses a variety of issues pertained to the Metis economy in Saskatchewan. Foremost amongst these is the need to "level the playing field" for Metis people with comparison to Status Indians.

The file contains a presentation by Marguerite Sanderson. Sanderson, presenting on behalf of the Northern Women's Resource Services, discusses that organization's mandate and work in northern Manitoba "improving the situation of the Northern women and their families, in the social, economic, and political spheres." Following the presentation Commissioners Wilson and Chartrand discuss some of the issues raised with Sanderson.

The file contains a presentation by Loretta Clark, General Manager of the Communities Economic Development Fund. Clark discusses "the economic conditions and opportunities or lack of the same for Aboriginal peoples." Clark also gives some of the historical background of the CEDF, and describes its' operations. Following the presentation Commissioners Chartrand and Wilson discuss some of the issues raised with Clark.

File contains a presentation by Marcelle Sinclair of the Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace. Sinclair discusses his organization's background, its mandate, and goals. Sinclair discusses the general historical, cultural, and economic position of Aboriginal peoples in Canada. Sinclair states that "self government without land is something impossible.

File contains remarks by Marg Beament, Norsask Native Outreach. Beament describes the work of her organization which is intended to facilitate employment and training for northern residents (both Aboriginal and Non). Beament describes some of the problems her organizations field workers commonly encounter in northern communities including: poor self-esteem and lack of confidence, little or no employment history, lack of personal support, little training or education history, family problems, lack of transportation, lack of childcare, lack of quality housing, and lack of justice services.

File contains a presentation by Marie Pitawanakwat and Carol Martin relating to "the relationship within and among ourselves, the Native people," because of their experiences as Aboriginal women and businesswomen. They have experienced oppression and paternalism from Aboriginal men relating to starting their own businesses. They believe self-government cannot be achieved when Aboriginal men do not consider Aboriginal women as their equal. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Marjorie Andersen, Mayor of Makkovik. After welcoming the Commission to her community, Andersen discusses some of their concerns such as a lack of adequate community funding, water and sewer system problems, poor roads, fishery issues, policing, housing, and the need for land development.

File contains a presentation by Mary Ellen Turpel, Professor, Dalhousie University, Constitutional Advisor to the Assembly of First Nations. Turpel discusses her own background, her work with land claims, and gives a critique of some of the fundamental concepts behind Canadian law.

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 Mary Pitananakwat concerning the employment of Aboriginals in the Community and human rights. Questions from the assembled commissioners are also present.

File contains a presentation by Mayor Pat McMahon. McMahon discusses a variety of concerns including urban Aboriginal issues generally, municipal governance issues, education, economic development, justice issues, family violence, self-governance, and the Constitution. Following the presentation the assembled Commissioners discuss some of the issues raised with McMahon.

File contains a presentation by Mayor Tom Lawson of Grand Bend, Ontario, and Walter Kornas. Lawson, presenting as an individual, discusses economic self-sufficiency with regard to reserves. Lawson discusses business partnership programs, on-reserve banking, and related security issues. Following the presentation Lawson and Kornas discuss economic self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship issues with Commissioners Chartrand and Erasmus.

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 members of the All Nations Youth Council, Author Thomas, Jolene Lalonde, Tracy Peters, Wanda Willier, Chris Brett, Jason Thomas, April Prince, Pearl Morgan, George Chapman, Carla Aubichon, Karen Aubichon and Dave Norbert concerning activities of youth in the Aboriginal community. Questions from the assembled commissioners are also included with the answers that were provided.

File contains a presentation made by Brian Favel for the Metis Society, Local 21 on the topics of the justice system, the education opportunities for northern communities, 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.

File contains a presentation by Armand Murray of the La Loche Local of the Metis Society of Saskatchewan. Murray discusses the need for recognition of Aboriginal rights on the part of government, land issues, a lack of capital in the community for utilizing resources, a conflict with the provincial government over Clearwater River park, fisheries issues, forestry issues, tourism and guiding, and related issues. Following the presentation Commissioner Dussault discusses some of the issues raised with Murray.

File contains a presentation made by Bernice Hammersmith on Aboriginal self-government issues pertaining to the Métis society. Also contained are comments and questions from the assembled Commissioners and those of the Commissioner-of-the-Day.

This file contains a presentation by Michael L. Rice that first provides a history of the Kahnawake business community and the Caisse Populaire Kahnawake. His organization was involved in the "establishment and implementation of the trust deed arrangement - loan security system." This system allows Aboriginals to use their land and their buildings as security on loans for commercial and housing purposes. A lengthy question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Mike Mercredi, Director of Athabasca Native Development Corporation. Mercredi describes the mandate and goals of his organization which represents Metis and First Nations people throughout Northern Alberta, and works to provide economic opportunity for them. Mercredi discusses some of the challenges his organization has faced, and some of the structural problems confronting northern economic development. Following the presentation are some remarks by Commissioner Paul Chartrand.

File contains a presentation by Mr. Rheal Boudrias. Boudrias, outgoing President of the Native Alliance of Quebec, discusses his own past, the way Aboriginal people have been treated in his region, the struggles of off-reserve populations, resource and economic development, housing, culture, racism and discrimination, and rights. Following the presentation the assembled Commissioners discuss some of the issues raised with Boudrias.

File contains a presentation by Nancy Gaudon, Port-au-Port Band. She discusses how the band has no economic base since the fishery collapsed, and lists a variety of concerns including housing, social needs, language issues, economic development, self-determination for off-reserve and Non-status Indians, Education and Historical Identity. Following the presentation Commissioners Erasmus and Robinson discuss some of the issues raised with Gaudon.

This file contains a presentation by Neil Perley focusing on restrictions placed upon Aboriginal businesses and entrepreneuers because of federal government policy. Perley states that First Nations governments and organizations must be given the authority to make decision and disperse funds which will benefit their communities and people. He also says that economic development should be viewed as the cure to the social problems which occur on every First Nations. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains presentations by Lorraine Moses, and Chief Gordon Antoine (Coldwater Indian Band), both of the Nicola Valley Indian Development Corporation. Moses presents on a variety of economic issues her organization is concerned with including the tourism industry, financing, education, and related matters. One key point she highlights is the relationship of Aboriginal people with Canada's banks.

File contains a presentation by Antoinette Lemaigre of NorSask Native Outreach. Lemaigre discusses her work as an employment counsellor, the need for increased education funding, acommodations for instructors, the need for permanent jobs, urananium mining in northern Saskatchewan and related employment issues, and the need for a trade school north of Prince Albert. Following the presentation Commissioners Dussault and Sillet discuss some of the issues raised with Lemaigre.

File contains a presentation made by Rick Laliberte and Harold Schultz for the Northern Teacher Education Program (NORTEP) and the Northern Professional Access College (NORPAC) on the topics of the the Royal Commission's mandate, the education opportunities for northern communities, 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.

File contains a presentation by the Northwest Urban Aboriginal Society of Prince Rupert. Vern Brown, President of the Prince Rupert Local of the Council of Haida Nations introduces his fellow presenters John Stewart, Bill Wright, and Fred Anderson. Brown discusses the urban Aboriginal population in Prince Rupert, its' demographic make-up, educational and language concerns, the need for facilities and resources, land claims issues, housing issues, seniors issues, disabled people's issues, health issues, and general urban and off-reserve concerns.