The word NEWS written in vintage wooden letterpress type in a wooden type drawer.

Land Camp Registration is Open!

Posted by Qalipu on

Land Camp 2026

Qalipu First Nation is excited to offer Land Camps across Western and Central regions this summer. These camps provide a wonderful opportunity for youth to connect with the land, culture, and community.

Camp Dates:

  • Western Region
    • Corner Brook July 6–9 ** FULL
    • Port au Port: July 13–16
    • Benoit’s Cove: July 27–30 ** FULL
    • Stephenville Crossing: August 10–13
  • Central Region
    • Gander: July 20–23
    • Glenwood: August 3–6

Register here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QZJLB7J

Additional pop-up camp offerings may be added in locations throughout the Central Region with details shared as they are confirmed. If you are interested in a pop-up in your area, let us know!

Please note: Staff will reach out to follow up on the form. Registration is only confirmed once all required documents have been completed and submitted. A confirmation email will be sent once finalized.

Questions? Contact Bethann Janes at 709-634-9166 or bjanes@qalipu.ca

May 1 (1)

Message from Chief Jenny – May 1, 2026

Posted by Qalipu on

This week, I want to share an update on the MSC Baltic III, which remains grounded in Cedar Cove. Over the winter, our region experienced challenging weather and heavy ice, creating difficult conditions in the area. As we move into spring and the fishing season begins, we recognize that the waters around Little Port and Cedar Cove will become increasingly active.

Our leadership team has been in ongoing discussions with MSC to ensure that the priorities of our communities and members remain central as planning continues, with a focus on safety, environmental responsibility, and meaningful local involvement. Companies undertaking work in our communities must go beyond consultation and genuinely engage with our Nation—understanding community priorities, creating opportunities for our involvement, and ensuring that local knowledge and participation guide how work is planned and carried out. We will hold every company to this standard on our territory.

As has been reported in the media, the next steps of the wreck removal process are now moving forward. Our shared goal is a safe and successful operation, where all parties work together respectfully to ensure the vessel is removed safely and efficiently.

For over a year, our communities have lived with this situation, and we have heard your concerns every step of the way. Your Nation has constantly brought those forward at every meeting and opportunity. Through our persistence and with your support, recent discussions have led to clearer progress and movement into the next phase of work. We are encouraged by the constructive working relationship taking shape and remain hopeful that this collaboration will continue to support timely progress and deliver direct benefits to our communities, both through this work and into the future.

We also encourage cooperation throughout this process and are optimistic that opportunities will arise for our members to participate and gain employment as part of the work. As always, we will remain engaged and continue to advocate for the interests of our communities as this work moves forward.

 

Pathways to Homeownership (1)

Qalipu First Nation Launches ‘Pathways to Homeownership’ First-Time Homebuyers Program

Posted by Qalipu on

Qalipu First Nation’s Housing Division is pleased to announce the launch of the Pathways to Homeownership: First-Time Homebuyers Program.

This program provides financial assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers to support down payments, with the goal of making homeownership more accessible while promoting long-term housing stability and stronger community connections.

The application period is between 1 May 2026 and 31 October 2026. Applications will be processed by the selection committee, on a rolling basis, while funding remains available. Applicants MUST submit a complete application, including all required supporting documentation, by 31 October 2026.

It is strongly recommended that applicants review the application thoroughly to ensure that all required documents are included. Incomplete applications will not be considered. To be eligible for funding, applicants must:

  • be a member of Qalipu First Nation. * be between 19–39 years of age.
  • be a first-time homebuyer.
  • have a combined annual household net income must be below $150,000.00.
  • be pre-approved for a mortgage through a recognized lender.
  • provide a signed affidavit confirming this is his/her first time purchasing a home and a tax assessment.
  • currently reside within Atlantic Canada.
  • intend to purchase a home within Atlantic Canada.
  • not intend to purchase a home through a “rent-to-own” agreement.

Applications can be found here, and below. If you have any questions or require assistance with your application, please contact the Housing Division at housingproject@qalipu.ca or 1-709-634-0996.

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meal reimbursement + claim instructions (1)

NIHB Meal Reimbursement Rate Increase & Claim Instructions

Posted by Qalipu on

The Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program, through Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), has updated its commercial meal allowance rates under the Medical Transportation Program. These new rates are effective April 1, 2026, until further notice, and apply to meals purchased at restaurants. All amounts include applicable taxes.

Please note: Meal allowances are not automatically provided for all travel. Eligibility depends on travel time, medical appointment details, and prior approval requirements where applicable.

Age Group Breakfast Lunch Dinner Maximum Daily Total
Ages 3 to Adult $19 $19 $38 $76
Infants & Toddlers (0–3 years) $9.50 $9.50 $19 $38

 

Other reimbursement rates have not changed and are listed as follows:

  • Private vehicle travel: $0.28/km
  • Hotel accommodations: up to $160/night
  • Private accommodation: $13.50

Submitting Your Reimbursement

To claim your eligible meal and travel expenses:

  1. Complete the NIHB Medical Transportation Client Reimbursement Form.
  2. Include receipts for travel. Gas and meal receipts are not required.
  3. Submit your form and receipts:
    • By email (preferred):
      1. Send your completed form and receipts to mtreimbursement@qalipu.ca.
      2. Submit your documents as a PDF. Files in other formats, such as photos, screenshots, or Word documents, may not be processed and could be returned.
    • In person: Drop off paper copies at Qalipu First Nation offices in Corner Brook, Stephenville, Grand Falls-Windsor, or Glenwood.

Get Faster Payments with EFT
Members should also sign up for direct deposit (EFT) payment. EFT payments are faster and more secure than mailed cheques.

Click here to submit an EFT form: Non Insured Health Benefits Direct Deposit Form

Click here for the NIHB Medical Transportation Client Reimbursement Form: NIHB Medical Transportation Client Reimbursement Form
Updated Medical Transportation Program Fact Sheet

This fact sheet explains how to submit claims, what expenses are covered, pre-approval requirements, submission options (email, mail, or in person), EFT sign-up, eligibility, and time limits.

Click here to view the fact sheet: Non-Insured Health Benefits Medical Transportation Fact Sheet

April 24

Message from Chief Jenny – April 24, 2026

Posted by Qalipu on

Earth Week offers an important moment to reflect on our shared responsibility to honour and protect Mother Earth, our home. It felt especially meaningful that this week, members of our team and I had the opportunity to attend the 58th National Congress on Housing and Homelessness in St. John’s.

I was invited to participate by Regional Chief Mitchell as he is the Assembly of First Nations portfolio holder for Housing, Homelessness, and Infrastructure. Chief Mitchell continues to be deeply engaged in addressing housing challenges facing First Nations communities across the country.

These national conversations give us the space to share the realities and priorities of our communities while learning from innovative approaches emerging in other regions. We also connected with our provincial partners to reaffirm our shared commitment to increasing housing across the island. We are stronger when we build together.

Housing is connected to everything, health, language, ceremony, family, and community identity. This gathering brought together housing leaders and community partners from across Canada, all united in ensuring safe, affordable, and sustainable housing for the people we serve.

The focus on sustainability felt especially significant during Earth Week, reminding us that housing solutions must not only meet the needs of our people but also respect and protect the lands and waters that sustain us.

Our team is committed to advocating for affordable, accessible housing solutions that reflect the needs of our people, and to advancing approaches that honour our responsibility to care for Mother Earth for generations to come.

Housing & Homelessness

Season Opener

Mi’kmaq Commercial Fisheries 2026 Season Opener

Posted by Qalipu on

As the 2026 crab season officially gets underway, Mi’kmaq Commercial Fisheries (MCF) would like to extend our very best wishes to all harvesters and crew members heading to sea. This time of year, marks one of the most important periods in our fishery, and we recognize the hard work, dedication, and resilience it takes to make each season a success.

We encourage everyone to prioritize safety above all else and wish you a safe, productive, and prosperous season on the water!

This season also marks an exciting milestone for MCF with the return of our primary vessel, the F/V Newfoundland Navigator, to the water. Following a period of maintenance and upgrades, the vessel has been relaunched and is ready to support upcoming operations.

A key enhancement completed during this refit was the installation of engineered stabilizing fins. These upgrades are designed to improve vessel stability in varying sea conditions, contributing to safer operations for crew and improved overall performance at sea. Investments like these reflect MCF’s ongoing commitment to safety, modernization, and operational excellence within our fleet.

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Pete Windsor and the team at Mid Island Marine for their continued professionalism and the outstanding work completed on the Newfoundland Navigator. Their expertise and attention to detail played an important role in ensuring the vessel was returned to service safely and efficiently.

“The start of crab season is always an important time for our harvesters and communities. Seeing the Newfoundland Navigator back in the water, with key safety upgrades completed, is something we’re very proud of. Our focus continues to be on supporting our harvesters while ensuring we operate safely, responsibly, and sustainably.”

The relaunch of the Newfoundland Navigator represents more than just the return of a vessel—it reflects our continued focus on strengthening our fisheries, supporting our harvesters, and ensuring we are well-positioned for the seasons ahead. As activity ramps up across the region, MCF remains committed to working alongside our partners, harvesters, and community members to support a sustainable and thriving fishery.

We look forward to sharing more updates throughout the season.

Learn more about Qalipu Development Corporation and Mi’kmaq Commercial Fisheries here: https://qalipu.ca/corporate/qalipu-development-corporation/

Qalipu First Nation Announces By-Election for Benoit’s Cove Ward Councillor Position

Qalipu First Nation Announces By-Election for Benoit’s Cove Ward Councillor Position

Posted by Qalipu on

Qalipu First Nation (QFN) will hold a by-election to fill the vacant position of Benoit’s Cove Ward Councillor following a resignation.

We extend our sincere thanks to former Councillor Terri Greene for her time, dedication, and contributions to Council and to the Nation. Wela’lin, Terri, for your service. We look forward to continuing this important work with the newly elected Councillor.

The by-election process will be conducted in accordance with the CUSTOM RULES GOVERNING QALIPU MI’KMAQ FIRST NATION BAND ELECTIONS  that are established governance procedures to ensure fairness, transparency, and accessibility for all eligible voting members.

Voting Period: June 12, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. to June 19, 2026, at 8:00 p.m.
Nomination Period: To be announced

To be eligible to vote, an individual must be a member of the QFN Benoit’s Cove Electoral War and 18 years of age by/on June 19, 2026. Members do not need to currently reside in the ward to be eligible to vote. Individuals who live outside the region or province may still vote if they are registered in the Benoit’s Cove Ward as their last place of residence.

Communities within the QFN Benoit’s Cove Ward include Cormack, Reidville, Deer Lake, Nicholsville, Humber Arm South (Benoit’s Cove, Frenchman’s Cove, Halfway Point, John’s Beach), Lark Harbour, York Harbour, Jackson’s Arm, Pollard’s Point, Sop’s Arm, Cook’s Brook, Little Harbour West, Little Port, Pollard’s Point, Pynns Brook, St. Judes, Virgin Point and Wiltondale.

Members who are unsure of their ward are encouraged to check their membership profile in KINU or contact the Band Office to confirm their information.

Members are encouraged to ensure their mailing and email addresses are up to date with the Band office to ensure the can be reached for important notices of information.

Members can update their contact information through one of the following options before May 27, 2026

An Electoral Officer will be appointed, and further information, including election administration details, will be shared as they become available.

All by-election information will be posted on the Qalipu Election Hub: https://qalipu.ca/qalipu-election-hub/

Message from CW

Message from Western Vice-Chief Charlie White – April 17, 2026

Posted by Qalipu on

I want to share some of the work I’ve been involved in recently and the shifting conditions I am witnessing on the land. At this time of year, the landscape is transforming rapidly. With the snow melting and brooks opening up, travel is becoming unpredictable. I urge everyone out on the land to be cautious, the snow is deteriorating and no longer holding, and conditions can shift without warning. Please ensure someone knows your route and your expected return time.

Recently, I have been involved in wildfire resilience planning with the City of Corner Brook to help communities prepare for these changing conditions. Alongside this work, I have also been working through the Environment and Natural Resources department and engaging in early discussions with partners such as Kruger. Kruger currently has a five-year operational plan in place, and while a “Two-Eyed Seeing” approach is not part of that existing plan, conversations are beginning to explore how we can move in that direction in the future. This represents an initial step toward building stronger relationships and improving how forest resources are managed and waterways are protected over time.

This work reinforces the importance of ensuring the Nation is at the table from the very beginning of any project or environmental assessment. When our knowledge is included from the outset, it helps ensure that lived experience shapes decisions before they are finalized, rather than being sought as an afterthought. True partnership means being involved at the design stage to help protect sensitive habitats and culturally significant areas before work begins. This is essential to ensuring development respects the land we all rely on.

We are already seeing the effects of a changing climate. Lower water levels and altered fish habitats are clear signs of how sensitive these ecosystems have become. My work with Fisheries and Oceans Canada on brook trout populations is personal for me. I grew up fishing these waters when they had clean rock beds and steady flows. Today, warmer temperatures and reduced forest cover are changing that reality. When we lose the canopy along riverbanks, the water loses its protection.

All of these changes are connected. When landscapes are disturbed, water moves faster and erodes more easily, contributing to the flooding we are now seeing. Healthy natural areas along our rivers and streams are our strongest defense, acting as a buffer that protects water quality and builds flood resilience. The land is changing, but it continues to teach us. Our responsibility is to listen, adapt, and ensure we are protecting these resources for the generations to come.

 

Wide Website Graphics (1)

Message from the Chief – April 10 2026

Posted by Qalipu on

A Message to Service Members

This week, I want to speak directly to the concerns many of us share about the Service Members Agreement and offer a clearer understanding of where things stand. The process to complete the steps in the Agreement involves three parties—our Nation, the Federation of Newfoundland Indians, and Canada. All parties have a responsibility to move toward a fair and final resolution to determine membership status for Service Members. We believe that each party understands how important this is for Service Members and all QFN members so, together, we are working to find a path forward that honours the commitments made to Service Members.

At our February Special Council meeting, your Council passed a motion supporting Canada’s proposed plan to complete the Agreement. This plan outlines the steps needed to bring this lengthy process to a close: reconvening the Agreement’s Enrollment and Implementation Committees, completing the remaining assessments, addressing appeals, and carrying out the required regulatory actions. By formally expressing our support through a Band Council Resolution, we are making our intentions clear and demonstrating our commitment to transparency. You can read the full text of the Band Council Resolution in our 20 February 2026 Minutes [link to Minutes].

We firmly believe that Service Members deserve a prompt and fair resolution. You have waited long enough, and we are determined to see this work progress without further delay. Our goal is to ensure that the process continues in a way that is consistent, accountable, and respectful of the people whose lives and families are directly affected.

There is a workable plan on the table. We have communicated our positions to all parties and have met with our counterparts. What is needed now is coordinated action from all of us—together, united in our desire to get this done.

We understand the frustration many people are experiencing. We hear it, we recognize it, and we feel it as well. This period of uncertainty has gone on for far too long, and the last thing we want is to add to the stress or hardship faced by those still waiting for a resolution.

Our position stays unwavering: Service Members deserve justice, and they deserve it now. We are committed to moving this process forward in line with the commitments we have already made, and we will continue to advocate for the prompt completion of this work.

Related Link: 2022 Agreement Q&A [link to Q&A]

A Note on Our Image: The Forget-Me-Not is a flower with historic ties to the Newfoundland Regiment in the days before the use of the poppy to signify remembrance of those lost during the First World War and our veterans. We have not forgotten our commitment to you and we will never waiver.

Notice of Annual General Assembly - Wide

Notice of Central Annual General Assembly

Posted by Qalipu on

Important Notice:

The Central Annual General Assembly of Qalipu First Nation will take place on Sunday, 3 May  2026, starting at 1:00 PM at Exploits Nordic Ski Club, 35 Scott Ave, Grand Falls-Windsor.

Central AGA Agenda
Link to Agenda		 Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band Financial Statements as of March 31, 2024
Link to Financial Statements and Annex A | Link to Annex B

All registered members of Qalipu First Nation are invited to attend. Please register upon arrival and bring your status card.

Members who wish to attend virtually can log into their KINU profile (Link to KINU).

Please note that the meeting may start later than scheduled or run longer than planned, and, in either instance, we kindly ask for your patience and understanding.

To register in advance or for more information, please contact Natasha White at nwhite@qalipu.ca or 709-634-6895.