NIHB Claim

NIHB Claims Reminder: Submit Regularly

The Health and Wellness Department would like to remind members that NIHB (Non-Insured Health Benefits) claims should be submitted on a regular basis.

Submitting claims more frequently helps ensure faster processing and more accurate record keeping. Members are encouraged to submit claims based on their appointment schedule, such as after each appointment, weekly, once per month, or once every two months depending on how often you receive care.

How to Submit
Completed NIHB claims, forms, and supporting documentation can be emailed to: mtreimbursement@qalipu.ca

Claims may also be dropped off to these office locations:
• 3 Church Street, Corner Brook, NL
• 43 Main Street, Stephenville, NL
• 28 Hardy Avenue, Grand Falls-Windsor, NL

Please note: Faxed forms are not accepted.

Forms & Direct Deposit
Please ensure all receipts and supporting documentation are included with your claim submission to avoid processing delays.

Medical Transportation Reimbursement Form
This form must be completed with all receipts and supporting documentation to process your reimbursement request.
Medical Transportation Reimbursement Form

Direct Deposit (EFT) Enrollment
To receive reimbursements directly into your bank account, members are encouraged to enroll in Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). This is the fastest and most secure method for receiving reimbursement payments.

Please ensure a void cheque is included.
NIHB EFT Form

Questions or Additional Support
If you have any questions or require additional support, please contact the Manager of NIHB, Melissa Muise, by telephone at 709-634-3144 or by email at mmuise@qalipu.ca.

Feb 13 (1)

Message from Central Vice-Chief – February 13, 2026

Msit No’kmaq – All My Relations

During the recent flood and evacuation in Badger, I, along with Exploits Ward Councillor Shianne Squires and our dedicated staff, worked closely with community members and Town officials to respond to urgent needs. We acted in the spirit of Apoqnmatulti’k — “we help one another.”

Mi’kmaq teachings remind us that hardship calls us to step forward for our relatives and ensure no one is left without protection. Throughout the response, we grounded each decision in care for people, the land, and community safety.

Working directly with Town officials made it clear where Qalipu First Nation could offer meaningful support: providing survival suits for the Badger Volunteer Fire Department. Qalipu First Nation contributed to the purchase of these suits and coordinated with local partners to ensure the 40‑member department was fully equipped. This wasn’t just about supplying gear — it was a way to honour the people who worked tirelessly to keep the community safe.

The collaboration showed what is possible when Qalipu First Nation, municipalities, community organizations, and local partners come together. By combining our knowledge, resources, and shared care for people and the land, we responded quickly and effectively to urgent needs. It is a meaningful example of how we support our members and communities while strengthening broader networks of cooperation.

This is Netukulimk in action, using our collective strength and resources not only to address immediate challenges but to build a foundation of long‑term safety and resilience for the people of Badger.

When we stand together, our communities are stronger and better prepared to face whatever comes. Wela’lioq to everyone who contributed, supported Badger, and demonstrated the power of true partnership.

Photo taken from the Bader Volunteer Fire Department Facebook Page
Photo taken from the Bader Volunteer Fire Department Facebook Page
Francis Skeard NMCA Remarks2

Qalipu First Nation Shares Perspective on South Coast Fjords NMCA at Parliamentary Committee

On February 9, Councillor Francis Skeard addressed a parliamentary committee about marine and coastal protection and the South Coast Fjords National Marine Conservation Area feasibility study.

As Qalipu First Nation’s representative on the Steering Committee, Frank spoke on behalf of the Nation, highlighting our stewardship, Indigenous leadership, and the importance of meaningful consultation in decisions affecting our waters, lands, and communities.

His remarks emphasized the deep and ongoing relationship between Mi’kmaq people and the ocean, and the need for conservation approaches that protect ecosystems while supporting sustainable local livelihoods.

Watch the video of the presentation: https://parlvu.parl.gc.ca/Harmony/en/PowerBrowser/PowerBrowserV2?fk=13316591

Read the full remarks below:

February 6, 2026 -2 (1)

Message from Chief Jenny – February 6, 2026

This week, our team met with the Minister Chris Tibbs and members of his team to hear about the province’s decision to withdraw from the MOU on the South Coast Fjords feasibility assessment. This was not a conversation, rather a delivery of information. We have all been aware of the PC governments intent to pull out of this initiative since the election, but I suppose naively, we assumed there would be a discussion amongst the participants of the MOU prior to this decision.

Many of us remember the pride we felt when the MOU was first signed, there was a genuine sense of partnership, excitement, and shared purpose. Leaders at every level spoke about protecting biodiversity, honouring our deep connections to the land and water, and working together for the good of future generations. It truly felt like we were stepping into that work side by side. I think back to sailing the South Coast Fjords with community members, project partners and youth, and assuring them that we were doing our part to help protect this incredible place for generations to come.

This week’s announcement feels quite different, and I know many of us are feeling unsettled by that shift. What is most difficult is the lack of communication leading up to this decision. When something this significant changes direction so suddenly, and without meaningful conversation among all the partners, it naturally raises concerns. We have lived through governments making unilateral decisions before, and it is hard not to feel echoes of that history now.

What makes this especially challenging is that the decision seems to have been made with a narrow focus on economics, without fully considering the broader picture. Conservation is not separate from economic well‑being, it is part of it. Tourism in this province depends on the beauty and health of our lands and waters. Our fisheries rely on strong conservation measures to survive. These are not small considerations, and they deserve space in the conversation.

Our intention in signing the MOU was simply to explore possibilities together, to look at the science, the cultural knowledge, the economic realities, and the long‑term needs of the region. A feasibility study is just that: a study. It is a chance for everyone to understand the impacts, benefits, and challenges before any decisions are made. That is why collaboration and open communication are so important.

Even with this setback, our commitment to the South Coast Fjords has not changed. We will continue to show up, to advocate for balanced and thoughtful approaches, and to remind all partners that decisions about these lands and waters must include the voices of the people who depend on them.

January 30 (1)

Message from Chief Jenny – Jan 30, 2026

Last week, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s major foreign‑policy speech at the World Economic Forum stated, “When we only negotiate bilaterally with a hegemon, we negotiate from weakness… This is not sovereignty. It’s the performance of sovereignty while accepting subordination.”

While I agree with the intent behind Prime Minister Carney’s message, I can’t help but ponder how it directly speaks to the challenges we continue to face as Mi’kmaq people, not just in economics, but nearly in every aspect of our lives. Our Nation, like so many others, is far too familiar with these uneven power dynamics. Whether we are engaging with federal or provincial governments or navigating our relationship with law enforcement agencies such as the RCMP, the scales are rarely tipped in our favour.

In the wake of the recent shootings in Mi’kma’ki, tragedy once again serves as a harsh reminder that our safety, our rights, and our sovereignty cannot depend on systems that have historically failed to protect us. They remind us why we must stand together and speak collectively.

One voice can be dismissed but many voices joined in purpose cannot be ignored. When we are united, we move with a power far greater than challenges we face. As we continue to navigate these relationships, let us all support measures to create systemic change that will no longer tolerate policies that ignore our inherent rights and harm our people.

CBC Article: Atlantic chiefs call for ‘meaningful action’ after 2 First Nations men killed by RCMP | CBC News

Hire a Summer Student Through YSEP – Applications Open!

Qalipu First Nation is inviting community organizations and businesses to apply for funding to hire Indigenous youth for meaningful summer employment. The Youth Summer Employment Program (YSEP) helps youth gain work experience, develop skills, and access tools to support their education and future career paths.

📅 Deadline for applications: Friday, March 6, 2026 at 4:00 PM NDT
📄 Application form: Available on our website under Qalipu Member Services – Forms
📧 Submit applications to: employmentprograms@qalipu.ca

For full details on eligibility, employer responsibilities, application assessment, and more, please visit: https://qalipu.ca/youth-programs/

Join the growing list of employers supporting Indigenous youth while accessing funding for your summer student!

Jan 2026 Support Update

NIHB Support Update

The NIHB Navigator supports members by helping them understand and access their NIHB benefits, including assistance with coverage questions and advocacy.

For assistance, please contact:

  • NIHB Manager: Melissa Muise
    • Email: mmuise@qalipu.ca
    • Phone: 709-634-3144
  • Medical Transportation
    • Email: mtpreapprovals@qalipu.ca
    • Phone: 709-634-3386
  • Mental Health Counselling
    • Mental Wellness Navigator: Susan Bryan
      • Email: sbryan@qalipu.ca
      • Phone: 709-679-2238
  • NIHB Atlantic Office: 1-800-565-3294
    • Vision Care: Coverage for eye exams and corrective eyewear
    • Medical Supplies & Equipment (MS&E): Requests for mobility aids, hearing aids, and other necessary medical equipment
  • Pharmacy (Drug Exception Centre): 1-800-580-0950
  • Dental (Dental Predetermination Centre): 1-855-618-6291
January 23

Message from Chief Jenny – January 23, 2026

It is with a heavy heart that I share the sad news that our colleague and friend, Howard Thistle, passed away last week after a hard‑fought health battle. This loss is felt across our Nation and by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Howard was with us for many years, working in our Health and Wellness department, and in that time, he touched countless lives.

For those that knew Howard, knew he was a true champion for our people. He spoke up consistently and courageously for the betterment of Indigenous healthcare, always pushing for systems and services that honoured our voices and our needs. Among our staff, he was admired and appreciated, not only for his knowledge and dedication, but for his kindness, his great sense of humour and his ability to connect with people in a way that made him one of our most contacted staff members. He was the person who would lend a hand and who always went above and beyond to ensure that others were taken care of.

We extend our sincere condolences to Howard’s family, friends, and all who are grieving his loss. As we move forward, our team is committed to honouring him each day through the work we do. We will continue to model the values he embodied: compassion, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to our people. May his spirit guide us as we continue the important work he cared so deeply about.