This week, members of our Executive team and I had the opportunity to meet with provincial Ministers, as well as our new Premier.

Our goal was simple, to introduce ourselves, to build early relationships to set a respectful path forward. We reaffirmed to our newly elected officials that as an Indigenous government, we offer a great deal as partners in building capacity across all sectors. We all agreed that the strength of our Nation along with collaboration of the provincial government can only be a benefit to us all—as long as we work together.

We also had the opportunity to visit the Food Fish and Allied Workers Union (FFAW) office to discuss various issues that concern the members we both represent. QFN is committed to being accountable for our words and actions and expect the same from our partners. Our role as stewards of the lands and waters is not meant to prevent economic development, but to secure it for our future generations.

From there, I went on to meet with the Atlantic Policy Congress Chiefs for two full days of important discussions regarding housing, policing, health, and economic development. Our National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak as well as our Atlantic Regional Chiefs of the Assembly of First Nations joined us in these conversations. We also heard from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Honorable Gary Anandasangaree, the federal Minister of Public Safety, Senator PJ Prosper and Senator Brian Francis, MP Jaime Batiste, RCMP Commissioners and Indigenous RCMP members. These conversations are critical to our Nation in dealing with ongoing concerns and finding solutions that can help us shape policies to better protect people in Mi’kma’ki and enhance their futures.

Our partnerships and relationships with likeminded organisations are essential to our success. The only way we can achieve our goals is to build capacity through partnerships. As we move forward, our Council will be collaborating with our community members to understand the needs and desired outcomes you want us to focus on.