My Post (6)

Bernie Hanlon Memorial Scholarship Deadline

The Education and Training Department is now accepting applications for the Bernie Hanlon Memorial Scholarship.

Bernadette “Bernie” Hanlon dedicated her life to supporting and encouraging the aboriginal people of Newfoundland both culturally and in working with them to meet their educational dreams. Bernie always went above and beyond for her many students and tried to help in any way possible through her many years with the Federation of Newfoundland Indians and later with the Qalipu First Nation. Bernie worked tirelessly to help those around her develop personally as well by supporting and encouraging cultural and spiritual growth. The Bernie Hanlon Memorial Scholarship was created to help a client of The Education and Training Department attending college or completing an undergraduate degree to continue to pursue those dreams.

The scholarship is valued at $1,000.00 and will be awarded to the applicant that best embodies Bernie’s passion for our culture and a commitment to academics as well as to their community.

To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:

· Currently be in receipt of support under the PSSSP

· Currently enrolled a college diploma or undergraduate degree program and planning to return to school in the fall.

· Achieve a grade average of B or higher in their program of studies

And answer the following essay question in 500 words or less:

“Using the information provided above, demonstrate how you embody the spirit of Bernie Hanlon.”

Please submit applications to Yvonne MacDonald via email (ymacdonald@qalipu.ca) by August 30th. Note: all essays must be submitted in PDF format.

My Post (6)

Bernie Hanlon Memorial Scholarship APPLY NOW!

The Education and Training Department is now accepting applications for the Bernie Hanlon Memorial Scholarship.

Bernadette “Bernie” Hanlon dedicated her life to supporting and encouraging the aboriginal people of Newfoundland both culturally and in working with them to meet their educational dreams. Bernie always went above and beyond for her many students and tried to help in any way possible through her many years with the Federation of Newfoundland Indians and later with the Qalipu First Nation. Bernie worked tirelessly to help those around her develop personally as well by supporting and encouraging cultural and spiritual growth. The Bernie Hanlon Memorial Scholarship was created to help a client of The Education and Training Department attending college or completing an undergraduate degree to continue to pursue those dreams.

The scholarship is valued at $1,000.00 and will be awarded to the applicant that best embodies Bernie’s passion for our culture and a commitment to academics as well as to their community.

To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:

· Currently be in receipt of support under the PSSSP

· Currently enrolled a college diploma or undergraduate degree program and planning to return to school in the fall.

· Achieve a grade average of B or higher in their program of studies

And answer the following essay question in 500 words or less:

“Using the information provided above, demonstrate how you embody the spirit of Bernie Hanlon.”

Please submit applications to Yvonne MacDonald via email (ymacdonald@qalipu.ca) by August 30th. Note: all essays must be submitted in PDF format.

IMG_0565

RNC JUNIOR POLICE ACADEMY 2019 OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUTH & VOLUNTEERS

From August 6-9 2019, The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary and Qalipu Cultural Foundation are partnering to host the Junior Police Academy at Killdevil Camp.   This camp is designed to create stronger relationships with youth (ages 10-12 years old) and police as well as with other community partners.

Participants will have an opportunity to take part in this fun filled and educational camping experience, where the RNC and partner organizations will foster stronger and healthier relationships between the participants and the police by breaking down historical barriers.  The Junior Police Academy will enhance participant learning on a variety of topics by providing a healthy, active and unplugged environment where they will be educated on the benefits of healthy, responsible decision making. Youth at the camp will receive education on a variety of topics including (but not limited to) healthy eating, decision making and lifestyle choices, bicycle safety, fire safety, environmental sustainability, police investigative techniques and Mi’kmaq cultural awareness.

For youth who attend the camp, transportation will be provided from Corner Brook to Killdevil and return (transportation to and from Corner Brook is the participants responsibility). Transportation can be arranged for pickup and drop off in Deer Lake for those youth and volunteers that are east of Deer Lake (transportation to and from Deer Lake is the participants responsibility).  While at the camp, all accommodations and meals will be provided. Participants will be asked to bring their own sleeping bag, or bedding, and their own clothing.

To facilitate this event, we are currently seeking volunteer chaperons. Volunteers will be responsible for general supervision of youth during the camp. All accommodations and meals will be provided to volunteers while at the camp. Volunteers will be asked to bring their own sleeping bag or bedding and their own clothing.

If you are interested in being a volunteer or are seeking additional information, please contact Nicole Travers.

Youth participant click here for the RNC Junior Police Academy 2019 application

Volunteer Chaperons click here for Volunteer Application

Deadline to apply is July 15, 2019

All participant and volunteer application forms can be submitted to Mitch Blanchard, Resource Coordinator at 3 Church Street Corner Brook, NL or faxed to: 709-639-4706 or via email ntravers@qalipu.ca

Sponsored by:
United Way Newfoundland and Labrador
Communities Foundation of Canada – Canada 150

Job recruit concept with coffee cups and text "Join our team". Business background

Communications Committee Seeking Member-at-Large

Qalipu First Nation is pleased to affirm its commitment to community values, openness, transparency and ensuring engagement of all our members regardless of their geographic location by way of establishing a Communications Committee.

The Committee was established following the recent election and consists of Ward Councilors Odelle Pike (Chair) and Ivan J. White along with staff support from the Communications Officer, Alison White and the Communications and Computing Specialist, Ryan Matthews.  Together, this team will work toward the development and implementation of communication policies and strategies that enhance community inclusion and engagement, ensure a continued focus on the importance of strong internal and external communications among our staff, Council and communities, and explore new ways of both reaching out and listening to our people.

The Committee is currently seeking a Member-at-Large to join the team. This unique opportunity will give hands-on access and input into the way the Band handles communications now and into the future and will help guide the work of the Communications Committee.

The ideal candidate is a Band member living in the province with a background in marketing and communications and five years’ experience.  If you are passionate about communications and want to contribute your knowledge as a volunteer on this committee, please see below for an Expression of Interest and apply by noon on March 15, 2019.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Qalipu_rgb-01

Communications Committee
Member-at-Large
Expression of Interest

Overview

A Communications Committee was established by Qalipu in November 2018 in order to provide enhanced focus on community values, openness, transparency and ensuring engagement of all our members regardless of their geographic location.

The Committee consists of two Ward Councilors and two staff resource people and is seeking to bring one Member-at-Large to the team.

The Committee meets monthly either in person or by video conference.

 

Our Mandate

Help to ensure Band communications reflect the values of our communities and promote our mission and vision.

Provide support, advice and guidance for Band internal and external communications.

Develop policies that help to ensure consistent, reliable, respectful and inclusive communications.

Propose strategic priorities for communications and work to ensure communications are timely, consistent, well co-ordinated and responsive to the diverse needs of our members.

Promote openness and transparency in governance and operations, ensuring that all audiences are well informed of Band activities, programs and services.

 

 Roles and Responsibilities of a Member-at Large Committee Member

  • Participate in Committee Meetings in person or by video conference.
  • Maintain engagement and involvement by responding to Committee emails between meetings to weigh in on decisions, communications products and activities.
  • Work collaboratively with Committee to ensure team-based and positive outcomes.
  • Represent a membership perspective.
  • Contribute skills, knowledge and experience toward accomplishing the goals and objectives of the Communications Committee.
  • Demonstrate respect for Mi’kmaq community values.
    Adhere to a Commitment of Confidentiality.
  • Work on a volunteer basis with travel and per diems provided.

 

The Ideal Candidate:

  • Has marketing and/or communication background with five years’ experience
  • Is a member of the Band
  • Is a resident of Newfoundland
  • Must be able to travel within Newfoundland
  • Must have a valid driver’s license
  • Must be willing to sign a Commitment of Confidentiality
  • Must have an understanding of Indigenous culture and ceremony
  • Must undergo a code of conduct check

If you are interested in this unique opportunity to work with the Qalipu Band, please send your resume and cover letter to communications@qalipu.ca by noon on March 15, 2019.

If you have questions about this opportunity, please contact Alison White at 709-634-5163
Qalipu First Nation reserves the right to refuse any and all applications.

 

 

Call for Nominations 2019

The Qalipu Cultural Foundation Needs Volunteers!

The Qalipu Cultural Foundation is a charitable organization that supports Mi’kmaq culture in our province.  Through the Foundation, and the contributions of their partners and sponsors, QCF helps provide cultural experiences, and provides funding to grassroots community groups to host their own cultural workshops, teachings and events.

Are you or someone you know culturally engaged in the community and committed to learning about Mi’kmaq culture from Elders and knowledge keepers?

The Foundation is currently seeking nominations for its Board of Directors.  Please, click here to learn more and find the application form.

"A caribou stands dramatically on a ridge (Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland, Canada)"

Notice Self-Identification Reassessment

Letters are being mailed today, January 31st, 2019 regarding applicant re-assessment on the self-identification criterion of the enrolment process.  Here’s what you need to know:
Wells/Wells Court Case Implications

The Wells’ cases challenged the denial of applications for founding membership in the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation based on the self-identification criterion of the enrolment process.

As a result of the federal courts’ decision on these cases, if you were denied founding membership with the Band in 2017 based on the original self-id criterion you will be sent a letter providing you with the opportunity to submit additional self-identification documents or indicate that you have previously submitted such documents as part of your application.

You will have approximately 100 days from the letters’ date to complete the form sent with the letter, gather self-identification documents if needed and mail the form and documents back to the Enrolment Committee.

For more on the Wells/Wells court cases, please click here

What is a self-identification document?

We encourage you to visit the Indigenous Services Canada Website to find information on what types of documents satisfy the self-identification criterion, and other information about the self-identification reassessment.

If You’ve Moved or Changed Address

INAC cannot reach you with your letter if you’ve moved or changed address but you did not let them know.

Update your address by calling the Government of Canada’s Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation line1-800-561-2266.

Alternatively, you can send a signed letter by fax to 1-204-984-3032.  Make sure to include:

  • Your full name
  • Your date of birth
  • Your file number from the department, if available (found at the upper-right corner of a letter from the Enrolment Committee)
  • Your previous and new mailing addresses
  • The effective date of your address change
  • Your phone number

Any other information you would like to update (e.g. name, gender, marital status, etc.)

lobster

Qalipu First Nation would like to announce the availability of two Communal Commercial Fishing Licences.

Details are as follows:

Area 13A – One Licence Available

Groundfish except Lumpfish; Lobster; Herring; Mackerel; Capelin; Scallop; Whelk

Area 13B – One Licence Available

Groundfish; Lobster; Bait; Herring; Mackerel; Capelin; Squid

Successful applicant will be designated to fish this licence by paying an annual administration fee to Qalipu First Nation Band.  The purchase and maintenance of all fishing gear is the responsibility of the designated fisherperson.  This designation may be renewed annually on the basis that the fisherperson remains compliant with QFN’s Fishing Designation Policy and meets the following criteria:

  • Member of Qalipu First Nation Band
  • All regulations of governing agencies of these licences are followed
  • Licences are utilized annually
  • Administration Fees are paid on time

Any member of the Qalipu First Nation Band interested in such a designation is encouraged to print and complete this application and indicate in which opportunity they are interested.  Printed applications are also available at the Corner Brook and St. George’s offices.

Deadline to apply is: Friday, January 25, 2018 @ 4pm

Please submit applications by e-mail, fax, mail, or hand-delivery to:

Email: mmacdonald@qalipudevelopment.com
Fax: (709) 639-3997

Qalipu First Nation
3 Church Street
Corner Brook, NL A2H 2Z4
Attn:  Mabel MacDonald

NL Law Poster (Twitter)

Two Seats Saved for Indigenous Students, College of Law program at the University of Saskatchewan

In June 2018, the Department of Justice and Public Safety announced that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will partner with Indigenous governments and organizations in NL and the University of Saskatchewan to help send Indigenous students from this province to law school. The trilateral partnership will improve access to legal education and create new employment opportunities for members of Indigenous governments and organizations.

The University of Saskatchewan has committed to reserve two seats in the College of Law program annually for Indigenous students from Newfoundland and Labrador. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will allocate and fund two articling positions with the Department of Justice and Public Safety for those students upon graduation. Indigenous governments and organizations will encourage applicants to apply to law school and fund/identify funding opportunities for educational expenses.

In 2019, will we see the first two Indigenous students enter the program under this partnership?

Applications to the University of Saskatchewan’s law program are being accepted until February 1, 2019. Please click here for more information on admission requirements and deadlines.

Note: The last LSAT test date for applicants is January 2019!

Please help share the word so that Indigenous students have the chance to take advantage of this incredible opportunity.

image002

Canada to reassess nearly 58,000 applicants for Founding Membership in the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation and commits to exploratory discussions on membership for veterans, military members, RCMP and FNI members

November 15, 2018 — Ottawa, ON — Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

Canada remains committed to renewing the nation-to-nation relationship with Indigenous Peoples based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership.

Today, Gudie Hutchings, Member of Parliament for Long Range Mountains and Yvonne Jones, Member of Parliament for Labrador, on behalf of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, along with Brendan Mitchell, President of the Federation of Newfoundland Indians (FNI) announced the next steps in the implementation of the Wells/Wells decision.

Canada and the FNI will be moving forward with reassessing approximately 58,000 individuals who were denied Founding Membership in the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation. In addition, parties have committed to enter into exploratory discussions to address outstanding concerns regarding members of the Canadian Armed Forces, veterans, RCMP and FNI members or members of other Mi’kmaq organizations who were named in the 2008 agreement and denied Founding Membership. Individuals affected by the exploratory discussions will be contacted once further information becomes available.

The review of the Enrolment Process is a result of the May 8, 2018 Federal Court decision on the David Wells and Sandra Wells case, which deemed the requirement for proof of self-identification to the Mi’kmaq community pre-dating 2008 to be unreasonable and unenforceable. Therefore, these individuals will have the right to request reassessment of their application and to submit additional documentation for the self-identification criterion.

Individuals affected by the Wells decision will be contacted by mail in January 2019 with information on how to submit additional documents to have their application reassessed. Those who wish to have their applications reviewed will be asked to submit the form and documents with a postmark no later than 100 days after receipt of their letter.

Quick Facts on the Wells Decision

  • On May 8, 2018, Federal Court released its decision in the David Wells and Sandra Wells case, stipulating that it was unreasonable to require applicants to provide proof of self-identification to the Mi’kmaq community pre-dating the 2008 Agreement for the Recognition of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq Band.
  • This decision means that the approximate 58,000 individuals whose application for Founding Membership to the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation was denied based on the self-identification criterion of the Enrolment Process, now have the right to request reassessment of their application and to submit additional documentation.
  • In January 2019 (TBD), the Government of Canada and Federation of Newfoundland Indians will notify the 58,000 applicants eligible for re-assessment as a result of the Wells decision on next steps for the reassessment of their application.
  • Those affected should ensure their mailing address is up to date by contacting the Qalipu toll-free telephone line (1-800-561-2266). Individuals whose mailing address has not changed since their initial application are not required to provide updated information.
  • Additional information on the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Enrolment Process and the process through which the Wells decision will be implemented can be found online.

Quick Facts on the Exploratory Discussions

  • In the signature of the 2008 and 2013 Agreements and the Indemnity Agreement, the Government of Canada, the Federation of Newfoundland Indians, and the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation all agreed to the eligibility criteria individuals were required to meet in order to register under the Band.
  • In accordance with the 2008 and 2013 Agreements, and with the Enrolment and Appeals Processes, no exemptions or exceptions were granted to Veterans or members of other distinctive groups. However, Canada has heard the concerns regarding Canadian Armed Forces, RCMP, veterans, as well as members of FNI, who believe their applications were unfairly denied and will be entering into discussions with the FNI on this matter.
  • The Government of Canada recognizes and deeply values the meaningful contributions of Indigenous Veterans, RCMP, Canadian Armed Forces and other members of the military, to the development of our nation, and honours the sacrifices they have made in the defense of freedom and the pursuit of world peace.

 

Quotes

“The creation of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation is an important step towards reconciliation and the recognition of Newfoundland’s Mi’kmaq People. Canada and the Federation of Newfoundland Indians will continue to work in close collaboration throughout the implementation of the Federal Court’s decision, in the spirit of upholding the integrity of founding membership.”

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations

“I encourage all those who are eligible to submit additional documentation regarding the self-id criteria to do so.  Letters will be mailed to impacted individuals in the near future so I encourage you to ensure that your mailing address is up-to-date.  If you’ve moved or changed address, please contact 1-800-561-2266.  Let’s all look out for one another by sharing this news among our communities.”

Brendan Mitchell
President of the Federation of Newfoundland Indians