Post Secondary Student Support Training

Education Funding

The Band receives funding to support students with things like the cost of tuition, books, mandatory fees, and other expenses that go along with pursuing higher education. Our goal is to fund the maximum number of students possible with the funds that are available.

Post-Secondary Student Support Program (PSSSP)

This funding, provided through Indigenous Services Canada, provides financial assistance for status cardholders to attend post-secondary institutions that offer Certificate, Diploma, Degree, Masters and Doctorate Programs. Qalipu funds hundreds of students through this program each year.

Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program (ISETP)

This program is funded through Service Canada and is available for both status and self-identifying Indigenous people. ISETP links an individual’s training needs to labour market demands, and provides for training, skills upgrading and assistance in finding employment.

Please remember that the Post-Secondary Student Support Program and the ISETP Program is not intended to cover all expenses associated with Post-Secondary Education nor is it possible to assist all those who apply. Those who are accepted for financial assistance through either program are responsible to having sufficient resources to pay tuition and books up front.

Post Secondary Student Support
PSSSP Prioritization

Post Secondary Student Support

APPLICATION PROCESS

Download the application form for Post-Secondary Education Student Support, print it out, fill it in completely, and ensure you attach all supporting documentation.

Applications and supporting documentation can be mailed, hand-delivered or emailed to the Client Intake Officer at the contact information provided below:

Education and Training Department
Attn. Judy Falle, Client Intake Officer
PO Box 460
St. George’s, NL
A0N 1Z0

email: educationandtraining@qalipu.ca

Download the application form for Post-Secondary Education Student Support, print it out, fill it in completely, attach supporting documentation and submit to The Education and Training Department.

APPROVAL PROCESS

Training applications may be evaluated based on:

Labour market needs
Initiative of the individual
Cost of training
Timing of application

Click Here for The Education and Training Department’s PSSP Local Guidelines.
Click Here for The Education and Training Department’s ISETP Local Guidelines

PSSSP Prioritization

Applicants will be prioritized in the following order:

Priority 1: Returning Students

Clients who are currently being funded through the PSSP.

Priority 2: Deferred Applicants

Students who are reapplying for support having had their previous Application deferred for lack of funds.

Note: At the end of the fiscal year any surplus may be used at the discretion of The Education and Training Department, to fund applicants whose name appears on the deferred list, and are enrolled in classes. This support may include tuition, living allowance, and/or books paid for by the students themselves. Those students who receive this surplus funding are not considered returning students and will remain on the deferred list.

Priority 3: New Applicants – Current Post-Secondary Students and Recent High School Graduates

Students currently enrolled in high school, a post-secondary or graduate level program in the previous year and continuing in a post-secondary or graduate level program.

A student who is completing the last two semesters of an undergraduate degree and continues on to an advanced degree program of studies without a break in studies or a student who completes a community college or CEGEP program and continues on to an undergraduate degree program without a break in studies, is considered a New Applicant.

High School graduates remain continuing student for up to two years following graduation.

Priority 4: New Applicants (PSSP)

Other post-secondary students accepted or enrolled in a post-secondary institution.

Priority 5: New Applicants (UCEP)

Other post-secondary students and students accepted and enrolled in university and college entrance preparation programs. Within this priority category a region may rank particular programs of study based on regional demand. The regional priorities must be based on consultation with Indian education leaders in the regions and be publicly available. Also, regions will report these priorities to education branch, headquarters for information purposes.

Priority 6: PSSP Graduates

This category includes those students who have completed an undergraduate degree or college diploma previously and have been funded by The Education and Training Department in the last five (5) years and do not satisfy the requirements set aside for special consideration under Priority three (3).

The Education and Training Department(FAQ’s) for Post-Secondary Education Support

Am I eligible to apply for Post-Secondary support?

The Education and Training Department provides access to skills training and employment assistance through the Post-Secondary Student Support Program (PSSP) and the Indigenous Skills and Training Program (ISETP).

To be eligible to apply for support under Post-Secondary Support Program (PSSP) an applicant must be a registered member of the Qalipu First Nation Band (you must have your Temporary Certificate of Indian Status or your Secure Certificate of Indian Status).

Status and Non-Status Indians are eligible to apply for funding under ISETP and will be prioritized in the following order:

Priority 1:
Clients which are members of the Qalipu First Nation

Priority 2:
Clients which are self-identified but are applicants of the Qalipu First Nation. These clients may be asked to provide supporting documentation including but not limited to:

• Letter of Eligibility for membership in the Qalipu First Nation Band
• Confirmation of Application to QMFN

Priority 3:
Clients which are self-identified but are not members or applicants of the Qalipu First Nation Band.

Under the ISETP program, funding is available for certificates, diplomas and the last four semesters of a degree.

Applicants applying for Post-Secondary support through PSSP or ISETP must have been residing in Canada for the twelve months twelve months prior to the date of application.

The following are deemed to satisfy this requirement:

• Individuals who are normally resident in Canada but for reasons of education or student exchange programs have been living outside of Canada for all or part of the previous year prior to the application for support.
• Individuals who are serving outside Canada as part of Canada’s Armed Services;
• Employees, and their dependent children, of the Federal, Provincial or Band Government appointed to foreign posts; and
• Individuals, who under the authority of provincial or territorial child welfare legislation were placed outside Canada in an alternative care arrangement and have returned to Canada • Residency rules established by Canada Revenue Agency

Please note: Applicants cannot be receiving post-secondary funding from another First Nation or any other post-secondary source without approval from The Education and Training Department.

What are the minimum education requirements?

The applicant must have completed high school or its equivalent Adult Basic Education program, and must have been accepted or conditionally accepted for enrollment in a recognized post-secondary institution. Clients with previous post-secondary success, already possessing a certificate or diploma may be accepted based on those credentials. General Equivalency Diploma (GED) is not an acceptable high school equivalency.

In the case where Grade 12 or equivalent is not required for admission, then applicants are required to meet the entrance requirements and be accepted in a recognized post-secondary institution.

How do I apply for Post-Secondary support?

To apply for Post-Secondary support you need to fill out a Funding Application, include the necessary documentation and mail or drop off to our Client Intake Officer, Judy Falle.

Judy’s mailing address is:

The Education and Training Department
Attention: Judy Falle,
Client Intake Officer
P.O. Box 460
St. George’s, NL
A0N 1Z0

What documentation do I need to include with my funding application?

Proof of membership in the Qalipu First Nation Band. Include a photocopy of one of the following: your Temporary Confirmation of Registration Document or your Secure Certificate of Indian Status Card.
An Acceptance or Provisional Acceptance Letter from the Educational Institution.
A copy of your Grade 12 Transcript or proof of Adult Basic Education. Level 3 students applying to Post-Secondary studies, you must include your Level 2 Transcript and your Level 3 Mid-Term marks.
A breakdown of expenses is mandatory. You may obtain this from your Educational Institution or from your Educational Institution’s website.
You must also include a breakdown of semesters by date to the end of your Course of Study. You must indicate if any of these semesters are classified as paid or unpaid Work Terms. See page five (5) of the application form.
If you are currently enrolled in the Course of Study and are requesting funds to complete that program, you must provide a Transcript from the Educational Institution regarding your present Academic Status. On-line printouts are acceptable if they display the student name.
A written summary (not more than 250 words) of why you have chosen this field of study and what your career goals are after completion of the Course of Study.
If you are completing courses through distance education or part-time, you need to include a detailed action plan indicating the designation being sought the length of the training and your planned timeline for completion.
If you are applying for funding to complete an ABE program, please include an action plan to sustain future employment with your funding application.
You must also register with the Qalipu membership database “Kinu” in order to receive funding. Please visit: www.qalipu.ca/login-options

Please note: Your application will not be considered complete if all documentation listed above is not attached.

Where do I submit my funding application?

All funding applications must be dropped off at the Qalipu First Nation Band Office in St. George’s or mailed to:

The Education and Training Department
Attention: Judy Falle,
Client Intake Officer
P.O. Box 460
St. George’s, NL
A0N 1Z0

Please note: Faxed or e-mailed applications will not be accepted.

When are the application deadlines?

Fall Semester: June 30
Winter Semester: October 31
Spring/Intersession/Summer: February 28

Please note: Applications will be date stamped when the completed application form and all necessary documentation have been received. Due to the large volume of applications being submitted, applications are reviewed on a first come-first serve basis based on student priority categories.

What are the student priority categories?

Priority 1: Returning Students
Clients currently being funded through the PSE Support Program. September 9, 2013

Priority 2: Deferred Applicants
Students who are reapplying for support having had their previous application deferred for lack of funds. Note: At the end of the fiscal year any surplus may be used at the discretion of The Education and Training Department, to fund Applicants whose name appears on the deferred list, and are enrolled in classes. This support may include tuition, living allowance, and/or books paid for by the students themselves. Those students who receive this surplus funding are not considered funded through the remainder of their program and will not need to reapply to be considered for any future funding.

Priority 3: New Applicants – Current Post-Secondary Students
and Recent High School Graduates
Students currently enrolled in high school, a post-secondary or graduate level program in the previous year and continuing in a post-secondary or graduate level program. A student who is completing the last two semesters of an undergraduate degree and continues on to an advanced degree program of studies without a break in studies or a student who completes a community college or CEGEP program and continues on to an undergraduate degree program without a break in studies, is considered a new applicant. High School graduates remain continuing student for up to two years following graduation.

Priority 4: New Applicants (PSSSP)
Other post-secondary students accepted or enrolled in a post-secondary institution.

Priority 5: New Applicants (UCEP)
Other post-secondary students and students accepted and enrolled in university and college entrance preparation programs. Within this priority category a region may rank particular programs of study based on regional demand. The regional priorities must be based on consultation with Indian education leaders in the regions and be publically available. Also, regions will report these priorities to education branch, headquarters for information purposes.

Priority 6: PSE Graduates
This category includes those students who have completed an undergraduate degree or college diploma previously and have been funded by The Education and Training Department in the last five (5) years and do not satisfy the requirements set aside for special consideration under Priority 3.

At its discretion, The Education and Training Department will prioritize students within each group according to the described criteria set out in these Local Guidelines.

What happens to my application if I miss the deadline?

Late applications will not be considered for funding in that semester but rather deferred for review to the next application deadline.

What does it mean if my application for funding has been deferred?

A deferred application is one where an eligible applicant is denied support due to lack of funds.

The Education and Training Department shall put the application on file and review the deferred application at the next possible application deadline. Students must submit their official academic record to the Client Intake Officer, Judy Falle within fifteen (15) days of the completion of each semester. If this record is not received, the applicant will be taken off the deferred list.

What expenses are covered?

Eligible expenses are tuition and books. Some students may be eligible for a living allowance. If you are accepted for Post-Secondary Support, a Post-Secondary Benefit Agreement (contract) will be sent to you outlining your financial assistance and maximum allowable costs. You are not entitled to receive the maximum amount outlined in your benefit agreement if it is not used for eligible expenses.

What expenses are considered ineligible?

The following expenditures are not eligible for support:
• Medical Insurance;
• Miscellaneous Fees, which includes but is not limited to residence fees, locker fees, parking, bus passes etcetera;
• Late fees;
• Safety equipment;
• Uniforms;
• Tools and materials;
• Books and texts that are not identified on the syllabus. Optional books and texts are not eligible and;
• Travel Costs.

The Education and Training Department reserves the right to exercise discretion with respect to what constitutes an ineligible expenditure.

Does The Education and Training Department support training for the Heavy Equipment program?

The Education and Training Department does support training for individuals for the Heavy Equipment Operator Program.

Am I eligible for a living allowance?

Applicants who are enrolled in a Post-Secondary institution full-time on campus may be eligible for a living allowance.

Please Note:

Distance education and part-time students are not eligible for a living allowance.
Students completing Masters or Doctoral thesis must be completing 3 or more courses to be considered full-time for the purpose of receiving living allowances. A Thesis will carry the weight of one (1) course in determining full or part time status.
Applicants who are in receipt of Employment Insurance Benefits (EI) are not eligible to receive a living allowance during the duration of their claim.
Living allowances will not be paid when the client is working in excess of 20 hours per week or exceeds a maximum gross salary of $250.00 weekly.
Students who are completing a paid work term.

If a student receives living allowances when s/he is not eligible, s/he will be required to re-pay the amount paid to him/her.

Will medical insurance be covered?

No. Qalipu First Nation Band does not pay medical insurance for University or College programs.

Can I apply for funding to complete an ABE program?

Yes. All ABE students must include an action plan with their funding application to sustain future employment and must be at least 20 years of age. The student is responsible for completing a least 1 credit every 2 weeks.

Will The Education and Training Department pay my educational institution for tuition and books?

No. Students are responsible for having sufficient resources to pay for tuition and books up front. You will be reimbursed if you provide the proper documentation within the specified timeframe. The Education and Training Department will not pay any late fees or balances on a student’s account.

When will I know if I have been accepted for funding?

Funding is not guaranteed. Funding agreements are based on budgets and money received from Funding Agencies; therefore, it is difficult to determine exactly when you will be notified. You may wish to seek alternate funding opportunities.

My program requires that I complete work term; will I still receive a living allowance during my Work Term?

Many fields of training include work terms in the curriculum of the program. The Education and Training Department will maintain a maximum of 10 weeks allowance while the student is participating in the required on the job training if the work term is unpaid. Work terms may be done outside the province, if employment chances are greater. Transportation costs will not be paid for students to complete their Work Term. It is the responsibility of the student to notify their CSO of any work term(s) during their study period.

What are my responsibilities if I sign a Post-Secondary Benefit agreement?

Responsibilities of Students:

All documents MUST be mailed or dropped off to the Client Services Officer (CSO) that was assigned to you.
Please remember that The Education and Training Department is a reimbursement program and you will be reimbursed for tuition and books once you have sent in your original receipts, a detailed account summary and course syllabi within 15 business days of the beginning of each semester. It is your responsibility to have sufficient resources to pay all tuition and book fees up front.
Banking Information – A direct deposit form is sent with your contract and you must sign the direct deposit form and fill it in correctly in order for the payments to be made. It is always best to have the bank fill out the direct deposit form or to have a void cheque attached. The bank account must be in the name of the clients.
Transcripts – You must provide your Client Services Officer with official academic records as soon as it is made available to you. Your official academic record must be received by your Client Services Officer no later than fifteen (15) days after the completion of each semester for which you are receiving funding. Your marks must have your name displayed on them or they will not be accepted.
Book Receipts – You must provide original receipts for books. Clients may receive funding towards the cost of purchasing books necessary for the Eligible Program in which they are enrolled. Clients must provide documentary evidence (course syllabus) indicating the books that were purchased are required by the eligible program. If clients purchase new books, the original receipt must be from the book store and have the name of the book listed on the receipt. Used books are an eligible expenditure, with a maximum allowable of up to 50% of the new/original costs. Clients must provide evidence when submitting receipts for reimbursement of the cost of the book to purchase new. Clients must also provide a receipt for the used book that has the name and signature of the seller, name and signature of the buyer (client), date of sale, cost and the name of the book being purchased. If more than one used book is on the receipt, the cost and name of each individual book must be on the receipt.
Tuition Receipts – To reimburse tuition, we must have a detailed account summary from the Educational Institution which displays your name and shows all fees incurred for each semester. This documentation must be received by your CSO no later than 15 business days after the beginning of each semester.
You will be responsible for ensuring you register for the correct courses in your specified program and that you register on time. The Education and Training Department will not be responsible for any late fees associated with late registration and payment.
You must obtain a Clear Academic Standing as determined by your Post-Secondary institution. If you fall below this minimum standard you are immediately placed on probation for the period of one semester after which continuation of funding will be reviewed by your Client Services Officer, Manager of The Education and Training Department and Director of The Education and Training Department.
If you quit a program without just cause, or if you do not attend school for a semester, or if you are terminated by the school or The Education and Training Department because you are not fulfilling your Post-Secondary Benefit Agreement (contract) then you will repay The Education and Training Department the total amount that was paid out to you during the current semester and your contract will be terminated.
You must remain capable of graduating on the date that was initially contracted by The Education and Training Department. If you require an extension, you will need to speak with your Client Services Officer as extension requests are not guaranteed.
You are responsible for notifying your Client Services Officer if you drop any courses throughout the semester. If you drop a course, that amount must be repaid back to The Education and Training Department. Failure to repay during the current semester will result in a deduction of the following semester’s tuition.
You must notify your Client Services Officer if you wish to change Educational Institutions or programs. Changing Educational Institution or programs could terminate the funding agreement and the student may have to re-apply for Post-Secondary Support.
You must notify your Client Services Officer of any work terms and you must clearly indicate if they are paid or unpaid.
You must notify your CSO if any of your contact or banking information changes.

When do I need to submit my receipts?

You should mail or drop off your original or scanned receipts, detailed account summary and course syllabi to your Client Services Officer as soon as possible but it must be received NO LATER than 15 business days after the beginning of each semester. If the original or scanned receipts, detailed account summary and course syllabi are not received within 15 business days of the beginning of each semester, tuition and book expenses will not be reimbursed. No exceptions.

When do I need to submit my transcripts?

Each student must provide their Client Services Officer with official academic records as soon as it is made available to the student. However, it must be received by your Client Services Officer NO LATER than fifteen (15) days after the completion of each semester

What do I do if I want to change educational institutions or program?

You should speak to your Client Services Officer before you change educational intuition or programs because your funding agreement could be affected and you may have to re-apply for Post-Secondary Support.

SCIS Card (Status Card)

If you would like assistance applying for, or renewing your Secure Card of Indian Status (SCIS), please contact: SCIS Clerk, Betty Lou Hynes 709-634-8675, or email bhynes@qalipu.ca

Or you can reach our Indian Registration Administrator, Nancy O’Connell at 709-634-4010 or email noconnell@qalipu.ca, Toll Free 1-855-263-6440

or appointments and assistance by emailing: membership@qalipu.ca

Your SCIS Card Renewal Application can be submitted up to six (6) months in advance of your cards expiry date, no earlier. It is important to read the SCIS Instructions Booklet at the ‘Forms’ Button below before submitting your application documentation.

If your SCIS Card is past it’s expiry, you have a twelve (12) month grace period. After that time you will need to contact Qalipu SCIS Clerk or Indian Registration Administrator listed above.

Forms

If you are not currently registered under the Indian Register (IR) with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) but have a parent who is registered under IR with ISC as a 6.1B or 6.1F you may be entitled to registration under the Indian Act” Click here for more information on first time registration: https://qalipu.ca/indian-registration-administration/

An individual recognized by the federal government as being registered under the Indian Act is referred to as a Registered Indian (commonly referred to as a Status Indian). Status Indians are entitled to a wide range of programs and services offered by federal agencies and provincial governments. In order to access many of these benefits you must have an Indian Status card.

The Temporary Confirmation of Registration Document is considered temporary in nature with an expiry date of 12 months from the date the document was issued. It is beneficial to all members to apply for their Status Card.

If your Temporary Confirmation of Registration Document has expired, please call 1-800-567-9604 to request another one.

Secured Certificate of Indian Status Card (SCIS) application forms and instructions regarding their completion are available through the following:

Forms are available by mail through calling the Public Enquiries Contact Centre at 1-800-567-9604 or TTY: 1-866-553-0554. You can also find links to these forms at the top of this page.

It is important to remember that all SCIS (Secure Certificate of Indian Status) cards have a renew by date. Adult SCIS cards have a 10- year time frame, and children’s have a 5-year time frame. Each cards renewal date will be individualized by the card holders birth month and day.

Expiry of SCIS Cards for Children

PLEASE NOTE Parents can re-apply for a new card for their children to ensure they have a card to present to avail of all services offered by Health Canada.

To apply for the renewal of a child’s (15 or under) SCIS card, parents must ensure that they are within 6 months of the card expiring, and complete the following:

Complete a new SCIS Parent or Guardian Application

If members are not receiving assistance from one of our offices they will have to fill out a Guarantor Declaration form as well
2 identical new passport photos must be included. If using a Guarantor, then that guarantor must sign and date the back of the photo that is stamped
Photocopy of applying parent’s ID, both front and back (this could include your Provincial Driver’s License, or Canadian Passport, Adult SCIS Card)
Photocopy of any custody documents (if applicable)
If Guarantor is used, then they must sign all photocopies as true copies of your originals. Note that all dates singed by applicant and guarantor must match on all documents. Please reference Instructions Booklet: SCIS Insruction Booklet

All completed applications must then be sent to:

SCIS National Processing Unit
10 Wellington Street
Gatineau, QC
K1A 0H4

Government of Canada FAQ’s

Frequently Asked Questions
Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band

Q.1 Why was the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band created?

The creation of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band is a result of an out-of court settlement agreement between the Government of Canada and the Federation of Newfoundland Indians (FNI) and the culmination of a 60 year process by Mi’kmaq of Newfoundland to obtain recognition under the Indian Act. The creation of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band will provide opportunities for Mi’kmaq in Newfoundland to pursue potential land claims and other Aboriginal rights as an organized, united and effective group.

Q.2 What are the main goals of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band?

Through the creation of the Band, Newfoundland’s Mi’kmaq receive official federal recognition that will allow members of the Band to access programs and benefits available to Status Indians in Canada.

Q.3 What programs and services are available to the new Band membership?

The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that members of the Band will be able to access federal programs and services for status Indians once they receive their Temporary Confirmation of Registration Document.

The Settlement Agreement states “The Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band and its members will be eligible for certain federal programs. These programs currently include:

Post-secondary Student Support
Band Support Funding
Band Employee Benefits
Community Economic Development Organizations
Community Support Services
Community Economic Opportunities
Non-insured Health Benefits

The band and its members may also be eligible to participate in various future federal programs to assist aboriginal peoples.”

Q.4 Why were the First Nation people in Newfoundland not registered immediately following the province’s entry into Confederation in 1949?

In 1949, Newfoundland and Labrador was the last province to join Confederation.There was no agreement between the province and Canada on if, how or when the Indian Act system would be applied to the Innu, who live primarily in Labrador, and the Mi’kmaq, who live primarily on the Island of Newfoundland. In the absence of such an agreement, coupled with the fact that there were no reserve lands nor federal treaties requiring reserve creation, the Indian Act was not applied.

From the 1950s to the 1980s, Canada provided ad-hoc funding to the province for social and health programs for Aboriginal communities living in the province. Over time, however, both the federal government and the First Nation population expressed a desire for a more systematic application of the Indian Act system.

Q.5 How does the creation of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band benefit the Mi’kmaq of the province?

Newfoundland Mi’kmaq will now have Access to several federal programs that are decided to Status Indians throughout Canada.

Q.6 Why was the creation of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band delayed?

The establishment of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band was scheduled to take place in early 2010. However, Band creation was on hold pending a decision on a matter that was before the court. That mater has now been resolved and the Government of Canada is committed to proceeding with the creation of the Band as soon as possible.

Q.7 How will members of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band Access these programs and services?

Members of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band will be entitled registration and membership in the weeks following the creation of the Band and will receive a time-limited Temporary Confirmation of Registration Document from the Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development. This document confirms that the individual named therein is registered as an Indian under the Indian Act and has Access to the benefits and/or services conferred to registered Indians.

Individuals will also be provided with information on how to apply for and obtain the Certificate of Indian Status.

FAQ’s

Government of Canada and the Federation of Newfoundland Indians November 2013 Updated Information for Applicants for Membership in the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation

01: Why have I not received a letter?

If your application was previously rejected, you will not receive a letter. If your application was not previously rejected and you have not yet received a letter by November 15, 2013, please call 1-800-561-2266 (TTY: 1-800-465-7735).

02: Am I absolutely required to provide additional documentation relating to self-identification and group acceptance in order for my application to be reviewed?

No. Your application will be reviewed whether or not you provide additional documentation.

It is the sole responsibility of the applicant to determine what additional documentation relating to self-identification and group acceptance, if any, he or she wishes to provide in support of his or her application.

03: How do I know if I should provide additional documentation relating to self-identification and group acceptance?

Details on providing additional documentation are available in the bulletin: “November 2013 Updated Information for Applicants for Membership in the Qalipu Mi’kMaq First Nation – Requirements for Additional Documentation.”

To help with the decision of whether or not to provide additional documentation, applicants should read the 2008 Agreement for the Recognition of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq Band, the June 2013 Supplemental Agreement and the June 2013 Directive to the Enrolment Committee.

It is the sole responsibility of the applicant to determine what additional documentation relating to self-identification and group acceptance, may be required and what additional documentation, if any, he or she wishes to provide in support of his or her application.

04: Where do I send any additional documentation?

If you wish to provide additional documentation relating to self-identification and group acceptance, it must be postmarked or received by January 31, 2014 at:

Enrolment Committee
c/o Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
Box 9100 Winnipeg,
MB R3C 0M9

05: I don’t know my file number. How can I find this?

Your file number is located at the upper right corner of the letter that was sent to you in November 2013. Please add this number and your name to each piece of additional documentation relating to self-identification and group acceptance you provide in support of your application

06: Is the acceptable documentation limited to only the categories of self-identification and group acceptance? For example, can I provide additional information in support of my ancestry?

You can only provide documentation under the categories of self-identification and group acceptance. Information on what types of documentation may be provided is available online in the bulletin: “November 2013 Updated Information for Applicants for Membership in the Qalipu Mi’kMaq First Nation – Requirements for Additional Documentation.”

The 2013 Supplemental Agreement did not address the criteria related to ancestry. Therefore, no new evidence will be considered in that regard.

07: I have moved since I applied. What should I do to ensure that I am informed of the new process?

If you have changed your address since you submitted your original application, you can update your contact information by either calling 1-800-561-2266 (TTY: 1-800-465-7735) or sending a signed letter, via facsimile, to 204-984-3032.

For both methods you will need to provide: your full name; date of birth; reference number from Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, if available; your previous and new mailing addresses; and the effective date of your address change.

08: Are applicants required to provide the original of their long form birth certificates?

No. However, the deadline to provide a copy of the long form birth certificate was September 3, 2013.

09: When I submitted my original application, it included my original identification (e.g., passport, birth certificate). When will I get it back?

If you have not yet received your original identification documentation, please call 1-800-561-2266 (TTY: 1-800-465-7735).

Please remember to call 1-800-561-2266 (TTY: 1-800-465-7735) if your mailing address has changed since you initially applied to ensure that your documentation will be sent to the correct address.

10: What is a “certified true copy?”

A certified true copy is a copy of a document (usually a photocopy) that has been certified by a Notary Public, Commissioner of Oaths or other officer authorized to take an oath in the jurisdiction.

11: How can I obtain my completed 2006 or earlier census information? Is there a fee?

There is no fee to obtain your 2006 or earlier census information. Details on requesting census information are available on our census FAQs page and from Statistics Canada by one of the means below:

Mail:
Statistics Canada
Census Microfilm and Pension Search Sub-Unit
B1E-34, Jean Talon Building
170 Tunney’s Pasture Driveway Ottawa,
ON K1A 0T6.

Telephone: (613) 951-9483
E-mail: Census_Pension_Search@statcan.gc.ca

12: What if I didn’t self-identify on a census form. What should I do?

The census return is not the only way through which applicants can demonstrate self-identification. Further information on the requirements for demonstrating self-identification can be found in the bulletin: “November 2013 Updated Information for Applicants for Membership in the Qalipu Mi’kMaq First Nation – Requirements for Additional Documentation,” and in section 8 of the June 2013 Supplemental Agreement.

13: In what circumstance am I required to provide a sworn declaration? Is there a form that I need to do this?

Any new documentary evidence in support of group acceptance by the Qalipu Mi’kmaq Group of Indians of Newfoundland must be supported by a sworn declaration. Information on how to prepare your sworn declaration is available on www.aandc.gc.ca/qalipu or www.qalipu.ca.

It is the sole responsibility of applicants to determine what additional documentation relating to self-identification and group acceptance, if any, they wish to provide.

14: I had included affidavits when I originally applied. Do I need to provide two additional affidavits?

Applicants providing new documentary evidence in support of group acceptance must also provide at least two affidavits from residents of the Mi’kmaq Group of Indians of Newfoundland on the island of Newfoundland sworn before a Commissioner of Oaths, Notary Public, or other officer authorized to take oaths in the jurisdiction, which describe in detail the nature and purpose of the visits or communications, and the religious, ceremonial, traditional or cultural activities practised by the applicant in one of the locations of the Mi’kmaq Group of Indians of Newfoundland.

More information may be found in the Directive attached to the 2013 Supplemental Agreement.

15: Can I provide affidavits in support of documentary evidence that I had previously submitted?

Yes. In accordance with sections 28 and 29 of the Enrolment Committee Guidelines, you can provide affidavits in support of documents you had previously submitted with respect to the criteria of group acceptance.o.

16: Why is the date of the Recognition Order ( i.e., September 22, 2011, the date when the band was created) being used as the reference date?

Paragraph 4.1(d) of the 2008 Agreement requires that an applicant self-identified and was accepted as a Member of the Mi’kmaq Group of Indians of Newfoundland on the date of the Recognition Order (September 22, 2011). leo.

17: What address will be used to determine if I was a resident as of September 22, 2011 (date of the Recognition Order)?

The Enrolment Committee will have regard to the address on your application unless there is other documentation in the file indicating a different place of residence as of September 22, 2011.

18: The Enrolment Committee will have regard to the address on your application unless there is other documentation in the file indicating a different place of residence as of September 22, 2011.

Yes. However, the application for registration of your child as an Indian must be made under the Indian Act to the Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada. Information on this process is available on AANDC’s website. However, note that the entitlement of your child will be reassessed depending on your entitlement, upon completion of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation enrolment process.

19: I had filed an appeal and didn’t receive a decision. Will my application be reassessed?

Yes. If you had an appeal that was not determined (i.e., no decision was made) your application will be reassessed as part of this review. However, if your application was denied on appeal, it will not be reassessed and you cannot reapply.

20: I have been a member of the Kitpu Band. Must I provide additional documentation to prove that I was a member?

If you are relying on membership in the Kitpu Band to support either self-identification or group acceptance you must provide documentary evidence of membership in the Kitpu Band prior to June 23, 2008. No membership list was provided by the Kitpu Band and therefore the Enrolment Committee will not be able to verify your membership in that Band without such documentary evidence.

21: When will the decision on my application be made?

No late information will be considered.

If you wish to provide any additional documentation relating to self-identification and group acceptance to support your application, it must be postmarked or received by January 31, 2014. Documentation received or postmarked after this date will not be accepted in support of your application.

22: When will the decision on my application be made?

Every applicant will be advised of the Enrolment Committee’s determination of his or her eligibility only after the assessments or reassessments of all applications have been completed. In accordance with the Agreement, the Enrolment Committee’s review of applications has been extended until August 31, 2015.

23: Will applicants still be able to appeal a decision of the Enrolment Committee?

The function of the Appeal Master will continue. The time limit for submitting an Appeal Notice continues to be 30 days from the date of the mailing of the decision by the Enrolment Committee.

However, if an application is invalid for any of the reasons listed in sections 1 to 7 of the Enrolment Committee Guidelines, or if an applicant who applied after September 22, 2011 does not fulfill the self-identification criterion, then no; such an applicant will not be able to appeal the decision of the Enrolment Committee.

24: Is it possible to verify that my name appears on a membership list for one of the Newfoundland Mi’kmaq groups?

Applicants can enquire as to whether their name appears on a membership list for the Federation of Newfoundland Indians, the Ktaqamkuk Mi’kmaq Alliance, the Benoit First Nation or the Sip’kop Mi’kmaq Band by calling 1-800-567-9604.

25: I was living in a Mi'kmaq community, as outlined in Annex B of the 2008 Agreement, when I completed my application. I have my Certificate of Indian Status (status card) from Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada. Do I need to verify my membership by calling 1-800-567-9604 for any reason?

No, if your situation has not changed from when you applied then you do not have to verify your membership because you have met the criteria for membership. You would have met the requirement for self-identification by having signed the application before September 22, 2011. You would also have met the requirement for group acceptance by being a resident of a community listed in Annex B of the Agreement.

However, if you have provided evidence that you moved outside a Mi’kmaq community since you applied, then you are encouraged to check the membership list to assist you with the group acceptance criteria.

26: What is the Supplemental Agreement?

The 2013 Supplemental Agreement, which was signed in June 2013, respects the original intent of the 2008 Agreement for the Recognition of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq Band and resolves a number of issues which had prevented conclusion of the process for enrolment in the First Nation.

Specifically, the Supplemental Agreement:

extends the timelines for review of the applications, ensuring all previously unprocessed applications can be reviewed;
ensures that all applications received during all phases of the enrolment process, except those previously rejected, will be assessed or reassessed;
provides that all those whose applications will be assessed or reassessed will be sent written notification and will have an opportunity to provide additional documentation, if necessary;
provides clarity regarding the assessment of an applicant’s self-identification as a member of the Mi’kmaq Group of Indians of Newfoundland; and
provides guidance related to an individual’s acceptance by the Mi’kmaq communities of Newfoundland, particularly as it relates to individuals not residing in the communities of the Mi’kmaq Group of Indians of Newfoundland.

The 2013 Supplemental Agreement did not change the criteria for enrolment as set out in the original 2008 Agreement.

27: Did the enrolment criteria in the 2008 Agreement change?

No, the enrolment criteria in section 4.1 of the 2008 Agreement did not change. Rather, the Supplemental Agreement reached between Canada and the FNI includes clarification of the requirements for enrolment, additional documentation requirements for applications, and an extension of the 2008 Agreement timelines. In addition, under the Supplemental Agreement, all applications submitted since the enrolment process began in December 2008 are being reviewed, except for those that had been previously rejected. The 2008 Agreement remains in effect.

28: Why was a Supplemental Agreement needed?

The Supplemental Agreement clarifies the process for enrolment and resolves issues that emerged in the implementation of the 2008 Agreement for the Recognition of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq Band.

These issues included the following:

Number of applications — It was neither reasonable nor credible to expect that more than 101,000 individuals would become members of the First Nation, particularly given that approximately two-thirds of the applicants did not reside in any of the Mi’kmaq communities targeted for recognition in this initiative, but elsewhere in Canada.
Insufficient timelines — As a result of the surge in applications received for membership, it was not possible to review all applications submitted prior to the November 30, 2012 application deadline within the time limits contained in the original agreement. Page 8 of 10
Lack of clarity in guidelines – The original guidelines for the assessment of applications did not provide sufficient clarity and detail to ensure that the original intent of the parties could be reflected.

The Supplemental Agreement meets the objective shared by Canada and the FNI that all applicants are treated fairly and equitably in accordance with the criteria that the parties originally negotiated to establish eligibility for membership in the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation.

29: What was the “intent” of the original 2008 Agreement?

In 2008, Canada and the FNI reached agreement on the creation of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation. The intent of the 2008 Agreement was to establish a landless band for the Mi’kmaq Group of Indians of Newfoundland which was located on the island of Newfoundland and outlined in Annex B of the 2008 Agreement. The original agreement set in motion an enrolment process that would provide eligible members of the Mi’kmaq of Newfoundland and Labrador with status under the Indian Act.

The parties intended that founding membership in the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation would be granted primarily to persons living in or around the Newfoundland Mi`kmaq communities named in the 2008 Agreement. While individuals living outside of these communities could also become members, the intent of the parties was that non-residents would be required to have maintained a strong cultural connection with a Newfoundland Mi’kmaq community, including a sustained and active involvement in the community despite their absence.

30: How many applications were received during the process?

Approximately 26,000 applications were received in the first stage of the enrolment process, which concluded on November 30, 2009.

From November 30, 2009 to September 22, 2011, when the band was created, approximately 4,000 more applications were received.

The number of applications rose sharply following band creation. In the final 14 months of the process, more than 70,000 applications were received, including approximately 46,000 between September and November 2012, bringing the total number of applications to over 101,000.

31:Why are all applications being reviewed? (e.g. including those who are already registered as Indians under the Indian Act)

All applications received in the process, except those previously rejected, are being reviewed in order to treat all applicants fairly and to ensure the integrity of the process for enrolment in the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation.

32: What is the file review process?

All applications received during the four year enrolment process have been transferred to an AANDC processing unit located in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

A dedicated processing team is now reviewing all the applications. This includes digitally scanning the complete application package, including original documents, into the Indian Registry System and verifying that all required documentation was submitted prior to November 30, 2012.

All applicants, except those whose applications were previously rejected, were sent a letter in early November 2013. Where an application is invalid, the letter advises the applicant that his or her application has been denied. Where an application is valid, the letter advises the applicant that he or she has the opportunity to provide additional documentation in support of his or her application relating to self-identification and group acceptance, pursuant to the June 2013 Supplemental Agreement.

33: What impact does the Supplemental Agreement have on individuals who are registered as members of the First Nation and as Status Indians?

The review includes applications of those who have gained Indian status as members of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation.

It is possible that some individuals may lose their Indian status as a result of the reassessment of their application. Those individuals would no longer receive access to programs and services provided to Status Indians.

It is not possible at this time to predict how many applicants may lose or gain Indian status as a result of the assessment or reassessment of applications

34: Will individuals currently receiving benefits as Status Indians lose those benefits?

During the review process, there will be no change in Indian status for existing members of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation. While the process is underway, individuals who are currently registered as an Indian under the Indian Act will retain their entitlement to access programs and services to which they are entitled.

Page 10 of 10 At the end of the review period, all applicants will be informed of their entitlement to membership and Indian status. It is possible that some individuals may lose Indian status as a result of the reassessment of their application. Those individuals would no longer receive access to programs and services provided to Status Indians.

Download a copy of the FAQ’s here.

Employment Assistance Programs

Seasonal Wage Subsidy Program
Wage Subsidy Program

Seasonal Wage Subsidy Program

Wages shall be agreed upon with the employers prior to the approval of Wage Subsidy. Education and Training will pay a maximum of 75% of the wages up to $16.00/hour

Generally, Education and Training will only subsidize 50% of the negotiated employment duration. Twelve (12) weeks is the maximum employment duration allowed. Education and Training will not pay the twelve (12 weeks) consecutively. The Employer and Education and Training will agree upon a payment schedule. Employers cannot hire immediate family.

Click Here to view the Wage Subsidy Program application

Wage Subsidy Program

The Wage Subsidy Program can assist aboriginal Indigenous people to prepare for, obtain and maintain full time new employment. Education and Training offers both regular Wage Subsidy and Seasonal Wage Subsidy programs.

The purpose of this program is to provide employer’s with an incentive to hire aboriginal Indigenous employee’s whom they would not have normally hired in the absence of a subsidy.

Aboriginal Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Non-Aboriginal businesses or organizations are eligible applicants. The employee; however, must be an aboriginal Indigenous person and must not already be an employee of the employer applying for wage subsidy.

Guidelines:

Wages agreements must be agreed upon with the employer prior to the approval of the wage subsidy
The programs will pay a maximum of 75% of the wages up to $16.00/hour
The program will only subsidize 50% of the negotiate employment duration to a maximum of 26 weeks and will not pay the weeks consecutively
The employer must maintain employment of the subsidized individual for 10 weeks immediately following the wage subsidy contract with no lapse in employment weeks. If all terms are not properly fulfilled, the employer will be responsible for paying back 50% of the entire contract
Employers cannot hire immediate family

Click Here to view the Wage Subsidy Program Application

Self-Employment Assistance Program (SEAP)
Graduate Incentive Program

Self-Employment Assistance Program (SEAP)

The Self Employment Assistance program provides financial assistance to clients who want to start their own business. Under this program, the client can access a maximum of $10,000 for assistance to cover living and other personal expenses during the initial stages of the business. The money is not to be used for direct investment into the business. Education and Training may make financial contribution to hire consultants or technical experts to assess the business opportunities and/or prepare a business plan.

Guidelines:

Self-Employment Assistance clients must complete the employment application
The client must submit a business plan to be considered for the program
The person applying for the Self Employment Assistance must be aboriginal Indigenous
Employment and Training does not support home based business

Click Here to view the Self-Employment Assistance Program application

Graduate Incentive Program

The Graduate Incentive Program provides financial assistance to graduates looking for employment. Incentives for graduates and employers include:

employment counseling and job search
income support for job shadowing
a lump sum bonus to the graduates upon hiring
wage subsidy program (guarantees full time employment for at least 6 weeks following the wage subsidy)

Qualified graduates must:

have completed training no longer than two years prior to the application date
not have worked in the field of study for more than four consecutive weeks since graduation

Click Here to view the Grad Incentive Program application

ACCELERATED PROCESS

Posted by hpot on February 1, 2010

GOVERNMENT OF CANADA AND FEDERATION OF NEWFOUNDLAND INDIANS ANNOUNCE ACCELERATED PROCESS TO ADDRESS MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONS FOR QALIPU MI’KMAQ FIRST NATION BAND

Ottawa, Ontario (February 1, 2010) – The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and NonStatus Indians, and Brendan Sheppard, President of the Federation of Newfoundland Indians (FNI), today announced an accelerated process for updating the membership list for the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band to be established in early 2010 for the Mi’kmaq of Newfoundland.

“Our government’s work with the Federation of Newfoundland Indians is a demonstration of what can be accomplished when two parties work together to find a solution,” said Minister Strahl. “This accelerated process will ensure that eligible members of the Mi’kmaq of Newfoundland become members of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band as quickly as possible.”

Today’s announcement ensures the creation of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band will not be delayed and provides for the amendment of the membership list every four months after the Band is established, until the backlog of applications has been addressed. The date of the first Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band election will also be extended to permit those added to the Band list under this process the opportunity to run for office and vote in the first election.

“I am pleased with the solution reached by both parties to address the overwhelming response to the registration process for the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band,” said Brendan Sheppard, President of the Federation of Newfoundland Indians. “The number of applications received by the Enrolment Committee reflects the tremendous interest in the formation of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band. This arrangement should provide comfort to those who filed completed applications by November 30, 2009 in that they will not have to wait long to be added to the Band list once they are approved for membership.”

November 30, 2009 marked the conclusion of the first stage of the enrolment process held under the Agreement for the Recognition of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band. This historic process received overwhelming support and the uptake among the Mi’kmaq population was significantly higher than expected. As of November 30, 2009, nearly 26,000 applications had been received and approximately 11,000 had been approved for the initial members list by the Enrolment Committee, chaired by Mr. Tom Rideout.

Membership for the proposed Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band

Posted by hpot on November 30, 2009

November 30, 2009 marks the conclusion of the first stage of the enrolment process held under the Agreement for the Recognition of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band. This historic process has received overwhelming support and the uptake among the Mi’kmaq population is significantly higher than expected. As of November 30, 2009, close to 25,000 applications have been received and approximately 11,000 have been approved by the Enrolment Committee, chaired by Mr. Tom Rideout.

In the coming weeks, the Enrolment Committee will finalize the initial list of members for the establishment of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band which will take place in early 2010.

The government and the Federation of Newfoundland Indians will continue to work together to see how the process for updating the membership list can be accelerated.

Inscriptions pour l’appartenance à la bande de la Première

nation Qalipu Mi’kmaq La première étape du processus d’inscription tenu conformément à l’accord pour la reconnaissance de la bande de la Première nation Qalipu Mi’kmaq se termine le 30 novembre 2009. Ce processus historique a reçu un appui impressionnant. La population mi’kmaq ayant répondu avec enthousiasme, le nombre d’inscriptions est beaucoup plus élevé que prévu. Au 30 novembre 2009, près de 25 000 demandes ont été reçues. Le comité d’inscription, présidé par M. Tom Rideout, a confirmé l’inscription d’environ 11 000 membres.

Dans les semaines à venir, le comité d’inscription achèvera la liste préliminaire des membres pour la création de la bande de la Première nation Qalipu Mi’kmaq, qui aura lieu au début de 2010.

Le gouvernement continuera de travailler avec la Fédération des Indiens de Terre-Neuve pour trouver un moyen d’accélérer le processus de mise à jour de la liste des membres.