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Wabaseemoong Independent Nations, Canada, and Ontario sign historic child and family services coordination agreement 


March 10, 2022 — Wabaseemoong Independent Nations, Treaty 3, 1873 Territory, Ontario — Indigenous Services Canada

When all partners and orders of government work together to put the interests of Indigenous children first, everyone benefits. Most importantly, when First Nations can exert their jurisdiction over child and family services, it means their children and youth can remain connected to their families and communities, surrounded by their culture.

In an historic first in Ontario, Chief Waylon Scott, Wabaseemoong Independent Nations, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Federal Minister of Indigenous Services, the Honourable Dr. Merrilee Fullerton, Ontario Minister of Children, Community and Social Services and the Honourable Greg Rickford, Ontario Minister of Indigenous Affairs signed a trilateral coordination agreement for child and family services. The signing was celebrated today at a ceremony in Wabaseemoong’s community.

This coordination agreement supports Wabaseemoong Independent Nations’ Customary Care Code which has had force of federal law since January 8, 2021. The Code supports Wabaseemoong’s exercise of jurisdiction over Wabaseemoong children and families. The coordination agreement outlines the roles and responsibilities of all parties to support coordination of child and family services. It also provides for mechanisms to address funding from the federal and provincial governments to ensure the necessary financial resources are in place.

This is the first coordination agreement signed in Ontario and the second in Canada since the federal legislation An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families came into force in 2020.

Having a child and family services law was always of integral importance to Wabaseemoong Independent Nations. The community began developing its law at a community planning level in 2011. Leadership recognized the work needed at the grass roots level to ensure its success. Culture and tradition are of the upmost importance for Wabaseemoong Independent Nations, and so this work began in ceremony. The community worked closely and collectively with the elders, youth and community members to bring to life what you see today.

Wabaseemoong Independent Nations have always honoured their youth by ensuring they are a central focus to create a better future. In honouring this approach, leadership of Wabaseemoong Independent Nations approved the Wabaseemoong Independent Nations Customary Care Code in 2017 with the leadership of youth.

The signing of the trilateral coordination agreement on child and family services is a culmination of the hard work by Wabaseemoong Independent Nations and partners over many years and will have lasting impacts for generations to come. 



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Indigenous Services Canada COVID-19 update – Week of March 10, 2022


March 10, 2022 — Ottawa, Ontario, Traditional unceded Algonquin Territory — Indigenous Services Canada

Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) commends the tireless work of community leadership and frontline healthcare workers for their immense and ongoing contributions to their communities’ pandemic response. Their efforts and quick action continue to save lives.

First Nations, Inuit and Métis across the country have access to vaccines through vaccine clinics, which are well underway in Indigenous communities. Now is the time to get vaccinated to protect your community, your Elders and your family.

Below are some of the latest updates from ISC for the week of March 10, 2022.

Vaccinations

As of March 9, 2022, over 88% of individuals aged 12 and older in First Nations, Inuit and territorial communities have received a second dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine, and over 27% have received a third dose. Over 50% of children aged 5 to 11 have received at least one dose.

Vaccine information is updated and published on Thursdays and can be found at canada.ca/covid-vaccines-indigenous.

COVID-19 cases

As of March 9, 2022, the following case counts have been reported from First Nations communities:

  • 89,054 confirmed positive COVID-19 cases, of which 12,530 are the Omicron variant
  • 2,690 active cases
  • 3,016 hospitalizations
  • 85,687 recovered cases
  • 677 deaths

For the week of March 3 to 9, 2022, the average daily reported active case counts dropped by 11% compared to the daily average of the week prior.

This is compared with a

  • 10.7% decrease in average daily reported active case counts reported the week of February 24 to March 2, 2022, compared to the week prior
  • 13.6% decrease in average daily reported active case counts reported the week of February 17 to 23, 2022, compared to the week prior

In February 2022, the rate of newly reported hospitalizations in First Nations communities* dropped by 56% compared with the month prior, representing 132% of the respective rate in the general Canadian population.

  • This compares to:
    • 254% increase in the rate of newly reported hospitalizations in First Nations communities in January 2022

* Includes First Nations communities in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario.

Case count information is updated and published daily Monday through Friday and can be found at Canada.ca/indigenous-covid-cases.

Request for Federal Assistance (RFA) approvals and extensions

  • Kashechewan First Nation’s (Ontario) RFA was approved on February 1, 2022. Canadian Rangers are providing COVID-19 mitigation support in the community. A new RFA was approved for continued support until at least March 16, 2022.
  • Attawapiskat First Nation’s (Ontario) RFA was approved on February 16, 2022. Canadian Rangers are providing COVID-19 mitigation support in the community. On March 1, a two-week extension was approved for continued support until at least March 16, 2022.
  • Kasabonika Lake First Nation’s (Ontario) RFA was approved on February 25, 2022. It is anticipated that a two-week extension of support will be requested prior to the scheduled end date of March 11, 2022.
  • Mishkeegogamang First Nation’s (Ontario) RFA was approved on February 9, 2022. It is anticipated that a new RFA will be made for up to two weeks of additional support beyond the scheduled end date of this RFA (i.e., March 11, 2022).

RFA recent conclusions

  • The Operation REMOTE IMMUNITY 3.0 RFA was approved on November 10, 2021. The RFA will remain active until March 31, 2022, to address any unforeseen support requirements.
  • Eabametoong First Nation’s (ON) RFA was approved on February 10, 2022. Canadian Rangers will stop providing COVID-19 mitigation support in the community today.

SCO launches Mobile Crisis Response Team

The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) in Manitoba recently launched their Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT) program. The MCRT consists of a psychiatric nurse, therapists, trauma-informed counsellors, mental health and wellness specialists, and cultural supports as well as Anishinaabemowin language speakers. In addition to crisis response, the team will support prevention and continuum of care in an environment of trust and safety, seven days a week and on-call 24 hours a day. ISC is providing $3,674,211 for the next three years to SCO through the Mental Wellness Program to support this important initiative.

Ueushuk Fisheries Ltd – Labrador Innu First Nation Communities

COVID-19 has impacted fishery operations in many ways, including the challenge and expense of crew travel. ISC is supporting Ueushuk Fisheries Ltd.―a business owned jointly by both Innu First Nation communities in Labrador―in transporting crew members in response to pandemic travel restrictions.

This support will help Ueushuk Fisheries adapt their regular operations to minimize the risk exposure for crew while travelling to and from the vessel and to their communities during the fishing season. ISC is providing $202,657 under the Indigenous Community Business Fund for the transportation of crew members in response to pandemic travel restrictions.

Supports currently available to First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities

Across the country, ISC Regional Offices and Regional Medical Officers of Health remain available to assist First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities and organizations should they require immediate assistance with an outbreak or require supports such as temporary infrastructure, rapid testing or PPE.

Indigenous communities and organizations can also continue to request needs-based funding from the Indigenous Community Support Fund. This fund provides Indigenous leadership and organizations with the flexibility needed to design and implement community-based solutions to prevent, prepare for and respond to the spread of COVID-19 within their communities.

These funds can be used for measures including but not limited to

  • support for Elders and vulnerable community members.
  • measures to address food insecurity, such as support for the purchase, transportation and distribution of food and access to traditional foods through hunting and fishing.
  • educational and other support for children.
  • mental health assistance and emergency response services.
  • preparedness measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

ISC continues to work with Indigenous communities to collaborate, share information and co-develop Indigenous-led, distinctions-based communications and health response approaches with Indigenous partners by listening to their advice and guidance.



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Wendake Indigenous community will be able to enhance its tourism offering


Government of Canada grants $1.75M to expand Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations facilities

Wendake, Quebec, March 10, 2022 – Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) and Indigenous Services Canada (ISC)

The tourism sector, including in Wendake and the Capitale-Nationale region, is a major economic engine for our regions, supporting more than one in ten jobs across the country. Among other things, it helps ensure sustainable growth, diversify local economies, and create good jobs for middle-class families in Quebec’s urban centres and regions.

That is why the Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for CED, has announced on her own behalf and on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services, a total of $1.75 million in contributions for the Maison des Premières Nations, the business behind Wendake’s Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations.

The $750,000 repayable contribution from CED and the $1M non-repayable contribution from ISC will enable the Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations to expand its facilities. The work will involve redeveloping accommodation, reception, and welcome areas.

The Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations is located in the heart of Wendake, a Huron-Wendat Nation site considered to be one of the oldest Indigenous territories in North America. The hotel complex welcomes thousands of international visitors each year as they immerse themselves in rich First Nations cultural history, including with its Huron-Wendat Museum and Ekionkiestha’ Traditional Longhouse. With a total cost of $6.5M, this project aims to enhance the Wendake Indigenous community’s tourism offering and strengthen its ability to attract and retain tourists from abroad.

The Government of Canada recognizes and supports businesses and organizations that are a source of pride in their communities. Quebec’s economic recovery relies, among other things, on a strong tourism industry with organizations with strong roots in the regional economy. The stakeholders in this sector are major contributors to growth, as well as key assets in rebuilding a stronger, more resilient, and more just economy for all.

Quotes

“The support announced today for the Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations is excellent news for the Huron‑Wendat community. This concrete assistance will help it realize its renewed ambition to offer a one‑of-a-kind experience to visitors from home and abroad who are interested in learning more about the rich history of Indigenous peoples. I can only congratulate Grand Chief Rémy Vincent and the team at the Maison des Premières Nations on offering a flagship product that is the pride of the region.”

The Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Member of Parliament for Brome–Missisquoi, Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for CED

“Wendake is a community renowned for its nature and as a tourism hub. The expansion of the Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations is an example of some of the great economic development work underway, and our government is pleased to support this project that will contribute to the cultural wealth of la Nation huronne-wendat.”

The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services

“These contributions are not only enabling our tourism industry to grow, but also attest to the importance of this industry for the region. For dozens of years now, Wendake has been a forerunner of Indigenous tourism in Quebec, and our reputation is shining a light on our culture, our traditions, and our history internationally. We are proud to see our Hôtel-Musée being developed to better meet the growing demand.”

Grand Chief Rémy Vincent, Conseil de la Nation huronne-wendat

“This financial support is major for us to be able to continue to grow and offer a globally unique Indigenous experience. The expansion of our facilities, 24 rooms and suites, the addition of a window over three floors facing the Akiawenrahk river, a magnificent lounge bar, private rooms for business meetings and the expansion of the La Traite restaurant will create over 15 jobs.”

Colombe Bourque, Executive Director, Industrie touristique de Wendake

Quick facts

  • CED’s funds have been granted under its Quebec Economic Development Program. This program aims to help communities seize economic development and diversification opportunities that are promising for the future.
  • SMEs account for 99.7% of Quebec’s businesses and contribute to 50% of the province’s GDP.
  • CED is a key federal partner in Quebec’s regional economic development. With its 12 regional business offices, CED accompanies businesses, supporting organizations and all regions across Quebec into tomorrow’s economy.
  • The funds allocated by ISC come from the Community Opportunity Readiness Program. This program provides project-based funding for First Nation and Inuit communities for a range of activities to support the communities’ pursuit of economic opportunities.

Associated links

Information

Media Relations
Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
media@dec-ced.gc.ca

Ariane Joazard-Bélizaire
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
ariane.joazard-belizaire@pch.gc.ca

Media Relations
Indigenous Services Canada
media@sac-isc.gc.ca

Alison Murphy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Indigenous Services
Alison.Murphy@sac-isc.gc.ca

Stay connected

Follow CED on social media
Consult CED’s news

Join the conversation about Indigenous peoples in Canada:

Twitter: @GCIndigenous
Facebook: @GCIndigenous
Instagram: @GCIndigenous
Facebook: @GCIndigenousHealth

You can subscribe to receive ISC news releases and speeches via RSS feeds. For more information or to subscribe, visit www.isc.gc.ca/RSS.





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The Honourable Daniel Vandal to make a virtual announcement highlighting support for key community job and infrastructure developments in Nunavut


Iqaluit, Nunavut, March 10, 2022 — Please be advised that the Honourable Daniel Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, will make a virtual announcement tomorrow regarding community revitalization projects in Nunavut.

Following his remarks, the Honourable Daniel Vandal will be available to answer questions from the media.

Date: March 11, 2022
Time: 11:00 am EST
Location: Virtual Zoom Event
To Register



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Wabaseemoong Independent Nations, Government of Canada and Government of Ontario to sign historic agreement related to child and family services 


Whitedog, Ontario — Please be advised that Chief Waylon Scott, Wabaseemoong Independent Nations; the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services; and the Honourable Greg Rickford, Ontario Minister of Indigenous Affairs, will participate in a signing ceremony of a trilateral coordination agreement on child and family services with Wabaseemoong Independent Nations.

Date:  March 10, 2022
Time: 12:30 p.m. (CT)

Where:
Wabaseemoong Community Hall
Whitedog, ON

Please note that Wabaseemoong Independent Nations will have a Zoom link available for media wishing to attend virtually. To access the Zoom link, please contact Wabaseemoong Independent Nations:

Abbie Siroishka
abbie.siroishka@kenorachiefs.org
807-407-4282



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CanNor investments support Indigenous economic development corporations in the Yukon


Today, the Honourable Daniel Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, announced an investment of $3.6 million to support two regional initiatives led by Indigenous economic development corporations across the Yukon.

While each project is unique, they both work towards helping communities and Northerners build towards future opportunities for economic growth by fostering an inclusive recovery, enhancing competitiveness and creating jobs across the territory.

Creating Economic Resilience                                                                               $2.1M

CanNor is investing over $2.1 million in this three-year project by Kluane Community Development Limited Partnership (KCDLP), an economic development corporation with an independent mandate to manage certain business interests of the Kluane First Nation. The project will enable KCDLP to purchase heavy machinery and a shelter to expand their operations to better participate in construction activity, mining activity and clean energy production in Burwash Landing.

Funding towards this project will result in the creation of four full-time jobs and the expansion of eight full-time jobs. It will enable contracting opportunities in the Kluane Region as well as training and skills development opportunities for Kluane First Nation members. The total cost of the project is over $2.73 million.

 

Shop Facility Expansion                                                                                         $1.5M

 

CanNor is investing $1.5 million in this three-year project by Tr’ondek Heavy Equipment Ltd., one of the companies within the Chief Isaac Group of Companies, which is the for-profit development corporation for Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in. The project will expand an existing building at Tr’ondek Heavy Equipment Ltd.’s automotive, truck and transport truck repair operations in Dawson City.

Funding towards this project will result in business growth and will support employment by maintaining six full-time jobs and expanding four full-time jobs. The total cost of the project is $2 million.



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