Mi'kmaq Education Act Introduced

An Act respecting Education on Mi'kmaq Reserves in Nova Scotia was introduced in the legislature today. The act is parallel to federal legislation which transfers jurisdiction for education on reserves from the federal government to Mi'kmaq bands.

The federal and provincial legislation follow the February 1997 signing of agreements on self-governance in education on reserves. The agreements involve nine bands (represented at the signing by the Mi'kmaq First Nations of Nova Scotia), and the federal and provincial governments.

"I am honoured to table this legislation, recognizing the right of Mi'kmaq bands to govern their children's education on reserves," Education and Culture Minister Robbie Harrison said. "The legislation was developed in partnership with the bands, and I look forward to continuing a close partnership as we work to improve the quality of education for all Mi'kmaq students."

The provincial government maintains responsibility for Mi'kmaq students who attend public schools. Government consults regularly with Mi'kmaq bands, through the Council on Mi'kmaq Education, on curriculum and related initiatives.

Approximately 2,200 Mi'kmaq students live on reserves in Nova Scotia. Currently, their school attendance is about equally split between band-operated and public schools. This agreement supports the continued development of services for Mi'kmaq students educated on reserves. Funding for band-operated schools will continue to come from the federal government as part of the agreement signed in 1997.

Note: The following is intended for use by broadcast media.

The right of Mi'kmaq bands to govern education on reserves

is being recognized by the provincial government.

An act respecting band control over reserve schools was

introduced in the legislature today.

Education and Culture Minister Robbie Harrison says

government is working to improve the quality of education for

Mi'kmaq students.

The act follows federal legislation that transfers control

of education on reserves from the federal government to the bands

themselves.

Funding for band-operated schools comes from the federal

government. The province still has responsibility for Mi'kmaq

students who attend public schools.

<b>Text of Mi'kmaq Education Act</b>