Province and Membertou Sign Apprenticeship Agreement

The province and the Mi'kmaq community of Membertou signed the first Joint Registration Agreement today, Dec. 5, to facilitate training to aboriginal apprentices.

The agreement is the first of its kind to be signed in Atlantic Canada between government and a non-union organization, as well as a First Nations Band.

Under the agreement, the Department of Education will meet with each of the Membertou apprentices to conduct individual needs assessments and develop individualized training plans. Essential skills training and technical trades training will be provided for the apprentices. The Membertou Band will credit hours to apprentices for prior work experience and skills training, and will recommend the apprentices for certification once the program is completed.

"We're looking for new ways to help both new and very experienced workers to upgrade their skills through our Skills Nova Scotia initiative," said Education Minister Jane Purves. "This agreement with the Membertou Band is a great example of that initiative at work. It also shows how co-operation between government and First Nations can create real opportunities."

"Finding innovative ways to invest in our people is one of our top priorities," said Membertou Chief Terrance Paul. "The signing of this landmark Joint Registration Agreement with the province today allows Membertou to break down the barriers that our trades people have previously encountered by providing top-quality training and trade certification in a hospitably- and culturally- sensitive environment."

Located on Cape Breton Island, Membertou is a community of about 1,000 Mi'kmaw. There are currently 26 people from the community who are interested in participating in the aboriginal apprenticeship program under the agreement.

Priding itself on fiscal accountability, Membertou became the first indigenous government to become ISO 9001:2000 compliant.
In November 2000, Membertou opened a corporate office in Halifax in order to pursue business opportunities with progressive-minded companies that share its commitment to the principles of conservation, sustainable development, innovation and success.