Collaboration with Mi'kmaq Leads to Progress for Nova Scotia

NOTE: A social media version of this release with hi-res, downloadable photos is available at http://novascotia.ca/news/smr/2012-10-01-Treaty-Day/ . More photos, audio and video clips will be added after the event.

The province and Mi'kmaq are working together to create jobs and grow Nova Scotia's economy.

During Treaty Day celebrations today, Oct. 1, Premier Darrell Dexter highlighted collaborative projects that are supporting development and preparing Mi'kmaq workers to meet the demands of growing industries.

"Mi'kmaq communities and companies are playing a key role in growing important new sectors like renewable energy," said Premier Dexter. "We're working together to help make sure Mi'kmaq people are ready to fill good jobs coming from game-changing opportunities like shipbuilding and offshore oil."

A recently announced wind project in Amherst is an example of successful partnerships with Mi'kmaq companies that are creating a better future for Nova Scotia. Next month, a joint renewable energy seminar will bring together Mi'kmaq, government and project leaders to continue to make Nova Scotia a leader in renewable energy.

The province is supporting Mi'kmaq training and education through the Unama'ki Benefits Office to match employment and training needs with growing industries. The province is also investing in aboriginal business studies in at Cape Breton University.

During the Treaty Day awards ceremony, the premier and Mi'kmaq representatives presented awards to elders and youth from Mi'kmaq communities across the province. A Sister Dorothy Moore Education Scholarship was introduced to recognize her invaluable contribution to the Mi'kmaq education system. The scholarship was established as a legacy of the Truth and Reconciliation event held in Halifax in 2011.

Treaty Day began in 1986 with the signing of a proclamation by then Grand Chief Donald Marshall Senior and marks the beginning of Mi'kmaq History Month in Nova Scotia.