Cabinet, Mi'kmaq Chiefs Work Together to Strengthen Communities, Create Jobs

The province and Mi'kmaq Chiefs are working together to help build stronger communities and take best advantage of the economic opportunities ahead in Nova Scotia.

These were the lead agenda items at the fourth annual meeting of the provincial cabinet and Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq Chiefs today, Oct. 18. The meeting in Millbrook First Nation brought together cabinet ministers and chiefs to discuss these issues, as well as shared concerns about changes to the federal approach to funding and negotiations.

"This meeting is an opportunity for us to further our nation-to-nation relationship," said Chief Terrance Paul, co-chair of the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq Chiefs. "Through this dialogue, we hope to see tangible results for the Mi'kmaq, and for all Nova Scotians."

"With so many opportunities on the horizon, we need to make the most of them, to create jobs and stronger communities for first nations across the province, and for people of all backgrounds, from all communities," said Premier Darrell Dexter. "Working together, we can help Mi'kmaq businesses grow, and get people ready for good jobs, which will benefit the entire province."

Premier Dexter said the Mi'kmaq should have the opportunity to understand the path needed to take advantage of opportunities like shipbuilding contracts, for example, and then have access to the skills and training needed to build a career in the marine industry.

The two governments meet annually to review progress and set priorities.

The province is working with the Mi'kmaq in a number of areas, including the Made-in-Nova Scotia Process negotiations, the Mi'kmaq-Nova Scotia-Canada Tripartite Forum and a Mi'kmaq-Nova Scotia-Canada Consultation Terms of Reference.