Paytahchemowin Newsletter - Winter 2011

Paytahchemowin

Greetings, the holiday season and the upcom-ing New Year are rapidly approaching us, and once again we prepare to cel-ebrate the joys of Christ-mas and spend time with our families.

The past year has been quite difficult in many

ways, but our continued effort to ensure that all Moose Cree members continue to prosper will be our main focus and mandate as we progress forward on the economic opportunities from our ratified agreements. We recognize the diversity at times with the members on issues but we need to continue to strive for the collective will of all members.

This past year we celebrated the signing of the “Agreement” with Detour Gold, we continue to ensure the implementation of this agreement is binding and that we follow the stipulations within the agreement. We will be updating the mem-bers on this very important project on January 12, 2012.

The Amisk-oo-skow Agreement is in its third year of implementation and we continue to solidify

our partnership with Ontario Power Generation. The construction portion of this project started one and a half years ago and many business, contractual and employment opportunities have arisen since then. Also, we will be providing an update to the Moose Cree members with this project on January 10, 2012. We have some very good and important information to share with the members with this project.

The importance of carrying on the work of years past with Governance and our Constitution is an initiative that cannot wait any longer. Put very simply the Indian Act and its regime have done much damage to First Nations in the last few hundred years. We need to have a new struc-ture [form of government] and a new mindset in developing a governance system that can free us from the shackles of de-pendency with the govern-ments at hand.

Continued on page 2...

1Winter / Christmas 2011 - Paytahchemowin Newsletter www.moosecree.com

Christmas 2011

in this issue:From the ChiefP. 1 - 2

Executive DirectorP. 2

Winter Road SouthP. 3

FinanceP. 4

Health CentreP. 5

Human ResourcesP. 6

Public WorksP. 7 - 8

E.P.R. CentreP. 8

Fire DepartmentP. 9

AdministrationP. 10

Staff Dinner / AwardsP. 10 - 11

Resource ProtectionP. 12 - 14

Youth Centre / RTPP. 15

Moose Cree First Nation Newsletter

“...Our continued effort to ensure that all Moose Cree members continue to prosper will be our main focus and mandate as we progress forward on the economic oppor-

tunities from our ratified agreements.”

From the Chief’s Office - Norm Hardisty Jr.Merry Christmas from Chief and Council

You can view our

newsletters online!

Visit www.moosecree.com

From the Chief’s Office, Continued...

Our own source revenue, our growing economy and its stability mov-ing forward will have a large play in this endeavor. If there is a First Nation in this country that can achieve their own driven government system and make it work, it is Moose Cree. We do not intend to be a third order of government but rather one of the three orders of government. This appears to be a very tall order but can be achieved within the next few years and certainly within this generation.

There are many issues/files that I could touch on that are presently work[s] in progress as such the proposed Nursing Home Care Facility, Veterans Land issues and our proposed Health Bi-lateral agreement with the Crown. Amongst others, I will update the members on these files in the New Year.

In closing Chief and Council offers its congratulations to Peter Wesley

in being the successful candidate for the Executive Director position. Peter is not new to Moose Cree affairs and has extensive experience working with First Nations along with being a Councilor for a good number of years. We welcome his continued service to the commu-nity and wish him well in his new employment. Peter commenced his position on Monday, December 5th, 2011.

Finally, I would request as I always do, during this Christmas season let us all reach out to the less fortunate and assist them where we can.

On behalf of my council, my family, I wish you all a joyous and Merry Christmas, and the hope of a prosperous New Year.

Safe holidays and God bless,

Respectfully,

Chief Norm Hardisty Jr.

2 Winter / Christmas 2011 - Paytahchemowin Newsletter www.moosecree.com

From the Executive DirectorSubmitted by Peter W. Wesley, Executive Director

Season’s greetings to everyone.

Once again another year is quickly coming to a close and I would like to take this opportunity to wish every-one a safe and enjoyable Christmas holiday season.

On Monday December 5, 2011, Chief and Council formally announced that I was the successful applicant for the Executive Director position. I wish to thank Chief and Council for this opportunity and I look for-ward to working in my new position.

Wetum Winter Road South

One item that I wish to touch on is the Wetum Winter Road south. At this time, the necessary funding is in place, the necessary permits are being processed and work will resume once received. This of course is subject to weather.

It is worth noting that all the contractors involved have recognized the importance of this project to the community and have agreed to work within a very limited budget. MCFN extends its appreciation to all contractors involved. There is a separate update provided on this project as well.

Strategic Planning Process

Another project nearing completion is the Strategic Planning Process. Once completed and endorsed by membership, it will guide MCFN administration on what projects to pursue as mandated by member-ship. This is a very important document for MCFN and I wish to thank everyone who took the time to be a part and have your say in this very important process. Your input is valued.

As always, I welcome the membership to come by and see me to dis-cuss any concerns or issues they may have. My office is open to the membership.

My main message is to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Christmas Holiday Season and to wish you a safe and prosperous new year.

Respectfully submitted,

Peter W. Wesley, Executive Director

www.moosecree.com

Update on Wetum Road SouthDecember 6, 2011. Visit www.moosecree.com for the latest updates.

3Winter / Christmas - Paytahchemowin Newsletter

TO: Moose Cree MembershipFROM: Peter W. Wesley – Executive Director, Moose Cree First Nation (MCFN)DATE: December 6, 2011SUBJECT: WE-TUM ROAD (Winter Road South)

UPDATE

Construction is set to resume once weather permits.

The length of the road is 170 kms long (105 miles).Right of Way (ROW) for the actual road surface itself is 40 metres wide (131 feet).

All necessary permits are in place as well as the funding to complete the Wetum Road this winter.

SOUTH END (OTTER RAPIDS)

Clearing for the ROW at Otter Rapids was started last March and they were able to complete 29.5 kms, (18 miles) which is near Little Abitibi River. The width they have cleared is 15 metres (49 feet). Current plans approved by all the contractors involved have CS Enterprises, Innlink and Dobson contracting working from the south end.

NORTH END (GRAVEL PIT ROAD)

Clearing for the ROW at the gravel pit road was started last March and they were able to clear 5 kms (3.10 miles) to a width of 7 metres (22 feet).

Current plans approved by all contractors involved have Cree Aski working from the North End.

Given the mandate by the membership, we are trying our best to ensure that the Wetum Road will be achieved this year.


Finance DepartmentSubmitted by Gilles Langlois, Director of Finance

Finance Team

Gilles Langlois Director of FinanceVacant Finance OfficerLisa Corston Sr. Payable ClerkVacant Account Receivable ClerkErin Iserhoff Travel / Finance Clerk Joanne Davey General Finance Clerk

New Developments in Finance

• The Financial Policies received formal approval by Chief and Council in November, 2011.

• Second instalment of the Pre-cod is scheduled for January 13, 2012 of $2,000,000.

Finance Department Report as of December 1, 2011

Amount Owing to MCFN

From Residents (including utilities) 1 to 90 days Over 90 Total Date of Report Notes$147,902 $2,979,473 $3,127,375 Dec 1, 2011

$201,633 $3,266,230 $3,467,863 Oct 12, 2011

$163,621 $2,662,858 $2,826,479 May 31, 2010

$341,840 $2,533,429 $2,875,269 Feb 28, 2010

From Companies / Agencies 1 to 90 days Over 90 Total Date of Report Notes$156,325 $583,340 $739,665 Dec 1, 2011

$804,939 $578,511 $1,383,450 Oct 12, 2011

$395,145 $1,102,423 $1,497,568 May 31, 2010

$413,212 $1,841,908 $2,255,120 Feb 28, 2010

The Serenity Prayer

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can;And wisdom to know the difference;Living one day at a time; Enjoying one moment at a time; Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; Taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; Trusting that He will make all things rightif I surrender to His Will;That I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with HimForever in the next. Amen. -- Reinhold Niebuhr

This is the single most important area of concentration for the MCFN in order to get to financial stability. Some resi-dents owe as much as $46,785 and growing. We need to change the mindset of our residents in order for housing to keep up with the maintenance program as this is their only source of revenue. INAC does not contribute to the Housing Department. Your help is needed.

We will continue to clean-up this area and constant moni-toring is ongoing.

Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for the New Year!

Gilles Langlois CMA, CAFMDirector of Finance

Moose Cree First Nation

Moose Factory Health CentreSubmitted by: Cheryl Moore, Community Health Nurse

www.moosecree.com 5Winter / Christmas - Paytahchemowin Newsletter

Get trained to deliver programming in your community.

Registration is FREE!

Refreshments, snacks and light lunch are provided during training days for participants.

Held at the EPR Centre in Moose FactoryTraining Times are 9am - 4pm

20 seats available per programREGISTER SOONAn Aboriginal Solution “Connecting the Disconnected”

Addictions Treatment Program Training Jan. 30, 31 and Feb. 1, 2012Get trained to deliver this 21-session treatment program designed to effectively address the individual emotional and social reasons for addic-tive behaviours. This training qualifies as 19.5 core ceu’s with the CACCF and 24 hours with FNWACB.

Living Without Violence Program Training Feb. 2, 3, and 4, 2012Get trained to deliver this 24-session treatment program designed to effectively address the individual’s social and emotional reasons influenc-ing their violent and abusive behaviours. This program is effective for both abusers and victims.

Child & Youth Program Training Feb. 6, 7, and 8, 2012Get trained to deliver this 12-session program given in 3 age groups (7-10, 11-14, and 15-18) and designed to effectively provide our young people the skills to: stay in school; avoid substance misuse; develop better relationships; avoid gangs, violence and criminal behaviour.

Registration forms are available online at www.moosecree.com or at the Moose Factory Health Centre at the Moose Cree Complex.

Completed forms can be dropped off at the Moose Factory Health Centre or faxed to (705) 658-4136, ATTN: Cheryl Moore.

Deadline to register is Friday, January 20th, 2012

The Moose Factory Health Centre wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable Christmas!


Human Resources Staff

Pauline Echum, Director of Human ResourcesLeona Fletcher, Payroll ClerkLinda Trudeau, Human Resources Assistant

Linda has joined the department in May 2011 and she will be respon-sible to assist in human resources and payroll administration. She has been very helpful in all areas and we welcome her to our department.

Moose Cree First Nation is one of the largest employers in the James Bay area and has employed 325 workers since January 1, 2011. This includes permanent, short term, casuals, on call and seasonal work-ers plus the summer students.

The department provides human resources and payroll administra-tion to management and employees of Moose Cree. We assist in development of job descriptions, prepare and post all job advertise-ments, receive applications & resumes for employment and respond to all job applicants, establish screening and interview committees, prepare and process screening and interview reports, prepare all em-ployment offers. There were approximately 80 job postings and this includes second postings. In addition, we provide pay and benefits to all employees on a biweekly basis. All employees must have a valid bank account for direct deposit.

I am happy to report that our annual payroll / T4 reports balance each and every year. The T4’s are issued by February 28th of each year.

The department is responsible for managing the Band Employee Ben-efit Plan funded by INAC. This covers group life insurance and a pen-sion plan for the permanent employees. We submit monthly insur-ance, pension and WSIB premiums, and annual reports to external agencies. In addition, prepare and submit injury reports to WSIB as required.

The Director of Human Resources attends management and finance team meetings and works collectively with Senior Management and the Executive.

New Staff in 2011

John Rickard, Employment Training Coordinator, Detour GoldRussell Turner, Environmental Coordinator – Detour GoldLinda Trudeau, Human Resources AssistantJoyanne Cheechoo, Crisis Management/Support WorkerJudy Cheechoo, Personal Support WorkerJoanne Davey, General Finance ClerkRita Echum, Healthy Babies/Healthy Children WorkerErin Iserhoff, Travel Finance ClerkLawrence Jeffries, Implementation Coordinator, Detour Gold

Jon Kapashesit, Executive AssistantRita Lazarus, Community Health NurseJolene Mianscum, Administrative Assistant, Health DepartmentHeather Moore, DDECS Counsellor IILorraine Ross, Admin Assistant, Resource Protection, CochraneCaroline Sutherland, Admin Assistant, Administration Dept.Penny Turner, Health Services CounsellorVictor Weapenicappo, Health & Wellness CoordinatorDawn Scott, Admin Assistant, Resource Protection Unit

Plus all 25 employees hired in the New Housing Construction Project

T-4’s for 2011

As noted above, the T4’s for 2011 will be issued by February 28, 2012. Please inform Leona Fletcher, Payroll Clerk to update your mailing address. This will ensure your T4 is mailed to the proper address. You may contact Leona at 705-658-4619 ext.233 or Email: [email protected].

Job Postings

We encourage all applicants to read the job postings thoroughly and to attach the requested documents to your resume as stated on job postings. All jobs are posted on Moose Cree’s website, on public bul-letin boards in Moose Factory/Moosonee area, various employers in the area and on the local TV channel 22.

Resumes

Resumes can be emailed, faxed or dropped off to our Human Re-sources department. Due to many requests, we do not provide cop-ies of resumes to applicants. It is the applicant’s responsibility to keep a copy before forwarding their resume to Moose Cree. Should you be interested in any casual work, please submit an application/resume to this department.

E.I. Applications

All applicants must apply online to apply for EI benefits and go to the following website: www.hrdc-drgc.gc.ca

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Human Re-sources department: Pauline, Leona, and Linda

For any questions to this report, please contact the following:

Pauline Echum, Director of Human ResourcesTel # (705) 658-4619 ext.235, Fax # (705) 658-4734Email: [email protected]

Human Resources DepartmentSubmitted by: Pauline Echum, Director of Human Resources


Public Works DepartmentSubmitted by Abel Wapachee, Director of Public Works

Greetings to all Moose Factory com-munity members, and to our neigh-bours across the river and in coastal communities that are waiting for the winter road to open for travel-ling and shopping.

Public Works Committee

Introducing our Public Works Committee:

Robert Echum - Chairperson,Robert Vincent - Councillor Representative Debbie Innes - Community Representative Jack Louttit - Community RepresentativeJames A. Rickard - Community Representative

The Public Works Staff

Abel Wapachee - Director of Public WorksPauline Moses - Secretary / Receptionist / Bussing CoordinatorPauline Cheechoo - Sanitation / Bus DriverDarrel Katapaytuk - Water / Wastewater TechnicianRyan Blueboy - Water / Wastewater Technician TraineeJoe Kowtook - Fleet Head MechanicAdrian Parker - Fleet Mechanic TraineeRobert Katapaytuk - Maintenance TechnicianLindy Linklater - Maintenance Technician TraineeThomas Koosees - Sanitation / Bus MonitorEdgar Cheehoo - Sanitation / Bus MonitorOliver Koosees Jr. - Sanitation / Bus DriverBert Isaac - Sanitation / Bus MonitorRobin Sutherland - Casual Sanitation / Bus MonitorShane Corston - Sanitation / Bus Monitor

Also our bussing Contact Service Provider, Mike Porter, from Rachon’s Bus Line in Cochrane.

Frozen Waterlines and Drains

We have numerous people calling our department with frozen wa-terlines and drains. Please check and make sure your outlet is work-ing and your heating-cord is plugged. You can snow bank the side of your house to insulate the waterlines and drain lines underneath your house. Winter and cold temperatures are upon us and we are always willing and able to assist anyone in any way we can, but please be patient and eventually we will get to you.

DUMP GATES

Dump gates will remain open throughout the coming Christmas sea-son and will be going back to our normal routine of having the gates closed after the New Year. If you have large items to dispose of and have no access to a vehicle, please do not hesitate to call the garage at (705) 658-4200 and leave a message with Pauline Moses and she direct your request to the appropriate person.

Community Winter Road

Please be informed that the Community Winter Road between Moose Factory Island and Moosonee is officially open for use light duty trav-elling. Anyone using this road for heavy hauling will do so at their own risk. We have crews that will be working on the river , clearing all the snow drifts and making some finishing touches, so be aware of these people and take every precautionary measures for the safety of yours and theirs while travelling on the River. Also please limit your speed and no tail-gating please.

I would like to confirm to the community members that we have Brian Innes Construction overseeing the construction and maintenance of the 2011/2012 Community Winter Road Project. As winter progresses we will be contacting other local contractors to assist us in building additional routes.

If you have any suggestions or input for Public Works, please call us at (705) 658-4200 and leave a message. Meegwetch!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the Public Works staff and committee!

Abel Wapachee, Director of Public [email protected]

Public Works Department, Continued...

To Parents / Guardians of Ministik School ChildrenFrom Pauline Moses, PWS Bussing Program

I am proud to say that a lot of times during bus rides to and from school, all students in all grade levels behave exceptionally well throughout the day. I strongly encourage everyone to practice and model good behaviour which encourages the younger students to do the same. By listening and helping others, we can all benefit in having a positive experience to and from school.

The PWS Bus Monitors always do their best to monitor students on a daily basis. In the past couple of weeks, we have received an increas-ing number of reports for student behaviours. While other students need daily reminders of the rules, a small number of students are repeatedly disruptive during the bus ride.

The bus monitors will now be encouraged to fill out reports however minor the incidents may be for behavioural issues and actions that affect other students. All reports are confidential and are given to the school, where the vice-principal will be sure to contact you if your child is mentioned in a report.

To ensure that all students are aware of these rules, please review the following:

1. Never run to or from the bus2. Please do not push, shove, or hit anyone3. No yelling or shouting inside the bus4. No fighting in the bus or at the bus stops5. No spitting on the floor or on anyone

This situation is becoming a great concern for the bus drivers and monitors for the individual safety of each and every child. I strongly encourage that in the New Year, parents/guardians can positively work together to remind children of the rules and the related con-sequences for their actions. I would like to see each and every child have positive experiences with each other during this time.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the PWS Ga-rage at (705) 658-4200. Your ideas can be beneficial for changes in the New Year. Thank you.

Pauline Moses, PWS Bussing Program


E.P.R. CentreSubmitted by Raymond Butterfly, E.P.R. Centre Manager

On behalf of the staff of the E.P.R. Centre, I would like to take this opportunity to wish the commu-nity a very merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year! May God truly bless and keep you safe this holiday season!Raymond Butterfly,E.P.R. Centre Manager


Candle Safety Tips

Follow these basic rules to prevent a fire from starting in your home:

• Always keep burning candles within sight. Extinguish all candles when leaving the room or before going to sleep.

• Always use a candle holder specif-ically designed for candle use. The holder should be heat resistant, sturdy and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax.

• Place lit candles where they won’t be knocked over by children, pets or anyone else. Better yet, if you have pets or children in the home do not use candles.

• Keep burning candles away from furniture, drapes, bedding, car-pets, books, flammable decorations, etc.

Chimney Safety

This winter, your fire department urges you to make sure your chim-ney is in safe working order. Fires often result from a build-up of creosote in the chimney. A blocked chimney can also cause deadly car-bon monoxide gas to enter your home, so check for the signs of corrosion or deterioration. Your chimney should be cleaned and in-spected at least once a year. And be sure to install a carbon monoxide detector when using a wood stove for heating as carbon monoxide is an odorless gas and is known as the silent killer.

Smoke Alarms

• Install battery-operated smoke alarms outside sleeping areas, and preferably on every level of the home.

• Test alarms monthly to ensure they are in good working order.

• Install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector near sleeping ar-eas.

• Replace smoke alarms that are more than 10 years old. A Fire Code amendment now requires all Ontario homes to have working smoke alarms on every level and out-side all sleeping areas. It covers sin-gle family, semi-detached and town homes, whether owner-occupied or rented.

Tree Safety

Enjoy the holiday season but be cau-tious with your Christmas tree. Keep the stand full of water at all times for freshly cut trees. Keep it away from all heat sources and make sure it does not block a doorway. Check all decorative lights before placing them on the tree and discard any frayed or damaged lights and cords. Never place lit candles on or near the Christ-mas tree. When large amounts of needles begin to fall off, it is time to get rid of the tree.

Online Games

Hey kids! Want to play games and have fun with Sparky?

Join him at www.sparky.org

Have a safe and enjoyable Christ-mas holiday and a happy New Year!

From the staff and volunteer firefighters.

FOR FIRE EMERGENCIES, CALL:(705) 658-4510

Moose Factory Island Fire & RescueSubmitted by: Leonard Kapashesit, Assistant Fire Chief


Administration DepartmentPatricia Wapachee, Director of Administration and Communications

Christmas Greetings and Happy Holidays from the Administration Staff:

Barb Sutherland, Membership Officer;Caroline Sutherland, Administrative Assistant;Denise Mark, Janitor;Judy Rickard, Receptionist;Patricia Wapachee, Director of Administration & Communications;Paul Chakasim, Communications & Information Technology Officer;Verna Cheechoo, Casual Receptionist.

We wish you a happy and prosperous new year in 2012.

Site Updates from Paul Chakasim, Communications and I.T. Officer

Final preparations and changes are being made to the new Moose Cree website! Expect our new site to launch in early January. We will be switching our pages over in batches, so it may take an additional week or so before the entire site has switched over.

Also, Washow Lodge’s website was completed and launched on No-vember 16th. You can learn more about the lodge, the many programs and activities available, and pricing and booking information.

These new sites will ensure that information is well organized and easily accessible. Please feel free to send comments and suggestions to [email protected].

Happy holidays!

Annual Christmas Dinner and AwardsPrepared by: Patricia Wapachee, Director of Administration and Communications

The Moose Cree First Nation annual Christmas dinner for staff and Council was held on Friday, December 16, 2011. Approximately 200 employees, Council members and invited guests enjoyed a traditional Christmas dinner of turkey, ham and all the trimmings.

Master of Ceremonies, Jessica Edwards, started the evening off with introductions. Chief Norm Hardisty welcomed everyone to this festive occasion and congratulated the staff for their hard work, dedication and commitment throughout the past year.


Our Sponsors

We want to acknowledge and thank the many sponsors who donat-ed gifts that were given out as prizes:

- Air Creebec Inc.- Billingkoff Management Ltd.- Expedition Helicopters- G.G.’s Corner and Gift- Northern Stores- Ontario Northland Railway- Ontario Power Generation- Thunder Airlines Limited- Debeers Canada- Ontario Power Generation OPG- Geraldine Govender, Cultural Program- Abel Wapachee & Public Works Gang- MCFN Resource Protection

Special thanks go to Margaret Rickard, Decorating Coordinator, the Tiny Tots Step Dancing group for their superb performance and Mel-vin Linklater for catering a delicious meal. Last but not least, a big special “THANK YOU” to the MCFN Social Committee for all the work they put into organizing, planning and hosting another successful event; your hard work and dedication is certainly appreciated.

Find more photos on our Facebook page!

Employee of the YearNadine Iserhoff

Mr. CongenialityJay Monture

Attendance AwardClint Cheechoo

Raymond Butterfly accepted theaward on behalf of Clint Cheechoo

Miss CongenialityNorma McComb

2011 Employee Awards

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the employee awards for 2011. The recipients of the “Employee of the Year Award” and the “Attendance Award” are chosen by Chief and Council. Mr. Congeniality and Ms. Congeniality are nominated and voted on by the staff. We want to take this opportunity to congratulate this year’s recipients for their outstanding achievements in 2011.


Wachay, this has been another busy year for the Resource Protec-tion staff. As we strive to secure maximum benefits from the resource development projects there have been many challenges. Given the achievements to date, we are pleased to report that we, as a team, did progress fairly well. In addition to gains in the area of business and employment and training opportunities, we made an extreme effort to protect the environment. In every situation, the protection of the environment is the first and foremost priority.

Amisk-oo-skow Comprehensive Agreement

Work on the Kipling, Little Long, Smokey Falls and Harmon is progress-ing well. The Amisk-oo-skow Agreement teams consists of:

Bert Wapachee, Director of Major AgreementsStan Louttit, Environmental CoordinatorJocelyn Cheechoo, Permits ManagerJennifer Simard, Environmental MonitorBilly Isaac, Aboriginal Knowledge ResearcherKim Radbourne, Employment & Training CoordinatorNick Mansell, A/Business CoordinatorErnie Lafontaine, Kapuskasing Project CoordinatorBruce Nelson, On Site OfficerJack Williams, Community & Social AdvocateGeraldine Govender, Cultural ProjectsBrenda Iserhoff, Business RegistrarVeronica Gunner, Client Information CoordinatorJudy I. Small, Special Project Coordinator Dawn Scott, Casual Receptionist

This team reports on a monthly basis to the Amisk-oo-skow Imple-mentation Committee. MCFN representatives on this committee are Jean Sayers and Ernest Rickard with Rick Cheechoo acting as the al-ternate.

We are also very honoured to have the expertise of the Elders Ad-

visory Group which provides traditional-knowledge advice on envi-ronmental issues. Members of this group include Aggie Corston, Eva Lazarus, Josephine Wesley, Elizabeth Simard, Andy Sutherland, Joyce Sutherland, James Blackned, James Cheezo and George Quachegan. We are looking to establish a similar group for the MCFN/Detour Gold Agreement.

On January 10th, 2012, OPG will be providing a project update to the community. Additional details, such as time and location, will be pro-vided by way of public posting of notices. At a separate event the Moose Cree First Nation Project Team will also be providing an up-date. This particular session will offer information relating to the cur-rent and future benefits from both the Amisk-oo-skow and Detour Gold Agreements. We encourage all those who wish to be informed about the projects to attend.

MCFN/Detour Gold Agreement

The following individuals were hired to implement the MCFN/Detour Gold (DG) Agreement: Lawrence (Logan) Jeffries, Implementation Co-ordinator; Russell Turner, Environmental Coordinator; John Rickard, Employment & Training Coordinator. We also welcome Lorraine Ross as the Administrative Assistant for MCFN office in Cochrane. Logan, Russell and John report on a monthly basis to the MCFN/DG Implementation Committee. John Turner and Rick Cheechoo are the MCFN representatives on this committee with George Lazarus acting as the alternate.

On January 12th, 2012, Detour Gold will be providing, to the com-munity, a project update. Additional details, such as time and loca-tion, will be provided by way of public posting of notices. As previ-ously mentioned the MCFN Team will provide an update at a separate event. Once again, we encourage all those who wish to be enlight-ened about the projects to attend.

Reciprocal Agreement

As per Section 11.2 of the Amisk-oo-skow Comprehensive Agree-ment, Taykwa Tagamou Nation, MCFN and OPG signed a Tripartite Agreement known as the Reciprocal Agreement. Essentially, the First Nation parties agreed to work together in support of the Lower Mattagami Extensions Project and the New Post Creek Hydroelectric Project. Section 4.2 of the Reciprocal Agreement allows for the hiring of the MCFN Coordinator.

We are very pleased to report that Lillian Trapper (“Mishie”) has ac-cepted the MCFN Coordinator position for the New Post Creek Project (NPCP). Given her many years of involvement with the MCFN Lands

Resource Protection DepartmentPrepared by: Bert Wapachee, Director of Major Agreements and

Judy Small, Special Projects Coordinator


and Resources Unit Mishie brings to the NPCP project a wealth of knowledge and experience. Please join us as we welcome Mishie to the MCFN Resource Protection Unit.

The primary role of the Coordinator is to oversee, on behalf of MCFN, the implementation of the Reciprocal Agreement by participating on the New Post Creek Joint Working Group in order to facilitate MCFN’s interests in the New Post Creek Project which includes monitoring all environmental aspects and acting as liaison to ensure that the MCFN community is provided with relevant information concerning the New post Creek Project and to ensure that MCFN concerns with respect to the potential impacts from the New Post Creek Project on Aboriginal and Treaty rights are provided to OPG on a timely manner.

‘Walking Together’ Agreement

As of result of the hydro-electric development and the anticipated

influx of other resource development projects, Moose Cree First Na-tion and Taykwa Tagamou Nation signed a document, entitled, Agree-ment on Continuing [to] ‘Walking Together’ Process. The two parties “agreed to continue to work cooperatively on building a bilateral re-lationship”. One of the initiatives under consideration is the establish-ment of a Moose River Basin Environmental Custodial Body, Follow-ing a two-year hiatus the ‘Walking Together’ process is expected to recommence in the very near future.

In conclusion, we, the Resource Protection staff, offer you and your family Greetings of the Season and Best Wishes for the New Year.

Moose Cree First Nation signed a reciprocal agreement with Ontario Power Generation (OPG) and Taykwa Tagamou Nation (TTN) to par-ticipate on a small hydro development project on New Post Creek. MCFN is part of a Joint Working Group (JWG) in which the MCFN New Post Creek Project Coordinator is the representative. In general, the Coordinator ensures that the interests and rights of MCFN are identi-fied and addressed regarding the project.

As part of the first round of information sessions, there was an initial session held for MCFN citizens on Monday, November 28, 2011 be-tween 1 pm. to 2:30 pm. at the EPR Centre. Although this was a very brief session in the afternoon, we did get some people out interested in what the project is about. There will be other information sessions planned for MCFN.

MCFN Elders at the New Post Creek project initial information session.

Verbal presentations provided by Wayne Ross, President of Coral Rap-ids Power owned by TTN and OPG with their consultants along with a government representative from MNR were in attendance

MCFN employees also came to hear the presentations regarding the hydroelectric project.

New Post Creek ProjectPrepared by: Lillian Trapper, New Post Creek Project Coordinator


Resource Protection, Continued...

Although time was of the essence, time was found to have smaller discussions on the project by JWG and participants.

During the week of November 28, 2011, there were other informa-tion sessions held for TTN citizens in Moosonee and TTN community with public information sessions held in the towns of Smooth Rock Falls and Cochrane.

This project is in the very early stages of development and has yet to carry out the provincially and federally environmental assessment requirements. This project requires a deregulation of a small por-tion of the Little Abitibi Waterway Park in which other replacement lands have been identified. The transmission line will connect to the

existing transmission line west of the project site across Moose Cree Homelands and in the trapline area of a MCFN person(s) licensed to harvest furs. As this project progresses along, there will be opportu-nities to find out what is happening and hear any concerns from the MCFN citizens.

I wish you a safe and enjoyable Christmas holiday.Lillian Trapper, MCFN New Post Creek Project Coordinator.

I would like to wish everyone happy holidays and safe Christmas. It has been a busy year working on this project and I’m very happy to see our Moose Cree First Nation people work-ing and learning new things in their jobs.

It is exciting to report that we have moved forward with new programs to help workers adjust to the working environment at the Lower Mattagami River Project.

We will be updating our new community bulletin information board monthly with information on the project and community news. This information will also be available at site for people to see. Informa-tion includes upcoming activities, community news, training oppor-tunities, etc.

Our health and social counselors have been hired and they will be on site regularly to assist in any matters and to help workers cope with any stresses at the worksite. They will be available for counseling services to the entire workforce and available for any crisis matters.

We are also planning on having entertainers come to site sometime after the New Year. We are also organizing workshops on various top-ics such as: buying a home, investing, motivation, and teambuilding.

Once again have yourselves a safe and happy holiday!

Jack Williams,Community and Social Advocate

Lower Mattagami River ProjectPrepared by: Jack Williams, Community and Social Advocate

New Post Creek

0 5

N

AbitibiRiver

General Area of Interestfor Potential HydroDevelopment near NewPost Creek Falls

New Post Creek SystemLittle Abitibi River

New Post CreekDiversion

Dam

AbitibiCanyon GSOtter

Rapids GS Scale in km


Right to Play Hockey-Related Programming

Right To Play staff, along with a team of First Nations train-ers, and University of Ottawa research staff traveled to Moose Factory the weekend of November 17 - 21. The pur-pose of this visit was to engage children, youth, and pro-spective coaches in hockey-related programming, both on and off the ice.

Building off the success from last year’s Hockey For Devel-opment program, as well as the most recent Summer Sun Program, Right To Play conducted simultaneous life skills and hockey skills session for children and youth aged 4-20 in Moose Factory. 146 children and youth participated in the events throughout the course of the weekend, in which they got the chance to engage in hockey sessions led by First Nations role models, as well as nutrition and play-based learning sessions led by Right To Play staff from Toronto.

Support from local organizations, such as the Diabetes Ini-tiative, Gunner Grill Restaurant, and GG’s store allowed Right To Play to conduct more thorough and relevant ses-sions with a greater number of children.

Youth Centre / Right to Play

This is a condensed version of the full report. For more details and statistics about the weekend activities, please visit the John R. Delaney Youth Cen-tre to request a copy of their newslet-ter. You can also view the complete Youth Centre newsletter online at www.moosecree.com.

“My boys are so happy and excited. I’m happy to see them having fun. I enjoy watching them. The hockey clinics help to enhance their skills. They are skat-ing better and they want to be here. It makes me happy to see them happy. To be together with the kids and to be here for them makes the community stronger.”

- Community Mother

Happy Holidays!Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season.

On behalf of everyone at Right To Play, thank you for your support of the

PLAY Program!

Visit us online - www.moosecree.com

P.O. Box 190, 22 Jonathan Cheechoo DriveMoose Factory ON P0L 1W0

P: (705) 658-4619 F: (705) 658-4734

And on Facebook! www.facebook.com/moosecreefirstnation


Moose Cree First Nation Special Band Membership MeetingTuesday, January 17, 2012 at 6:30 p.m. at the E.P.R. Centre

AGENDA ITEMS:1. Call to order / opening remarks 2. Opening remarks from Chief Hardisty Jr. 3. Adoption of agenda4. Draft revised membership meeting rules and regulations 5. Open forum 6. Adjournment

Christmas Holiday Hours December 23 Open 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. December 26 Closed All Day December 27 Closed All Day December 28 Open 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. December 29 Open 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. December 30 Open 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. January 2 Closed All Day January 3 Open Regular Hours Resume

Paytahchemowin Newsletter - Winter 2011

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Transcript of Paytahchemowin Newsletter - Winter 2011