Assembly of First Nations chiefs turn attention to child welfare
OTTAWA-(CP)-The Assembly of First Nations special chiefs assembly continues today, with child welfare expected to be one of the main agenda items. Nine resolutions are dedicated to reforming the First Nations child and family services program after chiefs in October voted against a $47.8-billion deal with Canada that was intended to do just that. They passed resolutions at that assembly calling for a new negotiation and legal team in hopes it would bring more transparency to the deal. AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak is also expected to speak with media about First Nations policing. Chiefs passed a resolution Tuesday demanding the federal government launch a national inquiry into systemic racism in policing and the deaths of First Nations people. The resolution came after a string of incidents between Aug....
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In the news today: Services affected by Canada Post strike
Strike disrupts mail-in cancer screening kits, drivers’ licence renewals, book loans Canadians waiting on government documents, such as passports and health cards, can expect delays. The federal government says those who didn’t pay extra to pick up their passports will be affected. Those who need the document urgently are advised to call Service Canada or visit in person to request the passport be made available for pickup instead. Provinces that send residents at-home cancer screening kits are warning people not to send them back by mail during the strike. Some charities are also reporting a drop in donations that they attribute to the strike. In some cases, Canada Post delivers library materials directly to patrons but that is now on hold. So too, are interlibrary loan services facilitated by the...
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Is nuclear next for Nanticoke as Ontario looks to meet energy needs?
The former site of North America’s largest coal-fired power plant could one day host a nuclear station. Nanticoke in Haldimand County is one of three properties owned by Ontario Power Generation currently under consideration by the Ford government as locations for future power plants to meet Ontario’s rising need for energy. At its height, the Nanticoke Generating Station generated 4,000 megawatts of electricity. The coal-fired plant was decommissioned in 2013 after a four-decade run as one of Canada’s most important power producers — and one of the country’s largest single sources of pollution. Last week, Energy Minister Stephen Lecce named the property on the shores of Lake Erie as a possible future home for a new power plant. Along with Nanticoke, the province is looking at Lambton in St. Clair...
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OPP Street Crime Unit seizes $281,000 in drugs charges seven people
(WOODSTOCK, ON) – Seven people are facing 18 charges after police launched raids across seven cities and counties seizig $281,000 in drugs. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Community Street Crime Unit and Woodstock Police Service launched Project NAPOLI in August 2024 conducting raids across the Western region that included towns and cities in Oxford County, Brant County, Elgin County, Norfolk County, Woodstock, London and Waterloo. OPP executed 10 search warants involving Criminal Code (CC), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) charges.. On November 21, 2024, a total of 10 search warrants were executed in Kitchener, Woodstock and Oxford County by members from: OPP CSCU from Oxford County, Brant County, Haldimand/Norfolk County, Essex County, Wellington County, Lambton County, Perth/Huron County and Elgin/Middlesex County OPP Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau OPP Biker Enforcement Unit...
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Warmer winters are fuelling a growth in algal blooms across the Great Lakes
While commonly associated with the summer, algal blooms can also persist into the fall. As of late October 2024, blooms were still present along the southern shores of Lake Erie. In the warm weather, people flock to Ontario’s small lakes to swim, canoe or simply enjoy the tranquil shores. Every year, lakeside areas become bustling economic hubs, home to cottages, waterfront ice cream shops, cafes and restaurants that benefit from the scenic views they offer. However, these idyllic settings can become spoiled when smelly green algae wash up on the shore. Whether in the summer or fall, algal blooms interfere with our ability to fully enjoy time near or on the water. Some blooms can even become toxic, which are harmful to people and even pets. Our new research from...
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Assembly of First Nations special chiefs assembly kicks off in Ottawa
OTTAWA, ONT(CP)The national chief of the Assembly of First Nations says there’s a fundamental shift occurring in the country, and First Nations are at the centre of it. “There’s so much work ahead, but by strengthening our relations — (being) united — we can do anything together,” Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak said at the organization’s special chiefs assembly on Tuesday in Ottawa. She was talking about growing Indigenous economies, reconciliation, and about a series of favourable court decisions that held Canada accountable for not living up to its treaty obligations and affirmed First Nations rights. “Each of these victories send a message to provincial and federal governments that First Nations can no longer be left on the sidelines,” she said. The Assembly of First Nations is hosting a three-day special chiefs...
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16-year-old charged with murder in Couchiching First Nation death
COUCHICHING,ONT-(CP)-Ontario Provincial Police say a teenager has been charged with second-degree murder after a death in Couchiching First Nation in northern Ontario. The OPP say Treaty Three Police Service and medics responded Sunday to an incident at a residence where one person was pronounced dead. A 16-year-old who cannot be identified under the Youth Criminal Justice Act has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder. Police say the accused is in custody pending a bail hearing. They have not released any information about the victim. OPP say their joint investigation with Treaty Three Police Service and other teams continues. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 3, 2024. ...
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Eabametoong school opens, almost complete
By Mike Stimpson Local Journalism Initiative EABEMET LAKE – Ten months after a fire destroyed the community’s school, Eabametoong First Nation has a new school up and running. A few things need to be added to truly complete the temporary new learning site, according to Chief Solomon Atlookan, but it is able to accommodate the remote community’s 300-plus children and youth in kindergarten through Grade 10. “We officially opened the new school on the 12th of November,” he said in a phone interview. “The only problem now is we do not have the cafeteria ready yet,” he added. “We’re still waiting for some of the furniture, fridges and stoves and all the things that the cafeteria needs.” Also, he said, “we don’t have a gymnasium. Of course, kids need a...
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Mamakwa’s Truth and Reconciliation bill voted down in legislature
By Mike Stimpson, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter KIIWETINOONG – Provincial legislators have decided next Sept. 30 will not be a statutory holiday for Ontario residents. A private member’s bill from Sol Mamakwa, the New Democrat representing the northern riding of Kiiwetinoong, was defeated by a 60-30 vote Monday at Queen’s Park. The bill would have made the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also called Orange Shirt Day, a stat holiday for all Ontarians and not just for those who work for the federal government and federally regulated employers. Mamakwa argued for setting aside Sept. 30 as a “day of reflection,” and he made history by stating his case for the bill in Anishininiimowin (Oji-Cree), his mother tongue. Indigenous Affairs Minister Greg Rickford, who represents the Kenora-Rainy River riding to...
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This whale species is so rare it’s never been seen alive. A dissection may decode its mysteries
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — It is the world’s rarest whale, with only seven of its kind ever spotted. Almost nothing is known about the enigmatic species. But on Monday a small group of scientists and cultural experts in New Zealand clustered around a near-perfectly preserved spade-toothed whale hoping to decode decades of mystery. “I can’t tell you how extraordinary it is,” said a joyful Anton van Helden, senior marine science adviser for New Zealand’s conservation agency, who gave the spade-toothed whale its name to distinguish it from other beaked species. “For me personally, it’s unbelievable.” Van Helden has studied beaked whales for 35 years, but Monday was the first time he has participated in a dissection of the spade-toothed variety. In fact, the careful study of the creature —...
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National chief stresses need for additional clean energy projects at conference
OTTAWA-First Nations across the country are doing their bit to advance clean energy. That was a message that was given by Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak during a speech she delivered at the Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) conference in Toronto. The conference, titled The Gathering, was held Nov. 27-29. Woodhouse Nepinak, who spoke on Nov. 28, said First Nations are involved in more than 200 significant clean energy projects across Canada. She also said there’s a need for every First Nation to get off diesel. Many of them are still reliant on diesel because of the lack to clean energy. “We have to help connect those communities if they so wish,” Woodhouse Nepinak said. “And we have to take their lead.” The AFN had declared...
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Is nuclear next for Nanticoke as Ontario looks to meet energy needs?
The former site of North America’s largest coal-fired power plant could one day host a nuclear station. Nanticoke in Haldimand County is one of three properties owned by Ontario Power Generation currently under consideration by the Ford government as locations for future power plants to meet Ontario’s rising need for energy. At its height, the Nanticoke Generating Station generated 4,000 megawatts of electricity. The coal-fired plant was decommissioned in 2013 after a four-decade run as one of Canada’s most important power producers — and one of the country’s largest single sources of pollution. Last week, Energy Minister Stephen Lecce named the property on the shores of Lake Erie as a possible future home for a new power plant. Along with Nanticoke, the province is looking at Lambton in St. Clair...
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N.B. Child and Youth advocate releases monitoring report on First Nation youth mental health
The Child Youth and Seniors Advocate has recommended the government work with Indigenous governments to address youth mental health. A new monitoring report released by the advocate said the unique challenges facing these communities required “dedicated funding and process that empowers First Nations governments to lead.” Advocate Kelly Lamrock said in reviewing government actions in the three years since No Child Left Behind was released, he cited significant failures in collaboration, accountability, and targeted action. Those included: Lack of recognition of the need for a distinct approach and process for reducing rates of youth suicide and mental health emergencies in First Nations communities. Delays in the formation of basic committees and implementation of training recommendations. A lack of transparency in how federal funds for First Nations mental health are allocated...
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West Vancouver Indigenous charity makes lunch to raise funds for youth programs
By Abby Luciano Local Journalism Initiative Reporter A West Vancouver non-profit is raising funds to help provide opportunities for urban Indigenous people to succeed. On Giving Tuesday, which is Dec. 3, the Urban Spirit Foundation is hosting a fundraiser event where people can enjoy chili and bannock along with sales of baked goods, raffle prizes and a 50/50 draw. “Without fundraisers like this, it would be less money in the pot to be able to do the good work that we’re doing,” said Lynn White, executive director of the Urban Spirit Foundation. White says urban Indigenous people are those who reside in cities, but also those who may not have status or are not connected to their First Nation. The Urban Spirit Foundation is a charitable organization that provide opportunities...
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Assembly of First Nations special chiefs assembly kicks off in Ottawa
OTTAWA-CP-The Assembly of First Nations is hosting a special chiefs assembly in Ottawa today with child welfare, economic reconciliation and First Nations policing on the agenda. The gathering comes after a testy October assembly where chiefs were divided on how to reform the First Nations child welfare system. More than 1,700 chiefs, proxies and participants are registered to attend the three-day gathering. An emergency resolution slated for discussion today calls for a national inquiry into systemic racism in policing. It comes after six people were killed in interactions with police in different parts of the country in September, sparking calls for change. Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak says she expects policing legislation to be a major topic of discussion, saying First Nations are always an afterthought...
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Native American students miss school at higher rates. It only got worse during the pandemic
SAN CARLOS, Ariz. (AP) — After missing 40 days of school last year, Tommy Betom, 10, is on track this year for much better attendance. The importance of showing up has been stressed repeatedly at school — and at home. When he went to school last year, he often came home saying the teacher was picking on him and other kids were making fun of his clothes. But Tommy’s grandmother Ethel Marie Betom, who became one of his caregivers after his parents split, said she told him to choose his friends carefully and to behave in class. He needs to go to school for the sake of his future, she told him. “I didn’t have everything,” said Betom, an enrolled member of the San Carlos Apache tribe. Tommy attends school...
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In the news today: Canada mulling patrol changes at U.S. Border
Here is a roundup of stories from The Canadian Press designed to bring you up to speed… Canada mulling patrol changes at U.S. Border Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc says his department is considering giving additional powers to the Canada Border Services Agency to patrol the U.S. Border. He also says the RCMP and CBSA are working on a list of new equipment that could help supplement their existing enforcement at the border. LeBlanc’s comments come as Canada tries to quickly beef up border security following a threat by president-elect Donald Trump to impose punishing tariffs on Canada and Mexico over border security concerns. He and Trudeau were in Florida Friday dining with Trump at Mar-a-Lago but LeBlanc says the meeting was just the beginning of a conversation where no...
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NTI presidential candidate Cathy Towtongie on the issues
By Kira Wronska Dorward Local Journalism Initiative We asked, they answered. The four candidates vying to be president of Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI) have submitted their responses about their background, motivation and specific positions on some of the most pressing issues for Nunavut Inuit. The election is scheduled for Dec. 9. What it is about your personal and professional background that makes you well suited for the role? I have always been committed to Nunavut and Inuit. I can speak both languages: English and Inuktitut. Along with that, I am bi-cultural and [a] linguist. I am a former NTI president. [I have] knowledge of the Nunavut Trust and the Nunavut land deal. Here is what I often say: Nunavut is two, not one. You have the Nunavut land agreement with certain...
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‘Significant failures’ in addressing Indigenous youth mental health in New Brunswick
The Canadian Press New Brunswick’s independent advocate for children, youth and seniors released a report today saying the province has failed to collaborate with First Nations governments to address youth mental health. The report from Kelly Lamrock is in response to recommendations from a 2021 report from the First Nations Advisory Council that included 13 calls to action aimed at addressing mental health challenges of Indigenous children and youth. Lamrock’s followup report identifies several “significant failures” in collaboration and accountability. His report says there is a lack of recognition within the provincial government for a distinct approach for reducing rates of youth suicide and mental health emergencies in First Nations communities. As well, the report cites delays in the formation of committees and implementation of training recommendations. And it says...
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‘Significant failures’ in addressing Indigenous youth mental health in New Brunswick
New Brunswick’s independent advocate for children, youth and seniors released a report Monday saying the province has failed to collaborate with First Nations governments to address youth mental health. The report from Kelly Lamrock is in response to recommendations from “No Child Left Behind,” a 2021 report from the First Nations Advisory Council that included 13 calls to action aimed at addressing mental health challenges of Indigenous children and youth. Lamrock’s followup report identifies several “significant failures” in collaboration and accountability, including a lack of recognition within the provincial government for a distinct approach for reducing rates of youth suicide and mental health emergencies in First Nations communities. As well, the report cites delays in the formation of committees and implementation of training recommendations. And it says the province has...
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