TCN Journal 8-1 - Tataskweyak Cree Nation

A Community Newspaper for TCN
Spring 2008
Tataskweyak Cree Nation–
A Leader In First Nation Business
Volume 8 - Issue 1
TC BUILDING MATERIALS
Ownership:
100% owned by Tataskweyak
One of the best-kept secrets in Northern Manitoba is Tataskweyak Cree Nation's
advances in creating viable businesses. The Tataskweyak businesses are a means to
generate income and maximize employment opportunities for the First Nation.
Sole Director:
Norman Flett
Manager:
Mark Pokrant
The purpose of this article is to explain why Tataskweyak Members should be proud of
these businesses, explain what they do, how they are structured and who manages
them.
Office Location:
Winnipeg
COMMITMENT T O FIRST NATION
NATION BUSINESS
The current business environment definitely favours First Nation businesses, and with
Tataskweyak already owning several businesses, it is ready for the future. Here are
some parts of the favourable business environment:
• The Federal Procurement Strategy for Aboriginal Business is a commitment to assist
First Nation businesses to supply goods and services to the Federal Government.
• Like the Federal Government, the Manitoba Government has an Aboriginal
Procurement Initiative.
• Manitoba Hydro has a Northern Procurement Policy, which encourages local
business participation; and Manitoba Hydro has contractual obligations with
Tataskweyak.
• There is a growing appreciation among First Nations to do business with each other
and with other Manitoba businesses.
MANY COMPANIES
TNERSHIP”
COMPANIES ARE SET UP AS A “LIMITED PAR
PARTNERSHIP”
When Tataskweyak originally created many of its businesses, they were set up as
incorporated companies. In doing so, Tataskweyak had protection from liability for
business losses. An incorporated company is a separate legal entity and its losses, in
general, are not the personal responsibility of the owner of the business. In other
words, creditors/suppliers could only go after the “company” not the
owners–Tataskweyak.
TC BUILDING
MATERIALS
Contact Number: (204) 953-4660 or 1-800-718-2087
• Started in 2000 to capitalize on the growing First Nation building material supply
market, currently serviced mainly by non-Aboriginal companies.
• Staff is knowledgeable in the latest advancement in building materials and
methods, with particular expertise in the supply of building materials to First
Nation communities.
• The company is dedicated to on-site training and employment of First Nation
Members and working with other companies to do the same.
• Provides training and supervision to maximize local labour, while enabling
apprentices to move toward journeypersons.
Current Projects/Activities (with approximate contract value)
1. Kelsey Generating Station - contract with Manitoba Hydro to construct camp
addition ($750,000). The project currently employs 5 Tataskweyak Members.
2. Tataskweyak Cree Nation - 6-unit modular housing ($75,000).
3. RCMP - contract to construct living quarters in La Loche, Saskatchewan
($240,000).
4. RCMP - relocate jails in Nelson House & St. Theresa Point, set up modular
housing in Split Lake & Pukatawagan, and renovate RCMP housing in Leaf
Rapids.
5. Manitoba Highways - office/lunch room at Grand Rapids and Steinbach
($200,000).
6. New private housing in Winnipeg ($220,000).
7. Liberty Homes, Wisconsin, USA - granted TC Building Materials dealership
rights for Manitoba to distribute/set-up modular homes.
continued on page 2...
There is however, one problem with simply incorporating the company. As a
corporation is a separate legal entity, it is not usually eligible for tax exemptions
available to First Nations under the Indian Act, even if the company is wholly owned
by a First Nation. A limited partnership is a structure that combines the advantages of
the protection afforded to an incorporated company and limits the First Nation's tax
liability.
In a limited partnership, there are 2 partners; a general partner and a limited partner.
The general partner, an incorporated company, oversees the management/operations of
the business. The limited partner, in this case Tataskweyak, is a passive participant,
and its tax liability is limited to its original investment. The general partner reports any
losses from the operations, as it has protection from liability for business losses. The
limited partner reports any profits. As a First Nation, it has tax exemptions under the
Indian Act.
TATASKWEYAK
ASKWEYAK COMPANIES
COMPANIES
Published by Tataskweyak Cree Nation
Contact: Bonnie Mayham
Tataskweyak Journal Coordinator
Hobbs and Associates
800-283 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, MB
R3B 2B5
Ph: (204) 947-9243 Fax: (204) 947-5624
email: [email protected]
Forward any articles/ideas/comments to the above address.
Thank you.
Tataskweyak-owned companies have a proven track record in business. These
professionally managed and staffed companies possess an outstanding capacity to
provide services and products to First Nation and non-First Nation clients across
Canada.
Based Outside Split Lake
TC Building Materials (Winnipeg)
Aboriginal Strategies (Winnipeg)
Wawatay Inn (Thompson)
Northstream Communications (Winnipeg)
Keewatin Railway Company (The Pas)
United Cree Construction (Thompson)
Ininew Limited Partnership (Winnipeg)
Based in Split Lake
•
•
•
•
Tataskweyak Construction Limited Partnership
ESS-Tataskweyak Camp Services
Kistepinanek Hotel
Split Lake Gas Bar
In This Issue
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Tataskweyak Cree Nation–A Leader In First Nation Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
CETP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
North Access Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
3rd Annual Science, Engineering, & Technology Symposium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Easement and Shoreline Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
The 2007 Fall Access Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
The 2007 Elders and Youth Gathering at Recluse Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Aboriginal Energy Partnerships Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
KEEWATIN RAILWAY COMPANY (KRC)
ABORIGINAL STRATEGIES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP (ASI)
Ownership:
Tataskweyak (44%), Mathias
Colomb Indian Band (44%), War
Lake First Nation (12%)
Tataskweyak & Tataskweyak Trust
Directors:
Nestor Wasylkiw, Michael D. Garson,
Randy Beardy, Norman Flett, Ben van Hoek
Norman Flett, Paul Power, Philip
Morris, Gordie Bear
Manager:
Tom McCahill
Manager/President: Ben van Hoek
Office Location:
The Pas
Office Location:
Winnipeg
Contact Number: (204) 627-2013
Contact Number:
(204) 942-2944 or 1-800-761-7110
• KRC was created by the partner First Nations to own/operate the Sherridon rail
line (296 kilometers), a branch of the Bay Line between Cranberry and Lynn
Lake. Operations commenced April 2006.
• The governments of Canada and Manitoba contributed a combined $6,152,000
towards the purchase of the line. The 3 First Nations contributed a combined
$500,561 ($220,281 Tataskweyak).
• Tataskweyak and War Lake joined with Mathias Colomb to help Mathias Columb
retain the rail service and to achieve strategic and long-term objectives (ie. take
over operation of the passenger rail service in northern Manitoba from VIA,
eventually buy the Bay Line from The Pas to Churchill, and access new
opportunities that would be available to an owner of a railway).
• KRC has contracted Hudson Bay Railway (HBR) to operate 2 round trips
between Pukatawagan and The Pas each week, carrying passengers and freight.
• Shareholders own an asset at least 12 times more valuable than the amount
invested.
• If a new mine is discovered in the area, the freight business will become even
more profitable. Exploration is on-going as a result of high commodity prices.
• Governments are considering building a road to Nunavut. One of the options is
to build the road through Lynn Lake. This would increase business on the
Sherridon line significantly.
Ownership:
100% owned by Tataskweyak
General Partner:
Aboriginal Strategies LL.
Limited Partners:
Directors:
• ASI was originally created to assist First Nations with the management of
financial resources.
• The wide range of professional services is designed to provide the expertise and
support enabling First Nation clients to take effective and efficient control over
their own financial administration.
• ASI is committed to providing its services in the community and gives a high
priority to training and utilizing First Nation staff.
• Although work to-date has focused on First Nation communities/companies, ASI
is fully capable of performing services for non-Aboriginal clients in both the
private and public sectors.
WAWATAY INN (336/344 THOMPSON DRIVE LIMITED PARTNERSHIP)
Ownership:
100% owned by Tataskweyak
General Partner: 366/344 Thompson Drive
Corporation
Limited Partner: Tataskweyak
Directors:
JP Mayham, Anthony Mayham,
Michael D. Garson, Agnes
Henderson, Curtis Beardy, Alfred Beardy, Albert Keeper
ESS-TATASKWEYAK CAMP SERVICES (ESS-TCS)
Ownership:
Tataskweyak (51%), ESS
(49%)
Management:
Anthony Mayham, Michael
D. Garson, Dale McGee,
Contact Number: (204) 677-1000
Contact:
Keith Burak
• Located in Thompson and opened December 2005.
• The project is not only an example of First Nation wealth generation and job
creation, but also a service provided for First Nation people by First Nation
people.
• Tataskweyak was awarded a contract with Health Canada, under the Federal
Procurement Strategy, to provide accommodations and food services to First
Nation people traveling to Thompson from all across Northern Manitoba for
medical appointments.
• This was an existing facility purchased and renovated to not only meet the
requirements of Health Canada, but also in the long term, to pursue the hotel
market in Thompson.
• To ensure top quality operations, Tataskweyak has entered into a management
agreement with a world leader in facility management and food services.
• Compass Group Canada currently manages and oversees the operations.
• Building First Nation capacity is critical to the management agreement.
Contact Number: (204) 677-8068
Manager:
Barb Ellis
Location:
Thompson
NORTHSTREAM COMMUNICATIONS LIMITED PARTNERSHIP (NCLP)
Ownership:
100% owned by Tataskweyak
• ESS (operating division of Compass Group Canada) and Tataskweyak formed a
joint venture in 2003 for the purpose of providing catering, housekeeping and
ancillary remote camp services to resource, industrial and construction camps.
• A training program developed by ESS is being implemented to train and certify
Tataskweyak Members in all facets of the business.
• In 2003, ESS-TCS completed a contract at the Keeyask (Gull) generating station
site. Despite very short notice, the project was a huge success as it provided
training, jobs and income to Tataskweyak; and displayed ESS's mobilization
ability.
• This is a very attractive field, as it employs a large number of people and has
significant economic spin-off benefits.
KISTEPINANIK HOTEL
Ownership:
100% owned by Tataskweyak
Directors:
Douglas Spence, Nelson Spence,
Agnes Henderson, Michael D.
Garson, Anthony Mayham,
Alfred Beardy
Manager:
Tommy Mayham
General Partner: Northstream Communications
Ltd.
Limited Partner: Tataskweyak
Sole Director:
Anthony Mayham
Manager:
Anthony Mayham
Office Location:
Winnipeg
Contact Number: (204) 943-9481 or 943-9461
• NCLP is an internet service provider company that has taken advantage of a fibre optic cable that
runs into Split Lake.
• The immediate purpose is to provide Split Lake with high-speed internet service.
Current Projects/Activities
1. Northstream has clients in Split Lake, War Lake and Winnipeg.
2. Two Tataskweyak Members are currently in training in Winnipeg and Brandon. One trainee will be
working at the Chief Sam Cook Muhmawee Educational Center; the other will be ready to manage
other Northstream networking projects such as the Administration office.
3. Northstream is currently looking into collaborating with CRW Systems and will potentially start
networking with clients such as Norway House and Peguis First Nations.
4. Northstream will be submitting a proposal to be “last mile service” for Provincial Data Networks and
connect the regional center to their own private network base through its tower.
5. The company is in the process of identifying funding to start tapping into the residential client base in
Split Lake as far as internet access is concerned.
6. Northstream is planning to construct a communications entity in Split Lake whose sole purpose is to
communicate events and local news to Tataskweyak Members via radio, newspaper and the internet.
Contact Number: (204) 342-2021
• Opened in 2003 and located in Split Lake, the hotel is an example of wealth
generation and serves to fulfill a need made possible by government and business
people traveling to the community.
• A 14-unit hotel with a full-service 32-seat restaurant, the business also has the
ability to provide take-out lunches to work crews nearby the community.
• Each guest room is equipped with satellite TV and internet access. Plans are
underway to accommodate meeting rooms/facilities.
• The project clearly illustrates the community benefits (i.e. employment) of a
well-run, profitable community enterprise.
TATASKWEYAK GAS BAR
Ownership:
100% owned by Tataskweyak
Manager:
Millis Garson
Contact Number: (204) 342-2435
UNITED CREE CONSTRUCTION (UCC)
Ownership:
Management:
Tataskweyak (50%),
Cree Construction &
Development
Company (50%)
William Macleod,
Robert Baribeai,
Anthony Mayham &
Michael D. Garson
Contact:
Chris Sinclair
Office Location:
Winnipeg
Contact Number: (204) 956-0900 or (204) 612-2197
• UCC was formed in 2006 and is 100% owned by Tataskweyak and James Bay
Cree of Northern Quebec. By combining resources, UCC has become possibly
the largest First Nation construction company in Manitoba. The strategy is to
grow and access larger contracts/opportunities in Manitoba and Canada.
• With a combined experience of over 50 years, UCC's team of project managers,
technicians, procurement specialists, administrative and support staff have been
delivering projects on time, on budget and at the highest level of quality.
• Tataskweyak is looking to the potential of future developments to maximize the
benefits for the people; the objective is to begin building capacity today, so that
when the time comes, Tataskweyak will be well prepared.
• The ultimate objective is to maximize the opportunities by training and
employing as many Tataskweyak Members as possible at every level of the
business including heavy equipment operators right up to senior management.
UCC can achieve this by working closely with CETP on a regular basis.
Current Projects/Activities
Chipiy Naya
TATASKWEYAK CONSTRUCTION LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
Ownership:
100% owned by Tataskweyak
General Partner: 4487142 Manitoba Ltd.
Limited Partner: Tataskweyak
Sole Director:
Norman Flett
Manager:
Bruce Thibeault
Contact Number: (204) 342-2308
• Established in 1987 to capitalize on major community projects previously done
by outside companies and/or through the rental of equipment.
• The company's capacity has expanded from a focus on local projects to large
construction projects throughout northern Manitoba.
• Over the past 5 years, annual revenues have averaged $1,800,000. The company
employs 11 Tataskweyak Members year-round and about 60 during the
construction season.
• Capabilities and services available to Government, and the private sector include
road building/maintenance, water and sewer, soil remediation, dyke construction,
housing/building construction and snow removal.
ININEW LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
Ownership:
Tataskweyak (62%),
Mosakahiken Cree Nation MCN (38%)
General Partner:
4915110 Manitoba Ltd.
Limited Partners:
Tataskweyak & MCN
Directors:
Norman Flett, Michael D. Garson, Nelson Spence, Joey
Martin, Abel Martin, Jack Braun
President/Manager:
Jack Braun
Office Location:
Winnipeg
Contact Number:
(204) 956-0900
The work is divided into 3 contracts:
o Contract 1- This work was completed in February, 2007 (i.e. hauling of gravel on
the winter road and stockpiling),
o Contract 2 - Will start in the spring of 2008 when water levels have receded.
Should be completed by fall 2008. The work consists of completing the
perimeter rock fill retaining wall with armour rock that will protect against wave
erosion. The area will also be completely graded to the severance line protection
level.
o Contract 3 - Should start immediately upon the completion of Contract 2 and be
completed later in the fall. The work consists of final landscaping.
Whiskey Jack Road
This road is presently being constructed to prepare for future development in the
area. The right-of-way has been cleared and stripped of topsoil. The road grade has
been started and water drainage provided. This road will provide access to 28
housing lots for the community.
Main Road
Due to previous flood damage, there was a requirement to fix the main community
road. This item is presently under negotiation with MB Hydro.
• For 18 years, ILP has planned and managed capital projects for both First Nation and non-First
Nation clients.
• Capacity includes project management, architectural services, engineering, environmental services
and community planning.
• 200 projects completed on time and on budget, with a total capital value in excess of $500,000,000.
• 40 First Nation clients in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Ontario.
• ILP is fully capable of providing services to Manitoba Hydro, Canada, Manitoba and private sector
companies.
Current Projects/Activities
1. Chipiy Naya (Ghost Point) Restoration
The Chipiy Naya Project involves 3 contracts. The first contract is the temporary protection, which has
been completed. The second contract will be the completion of the permanent restoration, which includes
the rock slope (rip rap) and fill to flood elevation. The third contract is the landscaping and memorials.
2. Peninsula Road Upgrade
The peninsula road will be upgraded from near the Administration Office to approximately 200 meters
past the Gas Bar. The road will be built to flood elevation. This work is scheduled to commence spring
2008, weather permitting and subject to Manitoba Hydro review.
Maintenance Centre Upgrade
Starting in early September 2007, twelve (12) Skilled Labour Trainees were
selected to begin a six (6) week training program to meet the requirements of a
Skilled Labourer based on a checklist of various skill sets. This program has
allowed the participants to gain an understanding of the job requirements and, at the
same time, find a trade they may possibly want to pursue further such as carpentry
or concrete forming. There is also a supervisor trainee learning on the job.
The project cleaned up and reorganized the Maintenance Centre yard and storage
area. Inside the maintenance centre, work was done to provide better office space,
parts section, sewer and water employee lunch room and some classroom potential.
Pedestrian Safety Footpath
A safe walking path will be provided from the main lift station separate from the
road past the gas bar and up to the junction of the road to Ghost Point. This will
provide a safe walking path away from the traffic of the main road. This item is
presently under negotiation with Manitoba Hydro.
Equipment Service Training
In mid-September 2007, nine (9) equipment service trainees were selected to begin
an eight (8) week training program to meet the requirements of a construction
equipment service program. Bob Mazurat of Tataskweyak is the instructor for this
program with UCC as the coordinators.
The program will develop skills to enhance the Tataskweyak Construction Limited
Partnership to complete construction projects in a more efficient and professional
manner that will ultimately make them more profitable.
The goal is to develop skill levels to enable trainees to obtain higher levels of
employment outside of the community in the future.
3. Muskrat Point and Commercial Area Considerations
Tataskweyak and Manitoba Hydro are negotiating the terms of a settlement on the Setback Line
adjustment, which will address these issues. The final draft should be ready for review with Members by
spring 2008.
4. Shoreline Protection
All community shorelines are being investigated as to the type of protection required. The peninsula
shoreline will receive various protection treatments (rip rap) depending on the severity of wind/wave
action at each specific location and the consequence. For example, a cemetery would receive a more
robust design than an undeveloped area. The work plan will form part of the SBL Agreement with
Hydro.
5. Whiskey Jack Subdivision Phase II
The roadworks are currently underway. This road is to accommodate the new CMHC housing proposed
for this year. UCC successfully bid on this project and Ininew and Tataskweyak are the managers.
Completion is expected in fall 2007 with the housing construction projects to follow.
6. Water and Sewer
INAC has identified and planned for a water and sewer project to extend underground piped servicing to
the Whiskey Jack subdivision and other improvements. A feasibility study was prepared by Ininew and is
under review by INAC. It is expected that INAC will commit to a Contribution Arrangement by the
summer of 2008 with work starting in the fall.
7. Health Centre
UDL Construction has been hired to build the centre starting as soon as feasible this spring.
8. Maintenance Center
The Tataskweyak Construction yard and shop received an upgrade to their ground and facilities this past
fall. The project was funded in part by CETP through a training agreement and in part by the "capacity
building" component built into all of the Setback Line projects. The upgrades included interior
renovations, equipment upgrades and clean up of the grounds.
9. Keeyask Center
Manitoba Hydro has proposed to construct a building to accommodate all Tataskweyak entities involved
in the Keeyask project. Thirty thousand dollars has been committed to an initial proposal, which would
include preliminary architectural plans, community consultations, siting, servicing and provision of
temporary facilities.
Other Ininew Projects
Ininew is currently providing project management and engineering services to numerous other First
Nations, the Federal Government and private corporations. These projects consist of INAC Capital
programs (schools, infrastructure), environmental monitoring (sedimentation and erosion on the Nelson
River system) and other building projects.
Spring 2008
4
Tataskweyak Journal
Report on the CETP Presentation in Split Lake February 5, 2008
On February 5, 2008, Tataskweyak CETP staff
put on a presentation at the Band Hall in Split
Lake to inform the public about the wide variety
of training programs available and the number of
Members who have been trained or are currently
in training.
Melvin Cook, Director of CETP, organized the
meeting and spoke to the presentation materials
that were posted for people to see. Judah Keeper,
Retention and Support worker and Sarah Cole,
Implementation Worker, also provided
information to the meeting.
Training is being delivered at Nisichawayasihk
(Nelson House), Opaskwayak (The Pas),
Thompson, and here in Tataskweyak.
Judah Keeper: I am working in Retention and
Support for the CETP program on behalf of the
community members that are in training, keeping
track of their progress.
We provide academic support and tutoring. It is
difficult for trainees to leave their families,
especially the younger families. Support is
important for achieving success. All these
resources that we have in the community, the
Regional Centre, NADAP, CHR, Awasis, need to
work together. These support systems need to
include the entire community to succeed. The
result will be stronger families, and a stronger
community. We need to support the trainees,
support the educators and support the programs.
I will be circulating in the community to
encourage community members to take training,
especially those that are presently not doing
anything.
Sarah Cole: I am the Training Coordinator and I
work on implementing training programs through
University College of the North, Red River and
Assiniboine College to tailor these programs to
suit post-secondary students for community-based
training. Students train in the community; their
other option is to leave the community.
We are currently working on introducing new
programs through the 08/09 Training Plan. These
are the math, science and engineering programs,
here and outside of Split Lake, and programs in
other locations in Manitoba specializing in design
drafting, road construction and water and sewer.
We are working with the University of Manitoba
(U of M) on a 2-year stewardship program in
physics, science, and chemistry.
We have Jason Martel (3rd level) completing his
journeyman in the Ironworkers program. He
currently does re-bar and is proceeding further
into actual steel construction to build steel gates,
such as those at the MB Hydro building and the
MTS Centre.
Melvin Cook: On the posters here are the
programs that are available to community
members through the Community Employment
and Training Program (CETP). These are the
different jobs that the trainees would be qualified
for once training is completed. There is
information available on the requirements for
each training program.
We have trained 400 Members in over 200
programs since 2003/04 with a budget of
$3.2 million.
We are also working on implementing a 2-year
program in Environmental Studies through the U
of M. The program involves the water, the fish,
the animals and the land. It involves finding out
what might make the fish sick and monitoring the
land and water. It will be a good program for us.
We will know what damages are caused by the
flooding of our land.
Melvin Cook: I am happy that the younger
people are getting educated. Once they complete
their training, they will be able to work.
Contractors will hire local skilled people. All this
information is available for the community.
CETP Mission Statement
TCN-CETP is committed to providing success orientated
education training and job experience to empower TCN
Members to enter the workforce.
B i r t h d a y G r e et i n g s
Feb. 21
Feb 26
Feb 27
Jacob Cook from Steven/Lorna
Pauline Flett from Dad And Mom
Clayton Flett from Dad And Mom
Mar 8
Mar 18
Mar 21
Paige Symons from Mom, Dad, Alyssa, Donna, Shelby, Curtis
Joyce Mayham from all your family
Keenan William Victor Flett Love Payton, Amery, Dad & Mom
Apr. 7
Apr 18
Spring Mayham from Mom, Dad, Shelby, Jenna, Granny,
Grandpa, and the rest of family
Rosaline Ouskan from all your family
Donna Wavey-Pronteau from all your family
May 14
Curtis Pronteau from Shelby, Mom, & Dad
Spring 2008
Tataskweyak Journal
5
North Access Road
Tataskweyak crews, contracted by
Manitoba Hydro, have recently
completed the cutting of a temporary
trail from PR 280 to the site of the future
Keeyask Generating Station. This trail is
not a permanent road. It is being cleared
to support an exploration program
designed to collect information on the
soils and bedrock in the area where the
North Access Rd. may finally be located.
North Access Road meeting at Split Lake–
August 23, 2005
In addition, surveyors will take readings
of the points where test holes are drilled
so they can be properly mapped to
support the analysis of the exploration results. The drilling and surveying will be
completed in the next few weeks. Approximately 16 people are working in the area
from tractor, backhoe and drill operators to surveyors and cooks.
View looking south over Keeyask work area and start of North Access Road at Gull Rapids
Based on their observations during the reconnaissance flights, the committee members
were unanimous that the final route should be close to the preferred route shown on the
map, with some minor adjustments. Route alternatives were determined using aerial
photography as well as expert engineering and geotechnical advice.
Hydro has met with Fox Lake and War Lake in community meetings to present the
findings regarding the access roads. Scheduling conflicts have so far prevented
community meetings in Split Lake and York Landing.
Many exploration programs have already been completed in this area including the
search for granular materials, drilling in the riverbed for dam siting and drilling near
the river for the location of dykes. Several more programs will be required, and options
considered by Tataskweyak, prior to Manitoba Hydro asking resource users to approve
a specific route. The final design of the road can only be completed when the best
route has been ratified by Tataskweyak. For more information contact the OWL Office.
This is a continuation of an investigation process into the best location for the road, if
Keeyask is approved. Provincial government departments as well as the Department of
Fisheries and Oceans were required to approve environmental and other permits before
the work could proceed. Hydro provided notice to Tataskweyak of the 2007/08
explorations at a meeting with the Resource Management Board.
The North Access Rd. Sub-Committee, co-chaired by Tataskweyak and Manitoba
Hydro, was formed in mid-2005 to investigate and recommend the preferred route
from PR280 to the proposed Keeyask site. The first meeting was held July 8th. The
Sub-Committee members from Tataskweyak, War Lake, Fox Lake, York Factory,
Manitoba and Hydro decided to undertake a site reconnaissance by helicopter
August 22nd.
3rd Annual Science, Engineering, & Technology Symposium
Several High School students were selected to participate in the 3rd Annual Science, Engineering, and
Technology Symposium that was held at the University of Manitoba on February 20- 22, 2008.
This symposium was an excellent opportunity for the students to learn about the field Science,
Engineering and Technology and the jobs that may be available. It was intended to promote postsecondary study and to encourage youth from First Nation communities to choose careers in these fields.
The first day consisted of a guided tour of the campus, which enabled the students to find their
workshops in the days to follow. The sessions were held inside campus classrooms and labs giving the
students a true “University experience”. The students participated in a workshop called CSI Forensics,
where they learned about DNA fingerprinting, blood typing, and organ transfusions. Other workshops
they attended included First Nations Astronomy, What killed these Lungs, and Feats and Failures of
Engineering.
Students are participating in a
workshop about tornadoes, the
circumstances of their formation,
the difficulty of forecasting, and
safety procedures.
The girls were participating in the
Manitoba Model Forest workshop
and learned how to determine the
age of a tree.
Students in the pictures are, Top: Mark Saunders , Reanne Beardy and Troy
Beardy. Bottom: Taniesha Spence, Taylor Flett, Leanne Kirkness, Reginald
Chornoby, Casey McIvor, Daniel Desmet, Felicia Kitchekeesik, Yvonne
Kitchekeesik, and Brytan Keeper.
We would like to thank the
Tataskweyak Education Authority
for funding this trip. We would
like to thank Hobbs and
Associates for their generous
donation of $500.00. The students
had a great time.
This map is under discussion between
Tataskweyak and Hydro at the Setback Line
negotiations. The map illustrates the
shoreline areas that require protection.
The following are detailed
close-ups of each point along
the shoreline. The letters
reference the same areas
shown on the map on the
previous pages.
Spring 2008
10
The 2007 Fall Access Program
Tataskweyak has received funding from
Manitoba Hydro to carry out annual Fall
Access Programs from 2004 to 2007, and
Spring Access Programs in 2006 and
2007. These Programs are intended to
offset the immediate Adverse Effects of
field investigations in the Keeyask reach
and to test the practicality and
effectiveness of a permanent Access
Program to offset the anticipated Adverse
Effects of the Keeyask Project on the
customs, practices and traditions of Tataskweyak's distinctive cultural identity.
Many Members have been able to renew contact with the land and others have
benefited from the traditional sharing of the country food gathered during the
Access Programs.
The focus of the 2007 Fall Access Program was once again on family groups,
reflecting how Fall activities were traditionally organized. This arrangement
allowed for a full range of customs, practices and traditions, including the
teaching and learning of traditional roles, the importance of language, survival
and living skills, wild food preparation, and the importance of spirituality and
strengthening our connection to the land.
The Fall Access Program was advertised
on the community radio and was open to
any registered Members. All participants
were advised that they were responsible
for their own gear and equipment. The
Program operated between September 18,
2007 and October 5, 2007. There were
435 participants, consisting of 66 family
groups and 113 individuals. There was a
total of 23 family groups who registered
to fly out to the designated lakes. There
was more participation this year due to better awareness. The only logistical
problems encountered were the need for more Program funding, communication
systems, storage facilities for country foods and a vehicle for transporting food
within the community.
It is very important to pass on the values and traditions of the past, for the
knowledge and the teachings strengthen our relationship with the land. Our
children are taught the importance of language, for we believe it was given to us
by the land. The land speaks and communicates with us and we have always
thrived by listening to the land and passing these teachings to our children. We
were taught our life is a cycle in accord with the natural environment. Our
philosophy in life is holistic. This is why we take our families out on the land: to
preserve our way of life and to teach our children the traditional values based on
respect for the environment and nature. Consistent with this, our children need to
be taught the importance of traditional knowledge, for this knowledge is rooted
in the traditional life of our people. We are the ones who live off the land and
harvest its resources for our enjoyment and subsistence, and we have the
intimate knowledge of the land as we were taught by our ancestors.
Some families supplemented their moose
harvesting skills by fishing, setting nets
and teaching children how to prepare,
store and serve fish, snare rabbits, trap
muskrats and beaver, and harvest
sharptail grouse. Young men were taught
the basics of gathering wood to smoke
fish and meat, and making bannock by
the fire. Harvesting for other game
teaches them patience, how to recognize
wind direction, and safety survival skills.
The young women were taught how to prepare waterfowl, fish, and other wild
game. They also assisted with family care.
An internal management committee consisting of the OWL staff, Tataskweyak
Trust Manager, and the local Fur Council managed the Program. A flight monitor
looked after activities at the departure area and assisted the pilot with any
problems. He was responsible for scheduling flights, loading and unloading,
accommodations, and setting up communications. The flight monitor ensured the
participants were registered in advance and coordinated all the information
related to destination, required mode of transportation, group size, and expected
departure and return dates. Most importantly, he informed registered trapline
holders or lodge/cabin owners of the possible utilization of their property, to
minimize any possibility of conflict.
Further experience with the Access
Program provided Members with more
understanding of what they could expect
if the Keeyask Project is built. We are
looking forward to a 2008 Spring Access
Program for Tataskweyak Members to
utilize for their traditional cultural
pursuits.
Tataskweyak Journal
The 2007 Elders and Youth Gathering
at Recluse Lake
As part of the Keeyask Adverse Effects
Agreement, Tataskweyak has proposed
several Offsetting Programs, which are
intended to provide Members with access
to alternative locations in the Resource
Management Area, where customs,
practices and traditions integral to our
distinctive cultural identity may be
carried on.
Tataskweyak leadership and Elders
believed it would help everyone's understanding of the potential benefit of the
permanent Offsetting Programs, if a gathering of Elders and Youth were held at
Recluse Lake. After internal consultation, the program was expanded to offer a
variety of short distance field trip destinations that catered to Program
participants' interests and capabilities. The Elders and Youth gathering ran from
August 19, 2007 to September 1, 2007.
The focus and intent of the gathering was to bring our Elders and Youth together
in a place where Tataskweyak lived before Split Lake became a permanent
settlement. The gathering provided for a full range of customs, practices and
traditions, which included teaching our youth the traditional roles of families,
living and survival skills, the importance of
language survival, spirituality and strengthening
our connection to the land. The gathering was an
excellent opportunity for the Elders and Youth to
gather and share concerns about the potential
Keeyask Project.
More importantly, the Elders were able to teach
and share past history with the Youth through
storytelling, exploring burial sites, and spending
time with them on the land. The Elders showed the
Youth the various nesting areas of waterfowl, fish
spawning beds, old camps and cultural sites, taught
them how to smoke and prepare fish, introduced
them to various Cree delicacies including fish eggs, fish liver, moose heart,
moose intestines, and collected medicinal plants and roots. These teachings
reaffirmed that we are closely tied to the land, that our culture and language are
part of who we are as a people and that any infringement on our traditional
pursuits and any other inherent rights would further degrade our ability to sustain
our traditional way of life.
It was evident the gathering was a huge
success for those that were able to
participate. The Elders had the
opportunity to renew their ancestral
cultural bonds with the old settlement and
were able to pass on some of their
teachings and knowledge to the Youth. It
enhanced community and family
cohesion among the group, creating
positive effects.
Members of the OWL staff were given the task of overseeing the overall
planning and sound financial management of the Elder and Youth gathering.
Specifically they ensured coordination and completion of all activities, including
registration, identifying departure times, and hiring cooks and maintenance crew
and ensuring they were at Recluse Lake to set up camp.
The gathering at Recluse Lake had been
advertised on the community radio and
was posted at various locations within the
community. Participants were selected
through the OWL office by the internal
management committee. The start of the
gathering was delayed due to weather
conditions, preventing aircraft from
flying in and out of Recluse Lake. In
addition to this, we had a death in the
community that prevented many Elders
from attending the gathering. As a result, we were not able to accommodate all
potential Program participants.
The Elders and Youth gathering at Recluse Lake
was an effective way to enable our Elders and
Youth to engage in dialogue and share a common
understanding of the importance of ensuring the
teaching of our customs, practices, and traditions.
If the Keeyask Project is built, Offsetting Programs
such as this one will be very important to
Tataskweyak Cree.
Spring 2008
Tataskweyak Journal
11
Aboriginal Energy Partnerships Conference
The 6th annual Aboriginal Energy Partnerships
Conference was held January 29th and 30th in Calgary.
First Nations from western Canada, energy industry and
government officials were represented at the conference.
Melvin Cook, Tataskweyak Director of CETP, Raymond
Spence, War Lake Director of CETP and Liz Carrière,
Manitoba Hydro Aboriginal Relations Policy Developer
attended the conference to review a presentation entitled
Hydro Northern Training & Employment Initiative. The
highlights of the presentation are provided here.
The Wuskwatim Keeyask Training
Consortium (WKTC)
The funding and training
partners incorporated
WKTC in January 2005
with the head office in
Thompson and a suboffice in Winnipeg.
WKTC is the legal entity
responsible for managing
the combined funding
resources of the Hydro Northern Training and
Employment Initiative.
The Funding Partners
•
•
•
•
•
Manitoba Hydro
The Province of Manitoba
Human Resource and Social Development Canada
Western Economic Diversification
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
The Seven Aboriginal Training Partners (see map below)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Tataskweyak Cree Nation
War Lake First Nation
Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation
Fox Lake Cree Nation
York Factory First Nation
Manitoba Keewatinowi Ininew Okimakanak
The Manitoba Métis Federation
• To assist northern Aboriginal communities to achieve
their highest potential primarily through an
innovative, dynamic, and progressive human
resources development strategy.
• To promote local control, administration and
accountability over the design, development and
implementation of training programs that prepare
Aboriginal people for mega-project job opportunities.
WKTC's Specific Responsibilities
• Entering into individual Contribution Agreements
with agreement holders.
• Approving annual training plans developed by
Aboriginal Partners.
• Disbursing funds.
• Approving and integrating reports to submit to project
funders.
Expected Outcomes
The expected outcomes listed below were established
based on the projected workforce estimates for
Wuskwatim and Keeyask:
Construction Support
Non-designated
Designated
Business & Management
Technical/Professional
167
371
176
56
24
Current Status of Initiative
The objective of the Hydro Northern Training Initiative
is to prepare individuals for employment on the
Wuskwatim and Keeyask projects, but this is not its sole
purpose. For the First Nations, the initiative represents
an opportunity to strengthen and enhance the social and
economic fabric of the community. A principle of the
initiative is that responsibility for planning, management
and implementation of programs rests with the
Aboriginal communities. Members are being trained in
both designated and non-designated trades as well as in
management, business and technical careers related to
the proposed hydro developments.
• Over 1,500 people have participated in more than
3,700 training experiences.
• Over 450 people participated in educational
upgrading, life skills and other training.
• 295 people have completed training in the designated
trades with 147 apprentices registered and 13
journeypersons certified.
• 256 people have completed training in the nondesignated trades.
• 91 people have completed training in project supports
and 66 in professional, business and management.
• Aboriginal communities report over 310 pre-project
trainees employed.
WKTC's mission is to work in partnership with northern
Aboriginal communities:
• To strengthen the training and employment prospects
of northern Manitoba Aboriginal people arising from
the construction and operation of the Wuskwatim and
proposed Keeyask hydro-electric development
projects.
CETP at Tataskweyak Cree Nation
• Numerous community Members have accepted
employment both in and outside of their community
in a wide variety of occupations.
• Staff manage training programs in trades and
professional occupations.
• More and more Members are working in a variety of
occupations with family and work supports in place.
• Staff help numerous Members find employment in a
variety of Manitoba Hydro projects such as the
Wuskwatim site, other generating stations, Hydro
headquarters construction in downtown Winnipeg and
Manitoba Hydro administration offices located
throughout Manitoba.
Those in attendance at the conference evaluated each
presentation over the two days using a grading scale of 1
to 10. The joint Keeyask partners scored 9.4 on content
and 8.75 on delivery, which indicates the presentation
was very well received. Congratulations!
12
Spring 2008
Tataskweyak Journal
of TCN’s Adhesion to Treaty #5
June 25th – July 1st, 2008
A week long festival of activities and
events including races, jigging contests,
square dancing, musical performances,
and a host of other fun events.
The formal part of the week includes
the Treaty Celebration and
ceremonial speeches.
Thursday June 26, 2008 will be the
Treaty Celebration and the Ceremonies
for this historic day for TCN.