What`s Up With The New OFNTSC Website?

Spring 2007 Issue
A publication of the Ontario First Nation Technical Ser vices Corporation
What’s Up With The New OFNTSC Website?
Everyone would agree that the old OFNTSC
website was tired and in need of sprucing up
– “terribly 1990’s” as someone pointed out.
For some time, OFNTSC had recognized
the need for a dynamic website in order to get its
message out to First Nation clients, governments
and the general public but was hindered by a
lack of human and financial resources. However,
the need was finally too glaring to ignore and the
Board of Directors gave staff instructions this
spring to redesign it and make it more attractive
and relevant to clients.
All copy, including program descriptions,
was to be re-written and new features were to
be added that would allow clients to interact
and exchange relevant program information. As
well, a request came from the board to include
a database of drawings, reports, plans and other
pertinent information that could be shared
among OFNTSC clients.
While we have resolved the technical and
artistic aspects of providing clients with a new
website, there are still issues that have to be
addressed.
Corporate websites are a relatively recent
phenomenon and were not included in the
original
OFNTSCINAC discussions in
1995. Twelve years
ago, websites were not
as popular as they are
today – so the allocation
of financial and human
resources for their
construction
and
maintenance was not
considered an integral
part of OFNTSC core
funding. This oversight
continues to be a serious
impediment to our
ability to adapt to the
21st century corporate
environment and it is a
shortcoming that must be redressed.
The following is brief guide to outline some
of the highlights of the new site and to help you
understand it – not always an easy task for those of
us who were born and raised in an analog world.
The Look
The website had to reflect the OFNTSC image
or Brand – or what we thought should be the
OFNTSC Brand. It was not an easy task.
To understand what is meant by the Brand,
think of the Nike “swoosh,” the MacIntosh
“apple” or Coca Cola advertising design. Because
these corporations have carefully nurtured a
clear, professional image, the sight of their logo
and advertising conjures up positive images in the
mind’s eye of that corporation, what it stands for
and what it does. That is what we are attempting
to do with the OFNTSC logo and website.
Populating the site with information
was simple. Making that information easily
recognizable and comprehensible however takes
time and effort. The site had to be attractive and
compelling as it is our point of contact for others.
It is our face and as such it must be attractive,
friendly and uncluttered. While we have the site up
and running, we are still working on its Branding.
Each day brings us closer to what we want and the
task should be completed by summer’s end.
Front Page
The site has a redesigned front page that allows
for “one-click” access to programs and services.
We hope to add a feature to the front page
that will provide information to viewers about
upcoming events, news stories, conferences
and other announcements that we think will be
of interest to clients. The page will be updated
frequently to ensure it is always fresh.
Database
The system provides a central location for
resources such as file downloads and collective
knowledge. It is a one-stop place to find and
retrieve frequently used forms, documents,
programs and other great resources.
It also provides a management system for
collective knowledge from all members, such as
techniques, demonstrations, examples, training,
technical support and any useful information that
members would like to share with other members.
This knowledge base will continue to grow over
the years to become a valuable archive of searchable
information. It becomes a private encyclopedia
that everyone helps to build. It can be referenced,
searched and linked to outside resources.
Discussion Board
This is a new feature for the OFNTSC website.
continued on Page 3
WHAT’S INSIDE
What’s Up with the Website?
Employment Opportunities
Expert Panel
Environment
Housing
Student Awards Fundraiser
Summer Students
Firefighters
Happenings
Corporate Partners
Final Comment
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Mission Statement
The Ontario First Nations Technical
Services Corporation is the founding
organization in Canada whose
purpose is to provide technical and
advisory services to all First Nations
in Ontario and to foster self-reliance
for our people.
We will strive to achieve our mission
through:
·
·
·
·
Dedication to our roles and
responsibilities as board
members and staff
Professional integrity
Honest and fair advice in our
relationships with each other and
our First Nations, and
Respect for all forms of life, the
water and Mother Earth.
Stay Connected
Write us at:
Head Office
Mississaugas of the New Credit
R.R. #6 Hagersville, ON N0A 1H0
Phone: (905) 768-3399
Fax: (905) 768-1999
Toronto Service Centre
111 Peter Street, Suite 606
Toronto, ON M5V 2H1
Phone: (416) 651-1443
Fax: (416) 651-1673
Thunder Bay Service Centre
200 South Syndicate Avenue,
Suite 206A
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 1C9
Phone: (807) 623-9595
Fax: (807) 623- 2566
Visit us online at:
www.ofntsc.org
Page 2
Corporate Profile
Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation (OFNTSC) began operations in 1995, under
a mandate from Ontario First Nations’ Chiefs in Assembly, to provide advisory and technical support
services to all 134 First Nations in Ontario. OFNTSC also services 15 Tribal Councils, 6 Large First
Nations, 11 Southern Unaffiliated First Nations and 12 Unaffiliated First Nations in the Ontario
north.
It continues to foster technical self-reliance for all First Nations’ people through hands-on
training and advice as requested while encouraging youth to pursue higher education in technology
and engineering.
OFNTSC pursues its efforts in capacity building and technology transfer through renewed
funding agreements with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada. It also consults regularly with Canada
Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Health Canada, Environment Canada and the Ministry of the
Environment (Ontario), Public Works and Government Services Canada as well as Human Resources
and Social Development Canada.
The corporation maintains strategic alliances with other Aboriginal groups, including the
Assembly of First Nations and the Chiefs of Ontario, provincial and municipal governments and
professional associations as necessary.
OFNTSC provides services through a full complement of engineering and technical staff, as well
as administrative, managerial and communications personnel, from two Service Centres in Thunder
Bay and Toronto.
It provides technical and advisory support services for architecture, capital project planning and
development, bulk fuel training, operations and maintenance, fire safety, environmental engineering,
water and wastewater quality and housing. It also oversees training and certification processes, housing
code compliance inspection and compliance and quality assurance initiatives.
For more information, visit us online at www.ofntsc.org
Board of Directors
James Owl, President
Jay Benedict, Vice President
Larry Karaim, Treasurer
Scott Maracle, Secretary
Mark French, Executive Committee
Garland Moses, Executive Committee
Mathew Hoppe, Executive Committee
Adam Sault, Executive Committee
Mel Barber, Board Member
Jason Batise, Board Member
Dean Bethune, Board Member
Alex Bird, Board Member
Wesley Bova, Board Member
Peter Campbell, Board Member
Kevin Debassige, Board Member
Derek Etherington, Board Member
Richard Habinski, Board Member
David Hill, Board Member
Patrick Isaac, Board Member
Keith Maracle, Board Member
Eugene McPherson, Board Member
Joe C. Meeks, Board Member
Randy Roy, Board Member
North Shore Tribal Council
Mohawk Council of Akwesasne
Bimose Tribal Council
Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte
Southern First Nations Secretariat
Ojibways of Pic River First Nation
(Western District Unaffiliated First Nations)
Shibogama First Nations Council
Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation
(Southern District Unaffiliated First Nations)
Independent First Nations Alliance
Wabun Tribal Council
Pwi-Di-Goo-Zing Ne-Yaa-Zhing
Weenusk First Nation
Matawa First Nations Management
Keewaytinook Okimakanak Tribal Council
United Chiefs and Councils of Manitoulin
Mushkegowuk Council
Windigo First Nations
Six Nations of the Grand River Territory
Bkwejwanong Territory
Ogemawahj Tribal Council
Anishinabek of Kabaspikotawangag
Resource Council
Sandy Lake First Nation
Wabnoong Bemjiwang Association of First Nations
Spring 2007 Issue
Website
continued from Page 1
The Discussion Board has already proven to be
popular and with each day, more clients and
members sign on.
Website Employment
Opportunities
Discussion Board Features
• Secure members account login: Prevents
unwanted intrusion and provides security for
the system.
• Discussion forums: Post topics and engage in
ongoing discussions with other members.
• Shared Knowledge Base Forum: OFNTSC
Administrators can post assistance requests,
how-to articles, demos, tips, videos and respond
to assistance requests from other members.
• Online Resource Centre: Upload and
download files, documents, photos, videos,
plans and drawings.
• Search feature: Lets you search for specific
discussions, files and resources.
• Group notification and mailing list: OFNTSC
can automatically notify members when a new
resource or file download is added, updated or
removed from the system through automated
email notifications.
• Help System with Technical Support: A
complete instruction and help menu is
included that can be requested anytime.
• Member Status and messaging: Shows you
‘who is online’ and currently using the system.
You can send private messages and chat with
other members online.
• Member’s only Mailbox: Leave messages for
other members to read when they login. They
will be notified that messages are waiting in
their mailbox.
Although aspects of the website are still under
construction, anyone who has visited the
site recently will have witnessed significant
improvements. For this, we extend our thanks
to Elmer Lickers (OFNTSC) and Jason
Burnett (North Shore Tribal Council) for their
leadership on the project.
OFNTSC also hired four summer students
to work, as a team, gathering information,
processing and downloading it. They also
took existing program and other information,
including archived Annual Reports and
newsletters, and migrated it over to the new
site. A special note of appreciation goes out to
Travis Duncan and Clifford Wabasse, Michael
Bomberry and James Roach for their exceptional
work. OFNTSC also appreciates the assistance
provided by Jake Chakasim, Housing Assistant,
who worked with the student team.
Spring 2 0 0 7 I s s u e
OFNTSC has joined with Equitek Employment Equity Solutions and their partners in diversity,
CanWest Mediaworks, to raise the awareness of career opportunities for First Nation people by
providing a link with Equitek on our new website.
Through Equitek’s extensive clientele of top Canadian corporations, and the CanWest Mediaworks
network of twelve Canadian Newspapers and working.com, this link will bring career and co-op
opportunities to OFNTSC clients as well as access to Human Resources professionals from Canada’s
top employers. The initiative will also include mentorship programs, new graduate initiatives and the
opportunity for joint ventures with both private and public sector Canadian corporations.
The link will bring individuals into contact with over 450 outreach corporate, professional and
government partners and should be of special interest to young post-secondary First Nation graduates,
although its services will be available for all.
This initiative also provides OFNTSC with a window on the corporate world that will be useful
for future contacts, job opportunities and partnerships. The project stands to significantly heighten
the OFNTSC profile within the corporate community and it will indicate to governments and others
that OFNTSC is committed to collaborative partnerships with the corporate sector.
Corporations that have already expressed interest in participating in programs cover a diverse
selection of industries including, but not limited to: Allstream, Atomic Energy of Canada, BC
Hydro, BCE Corporate Services, Bell Globemedia, Canada Post Corporation, CanWest MediaWorks,
Compass Group, Dell Canada, Duke Energy Transmission, Home Depot, Loyalty Group, Ontario
Power Generation, Oracle Corporation, Rogers Communication, Seneca College, Staples Business
Depot, Starbucks and Toronto Transit Commission.
Newspaper partners in this venture are: National Post, Victoria Times Colonist, The Province
(Vancouver), Vancouver Sun, Edmonton Journal, Calgary herald, Regina Leader-Post, Saskatoon
Star-Phoenix, Windsor Star, Ottawa Citizen, The Gazette (Montreal), DOSE, Vancouver Island
Newspapers, VANNET Newspapers.
To learn more about this initiative, you can click directly onto www.equitek.ca.
At www.equitek.ca, simply click on the employment opportunities located on the left hand side
of the home page. Then click on the name of the company. Under the corresponding career category,
pick your job of interest, or use the new search feature that can help you find opportunities by career
category, company and even by city.
To receive the employment postings directly, contact [email protected]
Page 3
Water
Expert Panel On Safe Drinking Water
Irving “Bing” Leblanc, P.Eng.
In May 2006, The Honourable Jim Prentice,
Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern
Development (INAC) and Federal Interlocutor
for Métis and Non-Status Indians, alongside Phil
Fontaine, the National Chief of the Assembly of
First Nations (AFN), met with the Honourable
Tony Clement, Minister of Health, and the
Honourable Rona Ambrose, former Minister of
Environment, to jointly announce the creation
of a panel of experts to examine and provide
options on the establishment of a regulatory
framework to ensure safe drinking water in First
Nations communities.
The Expert Panel members were three
highly experienced individuals, including:
Chairperson, Harry Swain, Director of the
Canadian Institute for Climate Studies; Stan
Louttit, Grand Chief of the Mushkegowuk
Council; and, Dr. Steve Hrudey, professor of
Environmental Health Sciences at the University
of Alberta. The panel held public hearings across
the country throughout the summer of 2006.
The panel’s mandate was to review examples
of regulatory frameworks and regimes from
other jurisdictions; to collect suggestions from
stakeholders through public hearings and written
submissions; to submit a comparative analysis of
all options for a regulatory framework; and, to
outline issues that would need to be addressed
to implement each option.
The panel defined the objective of providing
safe drinking water as “the goal of reducing
drinking water risks to a level that a reasonable
and informed person would not worry about.”
To do this, the panel recommended a framework
that would regulate source water protection,
effective treatment of drinking water, and secure
distribution to consumers.
On Dec. 7, 2006, the INAC minister
released the panel’s report. It outlined five
options available to the government for the
establishment of a regulatory framework for safe
drinking water in First Nation communities. It is
available at www.eps-sdw.gc.ca/rprt/index_e.asp
The Five Options
• Existing provincial regimes could be used as
“laws of general application,” (although these
Page 4
were deemed to be too uncertain),
• Regulations passed by Orders in Council
under existing federal statutes, (although
the panel members believe this option
may not provide “an adequate platform for
comprehensive regulation”),
• A new federal statute setting out uniform
federal standards and requirements,
• A new federal statute referencing existing
provincial regulatory regimes, and
• The development of a basis of customary law
by First Nations that would then be enshrined
in a new federal statute.
A comparative analysis focused on the latter
three options that point to a federal statute.
The panel indicated that a single regime
with uniform federal standards would be the
strongest option. The panel also called for more
financial resources to be provided, and for the
government to consider the establishment of an
arm’s-length board, or water commission, that
would be responsible for regulation, enforcement
and accountability within the new regulatory
framework.
The Expert Panel characterized the
critical importance of enhancing resources
and infrastructure as a pre-condition to the
implementation of a new regulatory regime,
even going so far as to propose First Nations
Water Commissions to monitor progress and
support communities. Panel members further
indicated that federal legislation could entrench
the federal obligation to provide the necessary
resources to meet the regulatory regime. This
would clarify federal obligation and liability
when something goes wrong.
In February 2007, at a meeting held between
National Chief Phil Fontaine and Minister
Prentice, the minister informed the National Chief
that he intended to proceed with legislation for
drinking water on-reserve through “incorporation
by reference” provincial regulations.
“Incorporation by reference” is a legal
drafting technique which provides for the
“referencing” of provincial regulations but
also allows for adjustments to the provincial
regulations so that they make sense in a First
Nation context. An example of an amendment
could be the addition of provisions for bulk
water delivery.
The goal of this legislative initiative is to
support safe drinking water for First Nation
peoples on reserves. Following the approval
of a Memorandum to Cabinet by cabinet,
an information sharing strategy would be
implemented to present the proposed legislation
to First Nations. Following this, there would
be a series of regional engagements with
First Nations and stakeholders to look at the
proposed regulations so they can be tailored to
the particular situation in each province. The
legal technique of “incorporation by reference”
allows for a phased-in approach; however, this
approach would have to apply to all First Nations
within each province.
The legislation would be broad-based and
will allow regulations to be phased-in across
the range of elements of water quality. The
determination, with regard to what aspects
of the provincial regulations to be adopted in
each province, will be made through regional
discussions.
INAC is currently developing such a
Memorandum to Cabinet that will seek permission
to proceed with legislation for the “incorporation
by reference” of provincial water regulations for
First Nations drinking water systems.
The department is also currently conducting
an assessment to identify the additional costs
that will be needed to meet the new regulatory
regime. AFN and other First Nations groups
will be invited to discussions with regards to
identifying the resource needs. The renewal of
the First Nations Water Management Strategy
and the regulatory regime may be opportunities
for the identification of additional resources.
It is suggested that the intent of the
regulations will not be to change the
responsibility for safe drinking water but will
focus on clarifying the roles and responsibilities.
It will attach penalties for a failure to meet the
new regulations.
The government plans to introduce
continued on Page 5
Spring 2007 Issue
Water
continued from Page 4
regulation first in Ontario followed by the
other regions at a rate of three regions each year.
The text of the legislation is expected to be “short
and sweet” as it will serve only to introduce the
enacting legislation. The real work will begin after
the legislation is passed where a clause by clause
analysis of the existing Ontario regulations will
be conducted to ascertain the applicability of
the regulations to First Nations.
While OFNTSC is pleased that attention
is now being focussed on this vital issue, there
are concerns with certain recommendations
of the report. Water is inevitably tied up with
politics (federal and provincial), First Nations’
jurisdiction, fiduciary obligations, financial
allocations and human resources. Many of the
current problems have been in the making for
decades and they will not be resolved easily or
overnight.
While meeting in Toronto, it was pointed
out by Chairperson Harry Swain that certain
political issues were not included in the mandate
of the panel, and could therefore neither be
raised nor discussed at that particular forum,
OFNTSC Board member, and Akwesasne
community member Jay Benedict, asked if such
important questions could not be raised why
then were these meetings being held?
The National Chief has also expressed serious
concern regarding the lack of consultation and that
the proposed framework for the regulatory regime
is pre-determined. He has also communicated to
the minister the disappointment of the AFN that
the report did not adequately address matters
related to recognition of First Nations jurisdiction
in water management and the entrenchment
of the federal fiduciary obligation to provide
adequate and consistent resources for First
Nations governments to exercise their jurisdiction
in this area.
The Assembly of First Nations has
developed a position paper on the Expert Panel
report recommendations which can be found on
the AFN website at http://www.afn.ca/cmslib/
general/water-panel-report.pdf.
For more information see the Chiefs of
Ontario office, or OFNTSC websites. You
may consider providing your input on the new
OFNTSC website Discussion Board at www.
ofntsc.org.
Spring 2 0 0 7 I s s u e
Environment
State of the Lakes Report
Reveals Troubling Trends
urban development.
A few key issues
Wendy Mortimer
Reprinted with permission from
Waterkeeper.ca Weekly
The U.S. and Canadian governments have released
a draft State of the Great Lakes 2007 report, and
the results are troubling. The report looks at more
than 60 ecosystem indicators and tries to establish
whether each of the Great Lakes is healthy and
whether trends are improving or deteriorating.
Identifying trends and drawing conclusions
about the health of the Great Lakes is tough.
One of the most common questions asked of
Waterkeepers is, “Are the lakes getting better or
worse?” The answer is never clear - phosphorous
pollution is getting better but nuclear pollution
is getting worse. DDT contamination is getting
better but fish habitat is being lost. There really is
no one answer that is true for every community.
By looking at a wide range of indicators
- fish, birds, habitat, development, air quality,
water quality, beach postings and more - the state
of the lakes report is as close as you can get to an
accurate response. And the answer is troubling.
Generally, there are more worsening trends
than improving trends. Emerging concerns such
as new chemicals and groundwater withdrawals
outpace successes such as mayfly recovery in Lake
Erie. Lake Ontario seems particularly hard-hit,
with high numbers of beach postings, increasing
contamination in herring gulls, and wide-spread
• Concentrations of flame retardants are
increasing in herring gull eggs on Lake Ontario
• Populations of zooplankton and diporeia
- the creatures at the bottom of the Great
Lakes food chain - are declining dramatically,
threatening the entire ecosystem
• Lake Ontario has the worst coastal wetland
health on the Great Lakes
• Ironically, electricity generation consumes
more energy on the Great Lakes than any
other use (28% of energy use on U.S. side,
33% of energy use on Canadian side)
• Amphibian and bird populations are in decline
• Contaminants in forage fish tend to be higher
on Lake Ontario than the other Great Lakes
• Fewer than half of the Canadian beaches
on Lake Ontario are open most of the time
during the swimming season
The State of the Lakes report also looks at what is
being done to improve conditions on the Great
Lakes. Unfortunately, most of the efforts are
vague and may lack long-term funding. Strategic
planning is happening in most regions, but a
closer look at the Great Lakes Water Quality
Agreements and the Remedial Action Plans tells
us that goals are not being met and programs are
seriously under-resourced. New legislation is being
passed, such as the Annex 2001 implementing
agreements and Ontario’s Greenbelt law, but they
include loopholes. Existing legislation is being
under-enforced in Ontario and protections are
being rolled back in the United States.
We can’t really say that the lakes are
“better” than they were a few years ago, and
we certainly can’t say that we are doing all that
we can. Some 42-million people live in Great
Lakes communities, every one affected by loss of
natural habitat, contaminated sediment, toxins
in wildlife, and dirty beaches. As long as that’s
true, the future is bleak.
OFNTSC
gratefully
acknowledges
Waterkeeper.ca Weekly, for permission to
reprint this article. Lake Ontario Waterkeeper is
a charitable organization.
To read other reports of interest: e-mail
[email protected].
Page 5
Housing
Addressing Challenges: Exploring
Opportunities
Grace Martineau
This year’s Northern Housing Conference, held at
the Prince Arthur Waterfront Hotel and Suites in
Thunder Bay, April 17-19, addressed many of the
challenges that remote First Nation communities
face constantly: getting materials and suppliers
to remote First Nation communities; finding
contractors and trades people able to work on
reserve; facing a lack of skilled labour to build
and maintain housing in northern First Nation
communities; experiencing difficulty accessing
training and education courses; and, finding
facilities that teach proper home building and
maintenance techniques.
These issues, still facing northern First
Nation communities, were the reasons why, five
years ago, in February 2003, a consortium of
northern Tribal Councils came together to host
the first-ever First Nations Northern Housing
Conference.
The idea was to help communities to access
valuable information, meet suppliers and share
experiences on housing related issues.
From the beginning there was a tremendous
response from the communities. And, it has
continued to the present. This year, like every other,
the event drew approximately 150 administrative
and technical housing professionals from over
80 northern communities. Another bright spot
Page 6
during the conference was the sold-out trade
show. Over 20 suppliers, and housing-related
organizations, showcased their skills and services
at the event.
The five-year milestone is one that many
could not even have fathomed in the early days.
But the real success story is how the delegates
have responded to, and participated, in this
event. And again, this year the enthusiastic
attendance, feedback and dedication of the
delegates continued to provide tremendous
motivation for the organizers of the conference.
Another pleasure derived from the
Northern Housing Conference is hearing the
success stories of our communities through the
Community Housing Innovation Showcase
Awards. These awards provide us with real-time
examples of how communities deal with the
challenges of housing in their northern First
Nation communities. The awards program
seeks to inspire other communities and housing
professionals to achieve similar successes.
This year’s recipients included Pic River
First Nation for utilizing project management
principals in the building of homes; Eagle Lake
First Nation for using insulated concrete forms
in the building of some of their houses; and,
Naicatcewenin First Nation for implementing a
successful Section 95 project.
Another source of pride for the organizers
of the conference is that it is an initiative solely of
the Northern Tribal Councils. This event would
not be possible without their commitment,
input and vision as the Northern Tribal Councils
provide both financial and human resources for
the conference. The fact that this initiative is
self directed - by First Nations for First Nations
- is a successful indicator of their hard work,
dedication and innovative spirit.
The event also has the ability to attract both
public and private sector support. The Northern
Housing Conference, again this year, received
support from both Indian and Northern Affairs
Canada (INAC) and Canada Mortgage and
Housing Corporation (CMHC).
The event continues to grow and has a
bright future in helping northern First Nation
Communities to build capacity, enhance
knowledge, improve homes and ensure a
better future for First Nation families living
in the north. OFNTSC extends its heartfelt
congratulations to everyone involved.
For more information: Grace Martineau:
807-623-9595; [email protected]
M’Chigeeng Volunteer Fire Department team , 2007 Ontario First Nation Fire Fighters Competition
Winners. Back row (left to right): Julian Migwans, Travis Corbiere, Wes McGraw, Eli Fox and Bear
Debassige. Front row: Nano Debassige (uncle/big dude) and Damien Debassige (little dude).
Spring 2007 Issue
OFNTSC
Golf Classic
Fundraiser
This year there has been a change of plans
regarding the Student Awards Golf Classic
Fundraiser. Normally, OFNTSC kicks off its
Annual Technical Conference and Trade Show
each autumn with the golf classic – and it has
always met with tremendous success. This year
there will be no conference.
The tournament is being held in conjunction
with the 2nd Annual Community Economic
Development Officer (CEDO) Conference and
Tradeshow. The conference and tradeshow is
being coordinated by the 7 Generations Education
Institute and is taking place in Kenora, Ontario.
This year, OFNTSC will be hosting its
Student Awards Golf Classic Fundraiser at the
magnificent Falcon Lake Golf Course, Falcon
Lake, Manitoba, Tuesday, August 21, 2007.
Considered by many to be one of the premier
golf courses in the province, Falcon Lake is part
of Whiteshell Provincial Park, about one hours’
drive west of Kenora or 1½ hours drive east of
Winnipeg.
Platinum Level Hole Sponsorships are now
being offered at $500.00 each; Gold Level Hole
Sponsorships are $250.00. Green fee for golfers
is $90.00, team fees are $360.00. It’s a good
cause, so register soon!
The event raises money which has been
given to two deserving First Nation students in
their last year of post secondary education in
the fields of science and technology. Last year,
OFNTSC was joined by the Canada Mortgage
and Housing Corporation (CMHC) who also
offered two scholarships, making a total of four
scholarships. This year, OFNTSC and CMHC
are again offering two scholarships each for
students. Two students will be selected from the
area serviced by our Thunder Bay office and two
from the Toronto office.
If you know of a student who you think
has earned recognition in their area of postsecondary study, please contact Student Bursaries
at [email protected]. But hurry, the deadline
for nominations is September 14, 2007.
Student Awards Information and
Registration Forms: www.ofntsc.org
Golf Tournament Information: Richard
Chukra, OFNTSC Thunder Bay; 807-6239595; [email protected]
Spring 2 0 0 7 I s s u e
Summer Students
This year OFNTSC hired five summer students.
Four of the students, two in Thunder Bay
and two in Toronto, worked with Elmer Lickers
and Jason Burnett to populate the new website.
In total they downloaded approximately 160
documents, which they considered useful to
OFNTSC clients, from a multitude of sources.
The material is available for the use of OFNTSC
clients and stakeholders and can be accessed by
going to www.ofntsc.org. Please don’t hesitate to
offer any comments or suggestions by providing
your input on the OFNTSC Discussion Board
on the website.
Toronto Summer Students. Elmer Lickers,
Operations and Maintenance, with summer
students James Roach and Michael Bomberry
Thunder Bay Summer Students. Branch Manager James Taylor with Travis Duncan (left)
and Clifford Wabasse (right)
Martha Toulouse in the Records Management
office in Toronto received assistance this summer
from Leica Carpenter. Leica is an old hand at
working with First Nation organizations having
put in her time at the Chiefs of Ontario office
back in the 1990’s. At OFNTSC this summer
she was re-united with her fellow COO staffers
April Wemigwans and Dennis Martel.
Following her time at COO she took a
few years off to marry and have two children.
Leica is returning to Durham College this fall to
complete her education. But for the summer she
provided Martha with help in sorting and filing
materials. When required she also filled in at the
Reception desk and helped sort out about five
years worth of materials and relocate it in the
Communications office.
OFNTSC extends its deepest appreciation
to the summer students for their hard work and
effort. They have made a difference and everyone
in the Thunder Bay and Toronto offices wishes
them all the best in their future careers.
Martha Toulouse, Document Management,
with summer student Leica Carpenter
They brought considerable technical and
engineering skills to the task at hand and proved
themselves to be superbly qualified and highly
capable. But, in addition, they were fun to work
with and added a nice dimension to the office
during the dog days of summer.
The much overworked and understaffed
Page 7
Fire Safety - M’Chigeeng Emerges
Victorious Against Some Hot Competition
The Next Generation: Julian Migwans and his son, Damien Debassige.
In September 1990, the Ontario Native Fire
Fighters Society (ONFFS) was incorporated.
A non-profit organization, it is designed to
promote fire protection and to provide training
and education regarding First Nation fire
prevention. ONFFS is committed to improving
skills and team work that will enhance fire
fighting capabilities in First Nation communities.
OFNTSC has enjoyed its working relationship
with ONFFS over the years.
In its on-going efforts to increase expertise
in fire fighting, and the protection of First
Nation communities, ONFFS holds annual
competitions where teams from various
communities compete for the right to go to the
national competition.
As a lead-up to the national competition,
this years’ provincial Fire Fighters Competition
was held in Timmins. M’Chigeeng emerged
victorious, edging out teams from Moose Factory
(2nd) and Walpole Island (3rd)
Winning team member, Wes McGraw
offers a special thank you to Mike Paul, the
Page 8
founder, mentor and guide for the M’Chigeeng
Volunteer Fire Department. Without his
efforts, the 12 person crew would not be where
it is today. In fact, they are still using two of the
same vehicles Mike obtained for the department
originally – a situation Wes hopes to resolve with
the acquisition of replacement vehicles. The
department also hopes to supplement its Jaws
for Life capabilities with the long-term goals of
getting a First Response Unit and a defibulator.
“It’s a good crew,” says Wes, “with a lot of
good guys who enjoy each others’ company.”
Clearly that was in evidence this summer during
the competition.
ONFFS President, Eugene McPherson
offers his congratulations to all the teams that
participated. In his view they were all highly
professional and capable and in this sense all
the teams were successful in representing their
communities proudly and professionally.
This years’ National Native Fire Fighters’
Competition is hosted by the Kahnawake Fire
Brigade on August 21-25, 2007 in Kahnawake
Quebec.
M’Chigeeng Volunteer Fire Department team , 2007 Ontario First Nation Fire Fighters Competition
Winners. Back row (left to right): Julian Migwans, Travis Corbiere, Wes McGraw, Eli Fox and Bear
Debassige. Front row: Nano Debassige (uncle/big dude) and Damien Debassige (little dude).
Spring 2007 Issue
Happenings - People, Places & Events
August 7-9, 2007
September 25-27, 2007
CRTP program for Fuel Systems Management Training, Webequie
Info: Doug Stuart: 807-937-4897; [email protected]
CRTP program for Fuel Systems Management Training, Cat Lake
Info: Doug Stuart: 807-937-4897; [email protected]
August 21, 2007
September 25-28,2007
OFNTSC Student Awards Golf Classic Fundraiser. Falcon Lake Golf
Course, Falcon Lake, Manitoba.
Info: Richard Chukra, OFNTSC Thunder Bay, 807-623-9595; rchukra@
tbay-ofntsc.org
“Surveys from Start to Finish” a 4 day course offered to Aboriginal
people. Course is free but attendees are responsible for travel, meals and
accommodation. At Inn on the Bay, 340 Main Street West, North Bay, ON
Info: Mark Marasco, Statistics Canada: 705-476-1867, aclo.markm@
hotmail.com
August 21-23, 2007
CRTP program for Fuel Systems Management Training, Pikangikum
Info: Doug Stuart: 807-937-4897; [email protected]
October 2-4, 2007
CRTP program for Fuel Systems Management Training, Slate Falls
Info: Doug Stuart: 807-937-4897; [email protected]
August 21-25, 2007
National Native Firefighters’ Competition; Kahnawake, Quebec. 55
rooms have been set aside under AFAC name at the Hotel Maritime Plaza,
Montreal, Quebec. www.hotelmaritime.com
Info: Arnold [email protected]
October 16-18, 2007
August 22-23, 2007
CRTP program for Fuel Systems Management Training, Wunumin Lake
Info: Doug Stuart: 807-937-4897; [email protected]
Confined Space Awareness Course for plant operators offered by OFNTSC
at the Community Centre, Mnjikaning First Nation. Non-refundable fee of
$175.00 payable to OFNTSC required prior to the session. Accommodation
is available at the Best Western (705-325-9511), Days Inn (705-326-8288)
and Comfort Inn (705-327-7744). Please book ahead of the course dates.
Info: April Wemigwans, OFNTSC 416- 651-1443 (264); awemigwans@
ofntsc.org
CRTP program for Fuel Systems Management Training, North Caribou
Lake
Info: Doug Stuart: 807-937-4897; [email protected]
October 22-25, 2007
August 28-30, 2007
The Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers
(CANDO) is hosting its 14th Annual National Conference and General
Meeting in Kamloops, British Columbia. Dual hosts are the Kamloops
Indian band and the Community Futures Development Corporation of
Central Interior First Nations.
Info: 1-800-463-9300, 780-990-0303 or www.edo.ca
CRTP program for Fuel Systems Management Training, Fort Hope
Info: Doug Stuart: 807-937-4897; [email protected]
October 24, 2007
CRTP program for Fuel Systems Management Training, Wapekeka
Info: Doug Stuart: 807-937-4897; [email protected]
17th Annual Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund Business Awards gala
will be held at the Valhalla Inn, Thunder Bay, ON. The event doubles as
a fundraising event for the Dennis Franklin Cromarty Memorial Fund.
Single tickets are $120.00 each (including GST) and reserved tables of ten
are available at $1000.00. Please confirm sponsorship and ticket purchases
by Sept. 14, 2007.
Info: Ticket sales coordinator, Leisa Wynn, 807-623-5397, fax: 807-6228271; email [email protected]; www.nadf.org
September 24-28,2007
April 21-22, 2008
Water Quality Solutions Conference, Mayfield Inn Trade Centre,
Edmonton, AB
Info: (306) 934-0389; www.safewater.org;[email protected]
CANECT 2008 16th Annual Canadian Environmental Conference and
Tradeshow, Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
Info: Denise Simpson: 905-727-4666; 1-888-254-8769 (x21); denise@
esemag.com
September 11-13, 2007
CRTP program for Fuel Systems Management Training, Neskantaga
Info: Doug Stuart: 807-937-4897;[email protected]
September 18-20, 2007
Spring 2 0 0 7 I s s u e
Page 9
Happenings - cont.
Training
Confined Space Awareness Course
OFNTSC course for plant operators, August 22-23, 2007 at the Community
Centre, Mnjikaning First Nation.
Non-refundable fee of $175.00 payable to OFNTSC required prior to the
session. Accommodation available at the Best Western (705-325-9511),
Days Inn (705-326-8288) and Comfort Inn (705-327-7744). Please book
ahead of the course dates.
Contact: April Wemigwans, OFNTSC 416- 651-1443 (264);
[email protected]
Education
OFNTSC Student Bursaries
Again this year, the Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation,
in partnership with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, will offer
four bursaries of $1000 each to deserving students enrolled in post-secondary
education fields of science and/or technology. Two students served from the
Thunder Bay OFNTSC office and two served from the Toronto office will be
selected. Deadline for applications September 14, 2007
Contact: Student Bursaries: [email protected]
Casino Rama Awards for Excellence Program
This program has been established to encourage and motivate Aboriginal
people to continue their education though advanced studies at the postsecondary level. The program is open to all Aboriginal students in their
2nd year or higher of an accredited post-secondary institution and are
permanent residents of the province of Ontario. Up to 12 awards of $1500
will be provided to eligible Aboriginal students in undergraduate programs,
3 awards of $5000 each will be awarded to students enrolled in graduate
programs.
Contact: Awards of Excellence Program; Corporate Affairs Department;
Casino Rama
1-800-832-PLAY
National Indigenous Economic Education Fund
(NIEEF)
Corporate Acknowledgements
Partnerships are important. Without them, the Ontario First
Nation Technical Services Corporation could not bring the full
range of its programs and services to the 134 First Nation
communities, Tribal Councils and Provincial and Territorial Organizations across Ontario.
OFNTSC especially appreciates the financial contributions
and advice it receives throughout the year from its corporate
partners. Their commitment to the health and well-being of
our communities is deeply appreciated by OFNTSC and the
First Nations of Ontario.
Space did not allow us to name all those who contribute
annually to the OFNTSC Student Awards Golf Class Fundraiser
but the corporation deeply appreciates your assistance and
looks forward to your continued participation in this event.
The following logos represent those corporations and organizations who have partnered with us in offering programs
and services to First Nations in Ontario. In addition, they have
generously contributed to the OFNTSC Annual Conference and
Tradeshow by providing financial help, offering workshops or
providing their professional services free of charge.
A division of Genivar Ontario Inc.
Scholarships, training and research funding for students involved in
Aboriginal community economic development are available. Deadline is
September 14, 2007
Contact: Ross Mayer, (780) 990-0303, [email protected]
Page 10
Spring 2007 Issue
Final Comments - Can We Talk?
James Owl
Many chiefs have said that
Canada is at a crossroads
regarding the nature of future
relationships with Ottawa.
They have said that the issues
can be resolved only through
dialogue followed up by
positive action. Canada seems
to be getting the message and
I see this as an opportunity for
OFNTSC.
The social, political and
economic landscape has shifted
dramatically since INAC began
its policy of devolution. The
creation of OFNTSC in 1995
was a direct result of this policy and, while twelve years is not a long time, a
brief examination of our original mandate reveals a world that has changed
remarkably.
OFNTSC emerged as an independent non-profit corporation to
provide technical advisory services to First Nations. Since then it has
fulfilled its original mandate – and more. But, this success has created a
dilemma for us.
Back then, while First Nations accepted the challenge of selfmanagement, they knew that governments could both create and cut
programs at will and in accordance with their fiscal agendas. Some chiefs
were reluctant to accept responsibility for the delivery and operation of
government programs without guarantees that Ottawa would not withdraw
from its fiduciary responsibility to provide services to status Indians.
OFNTSC saw this too and in 1995 its founding-President, Chief Earl
Commanda, saw that on-going negotiations were going to be necessary to
“sustain OFNTSC’s funding and level of services.” Since then however,
while OFNTSC continues to meet with INAC to discuss programs and
services, there has never been a dramatic re-evaluation of the original core
programming and funding to meet the evolving needs of the First Nations.
That same year, Executive Director Irvin George noted that OFNTSC
had to remain a “vital and flexible technically-based organization … to meet
First Nation community needs.” Over the years, OFNTSC has tried, with
considerable success, to balance the need to respond to client requests while
simultaneously seeking the funding to do so. At times, OFNTSC assumed
responsibilities that were not included in its original mandate, but so long
as sufficient monies flowed in, these initiatives could be met.
In fairness, over the years funding has increased but not enough to
allow for sustainable growth. OFNTSC has been wholly dependent upon
inconsistent financial decisions and policies created in Ottawa. Cancellation
of the Kelowna Accord serves as a timely reminder of this.
So, while OFNTSC strives to ensure that it is delivering core services
effectively, it is also faced with a changing landscape which determines First
Nation needs. Our question is simple: “Is it incumbent upon OFNTSC to
adapt to these emerging client needs?” And, “If so, will it be able to secure
Spring 2 0 0 7 I s s u e
sufficient and on-going funding to meet them?”
So, while the times have changed, OFNTSC core funding and service
agreements have not. The result has been that over the years OFNTSC
was working harder, with less, to provide more, for its clients. It was
unsustainable, and this year the Board of Directors requested a return to
our original mandate and core services – to make sure we were delivering
what we were supposed to, as efficiently and effectively as possible.
But this does not address the internal changes that have also emerged
within the OFNTSC corporate structure since 1995.
Considered essential for an efficient office in the 21st century,
professional corporations everywhere rely heavily on efficient computers,
an IT person, a website and a client and public relations program. These
ingredients, necessary for a successful organization, are not part of the
OFNTSC-INAC core funding agreement. Neither is there a youth
component.
It is clear that events have overtaken the corporation and this needs
to be addressed in future discussions with INAC. It is time to renew the
original dialogue with Canada to seek more meaningful input into First
Nation policies, programs and operational funding.
For example, we are witnessing a huge First Nations’ baby boom.
And, since OFNTSC has a mandate to foster First Nation’s technical self
reliance, it has tried to address the educational needs of First Nation youth
– an extremely important demographic. But because we don’t have “core”
funding to do so, OFNTSC this year had to eliminate educational programs
that promoted careers in science and technology for youth. Its Technical
Youth Career Outreach Program is no more; Coolcareers, its youth website,
has shut down and its name purchased by another organization. OFNTSC
cannot afford to attend school career fairs. We ignore the educational needs
of our youth at our own peril – they are the “fresh blood” First Nations need
to survive.
Also, in the midst of a world-wide green revolution, the innovative
Earthkeepers and Energy Pathfinder programs have been scrapped. We
can’t afford to provide CRTP water and wastewater training to all the
communities in need of it. And, while the world goes wireless and high tech,
OFNTSC has no money targeted to update its computers and software or
maintain a website. It has a part-time IT person.
Every organization and government ministry in the 21st century has
a “Relationships” program (the current buzz word for inter-governmental
and stakeholder communications). Such a program is necessary to get
the word out to OFNTSC clients regarding its services and corporate
successes. But OFNTSC does not have the financial wherewithal to operate
a communications program without borrowing from other, already underfunded, programs to do so.
OFNTSC must have meaningful input into government decisions
if it is to receive the necessary funding to adapt successfully to the new
environment. Like the chiefs, OFNTSC would appreciate a realistic
dialogue with government in order to secure realistic funding for future
programs and services.
Clearly, it is time to revisit those 12-year old agreements and bring
them forward into the 21st century to address our current needs.
Page 11
canada
mortgage
and
housing
corporation
Building
Communities
Through a variety of programs, services and partnerships we strive to build capacity to meet
housing needs. Our committed aboriginal housing team in Ontario provides assistance in three
priority areas to ensure First Nations receive access to our programs, products and services.
1. Delivery of CMHC programs such as Section 95 and RRAP and promoting home ownership
on-reserve - this is our Delivery Team
2. Management of your Section 95 Housing Portfolio - this is our Portfolio Management Team
3. Training and Development Activities - this is our Capacity Development Team
We also have a wealth of information on a variety of housing related research topics and
encourage you to visit our website or give us a call.
1-800-668-2642
Page 12
www.cmhc.ca
Spring 2007 Issue