newsletter Gwich in Tribal Council Board Values

Transcription

1 newsletter Gwich in Tribal Council Khaiints àn /Fall 2014 Board Values Gwich in Participants and Inuvik residents walk to protect the Peel - January 2014 (photo credit: GTC) Respect: we will treat everyone with respect Commitment: we will work hard every day for the Gwich in people Integrity: we will follow high standards of behavior and always put the interests of the Gwich in people first Trust: we will be trustworthy and keep our word Accountability: we will set and publish clear goals and regularly report on progress and financial performance Knowledge: we will build and preserve our traditional and modern knowledge and make decisions based on a thorough understanding of the matters before us Transparency: we will conduct our business in an open manner; we will report on all aspects of our operations regularly; we will respond fully to questions from participants on a timely basis Solidarity: we will work together in open constructive ways, respecting each other s viewpoints but standing behind our group decisions Honesty: we will mean what we say and never be untruthful or deceptive Gwich in Culture and Beliefs: our Gwich in culture and beliefs will guide our work and decisions 1

2 In this issue: Acting President Update 3 Upcoming Events 4 Board of Directors Motions Summary 5 Annual Assembly Resolutions Summary 6 Acting Chief Operating Officer Update 8 Finance Department Update 10 Lands, Resources & Intergovernmental Affairs Self-Government 11 GCLCA Implementation Year Human Resources Strategy 12 Gwich in Services Recruitment 13 Education and Training 13 Wellness 14 Other Services 14 Gwich in Development Corporation 15 Election Notice 16 Gwich in Harvesters Assistance Program 17 Peel Watershed Litigation 17 Designated Government Organizations Ehdiitat Gwich in 18 Gwichya Gwich in 18 Nihtat Gwich in 19 Tetlit Gwich in 19 Gwich in Social & Cultural Institute 21 Gwich in Language Report 22 Peter & Mary Kay Anniversary 22 Run to Protect the Peel 23 Contact Us 24 2

3 Acting President Norman Snowshoe Drin Gwiinzii Shilak Kat, am very pleased to be providing you I with an update on the Gwich in Tribal Council (GTC) activities since our last Annual Report in August. The 2014 Assembly was held in Inuvik and was well attended. There were many concerns that the Gwich in presented and hopefully we addressed them. A huge concern was the revision of the GTC and Designated Gwich in Organizations By-Laws to accommodate the Canada Not-For-Profit Corporations Act. Our By-Laws had to be revised to ensure that our Settlement Funds were protected from Taxation. During the discussions, the election process was discussed with the communities. There was NO attempt to take voting rights away from the Gwich in for the President and the Vice President positions in the GTC. At the Assembly, the By-Law revisions were passed protecting our Settlement Funds. The Assembly also discussed in detail and at length our business entities in the GSA - namely Dinjii Zhuh Trucking and Mackenzie Valley Construction. There were lots of concerns about our investments and management with Dinjii Zhuh Trucking. We identified the problems and were given direction that no further investments will be made to this company. The GTC, with the cooperation of Gwich in Development Corporation (GDC), acquired the services of Mr. Wayne Drury to act in the capacity of GDC President. Part of Mr. Drury s duties were to review and make recommendations about the future of Dinjii Zhuh Trucking. The assessment was completed and the recommendation was made that it is in the best interest of the Gwich in to begin the process to discontinue this company. We will put in place a plan to wind down the company. In regard to Mackenzie Valley Construction, the GTC have negotiated the purchase of MVC Assets from Flint. This purchase also includes ending our partnership with Flint. During the transition period, the GTC Board of Directors approved the Nihtat Corporation proposal to lease and operate the Gas Station and Garage. The GTC is also responsible for implementation of the Gwich in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement (GCLCA). The major functions of the GTC are to manage the Gwich in Settlement Fund, manage the Gwich in Lands, protect the rights of the Gwich in established by the Land Claim and ensure that economic development initiatives established by GCLCA are to the benefit of all Gwich in. Over the past two years, the Gwich in have put a lot of emphasis on education and self government. We believe that education of our people and Gwich in self government go hand in hand. You need educated Gwich in to have a successful Gwich in government. As the basis for self government negotiations the Gwich in Self-Government Team produced the Gwich in Agreement in Principle Position Paper. This is basically the Gwich in proposed Agreement in Principle. It was noted by the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs that this is the first time in Canada that a First Nation has used this very proactive approach. At this stage of the Self Government Process, the Governments are reviewing and commenting on the 39 Chapter Gwich in Agreement in Principle Position Paper. In January 2015, the actual negotiations on the contents will begin. In terms of Gwich in Capacity Development, we have developed several exciting and innovative initiatives to enhance the education of Gwich in. These include the annual Gwich in Education Forum, curriculum development, and the Gwich in Mentorship Program (among others). These will be reported on in more detail through staff reports. The goal is to ensure that we have as much education and training initiatives for our people as needed to ensure that they have the capacity to be employed in the future. In land management, we are dealing with regulatory changes in both the NWT and Yukon. Both the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Yukon Socio-Economic Assessment Act are being amended. These are Federal initiatives. We have been negotiating these changes with the government. We need to ensure that our lands are protected as prescribed by the GCLCA. In the Yukon, the Gwich in are always concerned with the impacts to our beloved Peel Watershed. The Gwich in are (...cont d on page 4) For more information, visit us online at 3

4 (...cont d from previous page) in litigation against the Yukon Government about land use planning in the Peel Watershed. The Supreme Court Judge has heard our arguments and now wants to sit down with all parties to see if we can reach an agreement. The Gwich in will maintain the position of support for the Peel Commission s recommended Land Use Plan for the Peel Watershed. In terms of land management in the Gwich in Settlement Region, the GTC continues to inventory our lands in terms of leased land and land uses. In other water-related matters, we participated in consultations with GNWT on the BC Transboundary Water Agreement. We need to ensure that the provisions for water from the GCLCA are included in the negotiations. The NWT Wildlife Act came into force and the Gwich in are participating in the review of regulations established by the Act. This is very important because we do not want our harvesting rights infringed by any regulations that may come into force. The Settlement Fund is managed by the Settlement Corporation Board. We need to ensure that the fund sustains us forever. This Fund belongs to us and to all of the Gwich in yet to be born. We must manage our assets wisely and ensure that the Fund continues to grow. With these principles, we need to ensure that we have policies in place to ensure that any disbursement of funds is authorized by the Gwich in Assembly. My people, we have come through a very turbulent time in our history. At the Assembly, we were given direction to work together. We must continue to follow that direction and to do the work to better the lives of all our Gwich in Participants. I welcome all comments and criticisms, as long as they are constructive. I need feedback to become a better leader. However, I believe that comments and criticisms that are destructive should not be made. It does not foster good relations among our people. We need to better our relationships among each other to have a successful nation. Finally, I would like to commend the GTC Board of Directors and staff at the regional and community level for the support over the last few months. Your support has been tremendous. Haii Cho Shilak Kat Norman Snowshoe Acting President, Gwich in Tribal Council Upcoming Events Nov 1-2, 2014: Gwich in Development Corporation Board of Directors Meeting (Vancouver, BC) Nov 3-7, 2014: Council of Yukon First Nation Special General Assembly (Whitehorse, YT) Nov 2014: Gwich in Settlement Corporation Board of Directors Meeting (Inuvik, NT) Nov 5, 2014: GTC Elections - Advance Polls (see page 19 for locations) Nov 17, 2014: GTC Elections Regular Polls (see page 19 for locations) Dec 1, 2014: Payouts mailed to Participants outside Gwich in Settlement Area Dec 8, 2014: Executive Community Tour (Whitehorse, YT) Dec 9, 2014: Executive Community Tour (Yellowknife, NT) Dec 10, 2014: Executive Community Tour (Edmonton, AB) Dec 12, 2014: Payouts available for Participants in Gwich in Settlement Area (DGO Office) Dec 19, 2014: Gwich in Tribal Council Christmas Open house begins at 1:00 p.m. (Chief Jim Koe Zheh, Inuvik, NT) Dec 22, 2014 Jan 2, 2015: Gwich in Tribal Offices Closed Check out the Gwich in Tribal Council on Facebook! 4

5 Board of Directors Motion Summary In 2014, the GTC Board of Directors met on the following dates: February 3, February 13 &14, March 17, May 9 & 10, May 30, June 2, June 6, June 16, July 10, July 30 & 31, August 18, September 13 & 14 and October 16 & 17. The following decisions were made during regular, special and emergency meetings: Executive Appoint Carolyn Lennie as lead on the transboundary discussions. To hire (on) contract (a) Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately, to be led by the HR Committee and Norman Snowshoe. Appoint Norman Snowshoe as interim President of the Gwich in Tribal Council in accordance with Gwich in Tribal Council By-Law #1, Section 7.3 and (b). Change the location of the 2014 Annual General Assembly of the Gwich in Tribal Council to Inuvik, NT. To call an election for Gwich in Tribal Council President effective immediately, in accordance with current GTC Elections Policy and Procedures Manual for a term ending June Enter into a contract with Robert Vardy for a 24 month period as the CFO. Recommend to the 2014 GTC Annual assembly to approve the GTC By- Law No. 1 and Election Code to be in compliance with Industry Canada. Finance To conduct an independent internal investigation into the $2 million transaction. Approve the Gwich in Tribal Council Operations Budget for the year ending March 31, Approve the GTC Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ending March 31, Approve the Terms of Reference of Finance Committee and Audit Committee as presented. Approve the revised Gwich in Tribal Council Operations Budget for the year ending March 31, Intergovernmental To commence legal proceedings against the Yukon Government in relation to the adoption of the new plan. To petition the court to become an intervener in the Peel Legal Action that the Nacho Nyak Dun and Tr ondëk Hwëch in First Nations are currently undertaking. Direct all (GTC Board) directors will attend the legal proceedings regarding the Peel River Litigation in Whitehorse, Yukon. Lands and Resources Set up a segregated account for the Land Reclamation Surplus account. Support the proposal of Ehdiitat Gwich in Council to administer and manage the Willow River Gravel Resource as outlined in the Willow River Management Plan and direct the GTC Lands Department to work with the EGC subject to the DGO review. No access will be granted to industry on Gwich in Lands until an Environment Impact Assessment and Access and Impact Benefit Agreements are in place. The process outlined in the GCLCA must be followed. Direct administration to research hydraulic fracturing so a position may be established. Business Direct administration to research the transfer of business entities owned by Gwich in Tribal Council to the Gwich in Development Corporation. Direct administration to develop a business plan and evaluation to assume the assets of MVC and to bring this back to the Board for review and approval by May 31, To remove the on-site manager of Dinjii Zhuh trucking, effective May 30, 2014, upon recommendation of the MVC Purchase and Dinjii Zhuh Integration/Turnaround Plan. To meet on June 2, 2014 to discuss the purchase of Mackenzie Valley Construction and operations of Dinjii Zhuh Trucking Ltd. Approve the transfer of the 51 shares from GILP to the GTC company N.W.T. Ltd., for the price of $1.00. Approve the GTC Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ending March 31, Approve the hiring of additional staff in the finance department. Agree to lease the shop, land and gas bar owned by Mackenzie Valley Construction located in Inuvik to the Nihtat Corporation for a thirteen month term as proposed, with the condition that the Grizzly Marine agree to pay down their loan to GTC at equal monthly payments within the terms of the lease agreement. Accept An Operational Review, Allegations of Fraudulent Activity Within Dinjii Zhuh Trucking Limited report dated October 8, Board Appointments Establish a GTC Business sub-committee: Herbert Blake, Carolyn Lennie, David Krutko, Danny Greenland and Robert A. Alexie. Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board: recommend (..cont d from previous page) William Koe, Johnny Peterson, David Krutko and Margaret Begg for consideration by the Minister. Gwich in Renewable Resources Board: Peter J. Kaye (the representative) and Sarah Jerome (the alternate). (...cont d on page 6) Follow the GTC on 5

6 Gwich in Land and Water Board: David Krutko, William Koe and Margaret Begg. Establish a GTC Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee as per the Workers Safety Compensation Council regulations. Gwich in Land Use Planning Board: James B. Firth (the representative) and Abraham Stewart Jr. (the alternate). GTC HR Committee: Jozef Carnogursky. GTC Board of Directors: accept Herbert Blake s resignation and Barry Greenland s appointment (Nihtat Gwich in Council representative). Devolution Intergovernmental Council Land and Resource Management subcommittee: Norman Snowshoe. Gwich in Development Corporation Board of Directors: Fred Hunt, Wayne Drury, Nick Mansell, Nicole Jauvin and Geordie Hungerford. Gwich in Council International: Bobbie-Jo Greenland-Morgan (Chair) and Ethel Blake (alternate). Election Committee: Barry Greenland, Carolyn Lennie and David Krutko. GNWT Tourism Board: Margaret Donovan. Special Projects To enter into a partnership agreement with Arctic Energy Alliance to explore projects that increase energy efficiency in Gwich in communities. To provide financial means and resources to implement the Personal Education Credits program in support of participants. Copies of Gwich in Tribal Council minutes are available through the Executive Office or upon request to: Lucy-Anne Kay Corporate Governance Administrator (867) lkay@gwichin.nt.ca Annual Assembly Resolutions Summary The GTC held the 31st Annual General Assembly in Inuvik, NT from August 19th 20th, 2014 at the Midnight Sun Recreation Complex. 30 Gwich in Participants that were elected by their DGOs and 2 official observers from Yellowknife and Whitehorse attended as delegates. GTC would like to thank all those who spoke and participated during the assembly. A special thanks to the individuals that organized, set up, secured and catered the event. Here is a summary of this year s resolutions: RESOLUTION # 001:2014 AGA Gwich in Tribal Council By-Laws No. 1, 2 and 3 1. Authorized and directed to make an application for a Certificate of Continuance of the Corporation 2. The Articles of Continuance (transition) are approved 3. The general operating by-laws of the Corporation (as amended) are repealed and the new general operating by-laws which have been submitted to this meeting and are annexed to these minutes as Schedule B are approved and will be effective. RESOLUTION # 002:2014 AGA Gwich in Settlement Corporation By-Law 1 & 3 1. Authorized and directed to make an application for a Certificate of Continuance of the Corporation 2. The Articles of Continuance (transition) are approved 3. The general operating by-laws of the Corporation (as amended) are repealed and the new general operating by-laws which have been submitted to this meeting and are annexed to these minutes as Schedule B are approved and will be effective. RESOLUTION # 003:2014 AGA Guiding Fiscal Management Direct the GTC Board of Directors to consider the following: 1. Set limits and clear guidelines on the use of lines of credit 2. Ensure that bank accounts be used for the purpose for which they are established 3. Review existing by-laws and consider amendments that will provide flexibility to utilize and manage funds during times of financial downturn or requirement for restraint. 4. All requests of financial resources will require Board approval for all financial requests. RESOLUTION # 004:2014 AGA Board Appointments Recommends that GTC strive to train Gwich in participants to be qualified to sit on Boards established by GTC with the goal to have at least 51% of qualified Gwich in participants. RESOLUTION # 005:2014 AGA Supporting the Wellness Camp Directs the GTC Board of Directors undertake a review to consider the following: 1. Seek external funding to cover operational and program costs 2. Find ways to reduce operational costs 3. Consider ways to improve the use of the Facility. RESOLUTION # 006:2014 AGA Anti-Fracking Declares the Gwich in Settlement Region to be a frack-free zone and calls on the Governments of the Yukon and Northwest Territories to prohibit any fracking in the Yukon and NWT. RESOLUTION # 007:2014 AGA Protection of Watersheds in GSA Direct the GTC Leadership to: 1. Work collaboratively with the Alaska and Yukon Gwich in to maintain quality (...cont d on page 7) The GTC is on 6

7 (...cont d from previous page) of water for human use and ensure access to the quantity of water which will protect, maintain and sustain the Gwich in traditional lifestyle, including our natural resources and environment so that future generations can continue to live on the lands traditionally occupied and used by the Gwich in; and 2. Give political support to the Gwich in Council International in their efforts to seek funds to host a Gwich in Nation Water Conference. RESOLUTION # 008:2014 AGA Tetlit Gwich in/yukon Lands Directs the GTC to: 1. Work with the Tetlit Gwich in Council towards establishing land management and control rules over Tetlit Gwich in Yukon Lands; and 2. Work with the Tetlit Gwich in Council towards a protocol on the administration and management of Tetlit Gwich in Yukon Lands. RESOLUTION # 009:2014 AGA GTC and IGC Bi-lateral meetings Direct the GTC to participate with IGC in bi-lateral meetings as required. RESOLUTION # 010:2014 AGA Gwich in Regional Youth Council Establish a Gwich in Regional Youth Council. RESOLUTION # 011:2014 AGA Affirming the Authority of Assembly Delegates Direct the GTC Executive, GTC Board of Directors and GTC Committees to: 1. Recognize and affirm the authority of the Annual General Assembly while it is in session or adjournment; 2. Provide any and all information to or requested by the delegates to Annual General Assembly to allow delegates to make an informed and reasoned decision with respect to the items noted. RESOLUTION # 012:2014 AGA Assembly Budget To earmark no less than two hundred to three hundred thousand dollars ($200,000 - $300,000) from the annual operational budget of the Tribal Council to hold future effective Annual General Assemblies. RESOLUTION # 013:2014 AGA Mandate of the GTC Self-Government Negotiation Team Approve the self-government negotiations mandate for until the 2015 Annual General Assembly. Copies of Gwich in Tribal Council Annual Assembly Resolutions are available on the Gwich in Tribal Council Website or upon request to: Lucy-Anne Kay Corporate Governance Administrator (867) lkay@gwichin.nt.ca Gwich in Participants at 31st Annual Assembly. Back Row: Daniel Tetlichi, Archie Norbert, Neil Pascal, Neil Firth, Dale Blake, Davie Edwards Middle Row: Sarah Jerome, Morris Blake, Irene Kendo, Serena Wright, Cassandra Francis, Greta Villebrun, Fanny Greenland and Angela Blake Front Row: Mary Effie Snowshoe, Thomas Norbert and Bertha Francis (photo credit: GTC) 7

8 Acting Chief Operating Officer (COO) Helen Sullivan During the past four months, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) has focused mainly on the administration and coordination of internal operational activities of the organization in accordance with by-laws, policies, goals and objectives established by the Gwich in Tribal Council (GTC) Executive and Board of Directors, including: GTC By-law Revision The new Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act establishes a new set of rules for federally incorporated not-for-profit corporations in Canada. These new rules impact the By-laws of the GTC. GTC had until October 17th, 2014 to make the transition and come into compliance with the new Act. As part of this process, the GTC needed to review and amend our By-laws to ensure compliance to the Act. Corporations that do not make the transition by the deadline will be assumed to be inactive and will be dissolved. (the date that each Gwich in organization can begin to use the By-Laws) is the date that the By-Laws were accepted at their annual Assembly. Election for GTC President GTC began the process of electing a GTC President by advertising a Request for Expression of Interest (REOI) for the position of Chief Returning Officer (CRO). The closing date for the REOI was July 25th, The Board of Directors appointed a CRO on August 22, The CRO is presently conducting the election in compliance with the GTC Elections Policy and Procedures Manual. Update: Notice has been given to eligible voters of the GTC that the following individuals have been nominated for President: James A Wilson and Richard Nerysoo. Advance Poll Date is Wednesday, November 5th from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Election Day is Monday, November 17th from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm. Advance Poll & Election Day Venues Aklavik Aklavik Indian Band Board Room Fort McPherson Chii Tsal Dik Gwisheh (The Lodge) Inuvik Nihtat Gwich in Council Alex Moses Greenland Building Board Room 105 Veteran s Way Tsiigehtchic Chief Paul Niditchie School Gymnasium Personal Education Credit Program (PEC) One-time Personal Credits of up to $3,000 are redeemable by Common Experience Program (CEP) recipients for personal or group education programs and services provided by approved educational entities and groups. A main purpose of the PEC is to reclaim through education the First Nations languages and cultures that were taken away during the residential (...cont d on page 9) Gwich in Camp, 2014 (photo credit: Helen Sullivan) Update: By-law revisions were passed at the Annual General Assembly in August and were filed with Corporations Canada by Field Law prior to the October 17th deadline. AGA delegates agreed that there is a need to further develop and revise the By-laws. GTC and the DGOs will work on them over the winter with the intention of bringing them to the AGA in August, Copies of newly revised By-laws, Election Codes, and Certificates of Continuance were received by GTC in early October and were circulated to DGOs and Executive. The effective date of the By-laws For more information, visit us online at 8

9 scheme has been implemented and annual Staff Performance Reviews have been completed by Directors. A Compensation Review has been completed by COO and was briefly discussed at the HR/Finance Committee Meeting on October 15th, This review included the Consumer Price Index and Performance-Based Bonuses. The GTC s Organizational Chart is in its final revision stage. Fall Harvest, Husky Channel 2014 (photo credit: Helen Sullivan) (...cont d from previous page) school era. The GTC is a group service provider for the PEC program. Update: Working team/relationship established in the GTC Office in early July, Procedures and practices were implemented to respond to participant inquiries and handling of Redemption Forms. Business and educational entities were contacted and PEC accounts were established in four Gwich in communities. Program is well underway in all communities. Deadlines: October 31, 2014 (midnight) Deadline for CEP Recipient to submit Acknowledgement Form December 1, 2014 (midnight) Deadline for Education Entity or Group Educational Service to submit Redemption Form April 30, 2015 Deadline to spend the Personal Credit Organization Review In the summer of 2013, the GTC initiated a process to evaluate the sustainability of its existing HR Policies and structures. The Association of Management, Consulting and Management and Evaluation Services (AMCES) were hired to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the existing human resource situation from both a governance and an operational perspective. The anticipated results for the 2013/2014 fiscal year were: 1. New job descriptions for all GTC employees 2. A revision to all pay scales for the organization 3. A new performance evaluation scheme 4. A new organizational design, with new lines of authority and a new departmental scheme Update: New job descriptions have been competed. Pay scales of the organization have been reviewed. A new performance evaluation Chairmanship of Gwich in Council International The Gwich in Council International (GCI) was established as a non-profit organization in 1999 by the Gwich in Tribal Council in Inuvik, NWT, to ensure that all regions of the Gwich in Nation in the Northwest Territories, Yukon and Alaska are represented at the Arctic Council. The GCI also plays an active and significant role in the development of policies that relate to the Circumpolar Arctic. GTC assumed chairmanship of the GCI for a one year term in August, Bobbie Jo Greenland-Morgan was appointed as GCI Chairperson, effective October 22, Records Management The GTC is in the process of adopting a centralized filing management system to better manage records and documents. An information management specialist was engaged to determine steps that need to be taken. Work has begun on this initiative and policies and procedures are being developed to ensure that the records management procedures are established and maintained throughout the organization Year End Reports The following reports have been posted on the GTC website: GTC Annual Report GTC AGA Resolutions 2014 Check out the Gwich in Tribal Council on Facebook! 9

10 Finance Department Financial Management The GTC will continue to review the performance of all of our programs to ensure continuous improvements in the quality of services to our participants in a financially efficient manner. We will continue to improve our budget management system to provide more timely and detailed financial information for transparency and accountability of all operations. More management information will be provided to the Board on projects and programs. Financial by-laws, policies and procedures are being updated, and financial systems are being reviewed. This will lead to stronger financial controls and better risk management. The overall financial performance of the GTC has been strong over the last couple of years, but the current problem being experienced in the financial markets and the recent drop in resource prices are being closely monitored. When the GTC budget for the was approved in March, we projected revenues of $10.0 million and expenses of $10.2 million. After six months of operation, we now hope to balance our budget on a non-consolidated basis this year. With the Gwich in Development Corporation (GDC), we will continue to closely monitor our asset mix and the performance of our investment managers to ensure that our investment objectives are achieved. To ensure a continued high level of transparency and accountability, organizations that receive funding from GSC will continue to provide an annual budget and work plan and quarterly progress reports. The performance of GDC will be closely monitored. GDC will manage risks by evaluating the current investment portfolio, with consideration given to restructuring, maintaining management and administrative overhead in GDC and subsidiaries at sustainable levels, and by looking at investment prospects inside and outside the Gwich in Settlement Area. Gwich in Elders at Self-Government Conference. Standing: Sarah Jerome, Freddy Jerome, Alice Vittrekwa, Alestine Andre, Peter Kay Jr., Ernest Vittrekwa, Robert McLeod, Norman Snowshoe, Fanny Greenland and Mabel Brown. Seated: Stephen Bonnetplume, Renie Stewart, Annie B. Gordon, Mary Teya and Eileen Koe (photo credit: GTC) 10

11 Lands, Resources & Intergovernmental Affairs Patrick Tomlinson, Director Self-Government The GTC continues to negotiate selfgovernment with the governments of Canada and NWT. At present, the parties are meeting every three months - sometimes in Yellowknife, sometimes in Edmonton, and about half the time in Gwich in communities. For example, next January the main table negotiations are scheduled to take place in Fort McPherson. Next March, they are scheduled for Aklavik. Following the instruction of several GTC Board motions, as well as Annual General Assembly (AGA) motions in 2013 and 2014, the Gwich in negotiation team is made up of six individuals: one representative from each community Designated Gwich in Organization (DGO), the Vice President of the GTC, and the Director of Intergovernmental Relations. Currently, the community representatives are: Eugene Pascal (Aklavik), Barry Greenland (Inuvik), David Krutko (Fort McPherson), and Carolyn Lennie (Tsiigehtchic). In May 2014, the GTC negotiation team submitted to the governments a 39 chapter, 105 page position paper that contains proposals for an agreementin-principle. The position paper was developed by the negotiation team in a series of strategic sessions and ultimately approved by the GTC Board of Directors in April. Since delivery to the governments, the position paper has formed the basis for all negotiations and the GTC has received positive feedback. It is anticipated that the document will be completely reviewed by all parties by January 2015, at which time a more serious set of negotiations will commence. At a recent negotiation session, the GTC confirmed a very important point related to self-government that should be of interest to many: Status Indian Non-Insured Health Benefits will not be affected by a Gwich in self-government. This means that the various vision care, prescription drugs and other benefits from the Non-Insured Health Benefits program would continue undisturbed if the Gwich in vote in favour of a self-government agreement. GCLCA Implementation The GTC Intergovernmental Lands and Resources department continues to implement the GCLCA by various means and activities. The most important meetings on implementation continue to be the Implementation Committee meetings (3 or 4 times a year). The most recent meeting took place in Yellowknife in July At that meeting, GTC secured several commitments from the governments, including a $50,000 grant to re-print revised copies of the GCLCA. The GTC hopes to have the new copies of the GCLCA printed by April 2015, at which time copies will be distributed to each DGO. Other discussions that took place at the previous Committee meeting include: a review of the dispute resolution chapter; a clarification of the GTC role on outstanding Treaty 11 issues; and the development of a plan to consider further activities associated with Chapter 10: Economic Measures. The review of the 10 Year Implementation Plan continues. Recently, GTC met with community representatives and Renewable Resource Council officials in Fort McPherson, Tsiigehtchic and Aklavik, as well as with the Gwich in Renewable Resource Board in Inuvik. It is expected that the work plan associated with the 10 Year Implementation Plan will be signed off by the parties in December. GTC will continue to meet with community representatives as requested to review the work plan contents and answer any questions. (...cont d on page 12) GTC Board of Directors. In this photo: Carolyn Lennie, Barry Greenland, Norman Snowshoe, David Krutko (photo credit: GTC) 11

12 Intergovernmental Curriculum Committee. Standing: Patrick Tomlinson, John Norbert, Diana Barr, Sarah Jerome, Alestine Andre, Velma Illasiak, Shannon Jensen, Sharon Snowshoe, Liz Gordon and William George Firth. Front: Bertha Francis and Diane Baxter (photo credit: GTC) (...cont d from previous page) The financial terms related to the 10 Year Plan will begin in mid-november, when representatives from the Governments of Canada and the Northwest Territories travel to Inuvik to meet with Vice President Norman Snowshoe. The GTC is now committed to producing several high school courses by April 1, The first course will be taught in Fort McPherson and Aklavik in the last semester of the school year. Several others will follow in September. of GTC staff. The first communities to be targeted will be Yellowknife, Edmonton and Whitehorse in December Participants living in GSA communities will be approached in January and February Year Human Resources Strategy As explained at the 2014 AGA, the GTC is currently planning and executing a 10 Year Human Resources (HR) Strategy to address community concerns related to Gwich in capacity to take on the work of self-government. One key component of the HR strategy is a reform of the public school curriculum in GSA high achools. The GTC has convened an Advisory committee of specialists in related fields to provide advice and suggestions about a new set of high school courses that will focus on Gwich in history and culture. Also related to the 10 Year HR Strategy is a plan to reform the collection, management and storage of enrollment information by the Gwich in Enrollment Board. GTC staff, including the enrollment board coordinator, the IT specialist and members of the intergovernmental relations team are now redesigning the application form and the identity cards used by the Enrollment Board. As part of these changes, GTC staff will be contacting all Gwich in participants to confirm their personal information and to acquire some extra information to add to our system. Participants will be given the option to fill out the form online, or in person with the assistance Follow the GTC on 12

13 Gwich in Services Robert Charlie, Director The Gwich in Services team consists of the following staff: Margaret Gordon Manager Education and Training Cheryl Wright Office Manager Gina Firth Receptionist Suraj Chhetri IT Support Mariah Peterson Career Development Officer Susan Ross Resolution Health Support Worker We are responsible for various activities within the department that I will report on: Recruitment We continue to assist with vacancies within various departments in the organization. Education & Training We have 3 sources of funding available for those who want to continue their education. The Education Foundation supports Gwich in Participants attending Post-Secondary institutions who have obtained major funding for their program. The Education Foundation will provide a top-up bursary to assist these students. We have received approximately 45 applications for bursaries for this semester. The Imperial Fund is for students attending programs related to the Oil and Gas industry. The Imperial Fund will provide a top-up bursary to these students. The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy (ASETS) fund assists clients with education and training that will lead to employment. The current agreement will end on March 31, We anticipate that the ASETS agreement will continue with some minor changes. There have been some initial consultation sessions, but we have not had any further meetings. In addition, we provide scholarships and graduation gifts from the Education Foundation. Students must achieve an 80% average to be eligible for the scholarships and must obtain a certificate of graduation to receive graduation gifts. (...cont d on page 14) Gwich in Services. Standing: Suraj Chhetri, Mariah Peterson, Cheryl Wright, Margaret Gordon and Robert Charlie. Seated: Susan Ross and Georgina Firth (photo credit: GTC) 13

14 (...cont d from previous page) Activities: We have been quite busy in the education and training area with the following activities: Assisting clients with resume writing, job searches and training requests Aurora College Mobile Trades Training Lab. We are partnering with the College to deliver a Building Trades Helper program from August to October We are also partnering with the College and IRC on a Personal Support Worker program which started in September, 2014 We will assist clients with training to employment on the Tuk Highway project. ASETS: The Aboriginal Skills to Employment Training Program (ASETS) is delivered by GTC on behalf of Service Canada. This is a five year program up to March 31st, The three strategic priorities of ASETS are: Demand driven skills development, Partnerships with the private sector and across the whole of government, and Accountability for improved results. The following are some of the objectives of the program: Help improve the employment opportunities of aboriginal people Enable them to fully participate in the Canadian economy Increase the participation in the Canadian Labour Market Be responsive to the skills demands of employers and promote strategic partnerships with the private sector. Our Operational Plan with Service Canada has been accepted and we are presently assisting clients with training that will lead to employment. The criteria for ASETS are very specific. The program objective is to improve the Employability of Aboriginal People within the GSA. Wellness We are concentrating on support to clients who are going through the Independent Assessment Process related to claims under the Indian Residential School program. In addition, we have taken on the responsibility of assisting clients with their applications for Personal Education Credits. Clients who have received a Common Experience Payment are eligible for a $3000 dollar Personal Education Credits. These credits can be used for their education, transferred to family, or used for other eligible wellness-related activities. A majority of clients are using these credits for on-the-land activities. The deadlines are very tight and there are a lot of issues with the implementation of this program, but we are doing the best we can under the circumstances. The following are the deadlines: October 31, 2014 PEC application deadline December 31, 2014 Personal education credits must be spent based on what you have identified in the Redemption form. April 30, 2015 Educational services where credits are being applied must be completed. Other Services Regional Training Partnership (RTP) Margaret Gordon attends the meetings of the RTP to strategize with other education service providers in Inuvik on potential opportunities for training in the region. Enrolment This is an on-going activity. To date, we have approximately 3400 participants enrolled. Gwich in Harvester s Assistance Program A review of the GHAP is in progress. We have received the report from the Contractor and will be reviewing it with the Communities to get their input and final decision. This will then be presented to the Board for their approval and we can implement this new Policy for the spring, 2015 allocation. GTC Human Resources Manual The final draft has been completed. This will be presented to the GTC Board for their approval. GTC Safety Manual This manual has been completed. We have formed a Health and Safety Committee and are holding regular monthly meetings. Margaret Gordon is the lead on this committee. Liaison Community Employment Officers contact us daily to provide assistance with their day-to-day tasks. We support the employment officers in Aklavik, Ft McPherson and Tsiigehtchic with their client interactions and also provide them with training support. Administration We assist clients with funding requests, job searches and resumes, update the KETO database and develop contribution agreements. Information Technology A new server and telephone system have been installed. We are up to speed with the latest technology. This ends my report. On behalf of Gwich in Services, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to provide you with an update on our activities. Haii Robert Charlie Director, Gwich in Services The GTC is on 14

15 Gwich in Development Corporation We are happy to bring you this update on the activities of your Gwich in Development Corporation (GDC). Change began in September 2013 with a new Board of Directors out of a selection of candidates from across Canada. Most recently, the Board has hired a President and Managing Director for Dinjii Zhuh. The first order of business: to strengthen the GDC with the goal to be a positive contributor to the GTC and to the the Gwich in People. The objective is to look at each business interest and to decide what action is required in the best interests of the Gwich in People. Most importantly and immediate are decisions with Dinjii Zhuh and Mackenzie Valley Construction. Dinjii Zhuh has consistently lost money and Mackenzie Valley Construction has no management structure to carry it forward as an operating company. Both companies have some excellent assets equipment, land and contracts. The goal is to undertake business decisions that allow the GDC to take advantage of the best, while getting rid of the rest. Many will have heard now of the change with Dinjii Zhuh. Dinjii Zhuh holds the road maintenance contract on the Dempster Highway between Mile 0 and Mile 146. The management team reviewed all options available for reorganization of delivery of the contract and determined that they best was to subcontract the road maintenance to a private operator out of Fort MacPherson. Winter is not the best time of the year to make a major change, but change was required. The road maintenance contract is now being done by LJ Contracting, a 50% Gwich in-owned company that will carry on the contract for the next six months to allow GDC management to fully review all options for the road maintenance. We now look to a positive contribution for the GDC from the operations of the maintenance contract by LJ Contracting. Another major initiative underway at this time is providing assistance to the GTC in negotiations with the Government of the Northwest Territories for access to construct the proposed fibre optic line to Inuvik. The line is proposed to cross approximately 180 kilometers of Gwich in land. Other than securing lease fees, there was not much security in the Gwich in receiving contracting and employment benefits. The GDC management has been working with the GTC to negotiate a Benefit Agreement that would see the Gwich in being directly involved in the construction activities along the fibre optic line within the Gwich in Land Settlement Area. Another initiative is the GDC involvement in a project at the Inuvik Airport. These are just a couple of the significant initiatives underway. In all of these, the objective is to build on the strengths of the past towards a sustainable future for the GDC and the Gwich in People from the activities of the Gwich in Development Corporation. Photo credit: GTC For more information, visit us online at 15

16 Gwìch inat Eenjit Gàdatr igwijìlcheii Gidilii Gwìch in nan, nakhwek yùu ts àt gwitr it tthak nakhwidavee gwiheezàa eenjit Gwich in Tribal Council Gwich in land, culture & economy for a better future 2014 ELECTION INFORMATION NOTICE OF CANDIDATES NOMINATED Notice is hereby given to the eligible voters of the Gwich in Tribal Council that the following individuals have been nominated for the following position: President: James A. Wilson Richard Nerysoo ADVANCE POLLS November 5, 2014 Advance Poll hours shall be from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Polling Locations: EHDllTAT GWICH IN COUNCIL -Aklavik NIHTAT GWICH IN COUNCIL - lnuvik CHIEF PAUL NIDITCHIE GYMNASIUM - Tsiigehtchic CHll TSAL DIK GWIZHEH (the Lodge) - Fort McPherson REGULAR POLLS November 17, 2014 Polling hours shall be from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Polling Locations: EHDllTAT GWICH IN COUNCIL -Aklavik NIHTAT GWICH IN COUNCIL - Inuvik CHIEF PAUL NIDITCHIE GYMNASIUM - Tsiigehtchic CHII TSAL DIK GWIZHEH (the Lodge) - Fort McPherson GTC ELECTIONS OFFICE Mary Ann Ross, Chief Returning Officer 198 Mackenzie Road, Capital Suites, Suite 117 PO Box 3050, Inuvik, NT X0E 0T0 Phone: (867) Fax: (867) gtcelections2014@outlook.com Check out the Gwich in Tribal Council on Facebook! 16

17 Gwich in Harvesters Assistance Program The Gwich in Harvesters Assistance Trust was set up to assist our harvesters. This year we processed all the applications as prescribed by the Gwich in Harvesters Assistance Program (GHAP) Policy. If there were any issues with the allocation process, the GHAP appeal process was used to address the concerns. 88 participants were eligible for assistance. Over the years, there have been many issues raised with this program. This year the GTC hired Brian Penney to carry out a review of the GHAP based on direction from the communities. Mr. Penney went to all the communities and conducted interviews. Based on these interviews he provided the GTC with his recommendations. The GTC is currently reviewing these recommendations. It is very important that we do this analysis to ensure that the GHAP Trust can sustain any additional funding requirements. The review also discussed the roles of the Renewable Resources and the Program Management Committee. All communities will be informed of the direction the GHAP will take as it assist all Harvesters. Peel Watershed Litigation The GTC has taken a strong stand opposing Yukon Government s proposed Land Use Plan for the Peel Watershed region. For the past six months, GTC has acted as an intervener in a legal action brought by a consortium of Yukon First Nations and environmental groups to strike down a Yukon Government plan and to reinstate a Land Use Plan for the Peel that was created by the Planning Commission in The Gwich in own numerous parcels of land in the Peel Watershed and enjoy hunting and trapping rights in addition to other rights in an even larger area throughout Yukon. The various Gwich in rights, benefits and conditions of land ownership in Yukon are contained in Appendix C of the GCLCA, the Yukon Transboundary Agreement. In July, the entire GTC Board of Directors travelled to Whitehorse to attend a four day court session to go over the facts of the case and hear the two sides. The parties were then asked by the judge to attend a one day court session in October to review possible remedies. The judge is expected to release his judgment by Christmas. Vice President Norman Snowshoe and citizens of Tr ondëk Hwëch in First Nation and Nacho Nyak Dun First Nation gather during a break at the Peel Watershed Trial in Whitehorse, YT (photo credit: GTC) 17

18 Designated Gwich in Organizations Ehdiitat Gwich in Council (EGC) Drin Gwiinzii. We are pursuing additional training for Tourism Guides for Tourism Small Business Development. They were trained in Aklavik and many of them have achieved their Level I and Level II in Tourism Guiding. We have accessed funding from the GNWT Anti-Poverty Program and have starting fishing to help low-income families and Elders offset the high cost of living in Aklavik and to provide nutritional country food. We are getting ready for fishing under the ice and will include workshops and traditional knowledge from our Elders about fishing methods and fish preparation. This month, we will be working on the Aklavik Visitors Centre, upgrading and building displays to have it ready for next season. We are going to get the wood stove installed and start working on finishing the logs and stairs as well. Other Activities: Building gardening infrastructure through raised bed gardens and garden start-ups. Receiving and distributing a few bedding plants in the community this past growing season. We presented the EGC audit at our Annual Assembly for the EGC; it was approved by membership. Acceptance and approval of the revised Bylaw No. 1 and the transition to the Canada Not-for-Profit Act. Ehdiitat Gwich in Council Elections will take place on Nov 17th; early poll on the 5th for 7 directors. Starting work for Gwich in Municipal lands, including creating files on all properties registered to the EGC. We believe in working cooperatively with other organizations. We support community initiatives and activities. The Take Back the Night event was very successful. The Health Center s CHR Gladys Edwards and Health and Social Services walked with supporters around town and ended up here at the Band Office for donuts and chili (sponsored by the AIB). The EGC will continue to be involved in cultural and language activities. We are getting ready to help families that want to learn about fishing and fish preparation. The office has been busy with meetings for Self-government, Youth Council, GTC Implementation of the GCLCA and new programs. We welcome and encourage the membership to visit our office and stop by for coffee. Hai Choo, Robert Buckle, Executive Director Gwichya Gwich in Council (GGC) The GGC of Tsiigehtchic was elected in December 2013 for a one year term as per the 1992 Bylaw #1. Elected were President Carolyn Lennie and Members John D. Firth, Charlene Blake, Maureen Cardinal-Clark, Herbert (Mickey) Andre and Margaret Nazon. The elected Council completed a strategic plan, budget and work plan for the period of April 1st, 2014 to March 31, The operating theme for the GGC for the next year is Evolving. The Council felt that, over the past couple of years, the goal is moving forward and advancing the Gwicha Gwich in interest at all levels: community, regional, and territorial. Since 2010, the GGC has taken measures to update their Bylaw #1. A draft Bylaw #1 was presented to the Gwicha Gwich in Annual Assembly in 2012 and 2013, with approval to make changes and incorporate changes of the new regulations under the not-for-profit legislation coming into effect October In July 2014, the GGC received notification from Industry Canada that the Council is now in compliance with the new legislation. The name change Gwichya Gwich in has been accepted and a notice of continuance was issued. Interests of the Gwichya Gwich in are represented in various forums: Gwich in Self-Government, Gwich in Tribal Council board of directors, Gwich in Renewable Resource Council, and with the Government of the Northwest Territories. The next GGC elections will be held in December 2014 to coincide with our Gwichya Gwich n Annual General Assembly. Since the new Bylaw changes, the term will be for a three (3) year period for President and Council. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the GGC office at (867) Mahsi Cho, Carolyn Lennie, President Follow the GTC on 18

19 Designated Gwich in Organizations Nihtat Gwich in Council (NGC) It is my pleasure to provide this update of the NGC activities for this newsletter. The current NGC Directors are Amy Amos, Barry Greenland, Duane Debastien, Richard Ross Jr. and myself, Jozef Carnogursky as President. The NGC appointed members to the GTC are myself and Barry Greenland. Staff at NGC consist of Terry Peterson, Lee- Ann Nerysoo and Allen Firth. The NGC has been very busy on a number of initiatives. We continue to show strong management with regard to financial matters both under NGC and within our business ventures. In fact, during our term, we have produced surpluses and profits in all of our ventures that are currently operating and we have controlled spending which has increased our accumulated surplus for the last 2 consecutive years. Grizzly Marine Services Ltd. for example, has injected over $1 million in wages into communities last year alone, while continuing to make profits for its shareholders. Over the last year, we have also employed over 30 people in various positions. As a result of our management controls, we are now in a position to utilize the profits generated by our economic arm. Just recently, the NGC decided to purchase some commercial property here in Inuvik. We are in the process of designing a new building for the Nihtat Gwich in and we will be seeking community input on what our members want in a building. We are looking to have the building completed by August The Nihtat Corporation has also leased the shop and gas bar known as Mackenzie Valley Construction from the Gwich in Development Corporation. We will be providing fuel services, automotive repairs and servicing, storage and vehicle rentals. This will not only provide alternative options for our community, but it will also create employment opportunities. We also continue to push for economic opportunities for our membership with regard to projects that occur in the Inuvik region, like the Mackenzie Fiber Link Project. The NGC has also been a strong supporter in community functions.last year, we donated over $20,000 to different initiatives. Some of these initiatives include donations to Aboriginal Day, Canada Day, Gwich in Day and the East Three Breakfast Program. We have donated to individuals and groups for such things as soccer, hockey, basketball, curling and figure skating, and to families that have lost loved ones over the last year. The last year has not been without its challenges, but we have worked as a team towards the best interests of our membership. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the Nihtat staff and my colleagues on Council for their continued support and professionalism. Lastly, and most importantly, I want to thank my wife, family and friends for their support during the last two years. I really appreciate it and I am truly thankful! Best regards, Jozef Carnogursky President, NGC Tetlit Gwich in Council (TGC) The Tetlit Gwich in Council held their election on October 27th, The newly elected representatives are: President Wilbert Firth Councillors Glen Alexie Leslie P. Blake Abe Wilson David Krutko Mackenzie River. Photo credit: GTC The Council will be undergoing a group orientation and strategic planning session in the coming weeks. An update will be provided in the next Gwich in Tribal Council newsletter. The GTC is on 19

20 Gwich in Social & Cultural Institute (GSCI) Arctic Council TK Principles GSCI has been asked by Gwich in Council International (GCI) to take part in meetings and provide input into the Traditional Knowledge (TK) Principles being developed by the Sustainable Development Working Group of the Arctic Council. These Principles are meant to guide all future Arctic Council research. There may be opportunities for GSCI to become involved in other Arctic Council TK initiatives under the wing of GCI. GSCI Strategic Plan Finalized Iindoo Khehłok Tr eedah: Moving Forward as One. Gwich in Social and Cultural Institute 5-Year Plan Teetl it Gwich in Land Use History Book Project Funding committed for year 1 of 2 Over the next two years, GSCI will work with Dr. Michael Heine and the community of Fort McPherson on the Teetl it Gwich in community history book. Dr. Heine was awarded tenure from Western University and is taking a one year sabbatical to work on the book with GSCI and the Teetl it Gwich in. Berger Inquiry GSCI will continue to work with Drew Ann Wake, a reporter during the Berger Inquiry in the 1970s, to make her audio recording and photos (taken by Michael Jackson, legal counsel for Justice Berger) more accessible to the public. Dempster Highway Grave Signage GSCI will continue to work with Yukon Heritage, the Tr ondek Hwech in and the Teetl it Gwich in Council and/or RRC to ensure that the remaining signs are installed along the highway. Gwich in Curriculum Committee Funded by GTC GSCI has been asked to provide input into the curriculum that GTC is developing in partnership with the local high schools. Alestine is currently sitting on the advisory committee and providing advice and information as required. (...cont d on page 21) William Koe, Peel River, 2014 (photo credit: GSCI) For more information, visit us online at 20

21 (...cont d from previous page) Gwich in Goonanh kak Googwandak: The Places and Stories of the Gwich in Online Atlas, Maps, Yukon submissions Gwich in Online Atlas with Carleton University funded by GNWT GSCI will continue to work with the Geomatics and Cartographic Research Centre at Carleton on the atlas. Gwich in Maps 300,000 scale wall map and series of 1:250,000 scale maps GSCI will finalize these maps and make them available in digital form plus print and distribute copies to the communities. Yukon Official Place Name Submissions GSCI submitted 216 place names for official recognition in the Yukon in late March Twelve names have been officially recognized to date. GSCI will continue to answer any questions and, if funding permits, attend Yukon Geographical Place Names Board meetings in Whitehorse with Elders from Fort McPherson to review the submissions as they are reviewed. Land Use Permit, Archaeological Permit, Scientific Research Licence Applications & Research Agreements GSCI continues to review permits and applications and to negotiate Research Agreements based on the GTC TK Policy Mackenzie Valley Fibre Link Project Contract with Stantec GSCI reviewed the draft terms of reference for an Archaeological Impact Assessment for the summer of 2014 between Fort Good Hope and Inuvik. Gwich in Wedding Moccasins Species at Risk Projects Funded by Species at Risk and GRRB This project is being carried out by the GRRB with Kristi Benson taking the lead as researcher and GSCI staff assisting and reviewing final reports. Species researched include Bluenose Caribou and Mountain Woodland Caribou. Steppe Bison Exhibit GSCI will continue to work with a steering committee from the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre (Yellowknife) to create a number of standalone, travel and web exhibits about this 12,000 year old find - including an exhibit for the Chief Paul Niditchie School in Tsiigehtchic. Ingrid is currently sitting on this committee. Students GSCI will continue to work with the following students as needed. Thea Luig, Ph.D. student, University of Alberta Northwind or not, we re walking down Life Changes and Well-being in a Northern Aboriginal (photo credit: Shayla Snowshoe, Snowshoe Studios) Community. Teetl it Gwich in Stories of Overcoming Hardship and Living a Strong, Healthy Life. Crystal Fraser, Ph.D. student, University of Alberta History of Education in the NWT from Angela James, Ph.D. student, Simon Fraser University Long Ago and Today A narrative focusing on stories of NWT Elders traditional Aboriginal pedagogies and comparing them to contemporary educational approaches. Cathy McRae, M.A. student, Lakehead University Northern Frontier, Northern Homeland An examination of the Impacts of the Mackenzie Valley Pipeline Inquiry on Hydrocarbon Development in the NWT Lawrence Keyte, M.A. student, Trent University Energy Resilience in Northern communities Critical Success for Sustainable Northern Energy. Daryl English Yukon College Heritage and Cultural Program Sharon Snowshoe Executive Director Gwich in Social and Cultural Institute Check out the Gwich in Tribal Council on Facebook! 21

22 Gwich in Language Report The Government of the NWT gave greater responsibilities for language revitalization programs to the aboriginal groups for the fiscal year of 2014/2015. Additional funding was provided to aboriginal governments to implement their regional language plans, which were developed by each region. To assist with planning for implementation, the GNWT provided regional Aboriginal Groups with $60,000 each. This funding was used to host a regional workshop with participants from each of the four Gwich in communities in April In the workshop, participants set a work plan based on the regional language plan. The funding was also used for purchasing capital equipment to assist in the delivery of the language revitalization program. There were seven goals identified in the work plan in addition to continuing to work on the online dictionary, collecting elders biographies and literacy projects. I will outline three projects that we are currently working on at the current time. Gwich in Language Online Dictionary Since we began work on the online dictionary, we have accumulated numerous terms and phrases. These are now being divided into concrete sections for use within the database. We have continued to record the information we have on file and have added other similar terms and phrases. Eleanor Mitchell-Firth continues to record two elders in voicing over all the entries of the Dictionary and will be entering them into the audio dictionary. We began to work with and partnered with the community of Old Crow, where the Vuntut dialect is spoken. We are also working with a consultant on dictionary software. We will tap into what the dictionary software has to offer in terms of entering the data collection of dictionary terms and phrases. Mentor Apprentice Workshop William Firth is working on delivering a mentor-apprenticeship program in each of the Gwich in communities. A person who would like to learn the Gwich in language is buddied up with an elder. The apprentice commits to a total of 50 hours a month, where the elder and apprentice have to meet and only speak the language. There is no writing to be done at this point. The goal is to listen to the language and encourage the speaking of the language. There is an agreement between the elder as mentor and student as apprentice on making a commitment to the program. A work plan has to be developed. An evaluation must be done prior to the program and again after the program. If you would like to participate in this mentor apprentice program, please contact William at the Gwich in Language Centre at Gwich in Literacy and Liturgical Workshop In November 18-20, 2014, the annual Gwich in Literacy and Liturgical workshop will be conducted by the Yukon Native Language Center. William would like to invite two participants from each of the Gwich in communities to participate in this workshop. If you are interested in participating in this workshop, please contact William at the Gwich in Language Centre at Peter & Mary Kay Anniversary Peter and Mary Kay celebrated their 75th Wedding Anniversary on July 12, The oldest living Gwich in person, Peter also celebrated his 99th birthday on October 18th. Mary celebrates her 95th birthday on December 22, Congratulations! Mary & Peter Kay (photo credit: R.A. Alexie) Follow the GTC on 22

23 Run to Protect the Peel Hello to all Gwich in! I am so grateful, thankful, and appreciative towards the strong base of Gwich in supporters out there for my long Protect the Peel runs! A very big Hai Cho for your prayers, thoughts, and personal donations during my runs! I want you to know that your help saved my arse on the highways this spring and summer! I want to take this opportunity to express my respects and empathy to Renie and the Alexie family for their tragic loss of our friend and President Robert Alexie Jr. Robert was a special supporter to me. I will forever cherish the lessons and stories he shared with me. That man made my belly laugh so hard! Hai Cho to Robert Alexie Jr. I will continue to share my voice, strengths, experiences and hopes through my runs on the NWT highways and ice roads. Running long distance is my gift and I will continue to run for the protection of Peel Watershed. My wish is to bring youth with me in the Peel Watershed for a Youth Leadership Running Camp someday. Once again thank you for being there for me. My efforts are your efforts! Long live the Peel Watershed. Sincerely, Caribou Legs (Brad Firth) Photo credit: Brad Firth The GTC is on 23

24 Contact Us Gwichya Gwich in Council PO Box 58 Tsiigehtchic NT X0E 0B0 Ph: Fax: Tetlit Gwich in Council PO Box 30 Fort McPherson X0E 0J0 Ph: Fax: Ehdiitat Gwich in Council PO Box 118 Aklavik NT X0E 0A0 Ph: Fax: Nihtat Gwich in Council PO Box 2570 Inuvik NT X0E 0T0 Ph: Fax: To update your mailing address, please call the Enrolment office (toll free): Winter Scenery facebook.com/gwichinselfgovernment Gwich in Tribal Council 1-3 Council Crescent/ PO Box 1509 Inuvik, NT X0E 0T0 Phone: (867) Fax: (867)