Aboriginal Marketplace

Volume 2 - Issue 2 ///// March 2013

NEW Coastal Business Resources Centre

opening

National

Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo – shares his economic vision –

Raising

+

Infrastructure Financing

Project Raven

Technology Training for the First Nations Job Seeker

a b o r i g i n a l m a r k e t p l a c e . c o m

EXCELLENCE Excellence is the only option.

At Westkey we do not celebrate mediocrity.

Instead we invest in the best and strive for perfection in quality of service and products. Setting the bar as high as we have assures that customer expectations are exceeded.

Westkey is a proud supporter of First Nations and First Nations business in Canada.

PRINT . LABELS . FORMS

ONE S STOP, ST TOP, ONE 1SOURCE .800.663.9952

OP, ONE SOUR SOURCE SOU RCE

WestkeyGraphics.com

///// COVER STORY

11

National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo Shares his economic vision

///// IN THIS ISSUE

8 15

Publisher 2G Group of Companies geoff@2ggroup.ca Managing Editor Marlon Louis editor@aboriginalmarketplace.com Design / Production Tina Skujins tina@2ggroup.ca Advertising Sales Marlon Louis editor@aboriginalmarketplace.com Contributors Paul Clements-Hunt, Neil Philcox, Paul Kariya, Raminder Grewal, Chief Shawn A-In-Chut Atleo, Robyn Allan, Keith Henry, Massey Whiteknife, Merle Alexander PRODUCTION SCHEDULE January, March, April/May, June/July, Sept/Oct and Nov/Dec Distribution Aboriginal Marketplace is published by 2G Group of Companies ©2012 all rights reserved. The magazine is distributed online in Canada and the United States. The views expressed in the Aboriginal Marketplace are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily those of the publisher or staff. www.aboriginalmarketplace.com

16

20

28

04

Infrastructure: There’s no bigger conversation

06 08 12

What is the future of the Clean Energy Sector in BC? living with wildfires Cando inspiring success

15

Project Raven Technology Training for the First Nations Job Seeker

16

Crude Oil Pipelines, Tanker Traffic, Spill Risk and BC

20 23 24 28

coastal Business resources Centre

30

opening in Prince Rupert, BC Moving Forward together 2 BADGERS CONSULTING INC

New Gold Skeetchestn Indian Band and Tk’emlups te Secwepemc …Working Together for a Stronger Future A note from Keith Henry Chief Executive Officer

///// features

07 Environmental Monitor 18 Keeping it Riel

19 Featured Business 26 Legal Eagle

Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013 3

Infrastructure:

There’s no bigger conversation

By Paul Clements-Hunt & Neil Philcox The Blended Capital Group

Over four months in late 2012, the Swiss Foundation Global Energy Basel engaged with a broad range of project developers, investors, financiers and policy-makers as part of a worldwide meeting series focused on “Infrastructure for a Changing World”. Kicking off in the heart of London at the Royal Commonwealth Society (21 September), the global series moved onto meetings at Citigroup in New York ( 27 September), then BoE/Nedbank in Cape Town (26 October) and finally to HSBC in Hong Kong ( 7 December).

Major assets owners, such as the British Telecoms Pension System and the Government Employees Pension Fund of South Africa, joined with global banks like HSBC and Citigroup to explore how to accelerate the deployment of capital at scale into resilient, low carbon infrastructure solutions that build better lives. The Blended Capital Group, an investment advisory company which recently opened its Vancouver office, was responsible for the delivery of the worldwide meeting series. The results of this global infrastructure roadshow present distinct lessons to inform the aspirations of communities across Canada seeking to secure finance and investment to set in place their own resilient infrastructure 4 Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013

re-make or re-invent. to support community development, low carbon, efficient transport networks, and vibrant industry hubs.

Re-framing investment, Re-making finance: Many of the speakers and participants at the GEB meetings in the four regional financial centres all echoed the need for finance and investment to “re-make or re-invent” itself post the turmoil of the 2007-8 global financial crash and the ensuing economic downturn in many developed markets. Supplying the vision, capital, and expertise to meet the long-term needs of cities, communities, and industries, all with a demand for smart, resilient and efficient infrastructure, was a clear way for modern investment and finance institutions. It was broadly agreed by participants, to highlight their social utility as well as the fundamental role they play to drive business and industry in the real economy. The crash saw many people, quite understandably, lose sight of the positive influence that a strong and robust financial services sector can have across society. Backing the world’s infrastructure needs is one way for the global investment and financial services

sectors to rebuild a trust which has all but disappeared.

So, for Aboriginal communities across Canada with evolving infrastructure needs the questions are manifold: How do we attract this building pool of capital searching for a robust infrastructure pipeline in a low risk, stable environment?

How do the First Nations take their infrastructure investment story to the owners of global capital and secure investment partners for the long-term?

Who are the trusted institutions and financial intermediaries that First Nations can work with? How do First Nations leverage their access to various financing options, including traditional commercial debt and equity, syndication, securitization and long-term private and public placements of bonds and similar instruments (e.g. through the First Nations Finance Authority and other intermediaries)? How do Aboriginal communities position themselves to raise capital for infrastructure projects in a global market for capital?

To take the conversation further, contact The Blended Capital Group at: ask@blendedcapital.com

Introducing the Get Ready program The Get Ready program is a ‘seven days to job readiness’ training program preparing you for a career in industry. It can be delivered in your community or self-studied online for convenient access.

We prepare you for the demands of working in the thriving oil and construction industries.

Imagine being able to live in your community while working as a highly paid, skilled employee with a major employer!

We understand the needs of First Nations because we are 100% Aboriginal owned and have developed the Get Ready program based on real experience, cultural awareness and community need.

Participants will find the Get Ready program informative and enriching while learning job readiness skills that prepare them for gainful employment in industry with advancement opportunities.

Please contact Massey Whiteknife, CEO at ICEIS for more information on our in-community or online Get Ready career preparation training program.

Phone: (778)-984-2347 | Email: massey@iceis-safety.com | CONSULTING - TRAINING - CERTIFIED PERSONNEL

VANCOUVER – FORT MACKAY - EDMONTON

What is the future of the

Clean Energy Sector in BC?

By Paul Kariya

A key decision before the government right now is how best to power the province’s new LNG industry? The fuel choices are natural gas, BC Hydro and renewables with various options to combine fuels.

In September 2012 speaking before the World Economic Forum Premier Clark stated, “We have set a goal to have the cleanest LNG in the world. We want our LNG plants to be principally fueled by renewables. We have a lot of hydroelectricity in the province. But it won’t be enough. It is going to drive, we hope, a huge boom in investment in renewable technology across the province .… We are trying to create a private sector market for clean and renewable energy.”

If the government follows through and supports the Premier’s stated wishes, then the future for the clean energy sector in BC is bright.

The power demands by the LNG sector are huge. Even if only 3 – 4 of the dozen or so consortiums that have expressed interests in building projects are built, BC could be facing electricity demand equal to one-half of BC Hydro’s current generation and capacity.

With such an increase in load, the need to build new transmission lines and the need to balance intermittent renewebles, there is a role for gas generation to be a part of the optimum plan. But if renewables are not a significant proportion of the mix, the air quality emissions and GHG loadings could exceed legislated targets.

For First Nations the opportunity through the clean energy sector is significant. 125 First Nations have had some exposure to the sector; more importantly, with transmission build out, most of these First Nations could participate in generation projects that sell power to the electricity grid.

Wind in the Okanagan, bio-mass in Merritt

and small hydro in the Fraser Canyon could all participate in helping to power LNG – cleaner than any other LNG projects in the World.

BC’s clean energy sector today consists of 70 operating projects (including self-generators such as Teck and forest companies), providing approximately 12% of the power that is on BC Hydro’s grid.

Another 12 projects that received electricity purchase agreements (EPAs) in 2006 or 2008 are being constructed at this time. Total capital expenditures for these projects are $2.6 Billion. Direct jobs created total 2,100 of which 800 are held by Aboriginal people. Another 6,000 positions are supported in communities like Port Hardy, Terrace, Dease Lake, Tumbler Ridge and also in large centres such as Vancouver and Victoria. Over the 25 - 40 year life of the electricity purchase agreements, $420 Million in revenue will be paid to the First Nation partners.

We have set a goal to have the cleanest LNG in the world. We want our LNG plants to be principally fueled by renewables.

6 Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013

Environmental Monitor /////. Raminder Grewal, partner - Keystone Environmental rgrewal@keystoneenvironmental.ca

Update on Bill C-38 as it applies to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans

By Jim Armstrong

Earlier in February, I had the opportunity to attend the Salmon Enhancement Habitat Advisory Board meeting (February 2-3, 2013) in North Vancouver. Many of the concerns about the pending changes to the Fisheries Act under Bill C-38 were discussed and questions asked through Alice Cheung, DFO Manager of Stewardship and Community. Following the weekend workshop for the volunteer community hatchery representatives, another meeting was held on Monday, February 4, 2013 at the DFO headquarters in Vancouver. I was invited to meet with Bonnie Antcliffe, Manager of the Ecosystem Management Branch, Kaarina McGivney, Manager of Salmon Enhancement Program and Alice Cheung.

The information that was presented

by Bonnie Antcliffe regarding the most significant change to the Fisheries Act, whereby fisheries habitat was independently managed through the Habitat Management Branch, it will now be managed through the Fisheries Management group. This change will mean that there will be a change from habitat to support the overall fisheries to a narrower focus of habitat management supporting the fisheries. The main point from this discussion is that the current requirements under Harmful Alteration Disruption and Destruction (HADD) will be to move the fisheries to a higher level of

management that will look at the fisheries from an approach of “how the planned activity will affect the productivity of the fisheries”. The term “serious harm” was identified but could not be described at this time as it hasn’t been given a description by the DFO staff writing the new regulations.

However, Bonnie stated that the focus will continue to be on the fisheries as a whole.

When asked how the new Fisheries Act will be delivered to the public and who will be responsible for ensuring that the fisheries habitat and the fisheries are protected, the answer was that a new model was being developed whereby partnerships would be undertaken between the DFO, BC government, First Nations and community organizations. There will still be a regulatory role within DFO which will be responsible for the delivery of the new Fisheries regulations but the regulations will focus on 5 main areas: Mining, Hydro, Marine, Oil & Gas and Linear.

When asked to clarify what “linear” would cover, we were given the answer that it would involve everything not covered by the other identified sectors and would be the largest group.

The question regarding the management of the remaining fisheries issues was asked, as DFO is scheduled to reduce the number of offices within BC starting on April 1, 2013.

We were told that there will be 5 DFO offices

remaining in BC with the main ones being in Vancouver, Nanaimo and Kamloops. The majority of the Partnership group will be located in Nanaimo, BC; where the fisheries standards and guidelines will be administered.

Negotiations with the BC government are in their early days to determine what role the Province will play in the overall fisheries management. However, it should be noted that the Province does not have any resources to dedicate to fisheries management and there is a likelihood that this responsibility will be downloaded onto the communities.

Overall, there is still a vacuum of knowledge regarding the upcoming changes to the Fisheries Act and Regulations. The Regional Director was not able to provide sufficient details of the changes other than the new regulations are coming out in July, 2013, and the noted changes described here. I am scheduled to attend a further briefing in May at which time the Assistant Deputy Director of DFO is supposed to be in attendance to give a final update of available information.

I will keep you up to date on changes as they occur.

If you want to speak with me on the changes, the impacts on projects or other Environmental Assessment issues call Jim Armstrong at Keystone Environmental, 604 430 0671, 866 417 8007 or jarmstrong@keystoneenvironmental.ca Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013 7

Living with...

Within rural/urban interface areas, firefighters often lack the resources to defend every home that is threatened during extreme wildfires.

Wildfires For Aboriginal communities located in remote areas or in the rural/urban interface there is always a big concern about the threat wildfires pose. Living where wildfires can occur poses a risk to both property and loved ones — but it is possible to live compatibly with this natural event. Firefox Fire Solutions of Edmonton, Alberta is currently working with Aboriginal communities to help train people through the FIRESMART Communities Canada Program which trains people on how to make their personal property and community assets safer.

Community involvement is the cornerstone of the FIRESMART Communities Canada Program. If you are a homeowner or community resident whose home is located in a region susceptible to wildfires, you need relevant information on how you can help your community to become FIRESMART. As participants in the program, you and your neighbors can learn how to decrease the risk of losing your homes and how to best protect yourselves in the event of wildfire.

Within rural/urban interface areas, firefighters often lack the resources to defend every home that is threatened during extreme wildfires. However, communities whose residents who have taken steps to reduce their vulnerability have a greater chance of surviving a wildfire.

The Communities Canada Program offers residents in fire-prone areas a unique opportunity to implement FIRESMART

practices specially tailored to individual and community needs. You and your neighbors will gain useful knowledge and skills to prepare for a wildfire before it occurs, while also helping to maintain an acceptable level of fire readiness.

FIRESMART homes and communities allow fire fighters to concentrate on fighting the wildfire – which ultimately saves more homes and lives. What’s more, even a few preventive actions can prove critical, because when adequately prepared, homes have often survived a wildfire without the intervention of the local fire department. The program draws on a community’s spirit, its resolve, and its willingness to take responsibility for reducing wildfire risks by providing the resources needed to achieve both a high level of protection against rural/urban interface fires and ecosystem balance.

Firefox Fire Solutions are advocates of this program and have fire solutions, products and services that will help your community to prepare in becoming FIRESMART. They have developed products and training that will protect individual homeowners and the community’s buildings; as well as offering commercial and industrial solutions.

For information on the FIRESMART program visit www.firefoxfiresolutions.com and be sure to visit their mobile fire trailer display if you’re heading to the NABOC Conference in Prince Rupert from April 16 – 18, 2013.

Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013 9

National

Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo

Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo shares his economic vision

Jobs. Growth. Prosperity – three words used often to signify economic development plans for building a better Canada; a few more words less common, yet at the same time absolutely essential to achieve results – Respect, Recognition, Partnership.

In a time when resource development is driving the Canadian economy, Indigenous nations must be driving the way forward for 10 Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013

First Nations remain at very near third word conditions. This vast gap clearly shows the urgent need for fundamental and transformative change that will see our peoples fully engaged and driving economic development based on the clear principles set out in Treaties and other agreements and promises made between First Nations and Canada – mutual respect and meaningful partnership. This is the road to success. This is the road to productivity and prosperity for all of us.

The role of First Nations in shaping the Canadian economy demands the respect and full implementation of our Inherent and Treaty Rights, which were affirmed in the Constitution Act of 1982. Since then, a myriad of Supreme Court decisions, along with the clear principles of free, prior and informed consent as articulated in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous peoples – endorsed by Canada in November 2010 – have reinforced the duty to consult First Nations on any development.

First Nations can no longer be seen as an obstacle or an In a time when afterthought to development. resource development is We are the original stewards driving the Canadian of the land – the land is our economy, Indigenous nations home. First Nations are not must be driving the way opposed to development. forward for sustainability First Nations insist on respect for future generations for the lands, sustainable and for opportunity approaches and a fair share of the and justice now.” benefits of development.

The opportunity to engage First Nations is one that must be seized as an economic imperative for the betterment of First Nations and all Canadians. In the sustainability for future generations and next 10 years more than 500 major economic for opportunity and justice now. Plans for a projects representing $650 billion in new stronger Canada must include plans by and investments are planned in this country, and with First Nations. almost all of it will be directly affected by First Nations lands are the backbone of First Nation interests, rights and lands.

Canada. The riches from our territories Just as governments and companies have helped build the wealth of a country have learned the importance of protocol that consistently places in the top five of in breaking open lucrative foreign markets the Human Development Index, while so too must the fundamental concept

Prime Minister Stephen Harper speaks with Assembly of First Nations Chief Shawn Atleo on Parliament Hill on Dec. 1, the day the two announced the date of the Crown-First Nations Gathering

of relationship-building create the path forward in unleashing economic potential in First Nation territories. From a practical standpoint, this means “engage early and engage often” with First Nations – right from conception to conclusion.

Our shared success will depend on a

respectful and business-minded approach - respecting First Nations’ decision-making abilities and authority and all that we have to offer. It will require relationships and meaningful partnerships that recognize the value and return on investing in First Nation capacity and skills and both the

requirement and good sense in recognizing the long-term governance interests of First Nations throughout their territories. The right approaches will transform the current realities for First Nations and all of Canada.

Business and industry increasingly understand this. Last July the Canadian Council of Chief Executives called for “stronger partnerships” with First Nations, citing a spectrum of positive, mutually beneficial approaches.

It’s time now for governments to affirm that First Nation rights and interests matter and get on with the work of implementation.

There must be clear commitments to resource equity and resource sharing as confirmed by the Supreme Court and recognized in the Constitution.

Our potential is filled with both hope and opportunity and frames an urgent call for fairness and action to end the injustices of the past. By capitalizing on the potential of First Nations driving their own economies, we can (and will) all thrive.

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo.

Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013 11

Housing as a Business (HaaB) is a business model that encourages private home ownership and profitable rental housing regimes on a First Nation. The business model incorporates various methods or approaches on how to make profits from the housing industry.

Typically, the model incorporates mortgage Laurie Buffalo financing spreads, profitable rental regimes, retail of materials, services, training and job creation programs.

By implementing the principles of HaaB, First Nations can achieve

CALL NOW to book a clinic in your community!

1-888-933-3277 • Full diagnostic hearing evaluations • NIHB applications • High quality hearing instruments • Hearing aid cleaning and maintenance

www.firstnationshearing.com

Serving the Lower Mainland, Interior, Northern BC, Vancouver Island, Fraser Canyon, Squamish & Pemberton

Call us toll-free 1-888-933-3277

12 Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013

Currently the National housing backlog faced by First Nations, on-reserve, has been estimated at more than 80,000 units nationally and would require resources of approximately $16 billion dollars to adequately address this issue. huge economic benefits by targeting and providing an alternate housing option to its First Nation community members who are gainfully employed. Currently the National housing backlog faced by First Nations, on-reserve, has been estimated at more than 80,000 units nationally and would require resources of approximately $16 billion dollars to adequately address this issue.

As a result of several factors including: the steady on-reserve growth of the Aboriginal population, the pent up demand for affordable housing, the need for major housing repairs, new solutions required to overcome traditional barriers, and the goal for First Nations to become self-sufficient in housing, a business opportunity is emerging for First Nation communities. Nationally, several First Nations are exploring the HaaB approach to deal with the housing needs of their communities by establishing revolving loan funds to encourage private home ownership, in addition to the existing affordable social rental programs in place (i.e.

CMHC Section 95). HaaB is not a completely new concept. Several First Nations across Canada have already implemented certain aspects of HaaB with great success.

HaaB utilizes an innovative business approach to help alleviate this complex and problematic on-reserve housing shortage issue. HaaB provides a comprehensive solution that addresses the housing shortage while creating tremendous business opportunities. In general society the housing sector has been a key driver for economic development. It has created economic opportunities in many areas such as revolving loan funds, construction trades, construction materials, landscaping, insurance, and home maintenance services. HaaB can play a similar role in First Nation communities by creating economic opportunities while addressing the current housing shortage.

HaaB is unique in structure and includes regional “Housing Opportunity Manage Expertise” or H.O.M.E. Advisory Team(s) available for guidance when implementing HaaB for your community.

This HOME Advisory Team is a volunteer group of experts in all areas of housing, finance, business and economic development.

For more information on HaaB or to find out how you can begin the implementation of HaaB, please visit our website at www.HaaB.ca or contact Cando office at 1-800-463-9300.

Canada’s leading Aboriginal/private sector business conference series!

April 3rd - 4th

National Aboriginal Tourism Conference - Osoyoos, BC

April 16th - 17th

National Aboriginal Business Opportunities Conference Prince Rupert, BC

April 18th - 19th

Transitioning from Oil Dependency Conference Vancouver, BC

May 14th - 15th

National Aboriginal Career Fair - Vancouver, BC

June 25th - 27th

Aboriginal Economic Leadership Summit - Osoyoos, BC

Sept 10th - 12th

National Aboriginal Business Opportunities Conference Osoyoos, BC

Make sure you get involved in the 2013 Aboriginal Marketplace Tour For information on attending, sponsoring or exhibiting at any of our 2013 events contact: Rochelle Saddleman | Toll Free: 855 307 5291 | Email: rochelle@2ggroup.ca

Project Raven

Technology Training for the First Nations Job Seeker

Microsoft Office Skills training through Project Raven

The First Nations Technology Council (FNTC) is pleased to introduce Project Raven, a technical training initiative managed by FNTC and funded by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC). Based on a proposal submitted to HRSDC in 2009, FNTC was awarded this $4,014,700 contract from HRSDC to deliver technical training to First Nations in BC through to March 31, 2015.

Project Raven provides computer and technical skills development and employment opportunities to First Nations people living in various areas of BC. Through the development and delivery of basic and specialized computer training, FNTC will help to enable First Nations become more active participants in the digital economy and part of the growing skilled and adaptable workforce in BC. It is anticipated that a total of 2,985 First Nation adults will receive training in basic computer training with many of them laddering into enhanced and specialized ICT courses that will equip them for employment in their

communities or with the private sector. Of the 2,985 participants, FNTC and their partners will seek employment opportunities for 1,440 participants; almost 50% of the participants who receive training!

Computer training ranges from basic Introduction to Technology and Microsoft Office skills training to industry-certified Strata IT Fundamentals, Cisco Certification, GIS/ GPS, Graphics & Animation and other specialty courses. Through the use of mobile computer labs, training is delivered in communities throughout BC. Training is free for those who meet the eligibility criteria; Aboriginal, Metis or Inuit adults who are living on reserve or off reserve in BC and are unemployed or underemployed (less than 20 hours per week).

See the Project Raven website for a full list of course offerings, eligibility criteria and how to sign up for training. www.raven.fntc.info. Note that FNTC also offers some specialty courses such as the Aboriginal GIS Certificate Program delivered

by Okanagan College in Salmon Arm. Check our

website for upcoming College programs.

Through partnerships with Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy (ASETS), Aboriginal Training to Employment Program (ATEP) recipients, First Nation communities, Post-Secondary Institutions and other Aboriginal organizations, Project Raven training will enable greater success of partner programs.

We welcome organizations with shared visions and goals to work with us. Partners will benefit from a wide range of technical training for their clients, at no cost to the organization.

Training will be customized to meet partner needs and to provide skills necessary for employment outcomes.

Please visit our website for more information www.raven.fntc.info or contact Carolyn Stock, Project Raven Manager, if you are interested in technical training or if you wish to partner with us on our successes.

We look forward to hearing from you! raven@fntc.info 1-888-921-9939 Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013 15

Crude Oil Pipelines, Tanker Traffic, Spill Risk and BC

By Robyn Allan

In 2010 Enbridge filed an Application with the National Energy Board to gain approval to build the Northern Gateway Pipelines project—a twin pipeline to import 193,000 barrels a day of condensate and export 525,000 barrels a day of oil sands crude called bitumen, diluted with synthetic crude oil and condensate.

Northern Gateway triggers an average of 220 oil tankers a year navigating Hecate Straight and the Douglas Channel, however, the designed throughput capacity of the project is capable of transporting 60 percent more oil and 40 percent more condensate. At its full capacity, Northern Gateway would trigger as many as 340 oil tankers a year.

In late 2013, Kinder Morgan intends to apply for approval to build a pipeline along its existing Trans Mountain system. This would bring Trans Mountain’s total crude oil export capacity to 890,000 barrels a day giving rise to more than an oil

tanker a day in Burrard Inlet. Kinder Morgan plans to transport a mix of crude oil products including oil sands diluted bitumen.

Kinder Morgan’s new pipeline will likely be designed to allow for expanded capacity by adding pumping power. This would increase oil tanker traffic well beyond that already announced by the company.

The oil industry’s unimpeded pace of development of the oil sands means pipeline proposals through BC to coastal marine terminals will not stop with Northern Gateway and Trans Mountain’s twinning. Industry supply forecasts suggest as many as 3 – 4 additional projects are required over the next decade.

16 Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013

In late 2013, Kinder Morgan intends to apply for approval to build a pipeline along its existing Trans Mountain system.

The oil sector’s strategy is to rapidly extract oil sands bitumen, by-pass value added upgrading in Alberta, and ship it in its raw, unprocessed form to Asia.

It is undertaking processing domestically where value is added, economic wealth

generated and meaningful jobs are created— not shipping raw resources down a pipeline and onto oil tankers destined for foreign countries.

Oil sands bitumen is not like conventional oil that flows through a pipeline. Bitumen is dense, almost solid, and needs to be mixed with diluent, like condensate, then heated and forced more aggressively under pressure through a pipeline.

Prior to 2005 Canada was self-sufficient in condensate production. By 2006 condensate demand exceeded domestic supply and oil sands producers started importing it from the US. By 2025 Canada will be dependent on foreign markets for 85% of the condensate needed to for oil sands bitumen exports— Canada will import more than 700,000 barrels a day of condensate.

Condensate import dependency means almost twice the pipeline capacity than if bitumen was upgraded to synthetic crude oil in Alberta prior to being loaded on a pipeline for transport.

For British Columbia, this extra pipeline capacity translates into way more oil tanker traffic. Oil tanker traffic crowds out indigenous economic activity including

tourism, and commercial fishing, not to mention its impact on non-market activity deeply important to First Nations and the broader British Columbian society.

In addition to the economic costs of the oil industry’s expansion strategy there are serious

environmental threats. Whether transported as conventional crude oil or diluted bitumen, any oil spill represents significant danger to BC’s fresh and marine waters and significant cost to all BC residents.

Diluted bitumen is even more environmentally challenging than conventional oil. Unlike conventional oil, when diluted bitumen spills, the diluent evaporates exposing humans and animals to respiratory and other health risks from the harsh, gaseous chemicals. When heavy bitumen hits water, unlike conventional oil, it sinks.

The oil sector’s development plans would see a network of pipelines built throughout BC. These pipelines require a number of new or expanded marine facilities and will trigger a staggering volume of crude oil tanker traffic along BC’s coast.

The economic cost of allowing the oil sector to pursue their strategy far outweighs any economic benefit, while the environmental impact—with or without the inevitable spills—brings with it only cost. The Enbridge and Kinder Morgan oil pipeline projects are not in the public interest.

HELP US PROTECT THE FUTURE ENVIRONMENT OF BC

“We need to unite to protect the environment for all of our future generations. This is not just a First Nations issue. It’s time to get busy developing energy alternatives. Tsleil-Waututh is developing businesses that will provide clean, renewable energy sources like wind power.”

- Chief Justin George Tsleil-Waututh Nation

“Our future depends on a swift, aggressive transition to renewable energy.

For a healthy economy and environment, BC and Canadian governments must halt the subsidies and reckless expansion of fossil fuels, and focus now on creating jobs and prosperity with clean energy and technology.”

“We must develop energy policies that focus on meeting North American energy requirements, not on profiting multinational corporations at the expense of our environmental security. Risking an environmental disaster to provide energy supply for export is unacceptable policy and practice.”

- Mayor Gregor Robertson City of Vancouver

- Mayor Derek Corrigan City of Burnaby

JOIN WITH US AT THE

TRANSITIONING FROM OIL DEPENDENCY CONFERENCE DEFINING FUTURE ENERGY ALTERNATIVES AND POLICIES

AT THE SHERATON WALL CENTRE, VANCOUVER BC FROM APRIL 18TH – 19TH 2013.

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE. HELP US DEFINE A CLEAN ENERGY DIRECTION FOR THE FUTURE OF BC

THE AFTERMATH OF TAR SANDS ENERGY PRODUCTION

CLEAN RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCE

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT 2GGROUP.CA OR SCAN THIS QR CODE

LETS KEEP BC GREEN!!

keeping it riel ///// Keith Henry - President, BC Métis Federation k.henry@bcmetis.com

Keeping It

Keith Henry

I write this month in light of so many issues which have literally galvanized the Aboriginal public eye with Idle No More actions continuing each week and continued case rulings in favour of Aboriginal rights and title.

As a Métis person I applauded a Federal Court ruling released on January 8th, 2013 that recognized and reinforced Mètis and non status Indian rights in Canada under section 91(24) of the Canadian Constitution of 1867. As we know today the off reserve Aboriginal community is an estimated population of 600,000 and access for health care, education, and other Aboriginal rights have been largely ignored

Riel filed by the late Harry Daniels, Gabriel Daniels, Leah Gardiner, Terry Joudrey, and the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP) in 1999 against her Majesty the Queen, as represented by the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and the Attorney General of Canada. The case entitled (Daniels v. Canada) was seeking recognition of three basic principles, in that: • Métis and Non-Status Indians are Indians under subsection 91(24) of the Constitution Act, 1867, • The Crown owes to Métis and Non-Status Indians a fiduciary duty as Aboriginal peoples, • Canada must negotiate and consult with

The Federal Government has appealed this decision as of February 7th and Métis and non status Indians will ultimately loose years of advancing and protecting our Constitutional rights. by governments despite Constitutional protection under Section 35(2). For years Mètis communities and organizations have called the inequality of defining Aboriginal rights and access to various programs unfair.

This has led to fighting between Federal and Provincial Governments disputing who is legally responsible for the Mètis and non status people of Canada. Moreover this jurisdictional confusion has also created tension between Mètis and First Nations and often creates conflict with a mindset that program access will be limited by budgets and therefore by nature become competitive.

Regardless the Federal Court ruled on Tuesday, January 8th in a substantive case 18 Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013

the Métis and Non-Status Indians, on a collective basis through representatives of their choice, with respect to their rights, interests and needs as Aboriginal peoples.

The Federal Court agreed that Métis and Non Status Indians are defined under the term “Indian” for the purposes of Section 91(24) [para 619]. The Federal Court did not support the fiduciary duty claim at this time. However, given the declaration of right in respect of section 91(24) the court stated that one would expect that the Federal Government would act in accordance with whatever duty arises in respect of any specific matter touching on the non-clarified fiduciary relationship [para 609]. Finally the

Federal Court did not grant the declaration for negotiation and consultation. However once again the court stated that hopefully the resolution of the constitutional issue of section 91(24) will facilitate resolution on other matters [para 617].

The outcome of these three specific questions is critical to the future for all Métis and non Status Indians and the Federal Court was not prepared to essentially fully address all three aspects, especially the fiduciary duty and negotiations. However the significance now of the ruling that Métis and Non Status Indians falling under 91(24) will in essence force new processes that will ultimately further define such matters in our view.

The Federal Government has appealed this decision as of February 7th and Métis and non status Indians will ultimately loose years of advancing and protecting our Constitutional rights. The case now will wind its way through the courts and ironically the Federal Government will use our own tax dollars against us. Forgive me for being skeptical but does this sound just and fair? The late Harry Daniels made us all proud for the fight so many have supported and we must continue forward no matter how challenging. The Daniels Case continues to prove Métis and non status Indians have rights and instead of continued litigation by the Federal Government, there should be negotiations. I am in my 40s now and I only hope my youngest son will see this decision fully implemented in time.

For more information about the BC Métis Federation please go to our website www.bcmetis.com. A specific opinion and comment I have authored is located at http://bcmetis.com/2013/01/daniels-caseinitial-bc-metis-federation-overview-andcomment/.

Just trying to keep it Riel.

Featured business ///// ICEIS Safety - Massey Whiteknife massey@iceis-safety.com

ICEIS Safety

Life is full of challenges and choices and if we’re going to move ahead, we have to find a way through the barriers and boundaries.

- Massey Whiteknife

ICEIS Safety: (780) 828-2496 ICEIS Training Ltd: (780) 370-1772 ICEIS Industrial and Safety supply Ltd: (780) 715-1501

www.iceis-safety.com

Massey Whiteknife, owner and President of ICEIS Safety, and a member of the Mikisew Cree First Nation in Fort Chipewyan, is excited to be bringing his business to British Columbia. Since its inception in 2005, ICEIS Safety, based out of Fort McKay, Alberta, has established itself as a high quality provider of safety training, consulting, staffing, and supplies. As a 100% Aboriginal-owned business, ICEIS works with Aboriginal businesses and communities to prepare community members for meaningful employment in industry. They understand the needs of Aboriginal people and the unique challenges they can face in finding rewarding careers.

At 33, Massey’s energy and positive nature belie the struggles he has overcome to achieve the success he has found. However it was those very struggles that gave rise to a set of values that underpin his philosophy, both personally and as an entrepreneur: “I believe that if you have a dream, a passion for what you do, a great team and a determination to succeed, you can accomplish just about anything,” said Massey when we met with him.

His success has been hard won as is the case with too many young Aboriginal people. As a child, Massey experienced both physical and sexual abuse and was often bullied at school. However he refused to let these experiences limit him and began a career in safety, becoming a Nationally Certified Safety Officer (NCSO) and Certified Safety Auditor (CSA). In 2005, he decided to start his own company, despite scepticism that an openly gay Aboriginal Canadian could never make it in the oil sands industry. Massey saved up $15,000 to finance the company and was determined to make ICEIS Safety the one-stop-shop it is today.

“Life is full of challenges and

choices and if we’re going to move ahead, we have to find a way through the barriers and boundaries.

I’ve jumped my share of hurdles over the years, but perseverance and a determination to be both happy and successful has allowed me to move forward. If a job is worth doing, it is worth doing right; that’s my philosophy and everyone at ICEIS feels the same way,” said Massey.

Massey felt it was time to expand his business into British Columbia because he saw a need for high quality safety training offered at competitive pricing that would yield real results for local First Nations people. “So far, training dollars spent by Aboriginal communities in BC for safety training and education have been going primarily to non-Native companies, some of whom provided low quality training and certifications that were not recognized in industry. At ICEIS we offer quality training at reasonable rates and tickets recognized in industry. Two of the courses we offer are mandatory to even set foot on a job site. We also offer training in the community. As a First Nations company we have a vested interest in seeing our people get the best value for their money and not be taken advantage of,” added Massey.

With fifteen years of experience of industry expertise, a dedicated to the promotion of health and safety, and a passion for supporting Aboriginal businesses and communities, Massey looks forward to providing top notch safety training and consulting focused on opening doors for Aboriginal people in industry. If it’s your dream, Massey will endeavor to make it your reality.

The team at Aboriginal Marketplace wish Massey the very best of luck in his goal to bring quality safety training to Aboriginal communities in BC. Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013 19

Business resources Centre opening in Prince Rupert, BC A unique office centre is opening in Prince Rupert on June 1st of this year. The tenants of the centre are a multi-disciplinary, business focused group of professional firms who have come to together to service the growing needs of both First Nations and private sector businesses in northern BC. By sharing the same office building they will be able to offer a “one-stop” solution for all kinds of projects and business needs. There are 9 firms involved so far and more are coming onboard as the words spreads.

Masterton Land Services

offers expertise in mineral exploration, negotiating lands & rights-of-way for natural gas pipelines, First Nations engagement, public consultation, project management, environmental volunteerism and community projects. Principal of the firm Sandy Masterton, “appreciates that an individual life-span is short, but the creation of good projects, vibrant local economies and healthy communities goes on forever”.

Contact Sandy on 250-702-2620.

Pinpoint Consulting Inc

offers over 30 years of experience in a variety of areas including social and economic development, First Nation community development, business and strategic planning, post-secondary education, employment and training, energy and mines, policy development and regulatory issues.

CEO of the firm, Lisa Nye is, “excited to be part of an experienced and collaborative team that can translate ideas into real social, business and economic achievements. There are so many opportunities in the region, and we need to work with communities to capitalize on these opportunities in the best way possible.” Contact Lisa at lnye.pinpointconsulting@gmail.com

20 Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013

Ecora Engineering & Resource Group

www.ecora.ca - is a natural resource and engineering consulting company that provides strategic and operational guidance related to natural resource issues across multiple sectors, specifically in GIS analysis and solutions, environmental assessments, civil and structural engineering, resource inventories and Land use planning and analysis.

Ecora has a team of over 40 professionals with core values of excellence and innovation and a strong commitment to their staff, clients, community and the environment.

Contact Kelly Sherman at kelly.sherman@ecora.ca

Westkey Graphics TCG also offers small to large-scale print capability of business forms, envelopes & cheques, labels & stickers, signage & wide format and packaging.

Contact TCG at info@tewaneegroup.ca

Tewanee Consulting Group (TCG)

www.tewaneegroup.ca - offers unparalleled experience in Aboriginal relations and communications.

Since 2000, TCG has worked with First Nations, corporate Canada and government agencies to build meaningful Aboriginal partnerships, and deliver communications strategies and strategic planning. TCG creates meaningful partnerships between Aboriginal and private sector groups, offers Communications services which include; public & media relations, speaking engagements & facilitation, communications products, branding, video production and social media strategies. In partnership with

There are 9 firms involved so far and more are coming onboard as the words spreads.

Vero Management Inc

founded in 2009 by Gail Murray offers strategic advice and services designed with First Nations communities in mind. Vero Management engages in select strategic projects and guarantees excellent results.

They offer creative solutions and a holistic approach to those wanting to build business success. Vero’s consulting services include; labour market research, customized education and training programs, conflict resolution and relationship management services, economic and community development, business and contract management services, financial management and advisory services, government relations on a federal, provincial, municipal and First Nations level, corporate/Aboriginal relations management. Contact Vero at gail.murray1@gmail.com

HIGH VELOCITY EQUIPMENT TRAINING (HVET) www.heavymetaltraining.com - offers training on the clients’ job-sites or in

First Nations communities. Their courses include; Onsite “challenge” Certification for Experienced Operators (CEO), Onsite Heavy equipment operator (HEO) training for inexperienced operators, Onsite Train-the-Trainer (TTT) to build training capacity allowing organizations to internally customize and deliver their own training programs. HVET can help develop customized training and economic development solutions that will address the upcoming labour shortage by assisting with construction of capital projects, aggregate production, Aboriginal contractor training, mineral exploration and resource development. These solutions are led by local trainers in conjunction with HVET staff.

Contact HVET at 1-866-963-4766 or shawn@heavymetaltraining.com

KCD Consulting Inc

www.kcdconsulting.ca - is owned by Keith Henry, a Métis person born in Thompson, Manitoba and raised in Prince Albert,

Saskatchewan. Since 1998 Mr. Henry has led numerous provincial, federal and industry negotiations on a variety of issues. He has been directly responsible for financial administration of a number of Aboriginal non-profits and has a proven track record of success. KCD Consulting Inc specializes in human resource development, economic development, project delivery, strategic planning, negotiations, and leadership development. Contact Keith at keithalfredhenry@gmail.com

The Blended Capital Group

(TBCG), building on a global network of expertise across investment, finance, policy issues and international relations, is positioned to serve institutions that supply capital and those that need it. TBCG advisory services are focused on; sourcing capital from global financial markets for new and existing projects and institutions, development of capital raising strategies for entrepreneurs, companies and communities seeking sustainability-focused finance and investment, communication of investment opportunities to mainstream institutional investors as well as high net worth individuals and family offices, development of environmental, social and governance (ESG) polices for projects across a range of asset classes. Contact Neil Philcox at nbp@blendedcapital.com

2Badgers Consulting Inc’s

Coastal Business Resources Centre

vision is to assist in the creation of successful, long-term sustainable relationships between the Aboriginal Peoples of Canada and the private sector, resulting in independent, economically sound, and socially and environmentally responsible businesses and communities. With broad and evolving service offerings and a commitment to long term develop ment of their employees, 2 Badgers offers a one of a kind approach to industry consulting with diversity of knowledge, ideas, capabilities, and staff. They aim to foster mutually beneficial partnerships between industry and First Nations that will strengthen both the communities and the economy, while cultivating a new set of business practices centred upon social impact and corporate responsibility. Contact Dion Arnouse Principal of 2Badgers at dion@2badgers.ca The centre is located at 344 2nd Avenue West. It will be a great resource for both First Nations and private sector businesses in future and the range of disciplines offered at the centre continues to grow as more firms become involved.

Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013 21

2013 AboriginAl MArketplAce

contest

AboriginAl MArketplAce is giving AwAy Free event tickets!

we would like to heAr froM your coMMunity! shAre your coMMunity’s business stories And if your Article is printed in Any issue of the MAgAzine you win next subMission one free ticket to the event of your choice! deAdline MArch 22nd

THe STOrIeS A broad sample of the areas to be explored include finance, business leadership, finding green opportunities, business funding, government assistance and obstruction, tourism, natural resources, partnerships between Aboriginal groups and the private sector business community, title and rights progress, and training initiatives, but most of all this is a magazine about opportunity.

don’t forget to

DOWNLOAD

the AboriginAl MArketplAce App! AvAilAble At itunes And AMAzon

AboriginAl MArketplAce events: 22 Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013

If you have a story you’d like to share in the Aboriginal Marketplace magazine please send an email with details to: rochelle@2ggroup.ca For more information go to aboriginalmarketplace.com or scan this Qr code

April 3rd - 4th

April 18th - 19th

June 25th - 27th

April 16th -17th

MAy 14th - 15th

sept 10th - 12th

National Aboriginal Tourism Conference Osoyoos, BC

National Aboriginal Business Opportunities Conference Prince Rupert, BC

Transitioning from Oil Dependency Conference Vancouver, BC

National Aboriginal Career Fair Vancouver, BC

Aboriginal Economic Leadership Summit Osoyoos, BC

National Aboriginal Business Opportunities Conference Osoyoos, BC

Moving Forward>>>

Together Since 1940, Northern Savings Credit Union has been part of the Northwest region and we are proud to operate in a way that stimulates capacity building. At Northern Savings, our purpose is to strengthen and grow our Northern communities; we know that this can only be done through partnerships and the ability to move forward together.

For over 70 years, Northern Savings has been able to develop cooperative environments and favourable relationships with First Nations communities. A recent partnership between Northern Savings, Old Massett, and Abfam Enterprises Ltd. has helped to reinforce long-term certainty to the Port Clements sawmill.

“This relationship along with a newly signed ten year

fibre supply, which will provide permanence and continuity for the future, will put as many as 40 people back to work on Haida Gwaii,” said Jim Abbott of Abfam. Old Massett Village Chief Councillor, Ken Rea added, “building upon such successes, and pursuing further opportunities, will only create greater benefit for our communities.”

Moving forward doesn’t simply mean forging ahead on our own path; moving forward with any success, will only happen if we move forward together. Together we can have meaningful and mutually beneficial relationships, and together, we can build stronger foundations and resilient communities.

This relationship along with a newly signed ten year fibre supply, which will provide permanence and continuity for the future, will put as many as 40 people back to work on Haida Gwaii.

- Jim Abbott

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Left to right: Dan Abbott and Randy Friesen (Abfam Enterprises), Barry Pages (Northern Savings), Chief Ken Rae (Old Massett Village Council) Aboriginal Marketplace / January - February 2013 23

2 BADGERS CONSULTING INC

By Olja Ignjatic

Dion J Arnouse President

We aim to foster mutually beneficial partnerships between Industry and First Nations that will strengthen both the communities and the economy, while cultivating a new set of business practices centred upon social impact and corporate responsibility.

Aboriginal communities throughout Canada have continuously struggled to battle the social and economic adversity imparted on them by government and industry in this country. Time and time again the rights and considerations of First Nations and Métis communities have been trumped by seemingly more equitable opportunities. There appears to be a misconception plaguing industry proponents that Aboriginal communities are vigorously opposed to exploration and mining initiatives; which has fostered the strained relationship we have grown accustomed to without questioning the origin or validity of such assumptions.

Aboriginal communities are instead largely opposed to the feeling of irrelevancy in projects that have the potential to affect their livelihood in negative ways.

The duty to consult has been inundated with heaves and sighs by industry since its inception in 2009 because it prolongs the permitting process; however what industry continuously fails to recognize is that cutting corners with the duty to consult will inevitably result in delays longer than the amount of time it would take to appropriately and adequately consult with communities at the onset of a proposed project.

24 Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013

The element that appears to be stumping both industry and government is what “appropriate and adequate” consultation entails. That is where 2 Badgers joins the ballgame. A pinch hitter with both industry and government experience, and a First Nations background, CEO and Senior Consultant Dion Arnouse is the go-to liaison to bridge that gap.

Dion served as a First Nations Community Liaison for the Federal Government for 23 years until his retirement in 2011, when he decided to pursue another dream of becoming a small business owner, resulting in two very unique companies. The first one in partnership with his wife Gloria; a Kitchen and Bath design company (Harmony Custom Kitchens and Bath Design ltd.), and the other, 2Badgers Consulting Inc., an Aboriginal Consulting Company, both proudly First Nations owned and operated.

Raised in a First Nations community in Salmon Arm, BC, Dion spent much of his childhood with his grandmother who taught him the traditional ways of his elders and his people.

Inspired also by his mother who retired after a 35 year nursing career, Dion speaks with a wealth of knowledge behind him. Growing up amongst strong female influences pushed him to defy the

inevitable stereotypes proliferated within First Nations communities.

Throughout his teen years he was involved with many Aboriginal Youth programs and spent time in the Forest and Pipeline Industry prior to being called to the Federal Government as an Aboriginal Liaison. Dion spent the majority of his career providing a proactive service to many First Nations communities and was responsible for implementing a multitude of health and safety initiatives in collaboration with the bands. It is with this experience and great sense of gratitude to his own family and community that he now spends his time advocating for the betterment of First Nations communities throughout Western Canada so that more Aboriginal youth have the opportunity and capacity to realize their dreams.

The 2Badgers team’s passion lies in facilitating partnerships between Industry and First Nations communities with a unique focus on Community Engagement strategies and offering strategic advice and guidance on capacity building initiatives. We not only assist Industry with engaging Aboriginal communities in a respectful manner, we also assist many communities with their socioeconomic goals.

Our Mantra

Through our dedication, extensive industry knowledge, and real time understanding of issues affecting our clients and their partners, our goal at 2 Badgers is to act as a trusted extension of their business. We are passionate about achieving better results for our clients—results that go beyond the financial and are uniquely tailored, pragmatic, holistic, and enduring. We aim to foster mutually beneficial partnerships between Industry and First Nations that will strengthen both the communities and the economy, while cultivating a new set of business practices centred upon social impact and corporate responsibility.

2Badgers Consulting has formed strategic partnerships with numerous Industry proponents committed to engaging in business

relationships from a position of transparency, respect, and trust. In order to ensure accountability to the clients our company serves, industry partners must make a best effort to meet the following criteria: • Willingness to engage in cultural awareness training • Open to offering apprenticeship, mentorship, and training opportunities at all levels • Commitment to offering employment opportunities for Aboriginal peoples where possible • Respect for the environment • Commitment to the health and safety of the employees and community • Engaging in business partnerships from a position of transparency, respect and trust Our vision is to assist in the creation of successful, long-term sustainable relationships between the Aboriginal Peoples of Canada and the Industry sector, resulting in independent, economically sound, and socially and environmentally responsible businesses and communities. With broad and evolving service offerings and a commitment to long term development of our employees, 2 Badgers offers a one of a kind approach to industry consulting

First Nations no longer represent simply stakeholders in industrial enterprises, but rather invaluable partners. with diversity of knowledge, ideas, capabilities, and staff.

Our customized approach delves deep into the dynamics of companies. This ensures that our clients achieve sustainable competitive advantage, build more accountable organizations, and secure lasting results.

With a rapidly changing political climate, the need for meaningful engagement and consultation with First Nations is at an all time high. First Nations no longer represent simply stakeholders in industrial enterprises, but rather invaluable partners. 2 Badgers excels at fostering meaningful relationships between industry and First Nations communities that satisfy not only the legislative duty to consult but also the social responsibility to assess risk and minimize impact.

Integrity, transparency, respect for the individual and community, and leaving a positive mark on society represent just some

of our core values. Our commitment to both our clients’ success and our own standards is what sets 2 Badgers apart. At 2 Badgers value creation requires that our insight and expertise deliver awareness and positive change to our clients, while still ensuring their business remains profitable. We are committed to continuous cultural and economic awareness so that we may provide our clients with the most current information and strategies to mitigate their challenges.

We take pride in being pioneers in combining frontline community engagement with strong research and analytical skills. Our programs and services are current and cutting edge to meet the changing needs and demands within the Industry/ First Nations realm. Both our people and services are flexible to fit the unique needs of each client both locally and globally. By leveraging the power of global insight, relationships, collaboration, and a First Nations heritage we deliver exceptional service to clients wherever they do business.

Firefox Fire Solutions Inc.

Firefox brings a unique blend of firefighting and business expertise to position the company as a strategic partner for all your wildfire requirements.

Our mission is to provide innovative products, services and training to aboriginal communities.www.firefoxfiresolutions.com

Our company is dedicated to enhancing public safety by making available the most technologically advanced products used in the firefighting industry.

Come and see a demonstration of our mobile fire trailer (our latest innovation) at the NABOC Conference in Prince Rupert, BC - April 16-18th, 2013.

Firefox Fire Solutions is proud to be a Corporate Sponsor of the Charity Golf Tournament

Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013 25

Legal Eagle ///// Merle Alexander - Partner, Bull Housser & Tupper mca@bht.com

Idle No More – Q&As Is the movement simply about Chief Spence and the deplorable circumstances of Attawapiskat? No. I think it is fair to say that Spence and her community are a representative symbol of the abandonment of the Canadian Crown governments of so many First Nation, Inuit and Metis communities. Canada’s dirty secret is that it allows horrific human rights violations to occur directly under their own fiduciary watch. All humanity has rightful entitlements to food, shelter, clean water and common medical care. Canada as a government and peoples maintains a wilful blindness to third world living conditions from Coast to Coast. Canada is in violation of its own domestic commitment to universality in health care, poverty, social programs, education, etc. Canada is in violation of binding international human rights law.

Is it the war cry of Aboriginal youth discontent? No. From the start, the age representation has included beautiful Aboriginal children, wise Elders and an inspired youth. It is a communitydriven movement with perhaps the most inclusive representation of Aboriginal Canada and non-Aboriginal civil society.

Does the INM movement have a single cause? No. It appears to have basic core tenets, but also there are certain regional issues. For instance, honouring Aboriginal and Treaty rights is certainly a core issue, but then there are regional examples of violations such as the Northern Gateway Pipeline project, Plan Nord, tar sands, highway of tears, Ring of Fire and the Trans Mountain Expansion project. Some observers raise this diversity of issues to be evidence of lack of focus, leadership and eventual failure. I believe it is more reflective of the fact that there is a tremendous amount of issues that are being neglected and ignored.

Is it only the politically disenfranchised in our communities? No. Mostly in the background, Aboriginal leaders from across the country are firmly supportive and walking alongside their Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Sisters, Mothers, Brothers, Fathers and cousins. As far as I know, all National Aboriginal organizations have expressly supported the movement.

Is there one spokesperson for the movement? No, not yet. There is a small group of courageous Aboriginal women and men that may be given some credit with the initial social media inspiration. But, I think the moment there were dozens, if not hundreds, actions across Canada happening simultaneously, the movement became greater than the originator’s wildest dreams. Now, the

Merle Alexander

What is “Idle no more”? It certainly isn’t the name for a city bylaw prohibiting idling cars.

26 Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013

movement seems to be far more organic in its leadership.

Of course, there is no shortage of political opportunists that will seek to clamour at the reins of populist power, but the movement seems very capable of rejecting their leadership (no matter what their hair stylists say or how many friends they have on facebook).

Why is the movement so focussed on those Bills C-38 and C-45? Without public or democratic debate, the majority Harper government regressively reformed Canadian environmental law by omnibus legislation. To my knowledge, I don’t know of another Western democracy that has negatively reformed environmental law on this scale. Truth is, this is not an Aboriginal law issue, this is a Canadian democratic issue. First Nations will legally challenge the legislation, but the real challenge will likely be at the polls. I honestly hope that the inspired Aboriginal population will exercise their immediate rights to vote and affect change locally, provincially and federally.

Will the Idle No More movement dwindle in its support, just like the Occupy movement? No. I truly believe that the coalition that makes up the movement has Real issues with depth of complexity and cannot be simply swept aside by shear momentum loss. You cannot be listening to the messages of brutal neglect of Aboriginal women on highway 16, environmental destruction of clean water in the tar sands, wilful blindness to Treaty rights and believe the peoples of this movement are not resilient and relentless.

Ultimately, the Idle No More movement will be not be strictly defined or limited to some simple message because it is as dynamic as the Peoples represents.

Aboriginal Peoples have resisted false idols for hundreds of years, we are not about to stop now. The movement is an adapting move forward. We want change.

This evenT is only open To AboriginAls And AboriginAl orgAnizATions

2013 AboriginAl Economic lEAdErship summit osoyoos | JunE 25th - 27th

At the beAutiful NK’MiP ResoRt iN osoyoos, bRitish ColuMbiA

On behalf of the Osoyoos Indian Band, I look forward to welcoming you to the territory of the Okanagan People. We are very excited at the response to the 2013 Aboriginal Economic Leadership Summit. We anticipate many positive outcomes from this event.

We are sure you will enjoy your stay at our spectacular NK’MIP Resort. to register for this unique event please contact rochelle saddleman at: toll Free: 855 307-5291 rochelle@2ggroup.ca

Chief Clarence Louie Osoyoos Indian Band, Host

CONfERENCE highlights · Raising Money foR investMent in MajoR PRojects · coMMunity infRastRuctuRe financing · futuRe owneRshiP Models foR PiPelines in canada · stRuctuRing leases on ReseRve lands · fiRst nations tax iMMunity

New Gold

Skeetchestn Indian Band and Tk’emlups te Secwepemc …Working Together for a Stronger Future

The New Afton copper-gold mine project area is located within the traditional territory of Tk’emlups te Secwepemc and Skeetchestn Indian Bands, also referred to as the Stk’emlupsemc te Secwepemc (SSN) which are part of the larger cultural group known as the Secwepemc or “Shuswap People”.

New Gold signed a Participation Agreement with the SSN on March 20, 2008;

Deborah Camille, Underground Miner (Member of the Skeetchestn Indian Band) 28 Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013

the Agreement provides a framework for a co-operative and mutually beneficial relationship between New Gold and the 2 Bands. It also defines the Joint Implementation Committee’s role and the role of the Environmental Monitoring Board.

This ensures appropriate points of contact between the company and the Bands.

The vital contribution of the Joint

Implementation Committee (JIC ) allows the parties to work effectively together to benefit both Bands and the overall project.

On May 29, 2007, Tk’emlups te Secwepemc and Skeetchestn Indian Bands relit the Stk’emlupsemc te Secwepemc Camp fire. These Bands are the two remaining communities of the Stk’emlupsemc te Secwepemc Nation and have constitutionally

The underground operation is expected to produce, on average, 85,000 ounces of gold and 75 million pounds of copper per year over a 12-year mine life. protected Aboriginal rights to use and control resource development, harvesting, and/or extraction in Secwepemc Territory.

These rights are balanced by responsibilities to pass a healthy Territory to future generations and to ensure that activities on the Territory are managed in a sustainable way.

The New Afton copper-gold mine is located 10 kilometers from the regional hub of Kamloops, BC and approximately 350 kilometers northeast of Vancouver in the south-central interior of British Columbia on the traditional Territory of the Skeetchestn and Tk’emlups te Secwepmc Indian Bands.

The New Afton Mine occupies the site of the historic Afton Mine, a previous operation of Teck Resources Limited (Teck), and includes an open pit mine, underground workings, historic support facilities, a new concentrator and recently constructed tailings facility. New Afton began production in June of 2012 and began commercial production ahead of schedule in July of 2012. The underground operation is expected to produce, on average, 85,000 ounces of gold and 75 million pounds of copper per year over a 12-year mine life.

On March 20, 2008 New Gold Inc. – New Afton Mine, Skeetchestn Indian Band and Tk’emlups te Secwepemc established

a Participation Agreement that allowed for a co-operative and mutually beneficial relationship. Over time the Participation Agreement has and continues to provide a basis for developing a working relationship; allows both parties to manage expectations; establishes appropriate points of contact within the company and Bands; and builds protocols for communications and implementation. The five major components that make up the Participation agreement are as follows: • Environmental Matters; • Human Resources, Employment and Training; • Education; • Business Opportunities; and • Financial Considerations.

In order for all parties to deliver on the agreement there were measures put in place at the outset to govern the Participation Agreement, and the parties are finding these measures truly beneficial.

The First Nations Coordinator, Martha Manuel, works closely with SSN and New Gold to facilitate communication regarding the Participation Agreement. She ensures that communication between parties is timely and accurate. Beyond providing assistance to SSN and New Gold, Martha also meets personally with Band members

Dan Gottfriedson Mineral Processing Plant Operator (Member of the Tk’emlups te Secwepmec)

to assist them with applications, training, contracts, human resources topics and any other issues that arise. Having Martha in the First Nations Coordinator role has been a real benefit for all parties involved. In addition to the First Nations Coordinator, New Gold and the Bands created two committees, the Joint Implementation Committee and the Environmental Monitoring Committee.

Through teamwork the Joint Implementation Committee leverages their collective skills to ensure that the Participation Agreement is being adhered to and addresses any noncompliance issues.

The Environmental Monitoring Board provides a venue to share knowledge, review reports and give advice with regard to environmental issues on site. Both committees are comprised of representatives from Tk’emlups te Secwepemc, Skeetchestn and New Gold.

At the end of the 4th quarter of 2012 New Afton had employed over 140 First Nations people, a testament to the success of the project. The mine is known for their, “Grow Your Own,” philosophy that aims to recruit candidates with valuable skills from the local area. The Underground Miner Training Program allowed for over 110 green miners, 49% who were First Nations, to gain valuable training in order to become underground miners.

Stk’emlupsemc Amalgamated Ventures Inc (Joint Venture between SSN & Western Protection Alliance) Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013 29

2013 National Aboriginal Tourism Conference

Spirit Ridge Vineyard Resort and Spa will once again be the venue for the 2nd annual National Aboriginal Tourism Conference to be held from April 3rd - 4th, 2013. The conference is a collaboration between Aboriginal Tourism BC (AtBC), NK’MIP Group of Companies and event managers the 2G Group.

Similar to the 2012 event, participants are expected to travel from as far away as New Zealand to attend and returning delegates from almost all of Canada’s provinces and territories are already registered.

Presentations will include: authentic Aboriginal tourism, identifying exactly who is the Aboriginal tourism visitor, financing tourism projects, utilizing social media, developing a regional tourism strategy as well as numerous other topics which will all be of great interest to delegates.

The organizers have attracted an impressive lineup of industry experts to share their knowledge and experience with the audience through presentations and workshops.

Chief Clarence Louie will be the keynote speaker on day one and will tell the captivating story of how 30 Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013

the Spirit Ridge facility grew over the last twenty years from barren desert land to become one of Canada’s highest quality resorts.

The AtBC awards dinner will be held on the second night with recognition being given to member organizations for outstanding performance in the Aboriginal Tourism industry.

Award categories are: Best Cultural Centres & Attractions, Outstanding Accommodations, Best Outdoor Adventures, Most Supportive Industry Partner, Best Food & Beverage and Artist & Entertainment.

The 2012 awards dinner was a huge success and DJ Larry Gray will be returning to rock the house once again and make sure everyone dances the night away and has a great time.

AtBC CEO Keith Henry did a great job of organizing and promoting the entire event in 2012 and was a big hit with the crowd as master of ceremonies at the awards dinner.

Keith said this to us when we interviewed

him recently, “I’m delighted at the quality and diversity of delegates who have registered to come to our 2013 event, the conference was a big hit with everyone who attended last year and I’d really like to thank the 2G Group for all of their help and expertise in making our conferences so successful.”

The entire event will be videotaped and streamed live on the internet, last year over 1,800 viewers logged in to watch the conference.

The Aboriginal Marketplace team was really impressed with what we saw at the event in 2012 and we predict the 2013 event will be even bigger and more successful.

For more information go to http:// theeventpros.ca/conferences/2013NATOC-Osoyoos.html

Dear Friends, AtBC continues to prepare as the co-host for the second National Aboriginal Tourism Conference (NATC) being held this April 3rd and 4th at the world class destination Spirit Ridge Resort and Conference Center in Osoyoos, BC. AtBC is proud to partner with the Osoyoos Indian Band and 2GGroup as the event planners for NATC. The conference is filling with delegates that are from Canada and international locations.

The conference will also include delegates from the Aboriginal Tourism Marketing Circle (ATMC) which represents the national Aboriginal tourism industry committee striving to support Aboriginal cultural tourism throughout Canada. NATC will also have several delegates from the World Indigenous Tourism Alliance with membership from several countries.

In this excitement I continue to urge your support to attend and learn more about the Aboriginal cultural tourism industry in British Columbia. NATC was the vision of AtBC and other leaders who continue to value the importance of building an authentic, consistent and competitive Aboriginal tourism industry. The conference provides delegates essential industry information such as ideas on training, product development and marketing. As many know in the tourism industry marketing is one of your most important strategies and speakers have been identified to assist any Aboriginal tourism business be competitive in the tourism world.

AtBC’s vision is that NATC will become the annual tourism industry event for any Aboriginal community, entrepreneur, or non Aboriginal partner to attend. As part of the conference AtBC will recognize and honour some of British Columbia’s finest and most successful Aboriginal tourism businesses who continue to excel each tourism season.

The timing for the conference could not be better, as the 2013 summer tourism season is set to kick off and we encourage you to register and attend. Come and be part of the excitement, join the growing support for Aboriginal tourism throughout Canada.

To register go to http://theeventpros.ca/conferences/2013-NATOC-Osoyoos.html Thank you

Keith Henry Chief Executive Officer Aboriginal Tourism Association of British Columbia

Aboriginal Marketplace / March 2013 31

WE’RE CREATING oPPoRTuNITIEs FoR AboRIGINAl busINEss

bC HydRo Is CommITTEd To THE AdvANCEmENT oF ECoNomIC oPPoRTuNITIEs FoR AboRIGINAl busINEssEs. We encourage interested businesses to visit bcbid.gov.bc.ca to learn about current opportunities.

To register your business on BC Hydro’s Aboriginal Business Directory, please visit: https://www.bcaboriginalvendors.ca/aboriginal_vendors/

For 50 years, BC Hydro has been providing clean, reliable electricity to our customers. Today we are planning for the next 50 years by investing in new projects, upgrading existing facilities and working with our customers to conserve energy through Power Smart.

Learn more at bchydro.com/regeneration50

A11-273