August 13 2021 by Nickel Belt News

Nickel Belt News Volume 61 • Issue 30

Friday, August 13, 2021

Thompson, Manitoba

Serving the Norman Region since 1961

MKO grand chief seeking second term

Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Grand Chief Garrison Settee announced his intention to seek a second term as head of the northern First Nations advocacy organization July 15. “I want to thank all the MKO leadership for putting their faith in me and allowing me to carry out this sacred duty of advocating on behalf of our First Nations," said Settee, who was elected as grand chief in August 2018, beating out

Ted Bland by capturing 53 of 89 votes. A former chief of Pimicikamak Cree Nation from 2008 to 2013, Settee has seen much affecting Northern Manitoba First Nations over the course of his term, most notably the COVID-19 pandemic, associated lockdowns and the military-assisted effort to vaccinate residents of the province’s remote and isolated Fist Nations, among them many of MKO’s 26 members. “It has been empowering

to have a role in advocating for better supports for First Nations throughout the COVID-19 crisis and it was an honour to encourage governments to prioritize First Nations people to receive access to the vaccines,” he said in a statement announcing his candidacy. The current grand chief also made reference to the unfolding recognition of the treatment of Indigenous people during the residential school era, brought to the forefront by the discovery

of the remains of 215 children in Kamloops in late May and in many other locations since. “There is a growing awareness about the lasting impact of the residential schools, the Sixties Scoop, and the foster care system on our people,” said Settee. “It is my wish to stand up to these injustices along with you as we seek to locate our children who were lost due to the residential school system.” If re-elected, Settee in-

tends to focus on youth and mental wellness across the north, as well issues of poverty, homelessness, food insecurity, economic development, rising Manitoba Hydro rates, and systemic racism in the justice and health care systems. A former high school teacher of First Nation studies and law, Settee is also concerned about education, particularly unequal access for students in northern First Nations. “As the pandemic has

clearly shown, access to high-speed internet is a key to equity when it comes to accessing essential services such as education,” he said. “Having access to internet provides education, health and economic opportunities as our First Nations continue to seek and grow sustainable local economies.” Leaders of MKO member First Nations will elect the organization’s next grand chief Aug. 18, during the annual general assembly in Norway House Cree Nation.

Puppeteer and former First Nation councillor running for MKO grand chief in effort to help Indigenous youth BY IAN GRAHAM

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

He may be best known these days for his work as the voice and arm behind his puppet Chief, but Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) grand chief candidate Ken Bighetty has years of experience as a councillor in his home community and believes that the biggest issue for First Nations is their youth. Bighetty was a council member in Mathias Colomb Cree Nation for eight years, and also spent five years as the First Nation’s healthcare co-ordinator. He says that engaging the youth in Pukatawagan had positive impacts for them and the

community as a whole. “I did a junior chief and council in Pukatawagan and I had 140 junior councillors,” Bighetty said. “The crime rate went from 77 young offenders to 19 in a year-and-a-half. I want to work with young people and have an MKO junior chief and council that works in the north in reserves. If I had 140 in Pukatawagan and I times that by 26, that’s over 3,400 junior councillors. It’s a positive youth gang.” Young people in First Nations need to feel like they are part of something bigger, Bighetty says, and to have positive activities to channel their energy into.

“A lot of young people are also seeking their identity,” he says. “Who am I? What am I? I want to learn my culture.” If those opportunities to explore their identity aren’t provided, their resources may go towards harmful activities. “I did an analysis in my community where there’s 1,200 that receive welfare aged 18 to 25,” Bighetty says. “That’s $380,000 walking around on welfare day. Times that by 26 you’re looking at $9.4 million walking around. The level of alcohol, violence and drugs stems from that.” The MKO grand chief should be someone who’s

visible in the community, approachable and based in the north where the people the organization represents are, says Bighetty, a single parent who lives in Thompson. “My issues are in Thompson and the surrounding area and communities so that’s where I want to be based,” he says. His leadership style isn’t confrontational but based on building bridges of communication. Bighetty is also a big believer in analyzing data to measure the effectiveness of initiatives. “I’m the candidate for what people need now,” he says.

Nickel Belt News photo courtesy of Ken Bighetty Ken Bighetty is seeking to become the next grand chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak.

Literacy grant helping Nisichawayasihk school provide more books for students and support reading recovery BY IAN GRAHAM

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Otetiskewin Kiskinwamahtowekamik (OK) school in Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation has been supporting student literacy during the COVID-19 pandemic with help from an $80,000 literacy grant to improve its library and support reading programs from the Indigo Love of Reading Foundation. The three-year grant will help the school expand a library loan program and support the reading recovery program for all grades. The school already started an after-school reading club for students from grades 1-4 last year to encourage them to view reading as something fun and not simply schoolwork. It will also ensure that there are more books available to students. “Because of COVID we

have been locked in our communities since October and access to books is very limited,” said Natalie Tays of OK school in a video featuring some of the 30 foundation grant recipients from across Canada. OK school received their grant because of their vision of how to use the library to promote literacy in the community, says Indigo Love of Reading Foundation executive director Rose Lipton. “We usually consider a combination of what is the need for the books themselves but also what is the vision and the plan and I think this had a really strong plan to leverage in-school programs as well as after-school programs and I know there is a vision to support their reading recovery program for all grades and enhance their school library,” she told the Nickel Belt News. “There

Nickel Belt News photo courtesy of Inidgo Love of Reading Foundation Otetiskewin Kiskinwamahtowekamik school in Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation received an $80,000 literacy grant from the Indigo Love of Reading Foundation to help improve the school’s library collection and support programs aimed at boosting student literacy. was just a great amount of programs and a lot of ideas and a lot of enthusiasm for literacy and that’s exactly what we look for.” The intent of Indigo foun-

dation literacy grants is to address underfunding of public school libraries and to transform recipient school’s facilities now and into the future.

“That’s the kind of impact we want to have so that at the end of the three-year partnership that we have with schools there’s been a massive difference in the school library for the young people that are attending today but also so that young people for many many years to come will be able to benefit,” Lipton says. As important as literacy is for everyone at any time, it’s even more vital in the COVID-19 pandemic era, when schools were often providing remote learning only, and in smaller communities where students don’t have the same access to books as youth in the city. “The main purpose is to help provide access to books across Canada and also to provide access to the right kind of books … diverse books or books that are reflective of their student popu-

lation,” Lipton says. Since being established in 2004, the Indigo Love of Reading Foundation has committed about $33 million to more than 3,000 highneeds schools across Canada. But the money and books are only part of the equation, Lipton says. Equally important is the dedication of teachers and librarians to promoting literacy among students. “We really made sure the schools we partnered with had a plan to ensure that, regardless [of pandemic-related challenges] they would get books into the hands of kids and all of our school partners really did an amazing job of that,” Lipton says. “It’s been pretty inspiring and pretty amazing. … how much perseverance they’ve shown to really do whatever they could to keep kids learning as challenging as it has been.”

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Friday, August 13, 2021

Highway 39, Provincial Road 280 getting more than $12 million of work through federal and provincial funding

THANK YOU

Parts of two Northern Manitoba highways will see improvements thanks to funding from the federal and provincial governments. “Rural and northern communities are an integral part of our country and they have been impacted by COVID-19 in unprecedented ways,” said federal Northern affairs Minister Dan Vandal in a July 27 news release. “Together with the province, municipalities, and project funding recipients, we’re building back better and providing residents with a safe and upgraded transpor-

tation network.” About 26 kilometres of Highway 39 from the Snow Lake turnoff east will be restored at a cost of approximately $7.8 million, split equally between the federal government and the province. Ten kilometres of Provincial Road 280 will be upgraded to meet current traffic volume and projected trends surrounding Gillam, Sundance and Split Lake. This work will receive $4.8 million, half from each level of government. “For rural and northern areas particularly, roadways

are relied on heavily for access to goods, services and their neighbouring communities,” said Manitoba Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler. “This announce-

ment continues to reinforce the province of Manitoba’s commitment to investing in safe roadways, and creating economic growth in our northern communities.”

Federal and provincial governments announce funding for a new pool – in Flin Flon BY IAN GRAHAM

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

NCN School Lunch Program Fundraiser Golf Tournament Thank you to all the sponsors, volunteers and Thompson Golf Club NCN Parks & Recreation Acklands Grainger Anything Grows Assiniboine Credit Union NCLP NCN Chief and Council Hi-Tech Auto Canada Safeway Canadian Tire NCN Arena Meetah Bldg. Supplies CIBC NCN Medicine Lodge Family & Community Wellness Centre

Lambert’s NNCEA NCN Development Co-op Crazy Pete’s ET Blades Gardewine Jordan’s Principle Ray & Eleanor Erickson Giant Tiger Paul’s Plumbing McMunn & Yates Leo’s Home Decorating RA Distributing Settarc

Smook Contracting Tim Hortons Eecol Electric MR Plumbing Northland Tire Wilson Moore Petro Can Pepsi Co Robinson Supply United Rentals NCN RCMP Detachment NCN membership

The federal and provincial governments announced more than $6 million in funding July 20 for a new pool in Northern Manitoba to replace one shut down due to structural issues, but it’s in Flin Flon, not Thompson. The governments are contributing $6.35 million to the replacement for the Aqua Centre, shut down since 2020, about a year after Thompson’s Norplex Pool was permanently closed for similar reasons.

The City of Flin Flon is contributing about $2.3 million to the project. “This investment in our community and region cannot be undersold," said Flin Flon Mayor Cal Huntley in a press release. "It is so important not only to the character of our city, but the safety and health as well. After all, we are the land of 100,000 lakes. Myself and all facets of my community from the children to the seniors are unbelievably excited about this announcement. Given everything that’s going on, the timing

couldn’t be better.” The new pool was among 15 Manitoba projects receiving a total of about $23 million from the provincial and federal government through the rural and northern communities stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP). The only other northern project on the list is construction of a floating boardwalk along the northeast shore of Grace Lake near The Pas, which is receiving $270,000 from the federal government. In October 2019, eight

months after the Norplex was closed down, Thompson city council passed a resolution seeking an Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) grant, which would cover 76 per cent of an estimated total cost of $20 million for a new pool, with the city chipping in just over $5 million. A design for a replacement for the Norplex Pool should be ready by October or November and a floor plan has already been completed, council heard in April. 21083HH0

Friday, August 13, 2021

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News • Page B-3

Manitoba Indigenous leaders call out minister, provincial government over defence of residential schools BY DAVE BAXTER

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, WINNIPEG SUN

Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) Grand Chief Arlen Dumas took direct aim at newly appointed Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations Minister Alan Lagimodiere during a July 19 press conference, after the Progressive Conservative MLA made comments the previous week defending the intentions of Canada’s residential school system. “Who in their right mind can say we found 1,505 babies murdered, murdered in these schools, hidden and buried in the ground, and in the same breath say the residential schools were a good thing?” Dumas asked during a fiery and impassioned speech on the steps of the Manitoba legislature. “Who can say that in their right mind?” During the press conference at the legislature, the Summit of Treaty 5 Sovereign Nations (Treaty 5) introduced their brand new Action Plan on Hate Crime and Racism. In a press release, Treaty 5 said the purpose of the 12-point plan was to “combat hate crime and racism triggered by the Manitoba Conservative government’s deliberate attempt to distort

the history of First Nations, which minimize the effects of colonialism, and the policy of genocide at Indian Residential Schools.” The press conference came just days after Lagimodiere defended the intentions of the residential school system just moments into his first press conference after taking on the role as the province’s Indigenous reconciliation and northern relations minister. Manitoba Indigenous leaders stood on the steps of the Manitoba legislature and blasted the PC government for what they said was “indifference” towards Indigenous people and issues. “You hear elected officials who continue to rest on the laurels of archaic policy and legislation that was developed in racism, and continue to perpetuate it today,” Dumas said. Dumas also made it clear he was no longer interested in speaking with or working with Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister, because of how frustrated he has been with their conversations in the past. “I give him every opportunity to have meaningful dialogue, we bring forward meaningful solutions to work together hand-inhand to move forward, but he would rather talk at me,”

Nickel Belt News photo by Dave Baxter, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Winnipeg Sun In a fiery and impassioned speech on July 19 on the steps of the Manitoba legislature in Winnipeg, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Arlen Dumas took direct aim at Manitoba Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations Minister Alan Lagimodiere, who made comments last month defending the intentions of Canada’s residential school system. Dumas said. “First Nations deserve better, we all deserve better.” Dumas also brought up his own personal experience with family members who were in residential schools, and said that from those experiences it was even harder to accept what Lagimodiere said durig his first press conference as Indigenous reconcilation minister. “Telling my mother that what happened to her in residential schools was OK, and my grandparents,

my aunties and my uncles, to say it was OK,” Dumas said about Lagimodiere’s July 15 comments. Dumas ended his speech by challenging all Manitobans to stand with Indigenous people moving forward. “I don’t challenge Mr. Pallister for anything, I don’t challenge Mr. Lagimodiere to do anything or apologize, because it’s not going to matter and it won’t mean anything. “I challenge the people of Manitoba to walk with us. The people are the power,

and if the government does not want to work with the people, then do something about it.” Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Grand Chief Garrison Settee said he and others are still willing to work with the province, but said it is time for the province to completely change their approach to dealing with Indigenous issues, or step aside if things remain the same. “Either change the institutions, or we’ll change them for you,” Settee said. “Hand them over, and we’ll

show you how to manage them.” In a press release, Chief Sheldon Kent of Black River First Nation said that the only option for Lagimodiere at this point would be to step down from his new role. "Dr. Alan Lagimodiere proved himself as an embarrassment to reconciliation and Indigenous relations,” Kent said in a statement. "His comments were harmful, retriggering anger and discontent among our people. There was no good intention at Indian residential schools to promote, and it is catastrophically irresponsible to suggest otherwise. "We call for his resignation, and he must step down." In a July 19 statement to the Winnipeg Sun, a spokesperson for Pallister said “our government remains focused on advancing reconciliation and working respectfully and collaboratively with all Indigenous and all non-Indigenous Manitobans on this important path forward." — Dave Baxter is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of the Winnipeg Sun. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the government of Canada.

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Handcuffed prisoner escapes RCMP custody in Lynn Lake, turns himself in two days later A handcuffed man who escaped police custody in Lynn Lake Aug. 7 was arrested Aug. 9 while still wearing the handcuffs. Daryle Richard Johnson, 46, ran off into the woods after being led out of the Lynn Lake RCMP detachment for transport to Leaf Rapids. Officers pursued him but lost sight of him and were unable to locate the fugitive. Officers were notified around 10 p.m. Aug. 9 that Johnson wished to turn himself in. Police attended a church in Lynn Lake and Johnson was arrested without incident. RCMP said he would be remanded into custodyAug. 10 on an additional charge of being unlawfully at large.

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RCMP photo Daryle Richard Johnson, 46, escaped police custody in Lynn Lake Aug. 7 and turned himself in two days later, still wearing the handcuffs he had on when he ran away.

Two men charged after six injured during shooting incident in Cross Lake

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Two men, aged 23 and 24, face multiple charges after firing shots at on old bus with people inside it in Cross Lake Aug. 7. Six people were injured in the incident, including a 13-year-old male who was transported to hospital in Winnipeg for treatment. Shots fired were reported to Cross Lake RCMP around 3:15 a.m. on Saturday, in the north end of Pimicikamak,

an area known as Saggitawak. Responding officers found the injured 13-yearold at the scene, along with five other injured males, ranging in age from 12 to 39. Police learned that several people were having a gathering in the bus when another group of people came along. The second group was denied entry to the bus, at which point shots were fired into the vehicle.

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RCMP located the second group and arrested two men. Marcus North and Morrison North are each charged with five counts of assault with a weapon, as well as aggravated assault, possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose, using a firearm in the commission of an offence, careless use of a firearm and reckless discharge of a firearm. Both were remanded into custody.

Police watchdog looking at OCN officers’ actions before collision thatReport resulted in MLA kelly.bindle.mla.offi ce@gmail.com a broken arm

Constituency ce: watchManitoba’sOffi police Unitdog 3-40 Moak Crescent agency is investigating an incident which a Thompson, MB R8Nin2B7 vehicle that police tried to 204-677-2066 Kelly Bindle pull over in Opaskwayak Cree Nation (OCN) hit a house, causing injuries to PESTICIDE the driver. Officers from the ManiCONTROL toba First Nations Police PROGRAM Service, which took over PUBLIC NOTICE policing OCN from the RCMP in April, saw a In fulfillment of Nisokapawino Forestry Management Corporation’s vehicle being driven at high (NFMC) obligation for renewal of harvest blocks, a pesticide speed July 18 and turned on application program to manage competing vegetation is part of their lights in an attempt to the 2021-2023 Forest Management Operating Plan. This is an pull it over but lost sight of annual occurrence. the vehicle because it was One of our obligations is to ensure that harvested softwood travelling too fast. They dominated forest stands re-establish as softwood dominated stands. Maintaining previous forest conditions provides for later located it at an interthe sustainability of plant and wildlife species in the Forest section where it had run into Management License Area. As a follow up to renewal activities a house. such as tree-planting, the application of the herbicide Visionmax The male youth in the (glyphosate) is used to control hardwood and broadleaf shrubs to allow for the re-establishment of boreal softwood forest stands. vehicle had blood on his Portions of some previously harvested blocks near the following face and complained of locations will have herbicide activities take place: a sore arm. Police called Athapap Road, Dolomite Road, Halfway Road, Landing Lake Road, emergency medical serLesko Road, Long Lake Road, Mitchell Lake Road, Moose Lake Road, vices, who took him to Namew Road, Pothier Winter Road, PR 282, PR 287, hospital in The Pas where PR 631, PTH 6 South of Thompson, Rib Winter Road, Rippers Point he was diagnosed with a Winter Road, Root Lake Road broken arm. He was later South Jonas, Sturgeon Landing Road, Thicket Road. transferred to Winnipeg for Any person may, within 15 days of publication of this notice, send further treatment. written submissions regarding the control program, or register their A broken arm is conwritten objection to the use of pesticide next to their property, sidered a serious injury by to the department below. This program will take place during the Thompson RCMP period of August 23 to September 30 of 2021. the Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU), Manitoba Conservation and Climate Drug Tip Line Environmental Stewardship Division which investigates serious Environmental Approval Branch incidents involving on- and 1007 Century Street off-duty police officers in Winnipeg, Manitoba R3H 0W4 the province.

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Page B-5

Road Trip Ideas 48 Hours in Winnipeg This summer, Travel Manitoba is featuring an

amazing collection of road trips to help you

SCAN THE QR CODE

explore every corner of Manitoba. From luxury to joie de vivre, this Winnipeg trip offers culture, history and relaxation – perfect for creating your ultimate 48-hour getaway.

↑

Nature Playground

↓

Assiniboine Park Zoo

to open this road trip map on your phone.

TRAVEL SAFE IN MANITOBA Keep yourself and others safe as you explore Manitoba. Remember to: Wash or sanitize your hands frequently Wear a mask Practice physical distancing Stay home when you’re sick Follow all local travel restrictions

Travel Manitoba cannot guarantee that the attractions and businesses featured will be open and operating as described. While we strongly recommend that all tourism businesses adhere to the public health and safety measures set by the Government of Manitoba, we cannot guarantee the compliance of any business featured in this content. Please contact businesses directly for operating hours and policies.

PASSION & HISTOIRE

When you visit Winnipeg’s St. Boniface neighbourhood, you’ll find its Francophone history, architecture and culture lining the streets. Cross the striking Esplanade Riel pedestrian bridge that links The Forks and downtown Winnipeg to St. Boniface. Start at the information centre inside the former St. Boniface City Hall building on Provencher Boulevard. Here you can book a walking tour, get information or watch a documentary about the history and passion of Manitoba’s Francophone community. Next, check out le Musée de Saint Boniface Museum, the oldest building in Manitoba. Built more than 170 years ago, the building was originally a convent. Today, it is full of Francophone history and art, including a permanent exhibit on Louis Riel, the founder of Manitoba. A block away is the Saint Boniface Cathedral. The current church was built

in 1971 after a fire burned the majority of the previous church. The old facade from 1894 still stands tall in front of the modern building, making for stunning photographs. Louis Riel’s tombstone sits in the cemetery in front of the cathedral, where a plaque informs visitors about his life and legacy. Another St. Boniface treasure is Fort Gibraltar. This replica of a 19th century North West Company fur trading fort features costumed interpreters who bring the fur trade period alive. You can also visit la Maison Gabrielle Roy, the original home of the renowned Franco-Manitoban author. Her hometown and the house itself are featured throughout much of her work. Round out your visit to St. Boniface with a croissant from a local bakery, a beverage from a neighbourhood coffee shop or a meal at a bistro.

Winnipeg Art Gallery

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Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature

A WALK IN THE PARK

A day spent at the Assiniboine Park Zoo is an absolute must. The Journey to Churchill exhibit features an underwater viewing tunnel to watch swimming polar bears and playful seals. See Arctic fox, caribou and wolves, along with tigers, gibbons and other exotic animals. Check out Aunt ↓

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St. Boniface Cathedral

Sally’s Farm, where colourful bridges give safe passage to goats and kids can play next to the animals. Another playground option in Assiniboine Park is the wide open space in the Nature Playground or spend some time in the tranquil Leo Mol Sculpture Garden.

THE ART OF RELAXATION

The Winnipeg Art Gallery’s iconic downtown building features a modernist design and more than 27,000 works of art. Browse the galleries where local Manitoba and Canadian artists are at the forefront, along with international works representing various cultures, centuries and mediums. Now open is Qaumajuq, the WAG’s Inuit art centre. The architecture was inspired by Canada’s northern landscape and it is home to more than 14,000 pieces of Inuit art, many of which are on display in the visible vault. The first of its kind in the world, Qaumajuq offers a space where Inuit voices are held front and centre. This accessible space combines art and technology to create direct connections to the land, people and culture of the North. After all that exploring, you’re probably ready to

relax. Check out the outdoor oasis set in a quiet nook of the city, Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature. The signature thermal experience is the ultimate way to relax. It follows a hot-cold-rest cycle. Steam rises over the dreamy temperate and hot pools, while the cold plunge beckons the brave. Enjoy a variety of saunas and steam rooms. During the rest period, lay down on a slab of hot rock or lean back on a heated seat and be soothed into a slumber with the aid of relaxing music overhead. Winnipeg boasts a variety of hotel options to suit any need, from trendy boutique hotels in the heart of downtown, to familyfriendly hotels with pools and waterslides close to your favourite attractions. Many hotels offer special packages, so now is a great time to stay overnight in Winnipeg.

Find a hotel and plan your Winnipeg getaway at travelmanitoba.com/road-trips.

Manitoba encompasses Treaty 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Territory and communities who are signatories to Treaties 6 and 10. It is the original lands of the Anishinaabeg, Anish-Ininiwak, Dakota, Dene, Ininiwak and Nehethowuk and the homeland of the Métis. Acknowledging these original caretakers is a reminder of our unique heritage, our important relationships and our obligations to and shared responsibilities with Indigenous peoples.

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Friday, August 13, 2021

Extreme summer weather in Manitoba highlights importance of being prepared to evacuate

Danielle Adams

MLA Report Danielle.Adams @leg.gov.mb.ca

Manitoba has been having a record-breaking summer, as temperatures have reached highs not seen for 30 years. At the same time, we are also experiencing

a drought, which has created a perfect storm for forest fires. All of Northern Manitoba currently has fire restrictions in place. For recent updates, go to https://www.gov.mb.ca/ cgi-bin/fire/show_current. pl?location=Fire-Update. Several northern communities have had to precautionarily evacuate over the course of the summer due to forest fires and this just underlines how important it is to be prepared. Here’s what experts recommend: Have a kit packed and ready to go that includes: • medication • driver’s licence and other IDs

• credit cards, cash • food and water (enough for three days) • pet supplies • toys for children • sleeping bags or blankets in waterproof bags • battery-powered radio • an emergency plan For more information on how to protect your property from fires and be prepared in the case of an emergency, visit the City of Thompson website under Community Wildfire Protection Plan online. Unfortunately, Manitoba’s forest fires will become more extreme and frequent the longer the Pallister government delays meaningful action

on climate change. The province’s current plan is nowhere near ambitious enough to reach greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions targets and GHGs have climbed every year the Progressive Conservatives have been in office. We need a government that takes the climate crisis seriously, instead of taking the federal government to court and underspending federal funds meant for climate change mitigation. Climate change mitigation involves having water bombers on standby at all times to fight our forest fires. However, the PCs privatized Manitoba’s water bombers in 2018, which has raised fears of our planes

not being available when we need them. The PCs have also decided to make life more difficult for hydro ratepayers yet again by increasing rates by 2.5 per cent per year for the next three years. They’re increasing rates without an independent review from the Public Utilities Board (PUB). This means that Manitobans will not know whether or not they are being asked to overpay as the PC caucus is setting rates at the cabinet table without any transparency or independent oversight. For First Nations members living on reserve, this will be their third increase within a year, which

amounts to a total of around 12 per cent. These increases while communities are still trying to recover from a pandemic are unjust and demonstrate that the Pallister government does not understand the situation for many families living on reserve. In particular, many homes on reserve are not insulated as well as in other communities, meaning that homeowners already have to spend more on hydro to keep their homes warm. If you have any questions or concerns regarding increased hydro rates or local wildfires please reach out to me at Danielle.adams@ yourmanitoba.ca or by calling me at 204-677-2744.

Provincial Court of Manitoba

PROVINCIAL COURT JUDGE Thompson Court Centre Facility Manager Regular/Full-Time Central Services, Thompson MB Advertisement Number: 37912 Closing Date: August 16, 2021 Salary Range: $51,673 - $66,971 (plus remoteness allowance, if applicable) The Manitoba government recognizes the importance of building an exemplary public service reflective of the citizens it serves, where diverse abilities, backgrounds, cultures, identities, languages and perspectives drives a high standard of service and innovation. The Manitoba government supports equitable employment practices and promotes representation of designated groups (women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, visible minorities). This is a preference competition. All applicants are encouraged to apply, however first consideration for this competition will be given to women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, and visible minorities. Applicants are requested to selfdeclare at the time of application. Qualifications Technical Certification with a major trade designation, such as a 5th Class Power Engineering certificate, post-secondary certificate/diploma in facility/property management or an equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered. Experience with facility management, operations, and maintenance is required. Experience with supervision, leadership and coaching staff is required. For the full listing of qualifications and conditions of employment, please visit http://www.manitoba.ca/govjobs/. Candidates with lesser qualifications may be considered as an underfill. Duties: Under the direction of the District Property Manager, the Facility Manager is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the provincially owned and leased buildings and grounds, including human resources, budget and capital assets, ensuring that the client departments have a safe, clean and comfortable area in which to carry out their programs. Apply to: Advertisement No. 37912 Service Centre 3 Human Resource Services 600-155 Carlton Street Winnipeg, MB, R3C 3H8 Phone: 204-945-8819 Fax: 204-948-3382 Email: govjobs@gov.mb.ca

The Judicial Appointment Committee welcomes the interest of qualified persons wishing to be considered for appointment to the Bench of The Provincial Court of Manitoba. There is currently one position available in Thompson which was recently advertised and we are extending the time within which to apply. If you have applied in the past two years and have indicated Thompson Court Centre as one of your preferred court locations, there is no need to re-apply. The mandate of the Judicial Appointment Committee is to assess the professional excellence, community awareness and personal suitability of candidates, while taking into account the diversity of Manitoba society (c. 275, The Provincial Court Act). Applicants must have practised for not less than five (5) years as a barrister and solicitor in Manitoba, be a member in good standing of The Law Society of Manitoba, and be entitled to practise as a barrister and solicitor in this province, or have other equivalent experience. Applicants must be willing to reside in the the judicial center of appointment and be capable of and willing to travel by automobile and small aircraft to circuit courts throughout the province. Judicial responsibilities will include a caseload of criminal cases and child protection matters as well as family law. The successful applicant will be subject to screening checks. It is the responsibility of the Judicial Appointment Committee to recommend to the Attorney General a list of not fewer than three and not more than six names of individuals for each position. Your Application Package must clearly indicate how you meet the qualifications and must include a cover letter, a résumé, and the following documents located at the Manitoba Court’s website at http://www.manitobacourts.mb.ca/provincial-court/about-the-provincialcourt/judges/judicial-vacancies/ • Judicial Candidate Information Form; • Consent to the Disclosure and Verification for Screening Checks; and • Law Society of Manitoba Authorization for Disclosure of Information Concerning Candidate Please submit one copy of your application package via email to judicialapplication@gov.mb.ca and an original plus seven copies of your application package to:

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process. When applying to this position, please indicate the advertisement number and position title in the subject line and/or body of your email. Your cover letter, resumé and/or application must clearly indicate how you meet the qualifications.

The Administrator, Judicial Appointment Committee 5th Floor – 408 York Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 0P9 Application Deadline extended: August 13, 2021.

Please be advised that job competitions may be grieved and appealed. Should a selection grievance be filed, information from the competition file will be provided to the grievor’s representative or the grievor, if unrepresented. Personal information irrelevant to the grievance and other information protected under legislation will be redacted. We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Find out about other current job opportunities — click on the Jobs button at manitoba.ca.

People. Purpose. Progress. manitoba.ca/govjobs

Nickel Belt News

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Due to Easter the deadline for advertising in the April 10 edition Any personal information provided including employment equity declarations usedBelt for employment of will the be Nickel News is and/or statistical purposes and is protected by The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. 3:00 pm Monday, April 6, 2020.

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Friday, August 13, 2021

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Northern tourism need open borders to bring ‘ghost town’ back to life, says Wapusk Adventures owner BY DAVE BAXTER,

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, WINNIPEG SUN

David Daley says he has watched over the last year as the pandemic has devastated his business and his mental health, and turned his home community of Churchill into a “ghost town.” “Mentally I’m just done,” Wapusk Adventures longtime owner David Daley said July 15 from his home in Churchill. “We’re in trouble, we are in real financial trouble like anyone else in business up here. “Imagine if someone said to you ‘go home and you are not going to get a paycheque for 16 months, and you’re going to have to borrow your way out of it.’” As owner of Wapusk Adventures, Daley said he offers wilderness activities and experiences year-round like dog sledding, snowshoeing, Northern Lights watching, and electric biking, and he said his clients come from around the globe. Along with these experiences, Daley said he also offers Indigenous cultural experiences, and that is a big part of what the business tries to do. “Indigenous tourism is an experience,” he said. “It’s a cultural experience, we talk about our connection with the animals and our connection to the land, and I’ve seen people leave here affected by what they have learned, and tell me it has changed their perspective. “It’s a beautiful thing to share, because Indigenous culture is all about sharing.” But over the last 16 months Daley said the pandemic has brought his business to an almost complete standstill, as he said he typically brings in more than $250,000 a year, but only brought about $10,000 in the last year. “The last 16 months have been absolutely horrible, and people have to realize having all these sled dogs, my expenses have not stopped,” he said. “A tour company can park the van or cancel the insurance, but you can’t stop taking care of the animals, and they are eating about $4,000 worth of food every two months.” Daley said he estimates his overhead costs per month sit at around $6,000, even when he is shut down. And even with health restrictions being loosened twice within a month, Daley said he needs to see a lot from all levels of government if he and others in the industry are going to survive. “First of all and most importantly we need the borders open,” Daley said. “It’s an international market, we rely on the borders being open and on the tour companies bringing people here.” Daley also wants people to know that he and many other business owners in this province have had to borrow massive amounts of money

just to keep from closing their doors for good. “We are out of money, I even put a donate button on my Facebook page,” he said. And as business has cratered for Daley, he said he has also watched his usually vibrant hometown of Churchill transform into a place he can barely recognize anymore. “It’s a ghost town, that’s the only way to describe it,” he said. “It’s sad.”

But despite all he’s been through in the last 16 months, Daley said he has never and will never consider shutting his doors. “That won’t happen, that will never happen, I’ll never pack it in,” he said. “I’ll go down kicking and screaming.” Indigenous tourism a boon for Canada’s economy A 2017 study showed that at least 1,875 Indigenous businesses participate in

Canada’s Indigenous tourism sector, with more than 39,000 people working in the sector’s associated industries. The combined direct economic footprint in 2017 of the industry was estimated to exceed $1.7 billion. — Dave Baxter is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of the Winnipeg Sun. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the government of Canada.

Maintenance Manager Regular/Full-Time Central Services, The Pas, MB Advertisement Number: 37776 Closing Date: August 29, 2021 Salary Range: $60,960 - $72,146 (plus remoteness allowance, if applicable). The Manitoba government recognizes the importance of building an exemplary public service reflective of the citizens it serves, where diverse abilities, backgrounds, cultures, identities, languages and perspectives drives a high standard of service and innovation. The Manitoba government supports equitable employment practices and promotes representation of designated groups (women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, visible minorities). This is a preference competition. All applicants are encouraged to apply, however first consideration for this competition will be given to women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, and visible minorities. Applicants are requested to selfdeclare at the time of application. Qualifications Trades Journeyperson’s certificate with post-apprenticeship experience in a building maintenance environment. An equivalent combination of training and related experience in a building construction/maintenance environment may be considered. Experience with a variety of trades disciplines, such as plumber, electrician, carpenter, or refrigeration mechanic required. Experience with building maintenance requirements including troubleshooting and life cycle evaluation required. Strong supervisory, leadership and coaching skills required. For the full listing of qualifications and conditions of employment, please visit http://www.manitoba.ca/govjobs/. Candidates with lesser qualifications may be considered as an underfill. Duties: Under the direction of the District Property Manager or designate, the incumbent is responsible for the coordination and scheduling of trades staff to complete specialized maintenance, repair work, and equipment installation efficiently and safely, with a minimum of disruption to client programs at facilities in District Four. Maintains SAP maintenance management systems, co-ordinates data input, reports on maintenance program, performs various administrative tasks such as attendance reporting, inventories, cost estimating and materials acquisitioning. Apply to: Advertisement No. 37776 Service Centre 3 Human Resource Services 600-155 Carlton Street Winnipeg, MB, R3C 3H8 Phone: 204-945-8819 Fax: 204-948-3382 Email: govjobs@gov.mb.ca Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process. When applying to this position, please indicate the advertisement number and position title in the subject line and/or body of your email. Your cover letter, resumé and/or application must clearly indicate how you meet the qualifications. Please be advised that job competitions may be grieved and appealed. Should a selection grievance be filed, information from the competition file will be provided to the grievor’s representative or the grievor, if unrepresented. Personal information irrelevant to the grievance and other information protected under legislation will be redacted. We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Find out about other current job opportunities — click on the Jobs button at manitoba.ca.

People. Purpose. Progress.

Careers • Page B-7

KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL CRISIS RESPONSE ADVISOR FULL TIME POSITION Under the general direction of Keewatin Tribal Council (KTC) Director of Health and the Wellness Programming Team Leader, Wednesday, JanuaryAdvisor 31, 2018 the Crisis Response will assist member First Nations in Crisis Response situations in collaboration with the Crisis Careers Response team and KTC according to Crisis Response protocol. They will respond to requests for assessments, support or consultation regarding community members in crisis due to community trauma/emergent situations, mental health, suicide or addictions concerns. They will provide on-site support to youth, caregivers and community members, provide referrals or linkage to resources and provide informational resources based on a case management model.

Louisiana Pacific Swan Valley

QUALIFICATIONS: • Post-Secondary education / training / experience in the Social Services field. • Demonstrated counseling skills with First Nations and ability to facilitate the transfer of skills to community-based resources. Louisiana-Pacific, Employer of Choice, a leader in the forest products industry • Community Crisis Response experience or suitable amount known for the development of innovative, affordable, environmentally of experience or education. friendly building products and for excellence in Safety and Quality is currently • Knowledgeable of government agencies and various seeking Labourers at our Swan Valley SmartSide®, Swan Valley, Minitonas organizations. operation. • Should have good communication and organizational skills. Qualifi cations: • Computer skills are needed for various input of reporting Therequirements. successful candidate must possess the following • Ability to work well as a team member. qualifi cations; • •Ability speak and Cree/Dene would be an asset. Goodtowritten verbal communication skills • •A valid Driver’s license would be an asset. Physically fit to perform all duties • •Must be prepared to travel extensively Ability to multitask and problem solve for Crisis Response Mental •and Ability to Health operatetraining. equipment as required • Computer literacy willdetailed be considered asset at least two A written application with resume,anincluding Valid driver’s (2)• references withlicense written permission to contact the references • your Shiftwork and latest immediate supervisor should be submitted to: The successful candidates join August a dynamic Closing Date: will Friday, 20,team 2021in providing support to the located in thenot beautiful Swan River Valley Latefacility applications will be accepted as it embarks on a new and exciting journey of producing siding Please Forward Resumes to the Attention of: for a growing market. Lisa Beardy, Office Manager Louisiana-Pacifi ers aThompson, competitive wage and benefi package in 23 Nickelc off Road, Manitoba R8NtOY4 accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement. LouisianaEmail: lbeardy@ktc.ca Fax: 204 677-0256 Pacific is an equal opportunity employer. Applications will be accepted until 4:00 pm, Friday, August 20, We thank all applicants, for 2021. We would like to thankhowever, those thatonly applythose for theselected position but interviews will considered be contacted. Candidates will subject only those being for an interview will bebe contacted. to successful completion of comprehensive background screening and health checks.

General Labourers

Please forward your cover letter and resume to: Lorraine Schneider Human Resource Generalist I Louisiana-Pacific Canada Ltd. P.O. Box 189, Minitonas, MB R0L 1G0 Phone: (204) 525-2479 Ext. 2104 Fax: (866) 678-5969 e-mail : lorraine.schneider@lpcorp.com

Any personal information provided including employment equity declarations will be used for employment and/or statistical purposes and is protected by The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Alternate formats available upon request

FULL TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLE CHILDREN’S ORAL HEALTH INITIATIVE DENTAL WORKER AIDE

The community-based Dental Worker Aide will work in partnership with the Dental Hygienist and other Community Health Professionals to provide community –based preventive dental services for children aged 0-7 years enrolled in COHI. t $PNQFUJUJWF 4BMBSJFT t 3FMPDBUJPO "TTJTUBODF DUTIES: t $POUJOVJOH &EVDBUJPO t 3FNPUFOFTT "MMPXBODF t &YDFMMFOU #FOFöUT • Administration of forms, records, and supplies >Dental Assistant and collects consent forms and medical information • Distributes 5IPNQTPO (FOFSBM )PTQJUBM o 0QFSBUJOH 3PPN from families 1BSU 5JNF '5& • Educates and promotes good oral health habits to children 5IFSF XJMM CF BO PQQPSUVOJUZ UP XPSL QBSU UJNF GPS UIF %FOUJTU JO and pre/postnatal families BEEJUJPO UP UIJT QBSU UJNF QPTJUJPO • Establish and manage community toothbrush program • Assistance in application of fluoride varnish to children’s teeth Under the direct supervision of the Patient Care Manager or designate, assists multi-disciplinary team personnel in performingwhile a varietypreforming of patient careCOHI • Assisting the dental professional activities and related services necessary in caring for the services such non-professional as dental sealants personal needs and comfort of the patient. This is an integrated position that • Schedules and and manages appointment bookings forOperating children includes coordination scheduling of dental procedures for the for future COHI dental services such as fluoride and sealants Room (OR). This will require expertise in developing and maintaining excellent working relationships with a broad range offor individuals and organizations. The • Provide oral health sessions pre/postnatal women, OR Dental Assistant will function within the provisions of the Vision, Mission, parents/caregivers, children up to the age of 7, and infants Values, policies and procedures of the Northern Health Region (NHR) and • Recording dental information under the supervision will incorporate NHR corechart competencies into working practice (Customer/ of Client Focused, & Pro-activity, Diversity Awareness, Teamwork, and the dentalInitiative professional Collaboration, Self andinventory Others, and Adaptability). • MonitorsDevelopment communityofdental • Others as must deemed necessary The incumbent fulfill the requirements of the Criminal Records/Vulnerable Person, Child Abuse Registry check and Adult Abuse Registry check, and adhere QUALIFICATIONS: to all Northern Health Region policies and procedures. • Must have excellent oral and written skills Qualifications: • Must be computer literate t Grade 12 education or equivalent Knowledgeable ofoflocal First Nations language is anrequired asset t • Successful completion a recognized Dental Assistant Program Able toactive work independently t • Current practicing registration with Manitoba Dental Association t • Excellent of Windows based programs (Microsoft Word, Excel, Displayknowledge a high level of self-initiation Outlook, and Internet) • Child Abuse Registry Check t Minimum three (3) years’ experience as a Dental Assistant required Criminal Recordworking Check with Pediatric cases preferred t • Previous experience t • Ability Creeto an travel asset to communities Must to bespeak willing • Valid Manitoba Driver’s License For complete list of qualifications please visit our website www.nrha.ca. A written application with a detailed resume, including at least Please submit resume bywritten Februarypermission 2, 2018 to: to contact the references two references with Lori Rasmussen, Recruitment Officer and your latest immediate supervisor, should be submitted to: 867 Thompson Drive South Thompson, MBLisa Beardy, Office Manager R8N 1Z4 Fax: (204) 778-1477 Keewatin Tribal Council Inc. Email: recruiteast@nrha.ca 23 Nickel Road $BMM VT UPEBZ -PDBM PS 5PMM 'SFF Thompson, Manitoba R8N 0Y4 Northern RHA has aEmail: lbeardy@ktc.ca Fax: 204 677-0256 Representative Workforce Strategy, we encourage all applicants to selfdeclare. Criminal Record, Abuse, & Adultuntil Abuse Registry ChecksFriday, are required. We thank all Applications willChild be accepted 4:00 p.m. August 20, candidates for applying. Only those selected for interview will be contacted. 2021. We wish to thank those that apply for this position but www.nrha.ca only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Glacier Media Group is growing. Check our job board regularly for the latest openings: www.glaciermedia.ca/careers

Manitoba Civil Service Commission Thompson Citizen, Thompson Nickel Belt Ad size: 3 col. = 4.84” x 165 lines Insertion date: Wed. Aug. 11

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Page B-8 • Columnists

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, August 13, 2021

PCs ignoring northern birthing services All Manitobans deserve quality healthcare close to home – and that includes Northern Manitobans. Northern families struggle to access local healthcare services as it is, but the Progressive Conservatives’ cuts to healthcare since taking office have only made it worse. Right now, at St. Anthony’s General Hospital in The Pas, there is a shortage of obstetric nurses trained to provide birthing

services, forcing Northern Manitobans to have to travel to give birth. Expecting parents are stressed enough already – they don’t need the added anxiety of having to travel far away from home for care. Northern Manitobans should be able to access birthing services in their communities, close to their loved ones. We saw a similar situation play out here in Flin Flon a few years ago when the PC government cut our birthing servi-

KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL

Flin Flon MLA Report Tom.Lindsey@yourmanitoba.ca Tom Lindsey

ces, and it is my hope that we do not see these services cut in The Pas as well. I have written to the health minister about this critical issue and the need to address the staffing vacancies immediately. The

KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY CAUCUS COORDINATOR (TERM 1-YEAR POSSIBLE EXTENSION) POSITION STATEMENT Under the Direction of the Director of Health the Caucus Coordinators will be the key contacts working with KIM’s (Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin Inc) technical team. The relationship with KIM is important as the KTC Caucus Coordination team will aid KIM in implementing and upholding the three-part governance structure now and over time, while aiding KTC in identifying and bringing forward the caucus priorities of the KTC First Nations.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The Regional Caucus through its Coordinators will: • Submit Resolution(s) to KIM that identify Regional Caucus member appointment (s) to the Keewatinohk Inniniw Okimowin Council (KIOC), a template will be provided for use; one resolution per caucus is sufficient • Aid the KIM team in the promotion and solicitation of Letters of Interest from qualified candidates from the community at large for consideration by the Keewatinohk Inniniw Okimowin Council (KIOC) for the Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin (KIM) Board of Directors; • Identify and prioritize caucus level priorities with respect to closing health service gaps as identified in previous engagements, through evidence-based research in published reports, and through their own caucus processes; • Assist the KIM team with the first KIOC Annual General Meeting scheduled for mid-October; • Provide overall assistance to the KIM team to ensure the KIM three-part governance structure as it relates to the Caucus is complete and implemented. QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS • A Bachelor’s degree in Arts, Social Work, Health, or Education with a minimum of five years of experience in community development or related work experience • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with maturity and poise to interact with executives at the highest levels of government, business, and academia; • Knowledge of government policies related to selfdetermination of First Nations people and how these policies have affected them; • Ability to work independently and take initiative; • Minimum of 2 years of experience in management and supervision; • Strong organizational skills with great attention to detail and the ability to set priorities; • Knowledge of most updated Microsoft Office applications required; • The incumbent must possess effective communication and conflict-resolution skills; • Must be willing to travel on short notice to remote fly-in communities; • Ability to speak Cree or Dene would be a definite asset; • A valid Driver’s license required; • Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Checks; • Child Abuse Registry Check. A written application with detailed resume, including at least two (2) references with written permission to contact the references and your latest immediate supervisor should be submitted to: Lisa Beardy, Office Manager 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N OY4 Email: lbeardy@ktc.ca Fax: 204 677-0256 Closing Date: Friday, August 20, 2021 4:00pm Late applications will not be accepted We would like to thank those that apply for the position but only those being considered for an interview will be contacted. For further information or a full job description contact Lisa Beardy, KTC Office Manager.

response I received was very dissatisfying and did not address the issues facing Northern Manitobans. The PCs’ healthcare cuts since coming into office have created an unacceptably high nurse vacancy rate in the

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY DENTAL HYGIENIST – FULL TIME POSITION Under the direction of the Director of Health, the Dental Hygienist will be responsible to implement and deliver the “Children’s Oral Health Initiative (COHI)” program, which focuses on children from ages 0 – 7 years of age. COHI is a community based initiative to prevent tooth decay and improve oral health among the 11 KTC First Nations children. The overall goals of the COHI are: To reduce and delay dental decay among First Nation children; to reduce the need for children to undergo extensive dental treatment involving general anesthetic; to work with community partners such as Aboriginal Head Start and Maternal Child Health programs and schools to bring proven early interventions to First Nations communities, and to improve families’ understanding of their role in promoting oral health as part of a healthy lifestyle

DUTIES (SUMMARY): • Ensure the collection of appropriately completed permission/ consent forms • Provide dental screenings and surveys to determine the oral health status and preventive treatment needs of each child • Provide pit and fissure sealants for children • Apply as required, fluoride varnish to children • Painless procedures used in cavities to limit further decay • Refer children who require urgent care • Provide one-on-one oral hygiene instruction • Oral health education and promotion activities • Collect, complete and submit data in a timely fashion (ie. Dental Screening forms and Dental Services Daily Records) • Maintain appropriate records (ie. COHI lists, referral lists, etc.) • Train and provide indirect supervision of the Dental Worker Aide • Develop, implement, coordinate, evaluate and maintain preventive and health promotion programs • Travel within our Tribal area is essential. • Others as deemed necessary QUALIFICATIONS: • Knowledgeable of First Nations cultural practices, traditions, and customs would be an asset. • Experience working in a First Nation community would be an asset. • Must have excellent oral and written skills. • Must be computer literate and have experience working with computer programs such as Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, Access Database, and Microsoft PowerPoint. • Knowledge of Federal/Provincial Health Care Systems. • Must be a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH), College of Dental Hygienists of Manitoba • Must be listed on the Registered Dental Hygienists–College of Dental Hygienists of Manitoba • Current CPR certification • Must have a valid Manitoba Driver’s License at all times. • Criminal Record check and Child Abuse Registry Check to be submitted. Salary ranges between: $70,000.00 - $85,000.00 annually A written application with a detailed resume, including at least two references with written permission to contact the references and your latest immediate supervisor, should be submitted to: Lisa Beardy, Office Manager Keewatin Tribal Council Inc. 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba, R8N 0Y4 Fax: (204) 677- 0256 Email: lbeardy@ktc.ca Applications will be accepted until 4:00 p.m. Friday, August 20, 2021. We wish to thank those that apply for this position but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Thompson RCMP Drug Tip Line

204-677-6995

Northern Health Region. These cuts have led to reduced services throughout the north and have reduced the quality of care Northern Manitobans receive at the bedside, at no fault of the frontline workers who work tirelessly to make sure the care is there for our community. This government needs to actively start recruiting healthcare professionals to come to the North and to encourage Northern Manitobans with healthcare training to stay in our communities. Manitobans deserve a government that takes this staffing crisis seriously. The PCs have not learned the lessons of the pandemic. Instead of investing in improving healthcare services for all Manitobans, they’re focused only on their own internal conflict within cabinet and caucus. The premier and new In-

digenous reconciliation and northern relations minister’s comments this past month – an attempt to rewrite Canada’s colonial history – were inexcusable and just another example of how out of touch this government is with Manitobans. Many PC MLAs will try to distance themselves from Pallister leading up to the next election, but Manitobans see right through this. We know that each and every one of those MLAs has been complicit in this government’s dismantling of services northern families and First Nations rely on like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. They can’t run from that legacy – not today, and not come election time in 2023. If you’d like to share how the PCs’ healthcare cuts have impacted you and your family, contact my office at 204-687-3246 or Tom. Lindsey@yourmanitoba.ca.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY WELLNESS COORDINATOR Under the general direction of Keewatin Tribal Council (KTC) Director of Health, the Wellness Coordinator will assist member First Nations in developing their own Wellness Teams, supporting and participating in current Mental Wellness programming and capacity building, providing guidance and mentorship to community based workers. The Wellness Coordinator will provide assistance to all KTC member bands as requested by the KTC communities and will assist with developing of a cultural appropriate assessment and treatment approaches.

QUALIFICATIONS: • Must possess a Degree/Diploma from a post-secondary institution in a health related or social work field with a demonstrated ability in counseling skills; experience with First Nations, community health planning, policy development and ability to build capacity within the communities; • Additional training or certification an asset i.e.: ASIST, Critical Incident Stress Management, Mental Health First Aid First Nations and/or Psychological First Aid. Effective interpersonal and critical thinking skills required. Ability to interact professionally with culturally diverse staff, clients, and consultants preferred; • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with maturity and poise to interact with executives at the highest levels of government, business, and academia; • Knowledge of government policies related to selfdetermination of First Nations people and how these policies have affected them; • Ability to work independently and take initiative; • Minimum of 2 years of experience in management and supervision; • Strong organizational skills with great attention to detail and the ability to set priorities; • Knowledge of Microsoft Office 2010 applications required; • The incumbent must possess effective communication and conflict-resolution skills; • Must be willing to travel on short notice to remote fly-in communities; • Ability to speak Cree or Dene would be a definite asset; • A valid Driver’s license required and access to a reliable vehicle; • Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Checks; • Child Abuse Registry Check. • Active Member with the KTC Crisis Response Team. A written application with detailed resume, including at least two (2) references with written permission to contact the references and your latest immediate supervisor should be submitted to: Lisa Beardy, Office Manager 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N OY4 Email: lbeardy@ktc.ca Fax: 204 677-0256 Closing Date: Friday, August 20, 2021 4:00pm Late applications will not be accepted We would like to thank those that apply for the position but only those being considered for an interview will be contacted. For further information or a full job description contact Lisa Beardy, KTC Office Manager.