“British Columbia is poised for a new phase of growth, investment and job creation, which will enable us to reach across the Pacific and tap into growing demand in Asian markets,” said Premier Christy Clark, who is presently on her second Asia Jobs and Trade Mission promoting resource development to overseas customers. “Long-term growth in our mining industry will translate into strong economic growth for our communities, First Nations and the province, and thousands of well-paying jobs that will benefit families in British Columbia.”

The new B.C. Mineral Exploration and Mining Strategy outlines a plan to create eight new mines and expand nine existing ones by 2015. The mining strategy’s six overarching goals are:
· Enhancing B.C.’s competitive edge.
· Streamlining regulatory processes.
· Ensuring the health and safety of B.C.’s workers.
· Protecting the environment.
· Building partnerships with First Nations.
· Developing a well-skilled workforce.

Today in B.C., 19 major mines provide jobs and opportunities for their communities. This includes five new mines and five expanded mines that have been permitted in the last year.

New mines include Copper Mountain Mine, which began production in June 2011, and four others announced under Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan – Mount Milligan by Prince George, New Afton by Kamloops, Barkerville by Quesnel and Red Chris by Dease Lake in northwest B.C. All of these mines have either started construction or are about to begin.

“Mineral exploration and mining is booming in B.C.,” said Coleman. “While meeting global demand drives a competitive industry, our government’s plan starts at home with a strategy that ensures our mining industry is well-positioned to create opportunities for British Columbians in an environmentally responsible manner.”

Under the BC Jobs Plan, the Province estimates it will increase annual revenue from mining operations by $1.6 billion, create and sustain more than 15,000 direct and indirect well-paying jobs in B.C. and contribute more than $150 million a year toward government revenue.

“The BC Jobs Plan commits to significant growth of mining and mine expansion that will contribute to high-paying jobs that support B.C. families,” said Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation, Pat Bell. “With an investment of over $500 million provided annually for labour market training programs, we can ensure that training is available so British Columbians can take advantage of the tremendous opportunities in the mining industry.”

Work began last fall when government began to clear the backlog of permit applications including Notices of Work. The Province has committed to an average 60-day turnaround for this work, and has already reduced the turnaround from 229 to 49.

In announcing today’s strategy, the Province reaffirmed its commitment to develop mines in an environmentally, socially and economically responsible manner, respecting the cultural values of B.C.’s communities and its First Nations. This includes 10 new agreements to ensure mining benefits flow to B.C. First Nations by 2015.

Learn More:
For ‘Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan’, visit: www.bcjobsplan.ca

To download a copy of the strategy visit: http://www.empr.gov.bc.ca/Mining/Pages/MiningStrategy2012.aspx

To read more: NationTalk.ca

“Vince, Dallas and Brandon have inspired Canadians young and old with their electrifying live performances that are bringing traditional dance to an entirely new audience,” said Selinger. “Sagkeeng’s Finest are also Manitoba’s finest and I’m pleased to recognize their achievement by inducting them into the Order of the Buffalo Hunt.”

Sagkeeng’s Finest broke into the mainstream on the TV show Canada’s Got Talent, winning the show’s top prize Monday evening for their unique fusion of traditional jigging, clogging and tap dancing.

“These young men are keeping the strong artistic traditions of Aboriginal people alive through hard work, determination and creativity,” said Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Eric Robinson. “What they are doing to make traditional Aboriginal dance exciting and relevant to a contemporary mainstream Canadian audience is nothing short of remarkable.”

The minister noted Sagkeeng’s Finest will also be performing at the nationally-televised seventh annual Manito Ahbee Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards Nov. 2 at the MTS Centre.

The Order of the Buffalo Hunt was founded in 1957 to recognize the outstanding and distinctive contributions of leaders in areas such as politics, business, sports and entertainment. Dallas, Brandon and Vince are believed to be the youngest members ever inducted into the order.

To read more: NationTalk.ca

WHAT:  For the first time since 1876, the Onion Lake Cree Nation will be signing Treaties with two Nations; from the first with the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation from Utah, U.S.A. and the second with three Nations from Alberta, including Sucker Creek First Nation, Ermineskin Cree Nation and the Drift Pile First Nation at the Treaty Summit. There will also be a sod turning for the Treaty No.6 Embassy to mark this historic event.

WHEN:  Cultural activities will begin on June 3rd. Media are invited to attend our press conferences on Tuesday, June 5th, 2012 for the formal signing of the Treaties commencing at 10 am at Fort Pitt. At 1:30 there will be the ground-breaking ceremony for the Treaty 6 Embassy. There will be plenty of memorable moments for photo opportunities and interviews, as the visual set up will be from the era when Treaty No.6 was signed in 1876 with many Chiefs and dignitaries in attendance.

WHERE: Onion Lake Cree Nation is located 30 minutes north of Lloydminster on highway 17. Directions to Fort Pitt are attached.

WHY: Onion Lake Cree Nation is a progressive Indigenous community and believes in Sovereignty and the Protection of our Inherent Rights & Treaty. Among the guests will be; a representative of the United Nations, Dignitaries, Elders, Treaty Chiefs, Treaty Women’s Secretariats, Youth, guests and the media.

www.onionlake.ca

For further information, please contact:

Nicole Robertson, Communications Advisor
Muskwa Productions & Consulting
(403) 616-4999  or nicole.robertson@onionlake.ca

“ With the environmental impacts of climate change and the challenges of access to nutritious foods in northern and remote communities, First Nations must be fully involved and supported in formulating solutions to protect our traditional foods and secure affordable access to nutritious foods,” said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo.

The UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food Olivier De Schutter issued a statement which concluded that “… the situation of Aboriginal peoples raises specific concerns”. De Schutter called for a reform of the Nutrition North Canada program that subsidizes retailers to serve remote communities. He also called for a structural approach to tackling the socio-economic and cultural barriers to opportunities for those living on reserves that result in their not enjoying fully their right to adequate food. Finally, he regretted that neither the federal Government nor the provinces consider that they have a responsibility to support off-reserve Aboriginal peoples in overcoming the structural discrimination they face.

The Special Rapporteur notes that on-going land claims across the country have implications for the right to food among Indigenous peoples.

“The Special Rapporteur believes that continued and concerted measures are needed to develop new initiatives and reform existing ones, in consultation and in real partnership with indigenous peoples with the goal of strengthening indigenous peoples’ own self-determination and decision-making over their affairs at all levels.”

AFN provided a submission to the Special Rapporteur, offering an overview of the current state of food security and advocating for right to food priorities for First Nations in Canada, including the need to develop and implement a National Food Policy reflective of First Nation traditions and values; improved access to affordable and nutritious foods, including addressing rising costs in the North by implementing price regulations for staple foods such as milk and bread; the development and implementation of a national school nutrition program; and protection of the environment to ensure the safety of traditional food sources.

Food security, an important determinant of health, addresses one’s ability to access adequate amounts of nutritious foods. The First Nations Regional Longitudinal Health Survey (RHS 2008/10) indicates that 17.8% of First Nation adults aged 25-39 and 16.1% of First Nation adults aged 40-54 reported being hungry but did not eat due to lack of money for food. Comparably, only 7.7% of Canadian households were considered food insecure during 2007-2008.

Lack of access to nutritious foods contributes to growing rates of diabetes and other chronic diseases among First Nations.

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN and National Chief Atleo on Twitter @AFN_Updates, @AFN_Comms and @NCAtleo.

Three of these competitors returned home with medals in hand:
Antonio Lewis, Welding (secondary level): GOLD
Sébastien Rémillard, Cooking (secondary level): SILVER
John Spoelder, Auto Service (post-secondary level): SILVER

We also had a number of other strong finishes:
Colin Miller, Plumbing (post-secondary level): 4th
Richard Neary, Electrical Installations (post-secondary level): 4th
Katherine Thomas, Graphic Design (secondary level): 5th
Tony Liske, Industrial Mechanic/Millwright (post-secondary level): 5th
Jeanne Yurris & Nick Walker, TV/Video Production (secondary level): 4th

Congratulations to these talented individuals. They all worked hard for their results, in some cases training for many hours each week outside of school and work.

Winning national medals in skilled trades and technology has significant impact for youth in the NWT beyond the three medalists. It increases respect for people working in these sectors; it helps connect youth with other youth who know the value of careers in skilled trades and technology; it fosters pride in quality of work and accomplishment; and it helps NWT youth to know what they can achieve if they love what they do and work at it.

There were over 500 competitors from across Canada at the competition, with every province and territory sending a team. Each province and territory can choose to compete in any or all of the approximately 40 contests offered at the Skills Canada National Competition. This year, Skills Canada NWT competed in Auto Service, Baking, Carpentry, Cooking, Electrical Wiring, Graphic Design, Hairstyling, Industrial Mechanic (Millwright), Outdoor Power & Recreation Equipment, Plumbing, TV/Video Production, Welding, and Workplace Safety.

Skills Canada NWT thanks all the people, companies, and organizations who made this trip possible. We look forward to the 2013 Skills Canada National Competition in Vancouver, BC.

To read more visit: www.skillscanadanwt.org

Presented by Scotiabank, the theme for this year’s event will be Economic Development, featuring a panel of Aboriginal female role models sharing authentic messages of strength and empowerment, highlighting how they overcame challenges to achieve career success.

The panel will feature accomplished leaders; Chief Kim Baird, Chief of Tsawwassen First Nation, Annita McPhee, President of the Tahltan Central Council (TCC), and Lee Walker, National Director of Aboriginal Financial Services at Scotiabank. Dr. Judith Sayers, Assistant Professor of Business and Law at the University of Victoria, will be the emcee for this year’s Forum.

An award presentation will follow, honoring two outstanding Aboriginal women who are active in their communities and pursuing education with the Scotiabank Aboriginal Women Leaders Scholarship Award.

Proceeds from the Aboriginal Women in Leadership Forum will support the WIL Mentorship Program, with the goal to increase women’s participation in management or leadership positions in Canada through mentorship and leadership skills development.

Admission is by donation and can be reserved online or by phoning 604.872.6643. Day-of admission will be accepted, subject to capacity. Find exclusive event details and more information about WIL on our official Twitter and Facebook.

Women in Leadership Foundation
The Women in Leadership Foundation (WIL) is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing women in leadership roles. Since its inception in 2001, WIL has invested over $3 million into showcasing female role models and recognizing the accomplishments of Canadian business women, Aboriginal women and youth. Learn more about our programs and services by visiting www.womeninleadership.ca .

For media inquiries or to RSVP for the media list, please contact Terrene Conway.

Contacts:
Women in Leadership Foundation
Terrene Conway
778.839.3721
terreneconway@gmail.com.
www.womeninleadership.ca

Winnipeg, Manitoba (May 16, 2012) — With two active tracks currently being played on radio across Canada, it’s looking like sunny days ahead for Winnipeg’s Don Amero.

Turn These Grey Skies Blue
Was released to country radio stations across Canada last week, and within two days became the third most downloaded song on DMDS.com. This week, it has been listed on the Top 10 Most Active Indie downloads, and continues to be listened to by radio programmers from coast-to-coast.

Through The Storm
A song from Don’s last album, Through The Storm has slowly been gaining radio ground and earning fans. For the past two weeks it held the #1 spot on the National Aboriginal Music Countdown, and this week remains solid at #4.

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT!
If you have an iPhone or Android, now there’s a Don Amero app for that! This free mobile app lets you listen to Don’s music, check out photos and videos, read blog posts and get exclusive push notifications straight to your mobile device. http://www.reverbnation.com/mobile-app/240689/donamero

ABOUT DON AMERO
You can call Winnipeg’s Don Amero one of the hardest working independent musicians in showbiz today. The singer/songwriter has toured coast-to-coast, headlined concerts, presented at festivals, performed with the symphony, and played national television.

Since 2006, Don’s three albums (Change Your Life, Deepening, The Long Way Home) have generated four national and international awards – Aboriginal Recording of the Year (2011 Western Canadian Music Awards), Best Folk Recording (2011 Native American Music Awards), Aboriginal Songwriter of the Year (2009 Canadian Folk Music Awards), Male Artist of the Year (2009 Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards) – and 18 more nominations. He was the first-ever recipient of the James Brown Hardest Working Musician Award, presented in fun by CBC Radio host Wab Kinew.

Don Amero entertains audiences of all ages. His story inspires, and his message is one of encouragement, positivity and beauty. He continues to impress wherever he goes.

www.donamero.com
www.facebook.com/donameromusic

Thursday, June 21, 2012

5:00 pm to 9:30 pm

Hampton Inn, Ottawa

200 Coventry Raod

Last year’s event sold out.  Confirm your sponsorship TODAY.  To be a corporate sponsor or to purchase tickets, visit: www.wabano.com

or contact: Shelagh Mills 613.612.5482 or smills@wabano.com

“This is truly a positive expression of art and culture by First Nation young people and an exceptional demonstration of support by the Canadian public,” said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo.  “These young men are tremendous role models for all youth as beacons of hope and opportunity.  They believed in themselves, worked extremely hard and have achieved incredible success. Their talents, determination and enthusiasm are inspiring to all First Nation peoples and clearly all of Canada.”

The group of three young men – brothers Brandon and Dallas Courchene and Vincent O’Laney from Sagkeeng First Nation near Fort Alexander, Manitoba – were declared winners of the eight week national talent competition at the finale Monday evening.

The winnings include $100,000, a spot in CityTY’s New Year’s Eve show, a chance to perform in Las Vegas, a trip to Tobago and a Nissan GT-R. They were the only finalists from Manitoba.

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.  Follow AFN and National Chief Atleo on Twitter @AFN_Updates, @AFN_Comms and @NCAtleo.

• Karyne Belanger, Ottawa, ON (Traditional Art and Craftwork among Métis Adults: Findings from the Aboriginal Peoples Survey, 2006).
• Lynn Barwin, La Pêche, QC (Traditional Medicine Use and Availability among Métis Adults: Findings from the 2006 Aboriginal Peoples Survey).
• Irene Gonneau, Lake Country, BC (Depression among Métis adults: Findings from the 2006 Aboriginal People’s Survey).
• Daniel McKennitt, Edmonton, AB (Self-Rated Health of Métis Adults: Findings from the 2006 Aboriginal Peoples Survey).
• Devonn Robinson, Ottawa, ON (Access to a Regular Medical Doctor or Family Doctor among Métis Adults: Findings from the 2006 Aboriginal Peoples Survey).

Each of winners received a $1000 award. Contestants used the Métis Centre statistical database (www.metiscentreresearch.ca) to develop the fact sheets. Developed in collaboration with Statistics Canada, the database is the most comprehensive national database on Métis statistics in the country. It houses over 5000 sets of statistical tables and graphs (over 5000 tables and 10,000 graphs). Additionally, it has maps, e-learning tutorials and other supporting documents.

The contest was intended to (1) develop statistical capacity, (2) generate awareness of Métis health and well-being, and (3) partly address the paucity of Métis health and wellbeing research and literature. The paucity of Métis-related health research has been highlighted yet again by research conducted by Métis Centre researchers, which was published in the January/February, 2012 issue of the Canadian Journal of Public Health (Trends in Métis-related health research (1980-2009): Identification of research gaps).

Congratulations to the five winners!

For the past twelve years, the Métis Centre of NAHO has dedicated itself to improving the mental, physical, spiritual, emotional and social health of in Métis in Canada through public education, health promotion, research, and knowledge translation activities.

For more information about the Métis Centre or the National Aboriginal Health Organization, please visit www.naho.ca/metis.