10 Mile Bay will not resume operation this summer due to financial problems.
We spoke to Clint Davis the Chair for the Labrador Inuit Capital Strategy Trust.
He says they tried very hard to find a new business partner and new customers.
But unfortunately these efforts couldn’t be completed in time to make 10 Mile Bay operational for this season.
Davis says 36 seasonal workers are affected this year.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Minimum Wage to Increase
As Canadians come together tomorrow to celebrate this great nation, residents in this province have extra reason to celebrate.
As of July 1, the minimum wage in this province will be raised to 10 dollars.
This 50 cent increase is the final one in the provinces commitment to raising the minimum wage in this province to 10 dollars.
This latest increase makes Newfoundland and Labrador’s minimum wage the second highest in the country.
Our new summer student Binky Andersen couldn’t be happier with the news.
Andersen will be spending the summer working here at the OKalaKatiget Society’s Radio Department as a Radio Assistant.
She says the extra bit of cash will help her out with some extra spending money this summer.
As of July 1, the minimum wage in this province will be raised to 10 dollars.
This 50 cent increase is the final one in the provinces commitment to raising the minimum wage in this province to 10 dollars.
This latest increase makes Newfoundland and Labrador’s minimum wage the second highest in the country.
Our new summer student Binky Andersen couldn’t be happier with the news.
Andersen will be spending the summer working here at the OKalaKatiget Society’s Radio Department as a Radio Assistant.
She says the extra bit of cash will help her out with some extra spending money this summer.
Recreation Summer Program Starts Next Week
The Town of Nain is busy preparing for their Summer Recreation Program.
Lisa Ivany is the Recreation Director.
She says 23 interviews were conducted for eight positions with recreation and one for CYN.
Ivany says it was a difficult task and that all candidates were excellent.
For CYN, Rachael Tuglavina was hired as Assistant.
Crystal Allen is the Recreation Coordinator for the Summer Program.
Allen will be joined by seven assistants.
Today is their first day of work; the students’ first task will be to help prepare for tomorrow’s Canada Day activities.
Ivany says the students will have to do Hi-5 training to work with the children of the Summer Program.
The training basically teaches the principles of health in child development.
She expects the Summer Program to start next Friday.
A date has not yet been set for registration.
Space is very limited, so registration will be on a first come first served basis.
There will be a fee of 10 dollars to cover the costs of running the program.
Ivany is pushing for more funding to hire more students.
The Summer Program will run for eight weeks.
Lisa Ivany is the Recreation Director.
She says 23 interviews were conducted for eight positions with recreation and one for CYN.
Ivany says it was a difficult task and that all candidates were excellent.
For CYN, Rachael Tuglavina was hired as Assistant.
Crystal Allen is the Recreation Coordinator for the Summer Program.
Allen will be joined by seven assistants.
Today is their first day of work; the students’ first task will be to help prepare for tomorrow’s Canada Day activities.
Ivany says the students will have to do Hi-5 training to work with the children of the Summer Program.
The training basically teaches the principles of health in child development.
She expects the Summer Program to start next Friday.
A date has not yet been set for registration.
Space is very limited, so registration will be on a first come first served basis.
There will be a fee of 10 dollars to cover the costs of running the program.
Ivany is pushing for more funding to hire more students.
The Summer Program will run for eight weeks.
Nunatsiavut Celebrates Canada Day
Inuit along the north coast of Labrador are coming together to celebrate Canada Day tomorrow.
In Nain, celebrations begin at 10:30 in the morning with children’s activities at the ball field.
Also included in the events are a fishing contest, parade, activities at the ball field, a beach volley-ball tournament, a softball tournament, radio bingo, and a community dance.
A new activity this year will be a cardboard boat competition.
Competitors will create a cardboard boat and race it at the old dam.
Prizes will be awarded for design and ability to race the boat.
Canada day events will begin in Rigolet with the raising of the Canadian flag and opening ceremonies.
Events continue throughout the day including ultimate Frisbee, a community barbeque and a Lebanese dance.
In Hopedale, they are celebrating Canada Day by having a flat race, fear factor, bike races, and Inuit games along with other outdoor and indoor events.
The people of Postville will be raising the Canadian flag.
There will be prizes for the best decorated vehicles, a parade, children and adult games, a cake decorating contest and a community barbeque.
We’re still waiting to hear about Makkovik’s activities.
In Nain, celebrations begin at 10:30 in the morning with children’s activities at the ball field.
Also included in the events are a fishing contest, parade, activities at the ball field, a beach volley-ball tournament, a softball tournament, radio bingo, and a community dance.
A new activity this year will be a cardboard boat competition.
Competitors will create a cardboard boat and race it at the old dam.
Prizes will be awarded for design and ability to race the boat.
Canada day events will begin in Rigolet with the raising of the Canadian flag and opening ceremonies.
Events continue throughout the day including ultimate Frisbee, a community barbeque and a Lebanese dance.
In Hopedale, they are celebrating Canada Day by having a flat race, fear factor, bike races, and Inuit games along with other outdoor and indoor events.
The people of Postville will be raising the Canadian flag.
There will be prizes for the best decorated vehicles, a parade, children and adult games, a cake decorating contest and a community barbeque.
We’re still waiting to hear about Makkovik’s activities.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
TRHA Board & Annual General Meetings
Last week, the Torngat Regional Housing Association (TRHA) held their Annual General Meetings (AGM).
Margie Fox is the Chairperson of TRHA.
She says on June 22nd a Board Meeting was held, followed with the AGM the next day.
The AGM consisted of 3 people from each community in Nunatsiavut.
Fox says a TRHA Board member, staff representative and an AngajukKâk represented each community.
If an AngajukKâk was unable to attend, a representative from the Inuit Community Government took their place.
She says invited guests were Minister of Aboriginal Affairs Patty Pottle and Darryl Shiwak the First Minister of the Nunatsiavut Government (NG).
Unfortunately Minister Pottle didn’t attend, but her assistant Martha Winters Abel went on her behalf.
Fox says Shiwak made a presentation.
In the presentation, it appears the NG will eventually take over and create a Housing Authority.
However no dates or decisions as to how and when this will come into effect were decided.
She says with some of TRHA’s bylaws not necessarily working; the Board set some resolutions in place.
One of those resolutions is the change in annual income qualification.
Now the applications for housing will be based on annual gross income instead of net income.
Fox adds that there will be no changes to the actual ceiling limit.
Margie Fox is the Chairperson of TRHA.
She says on June 22nd a Board Meeting was held, followed with the AGM the next day.
The AGM consisted of 3 people from each community in Nunatsiavut.
Fox says a TRHA Board member, staff representative and an AngajukKâk represented each community.
If an AngajukKâk was unable to attend, a representative from the Inuit Community Government took their place.
She says invited guests were Minister of Aboriginal Affairs Patty Pottle and Darryl Shiwak the First Minister of the Nunatsiavut Government (NG).
Unfortunately Minister Pottle didn’t attend, but her assistant Martha Winters Abel went on her behalf.
Fox says Shiwak made a presentation.
In the presentation, it appears the NG will eventually take over and create a Housing Authority.
However no dates or decisions as to how and when this will come into effect were decided.
She says with some of TRHA’s bylaws not necessarily working; the Board set some resolutions in place.
One of those resolutions is the change in annual income qualification.
Now the applications for housing will be based on annual gross income instead of net income.
Fox adds that there will be no changes to the actual ceiling limit.
Labrador Aboriginal Training Partnership
The Labrador Aboriginal Training Partnership(LATP) is a new project that opened their doors in March.
It has five offices in total.
The head office is located in Goose Bay.
And has four satellite offices in Nain, Sheshatshiu, Natuashish and Charlottetown.
Peggy Andersen works in the Nain satellite office.
She says LATP is partnered between all three aboriginal groups in Labrador; Inuit, Innu & Metis, along with Nalcor Energy.
Their mandate is to overlook a comprehensive training to employment plan.
This is to prepare the Labrador aboriginals for employment opportunities in resource development.
They also hope to offer community-based and on-the-job training for qualified apprentices with aboriginal status.
Thus far, LATP has traveled some of the North Coast for information sessions.
They will have a presentation in Rigolet this evening at 6pm at the Hall.
It has five offices in total.
The head office is located in Goose Bay.
And has four satellite offices in Nain, Sheshatshiu, Natuashish and Charlottetown.
Peggy Andersen works in the Nain satellite office.
She says LATP is partnered between all three aboriginal groups in Labrador; Inuit, Innu & Metis, along with Nalcor Energy.
Their mandate is to overlook a comprehensive training to employment plan.
This is to prepare the Labrador aboriginals for employment opportunities in resource development.
They also hope to offer community-based and on-the-job training for qualified apprentices with aboriginal status.
Thus far, LATP has traveled some of the North Coast for information sessions.
They will have a presentation in Rigolet this evening at 6pm at the Hall.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Moravian Music Festival
The Community of Makkovik is hosting a Moravian Church Music Festival in the next few days.
Joan Andersen is the Chair-person of the Moravian Church in Newfoundland and Labrador.
She says four students from Happy Valley, five from Hopedale and four from Nain will take part in different workshops.
Chris Guindon of Nain, Natalie Jacque and Andrea Andersen of Makkovik, Nancy Tuglavina of Hopedale and Rev. Glenna Tasedan of Happy Valley will be the workshop coordinators.
Guindon will teach brass band instruments, and Jacque will instruct students on the violin.
Taesdan will teach how to play the chimes and Tuglavina will be in charge of the boys and girls choir.
Andrea Andersen will demonstrate drum dancing techniques.
Andersen would like to thank Rev. Brigitte Schloss, Aurora Energy and Nunatsiavut Recreation for their donations to make this festival a reality.
Joan Andersen is the Chair-person of the Moravian Church in Newfoundland and Labrador.
She says four students from Happy Valley, five from Hopedale and four from Nain will take part in different workshops.
Chris Guindon of Nain, Natalie Jacque and Andrea Andersen of Makkovik, Nancy Tuglavina of Hopedale and Rev. Glenna Tasedan of Happy Valley will be the workshop coordinators.
Guindon will teach brass band instruments, and Jacque will instruct students on the violin.
Taesdan will teach how to play the chimes and Tuglavina will be in charge of the boys and girls choir.
Andrea Andersen will demonstrate drum dancing techniques.
Andersen would like to thank Rev. Brigitte Schloss, Aurora Energy and Nunatsiavut Recreation for their donations to make this festival a reality.
Body Found in Happy Valley Goose Bay
One of the bodies in the Muskrat Falls drowning tragedy has been found.
Sgt. Boyd Merrill is the RCMP Media Relations Officer in St. John’s.
He says on Friday, June 26th the body of Randy Scott Rose was found on the Goose River.
Merrill says Rose was found by his father.
He has been looking for his son every day since the tragedy occurred.
The body was then transported to the Happy Valley-Goose Bay hospital to be examined by the medical examiner.
Merrill says the reduced current and water levels will hopefully make it easier and safer for the volunteer search teams.
Two boats from the Ground Search and Rescue Team are continuing to search the area for the remaining two bodies.
Merrill adds on behalf of the RCMP, thoughts are with all those who lost loved ones.
Further information will be released when appropriate.
Sgt. Boyd Merrill is the RCMP Media Relations Officer in St. John’s.
He says on Friday, June 26th the body of Randy Scott Rose was found on the Goose River.
Merrill says Rose was found by his father.
He has been looking for his son every day since the tragedy occurred.
The body was then transported to the Happy Valley-Goose Bay hospital to be examined by the medical examiner.
Merrill says the reduced current and water levels will hopefully make it easier and safer for the volunteer search teams.
Two boats from the Ground Search and Rescue Team are continuing to search the area for the remaining two bodies.
Merrill adds on behalf of the RCMP, thoughts are with all those who lost loved ones.
Further information will be released when appropriate.
Nain Fish Plant Clean-Up
The Nain fish plant started their clean-up this morning.
We spoke to John Ikkusek Plant Manager for the fish plant.
He says there are ten employees cleaning up the plant.
Ikkusek says they have two weeks of work before the plant opens on July 12th.
He adds Torngat Fish Producers Coop will have their Annual General Meeting starting at 11am tomorrow at the Nunatsiavut board room.
We spoke to John Ikkusek Plant Manager for the fish plant.
He says there are ten employees cleaning up the plant.
Ikkusek says they have two weeks of work before the plant opens on July 12th.
He adds Torngat Fish Producers Coop will have their Annual General Meeting starting at 11am tomorrow at the Nunatsiavut board room.
Lucky Winners of Lotto Max from Goose Bay
Half of the 50 million dollar Lotto Max jackpot has been claimed in Goose Bay.
The other half was won in Saskatchewan.
Gerald and Winnie Healey and the manager of their business, Marge White split a whopping 25 million dollars.
The trio bought sixty dollars worth of tickets for Friday’s Lotto Max draw.
White says she will continue to work for the Healey’s business until they decide what they’re going to do with it.
The Healey’s had already planned a trip to Disney World, prior to their winning.
They bought their ticket from the Daybreak Café.
Sherry Bessey is the owner of the business.
And since she sold the winning ticket, she receives an automatic 1 percent in commission.
Bessey will receive 250 thousand dollars.
Her plans are to go back to school and travel south.
Congratulations to the very lucky winners!
The other half was won in Saskatchewan.
Gerald and Winnie Healey and the manager of their business, Marge White split a whopping 25 million dollars.
The trio bought sixty dollars worth of tickets for Friday’s Lotto Max draw.
White says she will continue to work for the Healey’s business until they decide what they’re going to do with it.
The Healey’s had already planned a trip to Disney World, prior to their winning.
They bought their ticket from the Daybreak Café.
Sherry Bessey is the owner of the business.
And since she sold the winning ticket, she receives an automatic 1 percent in commission.
Bessey will receive 250 thousand dollars.
Her plans are to go back to school and travel south.
Congratulations to the very lucky winners!
Friday, June 25, 2010
BREAKING NEWS: Quarry & Stone Plant to Remain Closed for 2010
The quarry at Ten Mile Bay will not be opening this year.
The Hopedale Stone Plant will also stay closed.
That announcement came from The Labrador Inuit Capital Strategy Trust in a press release today.
According to the press release Ten Mile Bay has had “significant losses” since it started.
They say it would continue to lose money this year.
Clint Davis is the chair of the Labrador Inuit Capital Strategy Trust.
He says Ten Mile Bay has been known to face financial challenges for some time.
Davis adds their efforts to find a business partner have proven to be unsuccessful.
This decision will affect 36 seasonal workers.
Efforts are now underway to find new employment for these workers.
The Hopedale Stone Plant will also stay closed.
That announcement came from The Labrador Inuit Capital Strategy Trust in a press release today.
According to the press release Ten Mile Bay has had “significant losses” since it started.
They say it would continue to lose money this year.
Clint Davis is the chair of the Labrador Inuit Capital Strategy Trust.
He says Ten Mile Bay has been known to face financial challenges for some time.
Davis adds their efforts to find a business partner have proven to be unsuccessful.
This decision will affect 36 seasonal workers.
Efforts are now underway to find new employment for these workers.
Residential Schooling Update Part 2 of 2
Yesterday we spoke with Steven Cooper about what is currently happening with the Class Action lawsuit on Residential Schooling.
Earlier this month, Judge Robert Fowler decided that the Residential Schooling lawsuit will continue.
Cooper is from the Ahlstrom Wright Oliver and Cooper law firm in Sherwood Park, Alberta, and is the lawyer handling the case.
He says his law firm is still accepting application forms to be included in the lawsuit of former students.
And it is not too late to get added to the list.
Cooper says this case will go to trial unless the Government decides to settle out of court.
And it is up to the Government of Canada as to what happens next.
With this Class Action being so large, a trial date is not expected to happen until 2012.
Earlier this month, Judge Robert Fowler decided that the Residential Schooling lawsuit will continue.
Cooper is from the Ahlstrom Wright Oliver and Cooper law firm in Sherwood Park, Alberta, and is the lawyer handling the case.
He says his law firm is still accepting application forms to be included in the lawsuit of former students.
And it is not too late to get added to the list.
Cooper says this case will go to trial unless the Government decides to settle out of court.
And it is up to the Government of Canada as to what happens next.
With this Class Action being so large, a trial date is not expected to happen until 2012.
Christian Youth Summer Camp
The Labrador Christian Youth Camp is scheduled to take place near Happy Valley, Goose Bay from July 4– 9 th.
The location of the camp is at Gosling Lake which is 15 km northeast of Goose Bay.
Anick Marcoux (Marcoo) is the Administration Assistant.
She says some youth from the north coast communities are very interested in going to this camp.
So far 18 boys and girls between the ages of 8- 17 have registered.
Marcoux says 15 of those students are from Hopedale and the rest are from Goose Bay.
The community of Postville has 2 students registered and they will be going to the camp at a later date.
She says the program director is George Taesden.
5 other counselors will assist him.
The youth will be involved in hiking, swimming, canoeing, and making crafts.
They will have a bonfire near the lake in the evenings.
The 2010 summer camp schedule is open to youth and even families.
For more information call Anick Marcoux at 709- 897- 7007.
Or check the website @ www.labradorcamp.com.
The location of the camp is at Gosling Lake which is 15 km northeast of Goose Bay.
Anick Marcoux (Marcoo) is the Administration Assistant.
She says some youth from the north coast communities are very interested in going to this camp.
So far 18 boys and girls between the ages of 8- 17 have registered.
Marcoux says 15 of those students are from Hopedale and the rest are from Goose Bay.
The community of Postville has 2 students registered and they will be going to the camp at a later date.
She says the program director is George Taesden.
5 other counselors will assist him.
The youth will be involved in hiking, swimming, canoeing, and making crafts.
They will have a bonfire near the lake in the evenings.
The 2010 summer camp schedule is open to youth and even families.
For more information call Anick Marcoux at 709- 897- 7007.
Or check the website @ www.labradorcamp.com.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Residential Schooling Update - Part 1 of 2
Earlier this month, Judge Robert Fowler decided that the Residential Schooling Class Action lawsuit will continue.
Steven Cooper from the Ahlstrom Wright Oliver and Cooper law firm in Sherwood Park, Alberta, is the lawyer.
He says in the light of all of this, they’ve won round one, but there are still a number of rounds left.
Now it is up to the Government of Canada as to what happens next.
But this case will go to trial unless the Government decides to settle out of court.
He says with this Class Action being so large, a trial date is not expected to happen until 2012.
Cooper adds that the former students are not getting any younger or healthier, and hopes the Federal Government can resolve this now.
Today and tomorrow, we will speak with Cooper about the Residential Schooling case.
Steven Cooper from the Ahlstrom Wright Oliver and Cooper law firm in Sherwood Park, Alberta, is the lawyer.
He says in the light of all of this, they’ve won round one, but there are still a number of rounds left.
Now it is up to the Government of Canada as to what happens next.
But this case will go to trial unless the Government decides to settle out of court.
He says with this Class Action being so large, a trial date is not expected to happen until 2012.
Cooper adds that the former students are not getting any younger or healthier, and hopes the Federal Government can resolve this now.
Today and tomorrow, we will speak with Cooper about the Residential Schooling case.
Another Booze Bust In Natuashish
The RCMP have stopped another attempt to smuggle alcohol into Natuashish.
At 10:00 am yesterday morning, the RCMP received information that a supply of liquor may be arriving in Natuashish on a flight from Goose Bay.
RCMP members went to the local airstrip and conducted a search of the flight.
Twelve 60 ounce bottles of ‘Big Land Whisky’ were seized
The estimated street value of the booze is approximately $4000.
So far, no charges have been laid.
Keep tuning in for more details.
At 10:00 am yesterday morning, the RCMP received information that a supply of liquor may be arriving in Natuashish on a flight from Goose Bay.
RCMP members went to the local airstrip and conducted a search of the flight.
Twelve 60 ounce bottles of ‘Big Land Whisky’ were seized
The estimated street value of the booze is approximately $4000.
So far, no charges have been laid.
Keep tuning in for more details.
Makkovik & Nain's Fish Plant Current Events & Plans
The ice conditions may delay the start of the fishing season in Makkovik.
Even though that may be the case, preparations have started on the fish plant.
Junior Andersen is the Manager.
He says right now they’re finishing installation of new equipment which they couldn’t put in last year.
The clean-up should start next week.
As for opening the plant for the crab season, Andersen says it may be a while yet before they do that due to ice conditions.
He even expects it could be as late as last year, which is around the 7th or the 8th of July.
John Ikkusek is the plant Manager in Nain.
He says right now they have a few workers doing repairs on the roof.
Ikkusek adds they will start with the clean-up on Monday.
They hope to open the plant around July 12.
Even though that may be the case, preparations have started on the fish plant.
Junior Andersen is the Manager.
He says right now they’re finishing installation of new equipment which they couldn’t put in last year.
The clean-up should start next week.
As for opening the plant for the crab season, Andersen says it may be a while yet before they do that due to ice conditions.
He even expects it could be as late as last year, which is around the 7th or the 8th of July.
John Ikkusek is the plant Manager in Nain.
He says right now they have a few workers doing repairs on the roof.
Ikkusek adds they will start with the clean-up on Monday.
They hope to open the plant around July 12.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
NG's Tourism Department Will Be Very Busy
This week, the Nunatsiavut Governments (NG) Tourism department came to Nain to meet with the First Minister.
Kristy Sheppard is the Director of Tourism for the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism.
She says her and Sheldon Baikie were in town to update and further discuss the NG’s Tourism department.
Sheppard also talked about what will be happening this year at the Torngat Mountains National Park.
Another issue in the works and just as important is the soon to be Mealy Mountains National Park.
This is because there are overlapping boundaries between the Labrador Inuit Lands and the Mealy Mountains.
Kristy Sheppard is the Director of Tourism for the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism.
She says her and Sheldon Baikie were in town to update and further discuss the NG’s Tourism department.
Sheppard also talked about what will be happening this year at the Torngat Mountains National Park.
Another issue in the works and just as important is the soon to be Mealy Mountains National Park.
This is because there are overlapping boundaries between the Labrador Inuit Lands and the Mealy Mountains.
PEI's Holland College Recognizes 4 Nain Students
Three Nain students have been recognized for their academic and athletic achievements.
Abigail Webb, Sarah Karpik, Bernard Obed and Samuel Dicker just recently returned home from Holland College in PEI.
All three are active members of the College volleyball team.
And all four have received scholar-athlete awards.
Webb & Karpik are both in the Sport & Leisure Management program.
While Dicker & Obed are in the Retail Business Management program.
To qualify, students must have a GPA(Grade Point Average)of 3.5-4.0.
Or at least an average of 87.5 percent; a high standard to achieve.
Webb has also been recognized as the Top Female Scholar-Athlete as a result of an overall academic standing of 93.69 per cent.
On tomorrow’s Teen Rockers show, we will be speaking with Webb about these awards.
Congratulations to all of you on your achievements!
Abigail Webb, Sarah Karpik, Bernard Obed and Samuel Dicker just recently returned home from Holland College in PEI.
All three are active members of the College volleyball team.
And all four have received scholar-athlete awards.
Webb & Karpik are both in the Sport & Leisure Management program.
While Dicker & Obed are in the Retail Business Management program.
To qualify, students must have a GPA(Grade Point Average)of 3.5-4.0.
Or at least an average of 87.5 percent; a high standard to achieve.
Webb has also been recognized as the Top Female Scholar-Athlete as a result of an overall academic standing of 93.69 per cent.
On tomorrow’s Teen Rockers show, we will be speaking with Webb about these awards.
Congratulations to all of you on your achievements!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
OKâlaKatiget Society's Annual General Meeting
OKâlaKatiget Society’s Board of Directors held their Annual General Meeting in Nain over the weekend.
The board had many issues to discuss at the AGM.
Reports were given on behalf of each department in the OK Society.
Jenny Oliver, Board Member for ULM, gave a report on APTN.
She has since stepped down from her position as APTN Representative for OKâlaKatiget.
Also, the Policy & Procedures Manual was finally complete after three years.
It has been adopted and is now set in place as rules to go by for the OK Staff.
The board congratulates those who re-claimed their positions.
As well as bid farewell to Nain member John Jararuse and welcomes his replacement, Joe Dicker.
At the AGM, the Board decided to remove Facebook from OK’s network, deeming it strictly as a social networking site and should not be used at the work place.
Executive elections were also held.
Here are the results.
Carol Gear retained her position as President, while Lucy Ikkusek remains Vice President and the new Secretary is Joe Dicker.
The Board decided to change the radio schedule to 1-4 pm from to 1-3 pm and 4-5 pm effective July 5th.
The next board meeting, via teleconference will be held in July.
The board had many issues to discuss at the AGM.
Reports were given on behalf of each department in the OK Society.
Jenny Oliver, Board Member for ULM, gave a report on APTN.
She has since stepped down from her position as APTN Representative for OKâlaKatiget.
Also, the Policy & Procedures Manual was finally complete after three years.
It has been adopted and is now set in place as rules to go by for the OK Staff.
The board congratulates those who re-claimed their positions.
As well as bid farewell to Nain member John Jararuse and welcomes his replacement, Joe Dicker.
At the AGM, the Board decided to remove Facebook from OK’s network, deeming it strictly as a social networking site and should not be used at the work place.
Executive elections were also held.
Here are the results.
Carol Gear retained her position as President, while Lucy Ikkusek remains Vice President and the new Secretary is Joe Dicker.
The Board decided to change the radio schedule to 1-4 pm from to 1-3 pm and 4-5 pm effective July 5th.
The next board meeting, via teleconference will be held in July.
2011 North American Indigenous Games
The next North American Indigenous Games may see Labrador Inuit athletes in action.
The games will take place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in July of 2011.
Next week representatives of the Labrador Inuit and Métis will travel to Conne River Newfoundland to attend board meetings.
Todd Winters is the Executive Director of the Aboriginal Sport and Recreation Circle of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Winters says the meetings will take place on July 3rd and 4th.
The main priority of the meetings is to develop a timeline for the organizing of Team Newfoundland and Labrador.
Winters says he has been planning a strategy for three months now on how they’ll select coaches, athletes and other necessary staff.
He says once that is finished, they’ll start the process and hopefully have their entire team selected by August 31st.
This will give them approximately ten months to practice and fund raise for the games.
Winters says he is currently preparing for the trip to Conne River, and he’ll speak with the OKâlaKatigêts Radio Department when he returns.
The games will take place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in July of 2011.
Next week representatives of the Labrador Inuit and Métis will travel to Conne River Newfoundland to attend board meetings.
Todd Winters is the Executive Director of the Aboriginal Sport and Recreation Circle of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Winters says the meetings will take place on July 3rd and 4th.
The main priority of the meetings is to develop a timeline for the organizing of Team Newfoundland and Labrador.
Winters says he has been planning a strategy for three months now on how they’ll select coaches, athletes and other necessary staff.
He says once that is finished, they’ll start the process and hopefully have their entire team selected by August 31st.
This will give them approximately ten months to practice and fund raise for the games.
Winters says he is currently preparing for the trip to Conne River, and he’ll speak with the OKâlaKatigêts Radio Department when he returns.
Receration Management Certification Details
Last week, Recreation Directors from Nain, Makkovik and Rigolet traveled to Marystown Newfoundland for training.
Lisa Ivany is the Recreation Director of the Nain Inuit Community Government.
She says everything went as scheduled and they had a great time.
Ivany says they now have their first module completed toward becoming certified in Recreation Management.
The module contains approximately 60 pages worth of training.
She says prior to the training; she didn’t think that the other communities’ recreation departments faced similar challenges.
But she found out they too face lack of funding, low interest levels from local residents etc.
Ivany adds that they are all in the same boat and is glad to know that their recreation department is not alone.
Lisa Ivany is the Recreation Director of the Nain Inuit Community Government.
She says everything went as scheduled and they had a great time.
Ivany says they now have their first module completed toward becoming certified in Recreation Management.
The module contains approximately 60 pages worth of training.
She says prior to the training; she didn’t think that the other communities’ recreation departments faced similar challenges.
But she found out they too face lack of funding, low interest levels from local residents etc.
Ivany adds that they are all in the same boat and is glad to know that their recreation department is not alone.
Winner of DHSD Logo Contest
On May 19th, the Department of Health and Social Development (DHSD) submitted a request to Nunatsiavut Beneficiaries to design a logo.
Gwen Watts is Director of Mental Health and Addictions with DHSD.
She says they have selected Thomas Semigak of Nain for the winning entry.
Watts says the logo will be used for their Mental Wellness and Healing programs.
The unveiling of the logo will be made in early September when they travel to all of the Nunatsiavut Communities.
The designing of the symbol required a meaning for Inuit, something distinctive to the culture and something that is recognized as their own.
DHSD hopes the symbol will come to represent hope & new beginnings for Labrador Inuit who will be using the services.
Gwen Watts is Director of Mental Health and Addictions with DHSD.
She says they have selected Thomas Semigak of Nain for the winning entry.
Watts says the logo will be used for their Mental Wellness and Healing programs.
The unveiling of the logo will be made in early September when they travel to all of the Nunatsiavut Communities.
The designing of the symbol required a meaning for Inuit, something distinctive to the culture and something that is recognized as their own.
DHSD hopes the symbol will come to represent hope & new beginnings for Labrador Inuit who will be using the services.
OKâlaKatiget to Change Programming Schedule
The OKâlaKatiget Radio Department would like to inform the audience that our on-air schedule will be changing soon.
We'll still be on air with our regular AtjiKangitut show, week days 1-3pm, except on Tuesday's.
The PiusituKavut show will continue to air Tuesday's from 1-3 pm.
However, the afternoon shows that are aired weekdays from 4-5 pm will air from 3-4 pm.
So, OKâlaKatiget radio will be broadcasting from 1-4pm weekdays.
The Sunday schedule will remain the same.
The new schedule will come into effect Monday, July 5th, 2010.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact your local OKâlaKatiget Society Board Member.
We'll still be on air with our regular AtjiKangitut show, week days 1-3pm, except on Tuesday's.
The PiusituKavut show will continue to air Tuesday's from 1-3 pm.
However, the afternoon shows that are aired weekdays from 4-5 pm will air from 3-4 pm.
So, OKâlaKatiget radio will be broadcasting from 1-4pm weekdays.
The Sunday schedule will remain the same.
The new schedule will come into effect Monday, July 5th, 2010.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact your local OKâlaKatiget Society Board Member.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Torngat Fisheries Producers Cooperative Agenda
The Torngat Fish Producers Cooperative is holding meetings in the north coast communities before their Annual General Meeting (AGM)starts.
Keith Watts is the General Manager.
He says their AGM will be in Nain on Tuesday, June 29th.
As for the operation of the fish plant in Makkovik, they’ve postponed the opening of the crab season to Saturday, June 26th.
This is because of too much ice.
Watts says they’re now getting the plant in Nain ready for its opening.
They hope to start buying arctic char for processing on July 12th.
Keith Watts is the General Manager.
He says their AGM will be in Nain on Tuesday, June 29th.
As for the operation of the fish plant in Makkovik, they’ve postponed the opening of the crab season to Saturday, June 26th.
This is because of too much ice.
Watts says they’re now getting the plant in Nain ready for its opening.
They hope to start buying arctic char for processing on July 12th.
Woodrow Trial Rescheduled
Last week in Nain, the trial of Constable James Woodrow was the talk of the town.
The court heard testimonies from the alleged victim and witnesses.
On the morning of Friday, June 18th, Constable Mark Blackmore took the stand.
Defense Lawyer David Day didn’t finish questioning Blackmore with 30 to 60 minutes left for examination.
Since the court case is taking longer than scheduled, Judge Joy decided that the trial will resume in Nain on July 8th and 9th.
Upon return, a reporter from OKâlaKatigêt will again cover the trial.
Woodrow is charged with one count of Assault and one count of forcible confinement.
The court heard testimonies from the alleged victim and witnesses.
On the morning of Friday, June 18th, Constable Mark Blackmore took the stand.
Defense Lawyer David Day didn’t finish questioning Blackmore with 30 to 60 minutes left for examination.
Since the court case is taking longer than scheduled, Judge Joy decided that the trial will resume in Nain on July 8th and 9th.
Upon return, a reporter from OKâlaKatigêt will again cover the trial.
Woodrow is charged with one count of Assault and one count of forcible confinement.
Labrador Shipping Season Still On Hold
As the days count on, so does the delay in this year’s marine shipping season.
According to a press release from last week, the Department of Transportation and Works says ice conditions are delaying the start of the Labrador shipping season.
Last Friday, the Marine Vessel (MV) Sir Robert Bond was scheduled to begin service between Lewisporte, Cartwright and Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
However, due to the ice, the start date for this service has been rescheduled to June 25.
The MV Northern Ranger and the MV Astron will also be delayed.
Transportation and Works officials will continue to monitor the ice conditions and service will commence along the Labrador coast as soon as conditions improve.
Further updates will be provided as details become available.
According to a press release from last week, the Department of Transportation and Works says ice conditions are delaying the start of the Labrador shipping season.
Last Friday, the Marine Vessel (MV) Sir Robert Bond was scheduled to begin service between Lewisporte, Cartwright and Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
However, due to the ice, the start date for this service has been rescheduled to June 25.
The MV Northern Ranger and the MV Astron will also be delayed.
Transportation and Works officials will continue to monitor the ice conditions and service will commence along the Labrador coast as soon as conditions improve.
Further updates will be provided as details become available.
Residents Of Hopedale Form An Emergency Committee
A new committee was formed last night in Hopedale.
The committee is called ‘IKajutet’ which means ‘helpers’.
Kitora Abel is a resident of Hopedale and she explains how the committee came to be.
She says the reason it was formed is because of lack of funding for emergency situations.
It is put in place so that when an emergency arises; money will be available to assist those in need.
Their first meeting was held last night and seven people attended.
Abel says she was elected President and Hulda Pijogge the Secretary/Treasurer.
The other members are; Maggie Jararuse, Hilda Hunter, Doris Flowers, Elizabeth Flowers, Rosie Piercy and Juliana Flowers.
The next step for the committee is to acquire appropriate licensing and banking documents.
After that is all done, IKajutet will host another meeting.
The committee is called ‘IKajutet’ which means ‘helpers’.
Kitora Abel is a resident of Hopedale and she explains how the committee came to be.
She says the reason it was formed is because of lack of funding for emergency situations.
It is put in place so that when an emergency arises; money will be available to assist those in need.
Their first meeting was held last night and seven people attended.
Abel says she was elected President and Hulda Pijogge the Secretary/Treasurer.
The other members are; Maggie Jararuse, Hilda Hunter, Doris Flowers, Elizabeth Flowers, Rosie Piercy and Juliana Flowers.
The next step for the committee is to acquire appropriate licensing and banking documents.
After that is all done, IKajutet will host another meeting.
Changes In On-Air Scheduling For OKalaKatiget Society
The OKalaKatiget Society's Radio Department would like to inform our audience that our On-Air schedule will soon see changes.
We'll still be on the air with our regular AtjiKangitut Shows from 1:00pm to 3:00pm on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
And the PiusituKavut Show will continue to air Tuesdays from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.
However, all of the afternoon shows that we currently air from 4:00pm to 5:00pm will be changed to 3:00pm to 4:00pm.
As for our Sunday Show, it will remain the same.
The new schedule will come into effect Monday, July 5th, 2010.
We'll still be on the air with our regular AtjiKangitut Shows from 1:00pm to 3:00pm on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
And the PiusituKavut Show will continue to air Tuesdays from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.
However, all of the afternoon shows that we currently air from 4:00pm to 5:00pm will be changed to 3:00pm to 4:00pm.
As for our Sunday Show, it will remain the same.
The new schedule will come into effect Monday, July 5th, 2010.
Friday, June 18, 2010
First Day of Summer
On Monday June 21st there will be a couple of significant events happening.
First we will be celebrating Aboriginal Day.
Second this will be the first day of summer.
The first day of summer will arrive at approximately 8:28 AM Labrador time.
This day is the longest day of the year.
From there on the days will start to get shorter.
Let’s hope we have a nice sunny day on the longest day of the year.
First we will be celebrating Aboriginal Day.
Second this will be the first day of summer.
The first day of summer will arrive at approximately 8:28 AM Labrador time.
This day is the longest day of the year.
From there on the days will start to get shorter.
Let’s hope we have a nice sunny day on the longest day of the year.
Hopedale & Nain Aboriginal Day Events
Aboriginal Day is this Monday, June 21st, the longest day of the year.
Communities along the coast have events planned for their residents.
In Nain, the celebration kicks off at 8am with an opening prayer and an elder’s breakfast for seniors ages 55 and over.
Throughout the day a fishing contest will be held, with prizes for the biggest, smallest and most fish.
Register on Monday at 8am by calling Big Land Grocery.
From 11am to 3pm there will be an Internet Café where residents can enjoy some refreshments.
Also from 2 to 3pm the Rosetta Stone program will be available for anyone who wishes to learn some Inuttittut.
Local entertainment will start at 6pm at the arena, as well as the community barbecue.
The event will end with a community cook-off; residents will have to cook a traditional meal.
Judging will take place at the arena.
Hopedale will also host an Aboriginal Day Celebration.
Martha Winters-Abel will start the day off with an opening prayer at 3pm.
Followed by a speech from Christine Vincent and AngajukKâk, Judy Dicker.
The residents will then parade through town.
An Inuttitut Speak-Off/Singing or Throat Singing will be held at 3:30.
One prize will be awarded; a handmade dickie made by Nellie Winters.
A scavenger hunt is also on the agenda for the day.
At 6:30 a traditional dress contest will be held.
The winner will receive a pair of handmade mitts and slippers, courtesy of Sarah Jensen.
The event will end with a community barbecue and sanamajuk making contest.
Ingredients will be provided.
Be sure to attend the festivities.
Communities along the coast have events planned for their residents.
In Nain, the celebration kicks off at 8am with an opening prayer and an elder’s breakfast for seniors ages 55 and over.
Throughout the day a fishing contest will be held, with prizes for the biggest, smallest and most fish.
Register on Monday at 8am by calling Big Land Grocery.
From 11am to 3pm there will be an Internet Café where residents can enjoy some refreshments.
Also from 2 to 3pm the Rosetta Stone program will be available for anyone who wishes to learn some Inuttittut.
Local entertainment will start at 6pm at the arena, as well as the community barbecue.
The event will end with a community cook-off; residents will have to cook a traditional meal.
Judging will take place at the arena.
Hopedale will also host an Aboriginal Day Celebration.
Martha Winters-Abel will start the day off with an opening prayer at 3pm.
Followed by a speech from Christine Vincent and AngajukKâk, Judy Dicker.
The residents will then parade through town.
An Inuttitut Speak-Off/Singing or Throat Singing will be held at 3:30.
One prize will be awarded; a handmade dickie made by Nellie Winters.
A scavenger hunt is also on the agenda for the day.
At 6:30 a traditional dress contest will be held.
The winner will receive a pair of handmade mitts and slippers, courtesy of Sarah Jensen.
The event will end with a community barbecue and sanamajuk making contest.
Ingredients will be provided.
Be sure to attend the festivities.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Complainant in Woodrow Case Describes Alleged Incident
The complainant in the Woodrow trial described the events of the night of the alleged incident when she took the stand.
Mitchell White has been covering the progress of the trial in Nain.
The trial is now into its fourth day.
It continued yesterday afternoon with the complainant in the case describing the night of the alleged incident.
Her testimony matched up with parts of testimonies that were provided by the RCMP members who were on call that night.
During her cross examination the defense had pointed out inconsistencies in the statement she had given following the incident and the testimony she had provided that day.
The defense has requested that they be able to cross examine the remaining two witnesses who were subpoenaed and not called to testify.
Those witnesses are Constable Mark Blackmore and a friend of the complainant.
Both were allegedly there during the early morning of May 26.
Judge Joy will make a decision on that matter this afternoon.
Woodrow is facing one count of assault and one count of forcible confinement stemming from the alleged incident.
Mitchell White has been covering the progress of the trial in Nain.
The trial is now into its fourth day.
It continued yesterday afternoon with the complainant in the case describing the night of the alleged incident.
Her testimony matched up with parts of testimonies that were provided by the RCMP members who were on call that night.
During her cross examination the defense had pointed out inconsistencies in the statement she had given following the incident and the testimony she had provided that day.
The defense has requested that they be able to cross examine the remaining two witnesses who were subpoenaed and not called to testify.
Those witnesses are Constable Mark Blackmore and a friend of the complainant.
Both were allegedly there during the early morning of May 26.
Judge Joy will make a decision on that matter this afternoon.
Woodrow is facing one count of assault and one count of forcible confinement stemming from the alleged incident.
TRHA News
The Torngat Regional Housing Association (TRHA) ordering for new materials is almost done.
William Lucy is the Coordinator of the TRHA.
He says everything for new housing and homes that were turned back over to TRHA have been ordered.
With the majority of their shelving materials purchased last April.
Lucy says housing inspections are taking place for the north coast to determine the cost of repairs.
Once done, a written report will be sent to all of the communities’ housing committees.
He says those housing committees will then make the final order for those materials.
Lucy says last Monday he spoke with their building supplier.
That was the same day the marine shipping season opened everywhere except for Labradors North Coast.
The supplier says no freight will be accepted at the Lewisporte wharf until the ice conditions in Nunatsiavut clear.
Labrador Marine Inc. can then open the shipping schedule for accepting freight to Nunatsiavut.
In other TRHA news.
Lucy says the total financial details to this year’s home repairs of both their regular annual budget and monies from the Nunatsiavut Government combined are:
Nain - $193,287
Hopedale - $98,721
Postville - $120,000
Makkovik - $25,000
Rigolet - $55,000
He says, as for when homeowners can move into the homes that were turned back over to TRHA, it will depend on the shipping system.
And when the workers can work on the units.
Lucy says next Monday, June 21st, Hopedale’s TRHA crew will go back to work.
Because of the shipping schedule put on hold for Nunatsiavut, the crews in Postville, Makkovik and Rigolet will have to wait.
He says Ray Fords Construction; the contractor in Nain has started some minor work.
They are currently building wheelchair ramps for some homes in the community.
Lucy adds it will be up to Ray Ford to determine when the Nain crews will begin seasonal work.
William Lucy is the Coordinator of the TRHA.
He says everything for new housing and homes that were turned back over to TRHA have been ordered.
With the majority of their shelving materials purchased last April.
Lucy says housing inspections are taking place for the north coast to determine the cost of repairs.
Once done, a written report will be sent to all of the communities’ housing committees.
He says those housing committees will then make the final order for those materials.
Lucy says last Monday he spoke with their building supplier.
That was the same day the marine shipping season opened everywhere except for Labradors North Coast.
The supplier says no freight will be accepted at the Lewisporte wharf until the ice conditions in Nunatsiavut clear.
Labrador Marine Inc. can then open the shipping schedule for accepting freight to Nunatsiavut.
In other TRHA news.
Lucy says the total financial details to this year’s home repairs of both their regular annual budget and monies from the Nunatsiavut Government combined are:
Nain - $193,287
Hopedale - $98,721
Postville - $120,000
Makkovik - $25,000
Rigolet - $55,000
He says, as for when homeowners can move into the homes that were turned back over to TRHA, it will depend on the shipping system.
And when the workers can work on the units.
Lucy says next Monday, June 21st, Hopedale’s TRHA crew will go back to work.
Because of the shipping schedule put on hold for Nunatsiavut, the crews in Postville, Makkovik and Rigolet will have to wait.
He says Ray Fords Construction; the contractor in Nain has started some minor work.
They are currently building wheelchair ramps for some homes in the community.
Lucy adds it will be up to Ray Ford to determine when the Nain crews will begin seasonal work.
TACI News
The Torngat Arts and Craft Incorporated (TACI) in Nain is still busy.
Molly Shiwak is a Board member of TACI.
She says last Monday; their special events coordinator Sarah Karpik finished her four week temporary position with TACI.
Karpik will soon submit her final report.
Shiwak says on June 8th, TACI held a board meeting and the items on the agenda were:
- Financial and Funding Update
- Buying and Selling
- Cruise Newfoundland and Labrador
- Tukisinnik Research Forum
- Scheduling for the next Board meeting
Shiwak says because one of their Board members is away until July 3rd.
Their next Board meeting won’t take place until July 5th.
She says positive feedback from the Tukisinnik Research Forum held recently in Nain was received.
During the forum, TACI hosted an event on culture and the lunch breaks.
Shiwak says from a business stand point, sales are steady.
Molly Shiwak is a Board member of TACI.
She says last Monday; their special events coordinator Sarah Karpik finished her four week temporary position with TACI.
Karpik will soon submit her final report.
Shiwak says on June 8th, TACI held a board meeting and the items on the agenda were:
- Financial and Funding Update
- Buying and Selling
- Cruise Newfoundland and Labrador
- Tukisinnik Research Forum
- Scheduling for the next Board meeting
Shiwak says because one of their Board members is away until July 3rd.
Their next Board meeting won’t take place until July 5th.
She says positive feedback from the Tukisinnik Research Forum held recently in Nain was received.
During the forum, TACI hosted an event on culture and the lunch breaks.
Shiwak says from a business stand point, sales are steady.
Long Term Care Facility To Be Open Soon
Construction of the new long term care facility in Goose Bay is near completion.
Clients at the Paddon Home are scheduled to be moved into their new facility in just a couple of weeks.
Allison Dower is the Communications Director for Labrador Grenfell Health.
Dower says the 50 bed facility replaces the Paddon Home.
At this time the future of the Paddon Home is undecided.
The official opening of the new care facility is set for July 9.
Clients at the Paddon Home are scheduled to be moved into their new facility in just a couple of weeks.
Allison Dower is the Communications Director for Labrador Grenfell Health.
Dower says the 50 bed facility replaces the Paddon Home.
At this time the future of the Paddon Home is undecided.
The official opening of the new care facility is set for July 9.
Busy Summer for Postville Inuit Community Government
Postville Inuit Community Government is planning to start clean up in their town.
The office is hiring some residents to do the clean up.
We spoke to Keith Decker the AngajukKâk for Postville.
He says some people will be hired to work on a new cemetery.
They are also looking at hiring a heavy equipment operator.
Aurora Energy Resources is also looking at hiring Sikumiut to do base line studies in the Postville area.
These studies will be on streams, including species of fish, as well as other statistics.
Decker says the PICG has to approve this before they start their work.
The NG Research Advisory Committee will decide whether to approve the project when they meet on June 24th.
The office is hiring some residents to do the clean up.
We spoke to Keith Decker the AngajukKâk for Postville.
He says some people will be hired to work on a new cemetery.
They are also looking at hiring a heavy equipment operator.
Aurora Energy Resources is also looking at hiring Sikumiut to do base line studies in the Postville area.
These studies will be on streams, including species of fish, as well as other statistics.
Decker says the PICG has to approve this before they start their work.
The NG Research Advisory Committee will decide whether to approve the project when they meet on June 24th.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Labrador Inuktitut Training Program
A meeting regarding the Labrador Inuktitut Training Program has given the Torngâsok Cultural Centre better direction.
We spoke to Toni White, the Language Program Coordinator for the Centre.
She says Torngnasok staff met with the Curriculum Developers, Project Manager and Curriculum Consultants.
The Deputy Minister of Education and Economic Development, Tim McNeil, and Deputy Minister of Cultural Recreation Tourism, Sheldon Baikie, also joined the meeting.
White says they discussed how to move forward with the LITP.
She says the issues they discussed were how the Nunatsiavut Government will certify the program.
And if the government actually has the authority to do that.
White adds another decision made was that Torngâsok will hold a Pilot Project in
2011.
This project will test the materials created thus far.
We spoke to Toni White, the Language Program Coordinator for the Centre.
She says Torngnasok staff met with the Curriculum Developers, Project Manager and Curriculum Consultants.
The Deputy Minister of Education and Economic Development, Tim McNeil, and Deputy Minister of Cultural Recreation Tourism, Sheldon Baikie, also joined the meeting.
White says they discussed how to move forward with the LITP.
She says the issues they discussed were how the Nunatsiavut Government will certify the program.
And if the government actually has the authority to do that.
White adds another decision made was that Torngâsok will hold a Pilot Project in
2011.
This project will test the materials created thus far.
Complainant in Woodrow Trial to Take Stand This Afternoon
The complainant in the Woodrow trial is set to take the stand this afternoon.
One of our reporters has been covering the progress of the trial in Nain.
The trial is now into its third day.
It continued yesterday afternoon with the testimony and examination of Constable Desmond Mollon.
Mollon had been on-call during the night of the alleged incident.
This morning Mollon’s spouse, Jessica Gilbert, had taken the stand.
Gilbert had testified to what she had witnessed during the time of the alleged incident.
Also on the stand this morning was Maureen Oliver.
Oliver was the Matron on guard at the Nain RCMP detachment cells during the time that the complainant was locked-up.
The trial continues this afternoon with the complainant in the case taking the stand.
Woodrow is facing one count of assault and one count of forcible confinement regarding an alleged incident in May, 2009.
One of our reporters has been covering the progress of the trial in Nain.
The trial is now into its third day.
It continued yesterday afternoon with the testimony and examination of Constable Desmond Mollon.
Mollon had been on-call during the night of the alleged incident.
This morning Mollon’s spouse, Jessica Gilbert, had taken the stand.
Gilbert had testified to what she had witnessed during the time of the alleged incident.
Also on the stand this morning was Maureen Oliver.
Oliver was the Matron on guard at the Nain RCMP detachment cells during the time that the complainant was locked-up.
The trial continues this afternoon with the complainant in the case taking the stand.
Woodrow is facing one count of assault and one count of forcible confinement regarding an alleged incident in May, 2009.
Moravian Church Teleconference
The Moravian Church of NL has recently added a new member to the board and executives group.
Joan Andersen is the Chair of the Moravian Church.
She says Linda Saunders McLean was appointed for the position of Vice-Chair.
This position became vacant after the passing of their former vice-chair Amos Lyall.
In other Moravian Church news, the English version of the Children’s Bible Story translations will continue soon.
Andersen says they are waiting for more funds to complete what was started in 2005.
The Children’s Bible Story Book contains 6 different stories about Jesus.
Sophie Tuglavina and Sarah Townley have completed translating two of those stories.
They are hoping that they receive the funds to start the translations during the summer.
Joan Andersen is the Chair of the Moravian Church.
She says Linda Saunders McLean was appointed for the position of Vice-Chair.
This position became vacant after the passing of their former vice-chair Amos Lyall.
In other Moravian Church news, the English version of the Children’s Bible Story translations will continue soon.
Andersen says they are waiting for more funds to complete what was started in 2005.
The Children’s Bible Story Book contains 6 different stories about Jesus.
Sophie Tuglavina and Sarah Townley have completed translating two of those stories.
They are hoping that they receive the funds to start the translations during the summer.
National Aboriginal Day in St. John's
June 21st is National Aboriginal Day.
Organizations across the country will hold events to mark the day.
David Penner is the Executive Director for St. John’s Native Friendship Centre.
He says they will have an early sunrise ceremony starting at 6am at the Shanaw Dithit Memorial Site.
Maria Basto, an Inuk originally from Hopedale, will do the opening prayer in Inuktitut.
In the afternoon they will hold their annual events.
The youth will wear their traditional clothing, and the First Nations will wear their fancy shawls.
The men and women will drum dance as well.
There will be Tee-pee tents set up in their property as well as a Settlers tent.
There will also be ticket draws, Inuktitut storytelling, northern games and face painting for the children.
Penner adds that the day will end with a traditional feed of caribou, moose and seal meat soup and bannock.
Organizations across the country will hold events to mark the day.
David Penner is the Executive Director for St. John’s Native Friendship Centre.
He says they will have an early sunrise ceremony starting at 6am at the Shanaw Dithit Memorial Site.
Maria Basto, an Inuk originally from Hopedale, will do the opening prayer in Inuktitut.
In the afternoon they will hold their annual events.
The youth will wear their traditional clothing, and the First Nations will wear their fancy shawls.
The men and women will drum dance as well.
There will be Tee-pee tents set up in their property as well as a Settlers tent.
There will also be ticket draws, Inuktitut storytelling, northern games and face painting for the children.
Penner adds that the day will end with a traditional feed of caribou, moose and seal meat soup and bannock.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Woodrow Trial Enters Day Two
The Woodrow trial has entered day two during the court circuit in Nain.
One of our reporters has been covering the progress of the trial.
The trial started with Crown Prosecutor Vikas Khaladkar calling his witnesses in the matter.
Constable Christopher Dawe of the Major Crimes Unit in Gander, NL, took the stand first.
Dawe had been part of the investigation team in the matter.
He had presented five pieces of evidence in the case including logs and video of the incarceration of the plaintiff.
The video had showed that the complainant had been incarcerated for approximately seven-eight hours.
Next, Corporal David Simpson took the stand.
Simpson had been on duty during the night of the alleged incident and testified to what he had seen.
Constable Desmond Mollon was also on duty that night and had testified to what he had witnessed.
Woodrow is facing one count of assault and one count of forcible confinement regarding an incident in May, 2009.
One of our reporters has been covering the progress of the trial.
The trial started with Crown Prosecutor Vikas Khaladkar calling his witnesses in the matter.
Constable Christopher Dawe of the Major Crimes Unit in Gander, NL, took the stand first.
Dawe had been part of the investigation team in the matter.
He had presented five pieces of evidence in the case including logs and video of the incarceration of the plaintiff.
The video had showed that the complainant had been incarcerated for approximately seven-eight hours.
Next, Corporal David Simpson took the stand.
Simpson had been on duty during the night of the alleged incident and testified to what he had seen.
Constable Desmond Mollon was also on duty that night and had testified to what he had witnessed.
Woodrow is facing one count of assault and one count of forcible confinement regarding an incident in May, 2009.
Nain Town Meeting Subjects
Last week, the Nain Inuit Community Government (NICG) held a town meeting.
Sarah Leo is AngajukKak of the NICG.
She says Budgell’s Equipment and Rentals will continue the construction of the road to Trousers Lake this summer.
Budgell’s will also be laying down basic water pipelines.
Leo says throughout this summer, residents of Nain will witness ground blasting in the construction of the new road.
In other news from the town meeting, the NICG has extended the lease to the Torngat Arts and Crafts Incorporated till the end of this summer.
And the annual spring clean-up has started.
Leo adds the NICG has raised the fees for building permits.
Sarah Leo is AngajukKak of the NICG.
She says Budgell’s Equipment and Rentals will continue the construction of the road to Trousers Lake this summer.
Budgell’s will also be laying down basic water pipelines.
Leo says throughout this summer, residents of Nain will witness ground blasting in the construction of the new road.
In other news from the town meeting, the NICG has extended the lease to the Torngat Arts and Crafts Incorporated till the end of this summer.
And the annual spring clean-up has started.
Leo adds the NICG has raised the fees for building permits.
Walk for Muscular Dystrophy Grand Total Three Times the Amount Aimed For
The David J. Hopkins Walk fundraiser completely surpassed their goal.
Karyn Hopkins, David’s sister was the organizer for the walk this year.
All in all, she says the walk was a huge success.
Many residents from Goose Bay participated, including children.
Prizes were given as incentives for those who raised the most money.
Hopkins says they set a goal for themselves this year for how much money they wanted to raise.
Their goal was $7, 500 and the group nearly tripled that amount.
A grand total of $20, 831.70 was raised for Muscular Dystrophy awareness and research.
Hopkins is very pleased to have raised that much money for Muscular Dystrophy.
Her brother David passed away from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in February.
The event is named after him.
Karyn Hopkins, David’s sister was the organizer for the walk this year.
All in all, she says the walk was a huge success.
Many residents from Goose Bay participated, including children.
Prizes were given as incentives for those who raised the most money.
Hopkins says they set a goal for themselves this year for how much money they wanted to raise.
Their goal was $7, 500 and the group nearly tripled that amount.
A grand total of $20, 831.70 was raised for Muscular Dystrophy awareness and research.
Hopkins is very pleased to have raised that much money for Muscular Dystrophy.
Her brother David passed away from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in February.
The event is named after him.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Cruise North Expeditions to Visit Nain Ports
Summer is just around the corner and that means vessels will soon be visiting Nunatsiavut ports.
A familiar vessel is set to hit the ports in Nain and Rigolet again this season.
Jason Annahatak is the Expedition Leader with Cruise North Expeditions.
He says they’re glad to say that their ship, the Lyobov Orlova, will be traveling through the Nunatsiavut region again this summer.
Included in their staff are several youth from Nunatsiavut.
Jenna Andersen joins the expedition staff again this summer.
Andersen started as a trainee in 2008 and has since made her way to Assistant Expedition Leader.
Joining Andersen this season will be two other trainees from Nunatsiavut.
A familiar vessel is set to hit the ports in Nain and Rigolet again this season.
Jason Annahatak is the Expedition Leader with Cruise North Expeditions.
He says they’re glad to say that their ship, the Lyobov Orlova, will be traveling through the Nunatsiavut region again this summer.
Included in their staff are several youth from Nunatsiavut.
Jenna Andersen joins the expedition staff again this summer.
Andersen started as a trainee in 2008 and has since made her way to Assistant Expedition Leader.
Joining Andersen this season will be two other trainees from Nunatsiavut.
Court Circuit in Nain
The Provincial Court Circuit arrived in Nain this morning and will hold sessions till Wednesday.
We spoke to Constable Desmond Mollon of the Nain RCMP detachment.
He says Judge John Joy is presiding this week.
The Crown Prosecutor is Khladkar.
The Defense Lawyer is David Day.
Mollon says the cases of four people have to be heard this week.
Included in those cases is Constable James Woodrow.
Woodrow was charged with one count of Assault and one count of Forcible Confinement upon a Nain woman in May 2009.
Mollon adds the next court circuit will be July 7th.
We spoke to Constable Desmond Mollon of the Nain RCMP detachment.
He says Judge John Joy is presiding this week.
The Crown Prosecutor is Khladkar.
The Defense Lawyer is David Day.
Mollon says the cases of four people have to be heard this week.
Included in those cases is Constable James Woodrow.
Woodrow was charged with one count of Assault and one count of Forcible Confinement upon a Nain woman in May 2009.
Mollon adds the next court circuit will be July 7th.
A Familar Visitor in Nain
The community of Nain had some familiar visitors over the weekend.
Two moose were seen grazing on Nain hill again.
Simon Kohlmeister, the Nain Conservation Officer, believes it is the same moose that have been seen on the hill in the past number of years.
He believes they visit the same area every year to feed.
Moose aren’t a common sight in Northern Labrador.
Kohlmeister says that they have only been introduced to our region in the past 10 years.
He adds that as with any other wild animal, people shouldn’t get too close.
But the moose don’t pose any problems for residents in the community.
Two moose were seen grazing on Nain hill again.
Simon Kohlmeister, the Nain Conservation Officer, believes it is the same moose that have been seen on the hill in the past number of years.
He believes they visit the same area every year to feed.
Moose aren’t a common sight in Northern Labrador.
Kohlmeister says that they have only been introduced to our region in the past 10 years.
He adds that as with any other wild animal, people shouldn’t get too close.
But the moose don’t pose any problems for residents in the community.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Nunatsiavut Clerk Clarifies Complaint Process
Since the allegations against the Ordinary Member Max Blake surfaced, beneficiaries have been calling on the Nunatsiavut Government to take action.
The Nunatsiavut Government has advised the public that there is a process that is used to deal with matters such as these.
OK Radio spoke with Mary Sillett about the process.
Sillett explains that the Code of Conduct says that every official has to act with integrity.
They must not engage in conduct that would bring discredit to their office.
Section 4 of the Code of Conduct says that an elected official shall not consume alcohol or illegal drugs while conducting or discussing NG business.
According to Sillett after a complaint is received the accused NG Member has 10 days to respond.
The Assembly Speaker then decides whether or not to proceed with the complaint.
If the Speaker decides to proceed, the complaint can then be dealt with through mediation or by a committee at the NG Assembly sitting.
The committee would decide by voting on the issue.
A 60 percent vote is required to remove an Assembly Member.
There is no time limit on this process.
The Nunatsiavut Government has advised the public that there is a process that is used to deal with matters such as these.
OK Radio spoke with Mary Sillett about the process.
Sillett explains that the Code of Conduct says that every official has to act with integrity.
They must not engage in conduct that would bring discredit to their office.
Section 4 of the Code of Conduct says that an elected official shall not consume alcohol or illegal drugs while conducting or discussing NG business.
According to Sillett after a complaint is received the accused NG Member has 10 days to respond.
The Assembly Speaker then decides whether or not to proceed with the complaint.
If the Speaker decides to proceed, the complaint can then be dealt with through mediation or by a committee at the NG Assembly sitting.
The committee would decide by voting on the issue.
A 60 percent vote is required to remove an Assembly Member.
There is no time limit on this process.
Church Line Back
The Inuktitut Moravian Church service will finally be broadcast again this coming Sunday.
The OKalaKatiget Society’s transmission line from the Moravian church has been down for a couple of months.
The radio department is happy to let its listeners know that the technical problem was solved yesterday.
So you can tune back into the regular church service at 10am on Sunday.
The Inuktitut service was last aired on Sunday, April 11, 2010.
The OKalaKatiget Society’s transmission line from the Moravian church has been down for a couple of months.
The radio department is happy to let its listeners know that the technical problem was solved yesterday.
So you can tune back into the regular church service at 10am on Sunday.
The Inuktitut service was last aired on Sunday, April 11, 2010.
Lord Strathcona House
The newly constructed museum in Rigolet will still go into operation without a museum planner.
Jack Shiwak is the Acting Chairperson for the Rigolet Heritage Society.
He says the museum is called the Lord Strathcona House.
The Heritage Society volunteers will be putting everything together themselves.
This includes the showcases, artifacts, archived material and stories.
Shiwak says the building will house three sections:
1. Digital Storytelling
2. An old-fashion kitchen; and
3. A section containing World War II and Hudson’s Bay items
Shiwak adds that a cruise ship is expected on June 22 and they hope to be open for business before then.
Jack Shiwak is the Acting Chairperson for the Rigolet Heritage Society.
He says the museum is called the Lord Strathcona House.
The Heritage Society volunteers will be putting everything together themselves.
This includes the showcases, artifacts, archived material and stories.
Shiwak says the building will house three sections:
1. Digital Storytelling
2. An old-fashion kitchen; and
3. A section containing World War II and Hudson’s Bay items
Shiwak adds that a cruise ship is expected on June 22 and they hope to be open for business before then.
Hopedale Homeowners Continue to Struggle with Contamination
The Hopedale Inuit Community Government (HICG) continues its struggle to relocate resident’s homes from contaminated lands.
Judy Dicker is the AngajukKak for the HICG.
She says the HICG will be meeting with Stantec and the provincial Department of Environment next week.
Stantec is a consultant that completed a study on the contaminated site last summer.
The groups will discuss what can be done about the site and the homes that are located on top of it.
Dicker says there are three homes that they know of that are constructed on the contaminated grounds.
She adds that there may be more.
The three confirmed homes were constructed in the mid-nineties.
Construction of new homes in the area has since been halted.
Dicker says the contamination is evident by the tar seeping through the ground and the holes that exist in the area.
Those holes are only covered by pieces of plywood and when that plywood is removed you can see the drums buried below.
The drums were put there by the American Military from when they operated a radar site in the area.
Dicker says she hopes that the provincial government can help them find a solution to this serious problem.
Judy Dicker is the AngajukKak for the HICG.
She says the HICG will be meeting with Stantec and the provincial Department of Environment next week.
Stantec is a consultant that completed a study on the contaminated site last summer.
The groups will discuss what can be done about the site and the homes that are located on top of it.
Dicker says there are three homes that they know of that are constructed on the contaminated grounds.
She adds that there may be more.
The three confirmed homes were constructed in the mid-nineties.
Construction of new homes in the area has since been halted.
Dicker says the contamination is evident by the tar seeping through the ground and the holes that exist in the area.
Those holes are only covered by pieces of plywood and when that plywood is removed you can see the drums buried below.
The drums were put there by the American Military from when they operated a radar site in the area.
Dicker says she hopes that the provincial government can help them find a solution to this serious problem.
Nain Search and Rescue Assists
The Nain Search and Rescue (SAR) team was called on to assist a group of people camping north of Nain.
Sid Pain is the Coordinator for the Nain SAR team.
He says they responded to a request to deliver supplies to a group of campers spending the spring in Tessiujak.
After attempting all other avenues, Nain SAR had decided that they would have to get to the area via chopper.
Pack-ice had prevented attempts to get to Tessiujak by boat over the weekend.
Pain says the team delivered supplies to the campers and flew home six of the people upon their request.
He says it isn’t a common occurrence for Nain SAR to receive this sort of request.
He would like to remind people to be well prepared for camping trips.
And ensure that you have enough supplies and advise people of your departure and return dates.
Pain says the campers aren’t expected to provide compensation for the assistance.
But donations are always welcome.
If you would like to make a donation to Nain SAR, you can do so by contacting one of the members or the local RCMP detachment.
Sid Pain is the Coordinator for the Nain SAR team.
He says they responded to a request to deliver supplies to a group of campers spending the spring in Tessiujak.
After attempting all other avenues, Nain SAR had decided that they would have to get to the area via chopper.
Pack-ice had prevented attempts to get to Tessiujak by boat over the weekend.
Pain says the team delivered supplies to the campers and flew home six of the people upon their request.
He says it isn’t a common occurrence for Nain SAR to receive this sort of request.
He would like to remind people to be well prepared for camping trips.
And ensure that you have enough supplies and advise people of your departure and return dates.
Pain says the campers aren’t expected to provide compensation for the assistance.
But donations are always welcome.
If you would like to make a donation to Nain SAR, you can do so by contacting one of the members or the local RCMP detachment.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Minister Russell Addresses Beneficiaries Comments
Since we broke the news of the recent allegations against Upper Lake Melville (ULM) Ordinary Member Max Blake, Nunatsiavut Beneficiaries have been speaking out.
Also caught in the crossfire is the other Ordinary Member from the region: Keith Russell.
We spoke with the Minster of Health and Social Development to address some of the comments that have been made.
Russell says that people have been taking his silence on the issue as a sign that he condones the allegations Blake is accused of.
He says that he hasn’t been addressing the issue because there is a process in place that the government follows.
Russell says the government isn’t commenting on the situation until that process is carried out.
In the past, Minister Russell has been known to be very vocal on various issues.
But he says now that he is a Minister he has to address matters in a different manner.
And he doesn't hold the same luxury as when he was just an ordinary member.
Russell adds that there have been requests for him to address certain allegations as he holds the portfolio for the status of women.
He says that he in no way condones any of the allegations that have been made recently.
Also caught in the crossfire is the other Ordinary Member from the region: Keith Russell.
We spoke with the Minster of Health and Social Development to address some of the comments that have been made.
Russell says that people have been taking his silence on the issue as a sign that he condones the allegations Blake is accused of.
He says that he hasn’t been addressing the issue because there is a process in place that the government follows.
Russell says the government isn’t commenting on the situation until that process is carried out.
In the past, Minister Russell has been known to be very vocal on various issues.
But he says now that he is a Minister he has to address matters in a different manner.
And he doesn't hold the same luxury as when he was just an ordinary member.
Russell adds that there have been requests for him to address certain allegations as he holds the portfolio for the status of women.
He says that he in no way condones any of the allegations that have been made recently.
Torngasôk Aims At 2011 For Inuktitut Language Program
The Torngasôk Cultural Centre (TCC) is planning to launch a pilot project early next year.
Toni White is the Language Program Coordinator for TCC.
She says they will be the pilot project called the Labrador Inuktitut Training Program in January 2011.
The training is for any interested Nunatsiavut Beneficiary.
White says their Labrador Inuktitut Language team made this decision to try and certify the program themselves.
She says before the program starts, they will test out the material for three weeks.
White says they will then determine which community will be the host of the program.
Toni White is the Language Program Coordinator for TCC.
She says they will be the pilot project called the Labrador Inuktitut Training Program in January 2011.
The training is for any interested Nunatsiavut Beneficiary.
White says their Labrador Inuktitut Language team made this decision to try and certify the program themselves.
She says before the program starts, they will test out the material for three weeks.
White says they will then determine which community will be the host of the program.
Rigolet Museum Will Open Without A Museum Planner
The Lord Strathcona museum in Rigolet will still go ahead with despite no museum planner.
Jack Shiwak is the Acting Chairperson for the Rigolet Heritage Society.
He says the Heritage Society will put everything together themselves.
This includes: the showcases, artifacts, archived material and stories.
Shiwak says the building will be split up into three sections:
1. Digital Storytelling
2. Old fashion kitchen
3. World War II, Hudson’s Bay items dating to the 1700’s and local history
Shiwak adds that a cruise vessel is expected on the 22nd of June and they’ll hopefully be opened for business before that date.
Jack Shiwak is the Acting Chairperson for the Rigolet Heritage Society.
He says the Heritage Society will put everything together themselves.
This includes: the showcases, artifacts, archived material and stories.
Shiwak says the building will be split up into three sections:
1. Digital Storytelling
2. Old fashion kitchen
3. World War II, Hudson’s Bay items dating to the 1700’s and local history
Shiwak adds that a cruise vessel is expected on the 22nd of June and they’ll hopefully be opened for business before that date.
Rigolet Groomer Too Big to Store
The community of Rigolet couldn’t be happier when they heard they are getting a new groomer this past year.
Just one little problem: they have nowhere to store the expensive piece of machinery.
Sarah Blake is the Town Manager with the Rigolet Inuit Community Government (RICG).
She says the existing storage facility used to store the town’s groomer doesn’t have the capacity to house the new groomer.
Blake says that it isn’t possible to leave the $260,000 piece of equipment outside.
The RICG is now in the process of approaching the provincial government for funds to upgrade its current storage facility.
Blake says that if the province refuses to provide the funding, they will have to look for other sources.
And as a last resort, the RICG may have to store the groomer in the town garage.
But, Blake says, this route would leave other machinery open to the elements.
The RICG is expecting the new groomer either sometime this shipping season or possibly in the winter when ice conditions allow the groomer to travel.
The groomer was expected last winter but had been put in storage in Happy Valley-Goose Bay due to ice conditions.
Just one little problem: they have nowhere to store the expensive piece of machinery.
Sarah Blake is the Town Manager with the Rigolet Inuit Community Government (RICG).
She says the existing storage facility used to store the town’s groomer doesn’t have the capacity to house the new groomer.
Blake says that it isn’t possible to leave the $260,000 piece of equipment outside.
The RICG is now in the process of approaching the provincial government for funds to upgrade its current storage facility.
Blake says that if the province refuses to provide the funding, they will have to look for other sources.
And as a last resort, the RICG may have to store the groomer in the town garage.
But, Blake says, this route would leave other machinery open to the elements.
The RICG is expecting the new groomer either sometime this shipping season or possibly in the winter when ice conditions allow the groomer to travel.
The groomer was expected last winter but had been put in storage in Happy Valley-Goose Bay due to ice conditions.
Hopedale Homeowners Continue to Struggle with Contamination
The Hopedale Inuit Community Government (HICG) continues its struggle to relocate resident’s homes from contaminated lands.
Judy Dicker is the AngajukKak for the HICG.
She says the HICG will be meeting with Stantec and the provincial Department of Environment next week.
Stantec is a consultant that completed a study on the contaminated site last summer.
The groups will discuss what can be done about the site and the homes that are located on top of it.
Dicker says there are three homes that they know of that are constructed on the contaminated grounds.
She adds that there may be more.
The three confirmed homes were constructed in the mid-nineties.
Construction of new homes in the area has since been halted.
Dicker says the contamination is evident by the tar seeping through the ground and the holes that exist in the area.
Those holes are only covered by pieces of plywood and when that plywood is removed you can see the drums buried below.
The drums were put there by the American Military from when they operated a radar site in the area.
Dicker says she hopes that the provincial government can help them find a solution to this serious problem.
Judy Dicker is the AngajukKak for the HICG.
She says the HICG will be meeting with Stantec and the provincial Department of Environment next week.
Stantec is a consultant that completed a study on the contaminated site last summer.
The groups will discuss what can be done about the site and the homes that are located on top of it.
Dicker says there are three homes that they know of that are constructed on the contaminated grounds.
She adds that there may be more.
The three confirmed homes were constructed in the mid-nineties.
Construction of new homes in the area has since been halted.
Dicker says the contamination is evident by the tar seeping through the ground and the holes that exist in the area.
Those holes are only covered by pieces of plywood and when that plywood is removed you can see the drums buried below.
The drums were put there by the American Military from when they operated a radar site in the area.
Dicker says she hopes that the provincial government can help them find a solution to this serious problem.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Minister Pottle Discusses Northern Strategic Plan
The Northern Strategic Plan (NSP) was the topic of discussion during a meeting in Nain recently.
The Minster of Aboriginal Affairs, Patty Pottle, was joined by the Minister of Labrador Affairs to facilitate an information session on the NSP.
Community representatives from all Nunatsiavut communities joined the ministers for the discussion.
Pottle says they provided details on all of the accomplishments made through the plan thus far.
Some of those accomplishments include improvements to the provinces food subsidy program and investments in trail grooming on the north coast.
The continuing effort to improve police services in the community of Postville was also discussed.
Pottle adds that they opened the floor for concerns from the attendees.
The Minster of Aboriginal Affairs, Patty Pottle, was joined by the Minister of Labrador Affairs to facilitate an information session on the NSP.
Community representatives from all Nunatsiavut communities joined the ministers for the discussion.
Pottle says they provided details on all of the accomplishments made through the plan thus far.
Some of those accomplishments include improvements to the provinces food subsidy program and investments in trail grooming on the north coast.
The continuing effort to improve police services in the community of Postville was also discussed.
Pottle adds that they opened the floor for concerns from the attendees.
Residential Schooling Class Action Law Suit to Go Ahead
The Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador has given the nod for the Residential Schooling lawsuit to proceed.
A press release was sent to OK Radio.
Judge Robert Fowler says in the release that the class action lawsuit met all of the requirements under the Newfoundland Class Action Act.
The classification overview of this case is:
This class proceeding concerns allegations of sexual and physical abuse at five Residential Schools located in the province.
Former Inuit and Metis students were neglected, and suffered devastation of their cultural and family relationships.
It is alleged that the Canadian Government, had the full responsibility for these residents after Newfoundland and Labrador joined Confederation in 1949.
The five schools in issue are:
The Lockwood School, located in Cartwright;
The Nain Boarding School, in Nain;
The St. Anthony Orphanage and Boarding School, in St. Anthony;
The Makkovik Boarding School, in Makkovik and the Yale School, in Northwest River.
Steven Cooper was unable to be contacted for further details on the matter.
Cooper is a partner for the Law firm Ahlstrom Wright Oliver & Cooper and the defense lawyer for the case.
To see more details, go to www.koskiminsky.com
A press release was sent to OK Radio.
Judge Robert Fowler says in the release that the class action lawsuit met all of the requirements under the Newfoundland Class Action Act.
The classification overview of this case is:
This class proceeding concerns allegations of sexual and physical abuse at five Residential Schools located in the province.
Former Inuit and Metis students were neglected, and suffered devastation of their cultural and family relationships.
It is alleged that the Canadian Government, had the full responsibility for these residents after Newfoundland and Labrador joined Confederation in 1949.
The five schools in issue are:
The Lockwood School, located in Cartwright;
The Nain Boarding School, in Nain;
The St. Anthony Orphanage and Boarding School, in St. Anthony;
The Makkovik Boarding School, in Makkovik and the Yale School, in Northwest River.
Steven Cooper was unable to be contacted for further details on the matter.
Cooper is a partner for the Law firm Ahlstrom Wright Oliver & Cooper and the defense lawyer for the case.
To see more details, go to www.koskiminsky.com
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
IBA Obligates NG to Distribute Temporary Job Ads for Vale
Striking workers and community members alike are wondering why Nunatsiavut Government employees are posting employment opportunities for temporary positions at the Voisey’s Bay Mine site.
Theresa Hollett is the Impacts and Benefits Agreement (IBA) Coordinator for the Nunatsiavut Government.
She says that it is a commitment in the IBA that all job opportunities provided at the mine site are made available to Nunatsiavut beneficiaries.
The IBA states that preference will be given to qualified Innu and Inuit employees when it comes to employment at the site.
Hollet says these latest employment opportunities came through the Nunatsiavut Government.
They were further distributed by the liaison officers in each of the communities.
She says it is an obligation in the IBA that all job ads go through the Nunatsiavut Government.
This process is used to ensure that Nunatsiavut beneficiaries have a fair chance at receiving employment at the site.
Theresa Hollett is the Impacts and Benefits Agreement (IBA) Coordinator for the Nunatsiavut Government.
She says that it is a commitment in the IBA that all job opportunities provided at the mine site are made available to Nunatsiavut beneficiaries.
The IBA states that preference will be given to qualified Innu and Inuit employees when it comes to employment at the site.
Hollet says these latest employment opportunities came through the Nunatsiavut Government.
They were further distributed by the liaison officers in each of the communities.
She says it is an obligation in the IBA that all job ads go through the Nunatsiavut Government.
This process is used to ensure that Nunatsiavut beneficiaries have a fair chance at receiving employment at the site.
Torngait Services Contract Automatically Renewed
Ushitau Maintenance Inc. recently joined its fellow local 9508 members of the United Steelworkers Union (USW) on the picket line.
Ushitau joins the same USW group that has been on strike for nearly a year.
Torngait Services Incorporated’s (TSI) contract had expired at around the same time as Ushitau’s.
According to their negotiators, TSI’s collective agreement was automatically renewed when the union failed to give TSI the required notice to bargain.
A disagreement over this issue is presently being investigated by the Labour Relations Board.
TSI holds a contract with Vale to supply camp support services, logistics support and project management.
Ushitau joins the same USW group that has been on strike for nearly a year.
Torngait Services Incorporated’s (TSI) contract had expired at around the same time as Ushitau’s.
According to their negotiators, TSI’s collective agreement was automatically renewed when the union failed to give TSI the required notice to bargain.
A disagreement over this issue is presently being investigated by the Labour Relations Board.
TSI holds a contract with Vale to supply camp support services, logistics support and project management.
Makkovik Takes Honors at Lab Cup
The Labrador Cup 2010 wrapped up in Happy Valley-Goose Bay over the weekend.
Teams from all over Labrador came together to compete in the soccer cup.
Included in those teams were two from Makkovik.
Air Labrador Makkovik competed in the men’s category, while Makkovik Innu Mikun gave it their all in the women’s.
Although the teams didn’t take home the cup, they did walk away with some honors.
Trent Pottle was named MVP for the Air Labrador Makkovik team, while Tracey Evans took the same honor for Makkovik Innu Mikun.
Pottle was also named most sportsmanlike player.
And Makkovik Innu Mikun took the same honor for their team.
The overall winners for the event were Chiasson’s Dogs from Happy Valley-Goose Bay in the men’s category and happy Valley-Goose Bay’s Woodward’s in the women’s.
The winner in the Master’s category was the Wabush team.
Teams from all over Labrador came together to compete in the soccer cup.
Included in those teams were two from Makkovik.
Air Labrador Makkovik competed in the men’s category, while Makkovik Innu Mikun gave it their all in the women’s.
Although the teams didn’t take home the cup, they did walk away with some honors.
Trent Pottle was named MVP for the Air Labrador Makkovik team, while Tracey Evans took the same honor for Makkovik Innu Mikun.
Pottle was also named most sportsmanlike player.
And Makkovik Innu Mikun took the same honor for their team.
The overall winners for the event were Chiasson’s Dogs from Happy Valley-Goose Bay in the men’s category and happy Valley-Goose Bay’s Woodward’s in the women’s.
The winner in the Master’s category was the Wabush team.
Great Turn-Out for David J. Hopkins Memorial Walk for MD
The David J. Hopkins Walk for Muscular Dystrophy raised over $18, 000.
It was held in Goose Bay on Saturday, June 5th.
Karyn Hopkins is the Coordinator for the event.
She says this is the second year for the walk.
A group of about 10 people started fundraising for the walk in March, shortly after Karyn’s brother passed away from the disease.
They held many fundraisers for the walk; selling tickets on baskets, hosting dances and can collections.
During the walk, the local drum-dancers lead the way for dozens of people who made their way to the Fire Station where a barbecue was held.
Hopkins said a fish pond and face painting were held for the children.
Prizes were given to those who raised the most money for the cause.
Hopkins herself came in 1st, raising $1157, 2nd place winner Mary Murphy raised $1065 and 3rd place went to Karen Mitchell who raised a total of $1055.
In all, over $18, 000 was raised for Muscular Dystrophy awareness to date.
The final total will be announced on Friday.
Hopkins thinks it was an excellent turn-out and is very pleased with the outcome.
It was held in Goose Bay on Saturday, June 5th.
Karyn Hopkins is the Coordinator for the event.
She says this is the second year for the walk.
A group of about 10 people started fundraising for the walk in March, shortly after Karyn’s brother passed away from the disease.
They held many fundraisers for the walk; selling tickets on baskets, hosting dances and can collections.
During the walk, the local drum-dancers lead the way for dozens of people who made their way to the Fire Station where a barbecue was held.
Hopkins said a fish pond and face painting were held for the children.
Prizes were given to those who raised the most money for the cause.
Hopkins herself came in 1st, raising $1157, 2nd place winner Mary Murphy raised $1065 and 3rd place went to Karen Mitchell who raised a total of $1055.
In all, over $18, 000 was raised for Muscular Dystrophy awareness to date.
The final total will be announced on Friday.
Hopkins thinks it was an excellent turn-out and is very pleased with the outcome.
Nunatsiavut Government Responds to Blake Allegations
The Nunatsiavut Government has issued a press release addressing the recent allegations made against Upper Lake Melville Ordinary Member Max Blake.
In the release Nunatsiavut President Jim Lyall expresses his regret for the situation.
He says all elected officials are expected to act within accordance of the Labrador Inuit Constitution as well as the Code of Conduct.
The release states that a formal complaint has been received by the Nunatsiavut Government.
That complaint will be dealt with through procedures that are set out to deal with allegations of misconduct.
The allegations have been referred to the Clerk and Speaker of the Nunatsiavut Assembly for investigation.
Blake will be given the chance to respond to those allegations.
The Nunatsiavut Assembly will not address the matter unless it is brought forth by the Speaker of the House for action.
In the release Nunatsiavut President Jim Lyall expresses his regret for the situation.
He says all elected officials are expected to act within accordance of the Labrador Inuit Constitution as well as the Code of Conduct.
The release states that a formal complaint has been received by the Nunatsiavut Government.
That complaint will be dealt with through procedures that are set out to deal with allegations of misconduct.
The allegations have been referred to the Clerk and Speaker of the Nunatsiavut Assembly for investigation.
Blake will be given the chance to respond to those allegations.
The Nunatsiavut Assembly will not address the matter unless it is brought forth by the Speaker of the House for action.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Silpa Edmunds Discusses Tukisinnik
Silpa Edmunds of Postville recently attended the Tukisinnik Conference held in Nain last week.
OK radio interviewed her following the conference.
Edmunds mentions how things have changed over the years.
She also discusses the problems that Inuit are trying to cope with in today’s modern society.
OK radio interviewed her following the conference.
Edmunds mentions how things have changed over the years.
She also discusses the problems that Inuit are trying to cope with in today’s modern society.
CONA Graduates
Summer is just around the corner and College of North Atlantic students will be graduating very soon.
We spoke to John Rixon, Instructor for the community of Hopedale.
He says one student will be graduating this year.
This student will be receiving a general degree and a technical diploma.
Students are funded through Inuit Pathways.
Rixon adds there are seven students who are continuing classes.
Those students will return to class in September.
We spoke to John Rixon, Instructor for the community of Hopedale.
He says one student will be graduating this year.
This student will be receiving a general degree and a technical diploma.
Students are funded through Inuit Pathways.
Rixon adds there are seven students who are continuing classes.
Those students will return to class in September.
Courts to Return to Full Capacity in Labrador
Provincial Courts in Labrador are returning to full capacity with the return of a second judge.
Ken Morrissey is the Director of Communications for the Department of Justice.
He says the Provincial Court has advised him that they are now operating at full capacity once again.
The Provincial Court has been without a second judge since Judge English had taken sick leave.
This has caused delays for the delivery of justice here in Labrador.
Morrissey says Judge English had returned to work on May 31.
He says due to the fact that court cases are set months in advance, it is difficult to reassign judges within the system on short notice.
The provincial court had received judicial help from other court centers on an ad hoc basis.
Ken Morrissey is the Director of Communications for the Department of Justice.
He says the Provincial Court has advised him that they are now operating at full capacity once again.
The Provincial Court has been without a second judge since Judge English had taken sick leave.
This has caused delays for the delivery of justice here in Labrador.
Morrissey says Judge English had returned to work on May 31.
He says due to the fact that court cases are set months in advance, it is difficult to reassign judges within the system on short notice.
The provincial court had received judicial help from other court centers on an ad hoc basis.
Comments on ULM Member
Comments have been flowing in on our website since we broadcasted the story of the alleged misconduct of Upper Lake Melville Ordinary Member Max Blake.
President Jim Lyall will be issuing a statement on the matter this afternoon.
We welcome your comments on our website and we remind you that slanderous or defamatory comments will not be published to the site.
Visit the radio briefs section at www.oksociety.com to comment on any of the stories that we do.
President Jim Lyall will be issuing a statement on the matter this afternoon.
We welcome your comments on our website and we remind you that slanderous or defamatory comments will not be published to the site.
Visit the radio briefs section at www.oksociety.com to comment on any of the stories that we do.
Recreation Management Certification
This week recreation directors from Nunatsiavut communities will travel to Marystown, Newfoundland for training.
Lisa Ivany is the Recreation Director for the Nain Inuit Community Government (ICG).
She says staff from Nain, Makkovik and Rigolet’s recreation departments will take part in the training.
Ivany says they’ll be at the Marystown Hotel and Convention Centre to attend Recreation Newfoundland and Labrador’s Annual General Meeting (AGM).
While there, they’ll complete the first of 10 modules for certification in Recreation Management.
The College of the North Atlantic (CNA) will be delivering the module.
Ivany says staff from Nain’s recreation Department will be leaving today to avoid what looks like poor conditions in the weather forecast.
The Torngat Recreation Commission (TRC) is footing the bill for the certification.
After the AGM, TRC will meet with CNA to request that the location for the second module be Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
As of now, the communities of Hopedale and Postville will not be taking part in the training.
Shirley Goudie is the Town Manager of the Postville ICG.
She says after review of the agenda for the AGM, they believe their programs are more important.
Judy Dicker is the AngajukKâk of the Hopedale ICG.
She says their office wasn’t aware of this and will speak with their Recreation Director this afternoon.
Dicker adds that in the mean time, she’ll be checking to see if it is not too late for their community to attend.
Lisa Ivany is the Recreation Director for the Nain Inuit Community Government (ICG).
She says staff from Nain, Makkovik and Rigolet’s recreation departments will take part in the training.
Ivany says they’ll be at the Marystown Hotel and Convention Centre to attend Recreation Newfoundland and Labrador’s Annual General Meeting (AGM).
While there, they’ll complete the first of 10 modules for certification in Recreation Management.
The College of the North Atlantic (CNA) will be delivering the module.
Ivany says staff from Nain’s recreation Department will be leaving today to avoid what looks like poor conditions in the weather forecast.
The Torngat Recreation Commission (TRC) is footing the bill for the certification.
After the AGM, TRC will meet with CNA to request that the location for the second module be Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
As of now, the communities of Hopedale and Postville will not be taking part in the training.
Shirley Goudie is the Town Manager of the Postville ICG.
She says after review of the agenda for the AGM, they believe their programs are more important.
Judy Dicker is the AngajukKâk of the Hopedale ICG.
She says their office wasn’t aware of this and will speak with their Recreation Director this afternoon.
Dicker adds that in the mean time, she’ll be checking to see if it is not too late for their community to attend.
Nain Relay for Life
The Nain Relay for Life committee has established a date for their relay.
Annie Solomon is the Nain CYN Fieldworker and Organizer for the event.
She says the Relay will be held on Saturday July 17th from 7pm to 7am.
They will fundraise to increase awareness about cancer.
All proceeds go to the Canadian Cancer Society.
She says the event will be held all through the night.
As quoted on the Nain Relay for Life Facebook group; “Cancer never sleeps.”
Teams must be submitted by June 9th.
The teams must have at least seven people and a maximum of 10 people.
To register a team, contact Solomon.
Annie Solomon is the Nain CYN Fieldworker and Organizer for the event.
She says the Relay will be held on Saturday July 17th from 7pm to 7am.
They will fundraise to increase awareness about cancer.
All proceeds go to the Canadian Cancer Society.
She says the event will be held all through the night.
As quoted on the Nain Relay for Life Facebook group; “Cancer never sleeps.”
Teams must be submitted by June 9th.
The teams must have at least seven people and a maximum of 10 people.
To register a team, contact Solomon.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
NG Ordinary Member Allegations
Some Nain residents are shocked by the alleged actions of one of the Upper Lake Melville (ULM) Ordinary Members.
Max Blake was elected as one of the Ordinary Members for ULM on May 4th.
Blake was allegedly very intoxicated Thursday night at the Atsanik Lodge in Nain.
One witness described Blake’s actions as “shameful.”
Blake was in town for the Tukisinnik Research Forum.
The Nain RCMP has not received any complaints about Blake at this time.
Numerous NG employees, who asked to remain anonymous, say they have complained to President Jim Lyall about Blake’s conduct.
The NG isn’t commenting on the situation at this time.
There is a zero tolerance policy against the consumption of alcohol by elected members while conducting Nunatsiavut business in Nunatsiavut’s code of conduct.
William Barbour was previously removed from his position as Minister of Lands and Resources for breaking that code in 2008.
Attempts to contact Blake have been unsuccessful so far.
OKalaKatiget previously removed this story in error. We apologize to anyone whose comments were lost as a result. Please feel free to re-post your comments. And remember as always to keep them clean or they will be removed from the website. Thank you.
Max Blake was elected as one of the Ordinary Members for ULM on May 4th.
Blake was allegedly very intoxicated Thursday night at the Atsanik Lodge in Nain.
One witness described Blake’s actions as “shameful.”
Blake was in town for the Tukisinnik Research Forum.
The Nain RCMP has not received any complaints about Blake at this time.
Numerous NG employees, who asked to remain anonymous, say they have complained to President Jim Lyall about Blake’s conduct.
The NG isn’t commenting on the situation at this time.
There is a zero tolerance policy against the consumption of alcohol by elected members while conducting Nunatsiavut business in Nunatsiavut’s code of conduct.
William Barbour was previously removed from his position as Minister of Lands and Resources for breaking that code in 2008.
Attempts to contact Blake have been unsuccessful so far.
OKalaKatiget previously removed this story in error. We apologize to anyone whose comments were lost as a result. Please feel free to re-post your comments. And remember as always to keep them clean or they will be removed from the website. Thank you.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Pauktuutit AGM
Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada held their Annual General Meeting recently in Ottawa.
We spoke to Elisapee Shiutiapik, President of Pauktuutit.
She says they discussed several different projects this year at their AGM.
The projects included health, sexual health, education, mid-wifery and residential schooling.
She says those are on-going projects.
Shiutiapik says there are two Nunatsiavut representatives with Pauktuutit.
The Youth representative is Tracey Evans.
Dawn Michelin is the other representative.
We spoke to Elisapee Shiutiapik, President of Pauktuutit.
She says they discussed several different projects this year at their AGM.
The projects included health, sexual health, education, mid-wifery and residential schooling.
She says those are on-going projects.
Shiutiapik says there are two Nunatsiavut representatives with Pauktuutit.
The Youth representative is Tracey Evans.
Dawn Michelin is the other representative.
Bell Aliant Addressing Phone Problems
Nain residents are growing tired of the problems with their telephone service.
Further to that, they are growing tired of the time it takes for those problems to be repaired.
Suzanne Ford has been without a telephone for a while now.
She says she’s been experiencing problems with her phone since May 23.
At first there was a static sound on the line and the next day the line went completely dead.
She says she contacted Bell Aliant and they told her they would be there on June 23 to fix the problem; nearly a month later.
Ford isn’t alone in her frustration.
Other residents in the community have been experiencing similar problems.
Well Ford can breathe a sigh of relief because the repair crew will be here sooner than expected.
Wayne Sheppard is the Regional Manager with Bell Aliant.
He says they are aware of the issues residents are dealing with in Nain.
There have been problems with getting crews in due to weather delays.
Those delays forced them to adjust their schedule, increasing wait times.
Sheppard says that Bell Aliant is planning to arrive in Nain on Monday and will not leave until all the problems are addressed.
Further to that, they are growing tired of the time it takes for those problems to be repaired.
Suzanne Ford has been without a telephone for a while now.
She says she’s been experiencing problems with her phone since May 23.
At first there was a static sound on the line and the next day the line went completely dead.
She says she contacted Bell Aliant and they told her they would be there on June 23 to fix the problem; nearly a month later.
Ford isn’t alone in her frustration.
Other residents in the community have been experiencing similar problems.
Well Ford can breathe a sigh of relief because the repair crew will be here sooner than expected.
Wayne Sheppard is the Regional Manager with Bell Aliant.
He says they are aware of the issues residents are dealing with in Nain.
There have been problems with getting crews in due to weather delays.
Those delays forced them to adjust their schedule, increasing wait times.
Sheppard says that Bell Aliant is planning to arrive in Nain on Monday and will not leave until all the problems are addressed.
Vale Plans to Step-Up Production in Loom of New Strike
Vale is planning to increase production in the Voisey’s Bay Mine as another group of employees hits the picket line.
Bob Carter is the Spokesperson for Vale in Newfoundland and Labrador.
He says the company is working with contractors now to determine when the mine can resume full operation.
Since January the mine has been operating on a two week on, two week off schedule.
Carter says Vale hopes to begin operating fulltime in the near future.
Employees of one contractor, Ushitau Maintenance, walked off the job this week.
Ushitau employees are also represented by the United Steelworkers but under another bargaining group.
Carter says that it is the responsibility of Ushitau Maintenance as a contractor to ensure that they provide the services outlined in their contract.
Carter adds that Vale respects the workers right to strike, but at the same time they have a duty to their customers and employees who still remain in the site.
Bob Carter is the Spokesperson for Vale in Newfoundland and Labrador.
He says the company is working with contractors now to determine when the mine can resume full operation.
Since January the mine has been operating on a two week on, two week off schedule.
Carter says Vale hopes to begin operating fulltime in the near future.
Employees of one contractor, Ushitau Maintenance, walked off the job this week.
Ushitau employees are also represented by the United Steelworkers but under another bargaining group.
Carter says that it is the responsibility of Ushitau Maintenance as a contractor to ensure that they provide the services outlined in their contract.
Carter adds that Vale respects the workers right to strike, but at the same time they have a duty to their customers and employees who still remain in the site.
Makkovik Fish Plant
The Makkovik Fish Plant has re- opened.
Repairs were started on May 31st.
We spoke to Pete Crocker, the Plant Manager for Makkovik .
Crocker says the employees will clean up the plant in five or six days.
He says there are eight employees at the moment.
Crocker adds the plant will process crab and turbot this year.
Repairs were started on May 31st.
We spoke to Pete Crocker, the Plant Manager for Makkovik .
Crocker says the employees will clean up the plant in five or six days.
He says there are eight employees at the moment.
Crocker adds the plant will process crab and turbot this year.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Sculptor Creates Piece to Address Climate Change
Residents of Nunatsiavut were supposed to have seen a dog team heading down the coast of Labrador.
The lack of ice may leave people wondering how exactly that would be possible.
Well this dog team would have been perched on top of an iceberg.
Ap Verheggen is a sculptor from the Netherlands.
He says he had created a sculpture of a dog team to raise awareness on climate change.
The sculpture had been mounted on top of an iceberg outside of Uummannaq, Greenland.
Verheggen says he had hoped the sculpture would make its way down the Labrador coast atop the iceberg.
The progress of the iceberg was being tracked on the website www.coolemotion.org.
This morning, according to the website, the iceberg had apparently sunk.
The lack of ice may leave people wondering how exactly that would be possible.
Well this dog team would have been perched on top of an iceberg.
Ap Verheggen is a sculptor from the Netherlands.
He says he had created a sculpture of a dog team to raise awareness on climate change.
The sculpture had been mounted on top of an iceberg outside of Uummannaq, Greenland.
Verheggen says he had hoped the sculpture would make its way down the Labrador coast atop the iceberg.
The progress of the iceberg was being tracked on the website www.coolemotion.org.
This morning, according to the website, the iceberg had apparently sunk.
Nain RCMP to Step-Up Patrols Following Vandalism
Nain RCMP members are planning to increase patrols in a certain area of Nain following an incident last night.
Constable Kenny is with the Nain detachment.
He says they received a call at around 9pm last night of a disturbance at the OKalaKatiget office.
Arriving on the scene, the officers discovered a 20 year-old male on top of the building.
After they instructed the male to get down he proceeded to scale the shed behind the building.
Kenny says the young man was arrested and is now facing three charges: causing a disturbance, breach of probation and resisting arrest.
The young man was released with a court date.
Kenny says the area is a popular hangout for youth in the evenings.
They have received reports of vandalism in the area before.
Leah Ikkusek is the Executive Director with the OKalaKatiget Society.
She says she is all too familiar with these types of incidents.
She reminds the public that there are security cameras located on the building which could aid in identifying these people.
Ikkusek adds that parents may be held responsible for any damages done by these youth.
Kenny says that loitering in this area will no longer be tolerated.
Anybody doing so could possibly face charges.
Constable Kenny is with the Nain detachment.
He says they received a call at around 9pm last night of a disturbance at the OKalaKatiget office.
Arriving on the scene, the officers discovered a 20 year-old male on top of the building.
After they instructed the male to get down he proceeded to scale the shed behind the building.
Kenny says the young man was arrested and is now facing three charges: causing a disturbance, breach of probation and resisting arrest.
The young man was released with a court date.
Kenny says the area is a popular hangout for youth in the evenings.
They have received reports of vandalism in the area before.
Leah Ikkusek is the Executive Director with the OKalaKatiget Society.
She says she is all too familiar with these types of incidents.
She reminds the public that there are security cameras located on the building which could aid in identifying these people.
Ikkusek adds that parents may be held responsible for any damages done by these youth.
Kenny says that loitering in this area will no longer be tolerated.
Anybody doing so could possibly face charges.
Pigutsavik Daycare Update
The recent flood at the Daycare centre in Nain has forced an early closure.
Jenny Lyall is the Program Developer for Child Development for the Nunatsiavut Government.
Lyall says decision to close the centre a month early was made after meeting with the Daycare childcare workers.
She says the engineers have submitted a draft report.
It will take at least 17 sheets of drywall to repair the destroyed walls.
And the Department of Health and Social Development will pay for it all.
But that will be done after a final report is done.
Lyall says the other key problem she hopes will be addressed and delivered is to see a new furnace installed.
She adds the DHSD is looking into the possibility on whether their insurance plan covers water damage.
Jenny Lyall is the Program Developer for Child Development for the Nunatsiavut Government.
Lyall says decision to close the centre a month early was made after meeting with the Daycare childcare workers.
She says the engineers have submitted a draft report.
It will take at least 17 sheets of drywall to repair the destroyed walls.
And the Department of Health and Social Development will pay for it all.
But that will be done after a final report is done.
Lyall says the other key problem she hopes will be addressed and delivered is to see a new furnace installed.
She adds the DHSD is looking into the possibility on whether their insurance plan covers water damage.
TRHA Update; Rigolet & Makkovik Housing Selections
Rigolets and Makkoviks local housing committees had made their final selections for new homes.
William Lucy is the Coordinator for the Torngat Regional Housing Association.
Lucy says Brandon Sheppard and Karen Wolfrey were selected for a new 3 bedroom home.
Crystle Michelin and Byron Dyson will be getting a new 2 bedroom house.
While Travis and Janet Palliser were given a house that was turned back over to TRHA.
Lucy says Margaret Penny and Amos Mitsuk of Makkovik is selected to have a new 3 bedroom unit.
Tanya Broomfield and Darrell Voisey will also get a new 3 bedroom house.
A rental duplex will be constructed there as well.
He says there are no decisions on renovations for the coast.
Lucy adds that there is still no decision as to who will receive the house that was turned back over to TRHA in Hopedale.
William Lucy is the Coordinator for the Torngat Regional Housing Association.
Lucy says Brandon Sheppard and Karen Wolfrey were selected for a new 3 bedroom home.
Crystle Michelin and Byron Dyson will be getting a new 2 bedroom house.
While Travis and Janet Palliser were given a house that was turned back over to TRHA.
Lucy says Margaret Penny and Amos Mitsuk of Makkovik is selected to have a new 3 bedroom unit.
Tanya Broomfield and Darrell Voisey will also get a new 3 bedroom house.
A rental duplex will be constructed there as well.
He says there are no decisions on renovations for the coast.
Lucy adds that there is still no decision as to who will receive the house that was turned back over to TRHA in Hopedale.
Nain Withdraws from Combined Councils
The Nain Inuit Community Government (NICG) has withdrawn from the Combined Councils of Labrador (CCL).
Sarah Leo is the AngajukKak for the NICG.
She says the NICG had passed a unanimous motion deciding not to renew their membership with the CCL.
Leo says being a member of the CCL provides smaller communities with a larger unified voice.
That voice is used to lobby to various levels of government on behalf of Labrador communities.
Leo says the CCL hasn’t been doing that in quite some time now.
The NICG feels that it cannot waste the funds required for membership for something that is of no benefit to the NICG.
Nick McGrath is the President of the CCL.
He says the CCL is very disappointed with the NICG’s decision to leave.
He says the mandate of the CCL is to represent all regions of Labrador, including the community of Nain.
As for a lack of activity on behalf of the CCL, McGrath says they have been actively addressing issues.
These include the relocation of the air ambulance to Happy Valley-Goose Bay and the construction of a new airstrip in Nain.
McGrath hopes that the CCL can sit down with both the Nunatsiavut Government and the NICG to re-negotiate their return.
Sarah Leo is the AngajukKak for the NICG.
She says the NICG had passed a unanimous motion deciding not to renew their membership with the CCL.
Leo says being a member of the CCL provides smaller communities with a larger unified voice.
That voice is used to lobby to various levels of government on behalf of Labrador communities.
Leo says the CCL hasn’t been doing that in quite some time now.
The NICG feels that it cannot waste the funds required for membership for something that is of no benefit to the NICG.
Nick McGrath is the President of the CCL.
He says the CCL is very disappointed with the NICG’s decision to leave.
He says the mandate of the CCL is to represent all regions of Labrador, including the community of Nain.
As for a lack of activity on behalf of the CCL, McGrath says they have been actively addressing issues.
These include the relocation of the air ambulance to Happy Valley-Goose Bay and the construction of a new airstrip in Nain.
McGrath hopes that the CCL can sit down with both the Nunatsiavut Government and the NICG to re-negotiate their return.
Friendship Centres' Happenings
The St. John’s Native Friendship Centre is very busy preparing for National Aboriginal Day.
David Penner is the Executive Director for the centre.
He says they will have an early sunrise ceremony at 6:30am at Bannerman Park.
He says they will hold family events all throughout the day.
David says in other news, Eastern Health has agreed to fund the Aboriginal Patient Navigator program until March of 2011.
And meanwhile at the Labrador Friendship Center rug hooking is bringing youth and elders together.
Patricia Flemings is the Community Development Cultural Worker for the centre.
She says the youth and seniors are working on rug hooking.
Mrs. Barb Wood is teaching them the art.
There are fourteen people involved in this craft work.
She says the goal is to get youth and seniors together.
Flemings adds once they are finished with their crafts, they will take them home.
David Penner is the Executive Director for the centre.
He says they will have an early sunrise ceremony at 6:30am at Bannerman Park.
He says they will hold family events all throughout the day.
David says in other news, Eastern Health has agreed to fund the Aboriginal Patient Navigator program until March of 2011.
And meanwhile at the Labrador Friendship Center rug hooking is bringing youth and elders together.
Patricia Flemings is the Community Development Cultural Worker for the centre.
She says the youth and seniors are working on rug hooking.
Mrs. Barb Wood is teaching them the art.
There are fourteen people involved in this craft work.
She says the goal is to get youth and seniors together.
Flemings adds once they are finished with their crafts, they will take them home.
Diane Obed, Graduate from Dalhousie University
A Nunatsiavut beneficiary who recently graduated from Dalhousie University plans to use knowledge that she gained to help communities in Labrador.
Diane Obed, a former resident of Goose Bay, is originally from Hopedale.
She says she entered the Maritimes School of Social Work with the intention of helping aboriginal communities.
In one of her cultural classes, she was asked to do a presentation about her culture.
To provide visualization, she wore a silipak that her mother made and showed a video clip of throat singing.
She says the audience appeared amazed by the demonstration.
Obed says she got to where she is today through discipline and tolerance.
She believes this is part of the Inuit culture and ways.
Diane Obed, a former resident of Goose Bay, is originally from Hopedale.
She says she entered the Maritimes School of Social Work with the intention of helping aboriginal communities.
In one of her cultural classes, she was asked to do a presentation about her culture.
To provide visualization, she wore a silipak that her mother made and showed a video clip of throat singing.
She says the audience appeared amazed by the demonstration.
Obed says she got to where she is today through discipline and tolerance.
She believes this is part of the Inuit culture and ways.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Ushitau calls for strike while negotiations for other USW strikers improve
Ushitau Maintenance Employees of the Voisey’s Bay Mine site have officially gone on strike.
Darren Cove is the President of the United Steelworkers Union(USW) local 9508.
He says as of 12pm yesterday, Ushitau and its employees withdrew their services from Voisey’s Bay and called a strike.
They all vacated the site by plane yesterday afternoon.
Cove says that Ushitau had received their final offer from Vale and 96 percent voted against the deal resulting in a strike.
Ushitau Maintenance Inc. is responsible for maintaining the site’s concentrator and loading dock.
There are about 50-60 people employed with the contractor.
Meanwhile, negotiations between Vale and the other union members who have been on strike for nearly a year have improved.
Cove says Vale and the union met last week in St. John’s.
Although what seemed to look like an interesting contract offering from Vale's website.
Cove adds the terms and conditions are not quite on par for what they are looking for.
Darren Cove is the President of the United Steelworkers Union(USW) local 9508.
He says as of 12pm yesterday, Ushitau and its employees withdrew their services from Voisey’s Bay and called a strike.
They all vacated the site by plane yesterday afternoon.
Cove says that Ushitau had received their final offer from Vale and 96 percent voted against the deal resulting in a strike.
Ushitau Maintenance Inc. is responsible for maintaining the site’s concentrator and loading dock.
There are about 50-60 people employed with the contractor.
Meanwhile, negotiations between Vale and the other union members who have been on strike for nearly a year have improved.
Cove says Vale and the union met last week in St. John’s.
Although what seemed to look like an interesting contract offering from Vale's website.
Cove adds the terms and conditions are not quite on par for what they are looking for.
Tukisinnik research conference gains momentum
Tukisinnik continues to build momentum.
There are approximately 85 people attending the research conference at the Community hall in Nain today.
According to Tom Sheldon, the Nunatsiavut Governments Director of the Environment Division.
Today’s presentations are setting up for tomorrow’s panel of discussions on research in Nain.
This morning’s events included a presentation from Ken Reimer of the Environmental Sciences Group at the Royal Military College.
Charlotte and Dina Wolfrey did a presentation about “My Word”, a digital storytelling project in Rigolet.
And Trevor Bell of Memorial University talked about natural and social science projects in Nunatsiavut.
The conference continues this afternoon with more presentations at the Community Hall.
They will be followed by a “Bell-Ringer” research round at the Jens Haven Memorial School's gym at 3 pm.
A Research Bingo will be held tonight in the gym.
This will be a unique bingo in which participants will answer research questions to fill in their bingo cards.
The questions will be based on information from booths set up by various researchers in the gym.
Everyone who fills in a card will win a prize, with the big prizes being a GPS Tracker and an IPod Touch.
There are approximately 85 people attending the research conference at the Community hall in Nain today.
According to Tom Sheldon, the Nunatsiavut Governments Director of the Environment Division.
Today’s presentations are setting up for tomorrow’s panel of discussions on research in Nain.
This morning’s events included a presentation from Ken Reimer of the Environmental Sciences Group at the Royal Military College.
Charlotte and Dina Wolfrey did a presentation about “My Word”, a digital storytelling project in Rigolet.
And Trevor Bell of Memorial University talked about natural and social science projects in Nunatsiavut.
The conference continues this afternoon with more presentations at the Community Hall.
They will be followed by a “Bell-Ringer” research round at the Jens Haven Memorial School's gym at 3 pm.
A Research Bingo will be held tonight in the gym.
This will be a unique bingo in which participants will answer research questions to fill in their bingo cards.
The questions will be based on information from booths set up by various researchers in the gym.
Everyone who fills in a card will win a prize, with the big prizes being a GPS Tracker and an IPod Touch.
Tukisinnik Research Forum
The delegation of the Tukisinnik Research Forum were treated to cultural showcase last evening.
The local people joined the delegation in the packed gym.
The event included many acts and demonstrations of the Inuit culture.
The evening started off with the Nain Church Choir singing a few hymns.
All throughout the show, Inuit games such as the seal crawl, monkey dance and back to back were demonstrated.
The Little Drummers performed a few acts which had the audience gazing in amazement.
Debbie Lyall and April Andersen also demonstrated throat singing for the audience.
Included in the agenda were the original Nunatsiavut Drumdancers.
They did a short routine and had the audience asking for more.
The evening ended off with the Sun Dogs performing a few songs with the Nunatsiavut Drumdancers.
The community was then treated to a feed of traditional inuit food such as nikkuk, pitsik and panitsiak.
The local people joined the delegation in the packed gym.
The event included many acts and demonstrations of the Inuit culture.
The evening started off with the Nain Church Choir singing a few hymns.
All throughout the show, Inuit games such as the seal crawl, monkey dance and back to back were demonstrated.
The Little Drummers performed a few acts which had the audience gazing in amazement.
Debbie Lyall and April Andersen also demonstrated throat singing for the audience.
Included in the agenda were the original Nunatsiavut Drumdancers.
They did a short routine and had the audience asking for more.
The evening ended off with the Sun Dogs performing a few songs with the Nunatsiavut Drumdancers.
The community was then treated to a feed of traditional inuit food such as nikkuk, pitsik and panitsiak.
Search for a new GM
The Labrador Inuit Development Corporation (LIDC) is in the process of beginning the search for a new General Manager.
The position has been left vacant since Brian Vincent resigned from the post at the end of April.
Clint Davis is the Chair for the Labrador Inuit Capital Strategy Trust.
He says in the next couple of months they will begin the search to fill the vacant position.
The LIDC plans to create a comprehensive job description for the position.
Then they will begin the search for a candidate through an executive search firm.
Davis says he doesn’t believe the vacancy will have any implications for the upcoming season.
Chris Webb the former Assistant General Manager, has assumed the role of Acting General Manager.
He says the trustees have complete confidence in Webb’s abilities.
Vincent was the third General Manager to resign from the position since 2005.
Davis believes the high turnover rate can be attributed to a number of reasons.
They include a heavy workload and high demand.
The position has been left vacant since Brian Vincent resigned from the post at the end of April.
Clint Davis is the Chair for the Labrador Inuit Capital Strategy Trust.
He says in the next couple of months they will begin the search to fill the vacant position.
The LIDC plans to create a comprehensive job description for the position.
Then they will begin the search for a candidate through an executive search firm.
Davis says he doesn’t believe the vacancy will have any implications for the upcoming season.
Chris Webb the former Assistant General Manager, has assumed the role of Acting General Manager.
He says the trustees have complete confidence in Webb’s abilities.
Vincent was the third General Manager to resign from the position since 2005.
Davis believes the high turnover rate can be attributed to a number of reasons.
They include a heavy workload and high demand.
LFC fund raises for recovery search
Today is the start of a new month, and hopefully an end to an emotional recovery search for the 3 missing Labrador men.
We spoke with Patti Fleming, Community Development Cultural Worker for the Labrador Friendship Centre (LFC).
She says the LFC on behalf of the Russell, Rose and Sainsbury families are in the process of coordinating a fund raising effort.
Ryan Russell of Charlottetown, Randy Rose of Goose Bay and Roy Sainsbury of Cartwright went missing after a canoeing incident last month.
All three men are presumed dead after falling over Muskrat Falls.
Fleming says this effort is in hopes to bring in a special water recovery team to assist with the search.
All donations can be dropped off at the LFC.
Fleming says for further details, you can contact Stan Oliver or herself at the Centre.
We spoke with Patti Fleming, Community Development Cultural Worker for the Labrador Friendship Centre (LFC).
She says the LFC on behalf of the Russell, Rose and Sainsbury families are in the process of coordinating a fund raising effort.
Ryan Russell of Charlottetown, Randy Rose of Goose Bay and Roy Sainsbury of Cartwright went missing after a canoeing incident last month.
All three men are presumed dead after falling over Muskrat Falls.
Fleming says this effort is in hopes to bring in a special water recovery team to assist with the search.
All donations can be dropped off at the LFC.
Fleming says for further details, you can contact Stan Oliver or herself at the Centre.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Ushitau Employees Officially On Strike
Ushitau Maintenance employees of the Voisey’s Bay Mine site have officially gone on strike.
Darren Cove is the President of the United Steelworkers local 9508.
He says as of 12pm today Ushitau employees withdrew their services from the Voisey’s Bay Mine site and called a strike.
The employees are flying out of the site at approximately 2:30pm.
Cove says that Ushitau had received their final offer from Vale and 96 percent voted against the deal resulting in a strike.
Ushitau Maintenance is responsible for maintaining the site’s concentrator and loading dock.
There are about 50-60 people employed with the contractor.
Darren Cove is the President of the United Steelworkers local 9508.
He says as of 12pm today Ushitau employees withdrew their services from the Voisey’s Bay Mine site and called a strike.
The employees are flying out of the site at approximately 2:30pm.
Cove says that Ushitau had received their final offer from Vale and 96 percent voted against the deal resulting in a strike.
Ushitau Maintenance is responsible for maintaining the site’s concentrator and loading dock.
There are about 50-60 people employed with the contractor.
Tukisinnik Research Forum Begins Today
Nain will be crawling with researchers this week.
Delegates are arriving today for the Tukisinnik community research forum.
Tom Sheldon is the Director of Environment for the Nunatsiavut Government.
He says this is the first time that an event of this type has ever taken place in a Nunatsiavut community.
About 85 people will be involved in the community research forum.
The participants include community members, youth, government and organizational representatives.
Researchers from all over Canada will also be joining the delegation in a week of engaging discussion.
Sheldon says the goal of this forum is to provide researchers with an idea of what kind of research residents would like to see take place in the region.
It is also an opportunity for community members to learn of the research that is happening in the area.
He says they have an action- packed schedule planned for the week with many exciting events.
The public is invited and encouraged to attend to learn about what is happening and offer their opinion as to what they would like to see happen.
The Tukisinnik community research forum kicks off this evening with a cultural showcase at the gym.
Delegates are arriving today for the Tukisinnik community research forum.
Tom Sheldon is the Director of Environment for the Nunatsiavut Government.
He says this is the first time that an event of this type has ever taken place in a Nunatsiavut community.
About 85 people will be involved in the community research forum.
The participants include community members, youth, government and organizational representatives.
Researchers from all over Canada will also be joining the delegation in a week of engaging discussion.
Sheldon says the goal of this forum is to provide researchers with an idea of what kind of research residents would like to see take place in the region.
It is also an opportunity for community members to learn of the research that is happening in the area.
He says they have an action- packed schedule planned for the week with many exciting events.
The public is invited and encouraged to attend to learn about what is happening and offer their opinion as to what they would like to see happen.
The Tukisinnik community research forum kicks off this evening with a cultural showcase at the gym.
LIDC to Begin Search for New General Manager
The Labrador Inuit Development Corporation (LIDC) is in the process of beginning the search for a new General Manager.
The position has been left vacant since Brian Vincent resigned from the post at the end of April.
Clint Davis is the Chair for the Labrador Inuit Capital Strategy Trust.
He says in the next couple of months they will begin the search to fill the vacant position.
The LIDC plans to create a comprehensive job description for the position.
Then they will begin the search for a candidate through an executive search firm.
Davis says he doesn’t believe the vacancy will have any implications for the upcoming season.
Chris Webb the former Assistant General Manager, has assumed the role of Acting General Manager.
He says the trustees have complete confidence in Webb’s abilities.
Vincent was the third General Manager to resign from the position since 2005.
Davis believes the high turnover rate can be attributed to a number of reasons.
They include a heavy workload and high demand.
The position has been left vacant since Brian Vincent resigned from the post at the end of April.
Clint Davis is the Chair for the Labrador Inuit Capital Strategy Trust.
He says in the next couple of months they will begin the search to fill the vacant position.
The LIDC plans to create a comprehensive job description for the position.
Then they will begin the search for a candidate through an executive search firm.
Davis says he doesn’t believe the vacancy will have any implications for the upcoming season.
Chris Webb the former Assistant General Manager, has assumed the role of Acting General Manager.
He says the trustees have complete confidence in Webb’s abilities.
Vincent was the third General Manager to resign from the position since 2005.
Davis believes the high turnover rate can be attributed to a number of reasons.
They include a heavy workload and high demand.
Labrador Friendship Centre Helps Recovery Search
Today is the start of a new month, and hopefully an end to an emotional recovery search for the 3 missing Labrador men.
We spoke with Patti Fleming, Community Development Cultural Worker for the Labrador Friendship Centre (LFC).
She says the LFC on behalf of the Russell, Rose and Sainsbury families are in the process of coordinating a fund raising effort.
Ryan Russell of Charlottetown, Randy Rose of Goose Bay and Roy Sainsbury of Cartwright went missing after a canoeing incident last month.
All three men are presumed dead after falling over Muskrat Falls.
Fleming says this effort is in hopes to bring in a special water recovery team to assist with the search.
All donations can be dropped off at the LFC.
Fleming says for further details, you can contact Stan Oliver or herself at the Centre.
We spoke with Patti Fleming, Community Development Cultural Worker for the Labrador Friendship Centre (LFC).
She says the LFC on behalf of the Russell, Rose and Sainsbury families are in the process of coordinating a fund raising effort.
Ryan Russell of Charlottetown, Randy Rose of Goose Bay and Roy Sainsbury of Cartwright went missing after a canoeing incident last month.
All three men are presumed dead after falling over Muskrat Falls.
Fleming says this effort is in hopes to bring in a special water recovery team to assist with the search.
All donations can be dropped off at the LFC.
Fleming says for further details, you can contact Stan Oliver or herself at the Centre.
New Board for OKâlaKatiget Society
OKalaKatiget Society nominations and elections for board members are now complete.
Leah Ikkusek is the Executive Director for the Society.
She says two members have been added to sit on the board.
Following an election yesterday in Makkovik, Carol Gear has been re-elected.
Gear received 14 votes, while her opponent Katie Haye received 6.
Michael R. Broomfield also joins the board to represent North West River.
Board members serve a two year term.
Leah Ikkusek is the Executive Director for the Society.
She says two members have been added to sit on the board.
Following an election yesterday in Makkovik, Carol Gear has been re-elected.
Gear received 14 votes, while her opponent Katie Haye received 6.
Michael R. Broomfield also joins the board to represent North West River.
Board members serve a two year term.
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