Collaboration with Mi'kmaq Leads to Progress for Nova Scotia

Published by the Office of Aboriginal Affairs

Monday, October 1, 2012

The province and Mi'kmaq are working together to create jobs and grow Nova Scotia's economy. During Treaty Day celebrations Premier Darrell Dexter highlighted collaborative projects that are supporting development and preparing Mi'kmaq workers to meet the demands of growing industries.

Quotes

“ Mi'kmaq communities and companies are playing a key role in growing important new sectors like renewable energy. We're working together to help make sure Mi'kmaq people are ready to fill good jobs coming from game-changing opportunities like shipbuilding and offshore oil.” Premier Darrell Dexter

Quick Facts

  • A recently announced wind project in Amherst is an example of successful partnerships with Mi'kmaq companies that are creating a better future for Nova Scotia.
  • Next month, a joint renewable energy seminar will bring together Mi'kmaq, government and project leaders to continue to make Nova Scotia a leader in renewable energy.
  • The province is supporting Mi'kmaq training and education through the Unama'ki Benefits Office to match employment and training needs with growing industries.
  • The province is also investing in aboriginal business studies in at Cape Breton University.
  • During the Treaty Day awards ceremony, the premier and Mi'kmaq representatives presented awards to elders and youth from Mi'kmaq communities across the province.
  • A Sister Dorothy Moore Education Scholarship was introduced to recognize her invaluable contribution to the Mi'kmaq education system. The scholarship was established as a legacy of the Truth and Reconciliation event held in Halifax in 2011.
  • Treaty Day began in 1986 with the signing of a proclamation by then Grand Chief Donald Marshall Senior and marks the beginning of Mi'kmaq History Month in Nova Scotia.

Learn More

Media Contact

Cathy MacIsaac
Aboriginal Affairs
902-424-4312
E-mail:

Images

FROM LEFT: Michelle Googoo, Icysis Toney, Lily Googoo and Chalise Toney take part in Treaty Day.
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Mi'kmaq youth march during Treaty Day.
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Grand Chief Ben Sylliboy (left) receives a new ceremonial headdress from Chief Rod Googoo.
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A smudging ceremony is performed at the beginning of the Treaty Day Awards Ceremony.
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Participants at the Treaty Day Awards Ceremony in Province House.
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Videos

Treaty Day 2012 ceremony and awards presentations at Province House.

Audio

Lt.-Gov. J.J. Grant says we should celebrate peaceful and harmonious relations.
Premier Darrell Dexter says he is confident the partnership with the Mi'kmaq people will get stronger.
Chief Gerald Julian says by supporting one another we can seek positive changes.
Grand Keptin Andrew Denny says we can have prosperity and a livelihood for all.