January 12 2018

Volume 58 Number 2

Friday, January 12, 2018

Thompson, Manitoba

Nickel Belt News Serving the Norman Region since 1961

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Province and feds spending millions to bring better internet to more than 100 communities, including 18 remote northern First Nations An initiative to provide high-speed internet access to more than 100 remote and rural communities in Manitoba, including 18 in remote regions of the province’s north, is receiving up to $20 million in funding and in-kind contributions from the provincial government as well as Crown corporation Manitoba Hydro, Premier Brian Pallister announced Jan. 9.

“There is tremendous potential in Northern Manitoba. Developing that potential is a priority of our provincial government and to do that we need the tools to maximize our opportunities,” said Pallister. “This exciting project to increase and deliver reliable access to broadband networks is key to unlocking the potential of our remote northern communities. This enhanced service will create economic opportunities for individuals, businesses and communities, and improve the health and quality of life of all residents across this vast region.”

The initiative is part of the federal government’s five-year $500-million Connect to Innovate program to enhance high-speed internet access in remote and rural areas by building digital backbone networks that move data in and out of communities as well as last-mile connections for households without highspeed internet. The federal government is contributing about $33.5 million of the total project cost of $84 million in Manitoba to Clear Sky Communications, a Manitoba First Nations owned and operated internet service provider to provide better internet for 72 communities, about half of which are First Nations, with $10.3 million going to Valley Fiber Limited to improve internet access for 27 communities, $2.7 million to Bell MTS to improve internet service to eight communities and $673,000 to Broadband Communications North for connectivity upgrades to six commun-

Nickel Belt News photo courtesy of Clear Sky Connections The federal and provincial governments announced Jan. 9 that they are spending $84 million to bring high-speed internet to 112 rural and remote Manitoba communities, including 48 First Nations. ities, five of which are First Nations.

“Access to high-speed Internet is not a luxury; it’s essential,” said federal Innovation, Science and Economic Development Minister Navdeep Bains.

“High-speed Internet service is a basic tool that all Canadians should have access to, regardless of their postal code. Canadians need this service to do business, upgrade their education and build stronger communities. Thanks to our Connect to Innovate program, more Canadians will be able to participate fully in the digital economy.”

Clear Sky Communications is the for-profit arm of Clear Sky Connections, which grew out of the Manitoba First Nations Technology Council’s Manitoba First Nations Network of the Future Initiative to bring high-speed internet to

all Manitoba First Nations.

The Clear Sky Communications project, a partnership with RFNOW Inc., will give Northern Manitoba First Nations the chance to own, operate and control their own broadband networks.

“This is a remarkable day for us and for Manitoba First Nations,” said Chief Nelson Genaille of Sapotaweyak Cree Nation, chairperson of Clear Sky Connections. “A goal will now become reality: to see enhanced access to highspeed internet and the opportunities and services that come with improved internet services. We look forward to the continued work to build a faster, reliable network for First Nations in Manitoba.”

“The opportunities are endless with access to technology,” said Clear Sky Connections vicechairperson Fisher River

Chief David Crate. “In turn, we look forward to seeing improvements in many areas of life in our communities. Online businesses, enhanced access to health services such as telehealth, to students and teachers being able to download the needed software for their new school tools. There are so many ways increasing our access to high-speed internet can improve ways we live and go about our business. We look forward to making this reality.”

“The strategic partnership we have formed with First Nation leaders and Clear Sky Connections will allow us to ensure Manitoba communities will all be afforded the benefit of high-speed communication technologies which will help contribute to improved health care, education as well as new economic op-

portunities,” said RFNOW Inc. CEO Scott Andrew.

“The shared vision and support of the federal and Manitoba governments’ will make this a reality for First Nations and Manitoba.”

Improving connectivity in Manitoba is also receiving $3.5 million from Indigenous Services Canada. Almost 50 of the communities being connected in Manitoba are First Nations.

“This investment in highspeed internet will provide significant improvements in access to educational, health, social and economic resources for so many communities in Manitoba, including 48 First Nations communities, of which 18 are in remote regions,” said federal Indigenous Services Minister Jane Philpott.

“I am pleased to see that these investments also include First Nations partners and owners that will sup-

port the building of these much-needed networks and provide the opportunity for some communities to own, operate and control their own broadband networks.”

Manitoba’s contribution includes the value of Manitoba Hydro allowing Clear Sky Communications use of the Crown corporation’s existing fibre-optic cable network and other assets. The communities included in the project will have 10-gigabit ethernet fibre connections, which, once complete, will provide them – and 88 institutions within them – comparable high-speed internet to that in southern communities.

Also supporting the project are a $7.5 million contribution by Clear Sky Communications and $1 million contributions from Wawanesa Mutual Insurance and the Winnipeg Continued on Page 2

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Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, January 12, 2018

News

NMSC encourages affected Vale employees to seek out workforce adjustment services

BY KYLE DARBYSON KYLE@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Members of the Northern Manitoba Sector Council (NMSC) are preparing for an influx of new clients for their workforce adjustment services, especially now that the reality of mining cutbacks in Thompson is a lot more tangible and real in 2018.

While NMSC’s employment consultants have set up shop in Thompson since September, co-ordinator Lori Simon said they came up with the idea of establishing a special support group back in the summer of 2017.

“When Vale announced the closure of the Birchtree Mine, and then we knew that the smelter and refinery would be going down in 2018, Vale and the United Steelworkers Local 6166 formed a workforce adjustment committee,” she said.

“The committee decided that because of the number of people that may be affected by the closure that they should set up workforce adjustment services to help lessen the impact of the job loss.”

And since Vale is planning to further reduce its local workforce from 1,180 people to approximately 837 by the end of the year, Simon told Nickel Belt News that they may have their work cut out for them trying to help the affected employees transition into new jobs.

“The first thing we do is a confidential assessment with individuals, so that we understand them a little bit more and, in turn, they understand themselves and what they might want to be doing in terms of employment or training opportunities.”

After that initial step is completed, Simon said that they also provide their clients with access to job listings, government resources, and opportunities to brush up on their resume writing, interview preparation and general job search acumen.

“We use as many existing community services that are already in place in Thompson, and then if there’s gaps we fill those

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In partnership with the joint Vale/USW Workforce Adjustment Committee and the Northern Manitoba Sector Council, Community Futures North Central Development will be hosting a Self Employment Information Session on Mon. Jan. 22/18 at the United Steelworkers Meeting Room, 19 Elizabeth Dr., Thompson MB. Two sessions to choose from 1-3 pm or 6-8 pm.

To register, or for more information contact Michelle Pruder at Community Futures North Central Development 204-677-1496 or toll free at 1-888-303-2232, email mpruder@northcentraldevelopment.ca

Growing communities one idea at a time.

Nickel Belt News photo by Kyle Darbyson Employment consultant Karen Amyotte looks over a list of job postings at NMSC’s workforce adjustment services office, located at 7 Selkirk Avenue. gaps with our employment consultants.”

Moving forward, Simon said this kind of refresher training will be especially effective for workers who haven’t been on the hunt in decades, and have no idea how to navigate the job market in the internet age.

“We don’t just say to people, ‘Do you know how to conduct a good job search using the internet?’

We actually go through it with them and show them,”

she said. “We have sample websites where we know that there’s jobs located with these employers, so we’ll actually go in there and make sure that they know how to maneuver around.”

Even though these services have been available since the fall, local union president Les Ellsworth said the office hasn’t been receiving the amount of attention he would have liked.

“I think it hasn’t really set in,” he said, talking about how the latest round of cutbacks didn’t take effect until Jan. 1, 2018. “[The affected workers] still get the paycheque every two weeks and your standard of living is still there.”

However, as the year moves forward and Vale continues to reduce their workforce, especially after the smelter and refinery closes down, Ellsworth is

hoping that reality of the situation finally hits home and that local workers take the initiative to seek out these kind of supports.

Anyone looking to take advantage of the NMSC’s workforce adjustment services is encouraged to make an appointment by calling 204-778-6052.

Otherwise, you can visit their local office in person, which is located in the basement of 7 Selkirk Avenue.

Distemper virus in Arctic foxes poses risk to unvaccinated Churchill dogs Churchill dog owners have been advised to ensure their pets’ vaccinations are up to date after government officials determined that some Arctic foxes in the area are infected with the distemper virus.

Manitoba Sustainable Development notified the

town that they have detected the virus, which is not transmissible to people or cats, but is life-threatening to dogs, raccoons, ferrets and wild canids like foxes, wolves and coyotes.

Early symptoms of a distemper virus infection include high fever, red eyes and watery dis-

charge from the nose and eyes. Animals with the virus become lethargic and persistent coughing, vomiting and diarrhea may also occur. In later stages, animals with the distemper virus may suffer from fits, seizures, paralysis and hysteria.

A notice from the town

of Churchill said vaccinated dogs are not at risk from distemper but that dogs without current vaccinations or those whose owners are unsure of their vaccination status should be revaccinated and that they can contact the town office to arrange for vaccinations.

Northern communities identified highspeed internet access as a priority Continued from Page 1 Foundation.

“By providing access to capacity on our existing fibre network, we are helping to facilitate bringing broadband high-speed communications and internet – and the enhanced economic and educational opportunities that brings – to even more Manitobans,” said Manitoba Hydro CEO

Kelvin Shepherd. “This is a great way to leverage our existing infrastructure without incremental costs to our customers.”

Access to a high-speed internet was identified as a priority by all of the communities consulted by the Look North task force prior to the release of their action plan for the northern economy last October.

“The Look North Report and Action Plan includes priority areas to focus on in order to build a robust and sustainable economic future in Northern Manitoba, and high-speed internet is one of these areas,” said Indigenous and Northern Relations Minister Eileen Clarke.

“We are pleased to partner with the federal government on this project which

will help modernize and transform the economic future of the region.”

“Our government believes in the potential of Northern Manitoba,” said Thompson MLA Kelly Bindle. “This major investment will go a long way to meeting this need and improving the quality of life in the rural and remote communities of Northern Manitoba.”

Friday, January 12, 2018

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

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News

Final step in approval of new grant-in-lieu agreement between city and Vale should come by end of February

BY IAN GRAHAM EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

The new four-year grant-in-lieu agreement between the City of Thompson and Vale Manitoba Operations won’t be officially in effect until approved by the company’s executive board, which should happen by the end of next month.

“As a significant portion of the grant-in-lieu agreement is a voluntary payment well above what Vale is legally obligated to pay as outlined in the 1956 and 1966 agreements, the payments are a discretionary expense that requires executive board approval,” said Vale Manitoba Operations manager of organizational development and corporate affairs Ryan Land. “The terms will be submitted for executive board approval at an upcoming executive board meeting. These meetings are typically scheduled at or near to the end of the month and such submissions need to be submitted well in advance. It should go before the executive board by the end of February 2018.”

Mayor Dennis Fenske said in a Jan. 10 news release that the new grantin-lieu agreement council approved Jan. 2, which includes base funding of $13.8 million with a potential additional $1.2 million in the second year, down from $6 million per year over the past fiveplus years, demonstrates why Thompson needs to diversify its economy and encourage more business development.

“The reductions over the term of the new agreement highlight the need for Thompson to redevelop our local economy and the way we do business,” said the mayor. “With the help of initiatives like Thompson 2020 and our partners in business across the community, I believe we’re up to the challenge.”

United Steelworkers Local 6166 president Les Ellsworth, who represents hourly workers at the company, including more than 100 who were laid off or retired when Birchtree Mine suspended mining operations in October, and another 350 or so who will lose their jobs when the smelter and refinery in Thompson shut down for good in the summer of 2018 says he is disappointed in the company and the city about the new agreement.

“I understand the 20 per cent, I understand the challenge, but to … go from $6 million to $3 million [the base funding in the second year of the agreement and

Executive board has to approve voluntary payment above what Manitoba Operations are legally obligated to pay

Nickel Belt News photo courtesy of City of Thompson Vale’s executive board still has to approve the grant-in-lieu agreement between the company’s Manitoba Operations and the City of Thompson that council approved Jan. 2.

The company approval should come by the end of February. the total funding in the third and fourth years] , that’s a lot of dollars out of this city. And Vale and the former Inco have taken billions and billions of dollars out of this city over those years. And we’re not talking about some mom and pop shop. We’re talking about the number one or number two largest mining producer in the world. And yes, they’re going through rough times, but they will also see good times once prices go up, too.”

Along with the price of nickel, another factor in the reduction of the grant-inlieu, which the company pays in place of property taxes, which they are not assessed because they are outside of city limits, is Manitoba Operations’ parent company requiring each division of the company to become self-sustaining.

“Where nickel prices continue to struggle, we recognize Vale’s need to remain a sustainable business during this low point in the commodity cycle,” said Coun. Kathy Valentino, chair of the city’s finance committee. “Nonetheless, we’re disappointed to see a reduction in a critical source of revene for the City of Thompson. We hope Vale will be in a position to reconsider once economic conditions improve.”

Under the agreement, the city, School District of Mystery Lake and Local Government District of Mystery Lake will split $4.8 million in 2018, with about $3.36 million going to the city and $1.44 million to the school district, as the LGD receives only a tiny fraction. In 2019 through 2021, Vale will contribute $3 million per year – about $2.1 million to the city and $900,000 to SDML – though there is a chance another $1.2 million could be added to the 2019 amount if Vale’s Manitoba Operations have positive cash flow of $20 million at the end of 2018.

Fenske said at the Jan. 2 council meeting that he planned to meet with Finance Minister Blaine Pederson Jan. 3 to ask the province for assistance in making up the difference from the previous grant-inlieu. Ellsworth asks what the backup plan is if that appeal proves unsuccessful.

“Who picks up the extra cost now?” he said. “Unless the government kicks in, which I’m not sure they will, that’s a question right now, it comes back to the taxpayer. So that’s disappointing.”

- with files from Kyle Darbyson

Registration Fair Saturday, January 13 City Center Mall 10am-6pm Having trouble registering online? Do you need your ID photo taken? Maybe you need forms for your background checks?

We’re hosting a registration fair to celebrate the openning of our new storefront in the City Center Mall, at the old Peoples location! Representatives from 9 different committees will be there to explain their roles. Come down if you can, it’s the EASIEST way to sign up!

WE’RE OVER HALFWAY THERE! Volunteer Now!

We’re over halfway to our recruitment goals, and roles are filling up fast! Sign up soon to get your dream job!

1. Visit www.manitobagames.ca 2. Click on “Winter 2018” 3. Scroll down and click the “Volunteer”

#playnorth

Smook Brothers Ltd. Shaw Thompson Thompson Regional Airport Authority Kendall & Pandya Chartered Accountants Stitco Energy Ltd. Burntwood Hotel Thompson Citizen A&W Best Western Hotel & Suites

JB Johnston Ventures Ltd. Law North Lion’s Club of Thompson MDS AeroTest North Center Mall/NC Crossroad Lanes RA Distributing Settarc Welding & Septic Services The Thompson Inn Thompson Ford Sales

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Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, January 12, 2018

News

Thompson resident spearheading Jan. 27 food drive for Cross Lake

BY KYLE DARBYSON KYLE@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

After organizing several food drives for communities like Shamattawa First Nation, Thompson resident Bobbi Montean is turning her attention to the people of Cross Lake on Jan. 27.

Similar to her last food drive, this upcoming event, titled “Feeding the Hunger #2,” will take place at the Westwood Mall, where locals are encouraged to drop off their non-perishable food items in the spirit of helping out fellow Northern Manitobans.

“Even though they are a community that has road access and people can easily get in and out of the community, there’s still issues with food and sustainability,” said Montean, adding that. “Cross Lake has still been struggling

with a lot of the issues that brought them to the national spotlight a short while ago, with the suicides and with all the other social issues that are occurring.”

This time around, Montean has also enlisted the help of Cross Lake resident April Ross, who started her own Facebook group back in 2013 to co-ordinate local food deliveries for families in need.

“A lot of people are out of food because there’s a high unemployment rate,” said Ross. “So when people run out of food somebody would contact me and I’d request food on our giveaway page and give the people what was donated.”

Ross told Nickel Belt News that the unemployment rate is com-

WINTER BUSSING FOR R.D.P.C. STUDENTS The School District of Mystery Lake is providing winter bussing for the months of January and February, 2018.

Students attending R.D. Parker Collegiate will be able to take the bus to school in the morning and back home at the end of the day at no cost. Grades 7 & 8 students attending R.D. Parker Collegiate for Practical Arts will be able to take the bus in the morning, noon hour and the end of the day at no cost.

Nickel Belt News photo courtesy of Leslie Mann Bobbi Montean is organizing a Jan. 27 food drive for Cross Lake at the Westwood Mall. Her previous food drive at the Westwood Mall on Sept. 30 brought in 525 pounds of food and $87 for the Salvation Army food bank. pounded by the fact that groceries are very expensive in Cross Lake, with a four-litre carton of milk costing almost $7.

Moving forward, Ross hopes that events like “Feeding the Hunger #2” will encourage

Cross Lake residents to establish their own official food bank, similar to what’s available in Thompson.

As for Montean, she remains confident that the charitable nature of Thompson residents will shine through later

this month, since she accumulated over 500 pounds of donations at her previous food drive.

“I just think it’s really really important that we support our neighbours.

Thompson is all about community. Well, our community is not just

the City of Thompson. Our community is the whole north.”

If you would like to volunteer or find out more about this upcoming food drive, please contact Montean via the “Feeding the Hunger #2” Facebook page.

Success for All

Faculty of Social Work

Northern Social Work Program The University of Manitoba, Faculty of Social Work at Thompson is now accepting applications for the Northern Social Work Program. The deadline for submitting applications is March 1, 2018. The program is scheduled to begin September 2018. Students may complete the Northern Social Work Program as a full-time or part-time student.

The program provides post-secondary education for Residents of Northern Manitoba, in particular those who have not had the opportunity due to economic and cultural reasons, lack of formal education, linguistic barriers or residence in remote areas. Relocation to Thompson will be required.

Individuals can apply either under ACCESS or EXTERNAL categories. The ACCESS category is for mature students, 21 years or over, who have under 30 credit hours of university level courses. The EXTERNAL category is for regular students who have 30 credit hours or more of university level courses and are in good academic standing. For both categories, applicants must have resided in Northern Manitoba for 6 months or more prior to the application deadline or have been a long term resident of the North.

For information or applications contact the Faculty of Social Work at Thompson at 204-677-1450 or No Charge Dial 1-866237-5509 or visit http://umanitoba.ca/faculties/social_work/ programs/northern/591.html

Nickel Belt News

Published weekly by The Prairie Newspaper Group LP, a division of GVIC Communications Corp. of 141 Commercial Place, Thompson, Manitoba, R8N 1T1. The Nickel Belt News is owned and operated by The Prairie Newspaper Group LP, a division of GVIC Communications Corp.

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Friday, January 12, 2018

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

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Columnists

First Nations spending accountability is essential Forward-looking Indigenous governments realize that transparency is the only way to improved social and economic conditions

BY JOSEPH QUESNEL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE FRONTIER CENTRE FOR PUBLIC POLICY

It’s distressing that Indigenous activist Harrison Thunderchild has been forced to go to court to make leaders of Saskatchewan’s Thunderchild First Nation disclose expenditures.

Parliament passed the First Nations Financial Transparency Act in 2013, when the Conservatives were in power. The law made chief and band council salaries and benefits public information, as well as the First Nations’ audited financial statements. As a result, First Nations residents (and other Canadians) were guaranteed to have information that Canadians in other communities take for granted.

When the Liberals came to power in 2015, they stopped enforcing the act. That was a huge step backwards given all the work many Indigenous people put into fighting for this bill, and the number of Canadians in general who support it.

When the Indigenous and Northern Affairs

minister stopped enforcing the act in December 2015 compliance with the act was about 90 per cent – it has since dropped to about 80 per cent.

For years, I was lead researcher on the Frontier Centre’s Aboriginal Governance Index, an annual barometer of the perceptions of the quality of governance and services on First Nation reserves across the Prairies.

Our largely First Nation staff travelled to well over 100 communities and surveyed thousands of people. We also spoke to hundreds of individuals in those communities. We heard scores of stories about financial mismanagement and unaccountable behaviour at many bands.

Despite the claims by many First Nation supporters that this information is readily available, our respondents told a different story – often a story of frustration and disappointment in trying to access basic information about their bands.

In November 2012, I testified before the House of Commons Standing

Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs about Bill C-27, the proposed First Nations Financial Transparency Act. I testified that 77 per cent of the Prairie First Nation members surveyed agreed that salary information for elected officials should be made public and be accessible. However, 25 per cent sadly reported that this information was not available.

Of course, quite a few First Nation leaders have adopted open-book policies on financial information. The Frontier Centre project always highlighted such communities. But our research showed that Indigenous communities expect their leaders to be open to them, just like they expect Indigenous Affairs to be accountable to First Nations.

Indigenous leaders who resist transparency divide their membership by claiming that this sort of commonplace transparency is somehow antiFirst Nation or an infringement on Indigenous self-government.

Thunderchild dis-

agrees. “Accountability and transparency are principles of leadership for our people that were passed down to me from my father and grandfathers. When our leaders don’t tell grassroots band members what’s happening with the community’s money, they’re turning their backs on our heritage.”

In February 2016, the Public Policy Forum – an Ottawa-based think-tank – released a report entitled Improving Access to Capital for Canada’s First Nations Communities. It said: “The real or perceived lack of public sector transparency acts as a barrier to investment. This is true for all governments. However, First Nation communities have far fewer resources to ensure compliance with high governance standards.”

The report concluded that, “Improving transparency and accountability within First Nation governments is essential for attracting outside investment.”

Forward-looking Indigenous governments realize that accountability and

Joseph Quesnel transparency are the only ways to improved First Nations’ social and economic conditions.

All Canadian First Nations should follow the lead of Atlantic First Nations, which proudly proclaim that all Atlantic bands are compliant with this legislation. They realized it was a selling feature for investment in

their lands.

Recalcitrant First Nation governments need to get on board. And the federal government needs to resume enforcement of this important law.

Joseph Quesnel is a research associate with the Frontier Centre for Public Policy (fcpp.org). © 2017 Distributed by Troy Media

Internet improvements being made and financial targets being met MLA Report kelly.bindle.mla.office@gmail.com

Kelly Bindle

Our government believes in the potential of Northern Manitoba, and earlier this week, we announced we are making a contribution valued at up to $20 million to bring high-speed internet to rural and remote communities. This is Manitoba’s contribution to a $63-million project that

will see 10-gigabit ethernet fibre connections to provide 72 communities and 88 institutions with access to high-speed internet services on par with those in southern urban areas. Of these communities, 37 are First Nations and 18 are in remote northern regions.

Demand for high-speed internet was identified

during consultations for our Look North strategy.

This will go a long way toward improving the quality of life in rural and remote communities and helping people in those areas meet their potential.

In other good news for our province, we are meeting our financial targets. The 2016-17

public accounts show a $147-million improvement in the deficit compared to what had been budgeted. We are on track to meet our target to balance the provincial budget by 2024.

By raising the basic personal tax exemption and indexing it to increase with inflation, we have effectively removed over 2,100 Manitobans from the tax rolls while allowing low-income Manitobans to keep more of their income and saving taxpayers $23 million. We are also undertaking a comprehensive review of the province’s personal and business tax credit system to reduce complexity and improve its effectiveness, and we remain committed to lowering the prov-

incial sales tax to seven per cent by 2020.

As a result of the previous NDP administration’s mismanagement, the Manitoba Hydro Power Smart program spent almost half its budget on overhead while chronically under-spending on real programs. Our government has followed the Public Utilities Board’s direction in establishing Efficiency Manitoba to create real energy savings with fewer administrative costs.

Previous interference by the NDP in pushing Manitoba Hydro’s construction of the Bipole III line through the west side of Manitoba also caused more than $1 billion in unnecessary costs. Bipole III is more than $1.5 billion

over budget and close to a year behind schedule, while every major Hydro capital project commissioned by the NDP is behind schedule and over budget. For example, the Keeyask generating station’s cost has skyrocketed by $2.2 billion to $8.7 billion and the project is three years delayed.

Manitoba Hydro has now ended the expensive Bipole III Transmission Line Agreement, a project labour agreement that increased costs by forcing workers to join one of two unions. And our government has given authority to the PUB to analyze Manitoba Hydro’s current and future debt and its capital spending plans when considering rate applications.

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Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, January 12, 2018

News

OBITUARY

Déjà vu

LINDA GRAHAM (CLACE) July 12, 1952 – January 8, 2018

It is with heavy hearts and tremendous sadness that the family of Linda Lou Graham announce her peaceful passing on Monday, January 8, 2018 after a long courageous battle.

She was predeceased by her parents; William and Janet Clace, brother Darwin, and sister Brenda. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband Darwin of 45 years; children Trent, Travis (Melanie), Marcia (Thane); grandkids Dylan, Tenness, Brooke, Quinn, Kira, Wyatt; her brothers Brian (Patti), Dale, Murray, sister Heather (Rick); and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, selfadopted daughters, extended family and dear friends.

Linda was born July 12, 1952 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She married the love of her life Darwin (after a brief stint as Miss Thompson) on March 30, 1972. She was a loyal wife, loving mother and the most amazing grandmother you could ever imagine. Her grandkids were her absolute pride and joy. She spent a great deal of her time doting on every need you could think of and would cause one hell of a battle if you ever stood in her way. Her spunk will be greatly missed but will live on in the spirit of her family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at 1 pm at St. Joe’s hall in Thompson, Manitoba. A heartfelt ‘Thank You’ goes out to the Thompson Cancer-Care staff, the Chemotherapy nurses, the Palliative care nurses, Boardman Funeral services and all those that have supported us along this journey.

In lieu of Àowers, the family asks that donations be made to Cancer Care Manitoba in Linda’s memory. www.cancercare.mb.ca An online book of memories is available to view and leave condolences at www.boardmanfh.com Boardman/Northland Funeral Home in care of arrangements, call 204-778-7982.

Nickel Belt News photo by Ian Graham

BY IAN GRAHAM EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

The Jan. 1 fire at that destroyed the Interior Inn wasn’t the first blaze to have struck that property.

The original building on the site of the hotel, which was previously an Inco residence for single male workers, burned down during construction in

IN MEMORY

early October 1967, in what was Thompson’s biggest loss in a fire to that time, with damages estimated at $120,000.

The Canadian Red Cross provided disaster assistance to some of those affected by this year’s fire, says Manitoba and Nunavut communication manager Jason Small.

“We ended up helping two families that totalled seven people, three adults and four children,” Small said. “Between them we provided money for food and clothing as well as lodging in a hotel. We provide people assistance up to the first 72 hours after the fire because usually other services and pro-

grams will kick in after that point.”

Thompson’s fire investigation team, the Office of the Fire Commissioner and the RCMP continue to investigate the cause of the fire. RCMP ask anyone who was staying in the hotel at the time of the fire to call the detachment at 204-677-6909.

CLEMONS

Josephine Clemons

Aug 23, 1929 - Jan 11, 2017

Gordon Clemons

June 14, 1931 - Jan 14, 2014

Our parents were the most beautiful people you could ever meet.

They are so sadly missed by their 8 children and many grandchildren.

It gives us great comfort knowing they are together.

$

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Nickel Belt News photos courtesy of Robin Clarke

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thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, January 12, 2018

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News

First annual Ken Baird Memorial game played on Boxing Day Snow Lake’s annual Boxing Day hockey game has been a tradition among resident and returning players since Dec. 26, 1965.

During many of those 52 years, one competitor has been looked upon as an inspiration to players, both young and old. Ken Baird was that man. He was a guy who honed his skill, tuned his work ethic and made it to the pinnacle of the game, prior to returning home in retirement to work for Hudbay.

Sadly, Ken passed away last December at the age of 65. In addition to his family, the community mourned. In the past number of years, Baird was a fixture in Snow Lake. He was employed as a group leader in Hudbay’s Snow Lake Concentrator, retiring several years back.

He was a humourous and steadfast friend to many, an avid golfer, an “honest” fisherman and a big supporter of minor hockey.

So it was that many of the men who played regularly over the years with Ken wanted to do something to honour his memory. When the 70th anniversary of the community came about this past summer, they acted.

On July 2, during the Snow Lake North Stars Hockey Club 40th anniversary golf tournament held in conjunction with the 70th, organizer Ted Stabback stated that he and longtime North Star Terry Hornyak had concluded that they would like to honour the memory Baird. In doing so, they were renaming the Boxing Day hockey game the Ken Baird Memorial. “Ken was a friend of everyone and anyone he ever played with, and reached heights in his career that most only dream about,” said Stabback in mid-December. “He was the only Snow Laker ever to dress for an NHL game, and had a successful WHA career, as well as an international player in Europe.”

Stabback noted that with the help of Ken’s older brother Dave, the golf

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Marc Jackson

My Take on Snow Lake marc.jackson@post.com tournament raised enough money to buy a couple of sets of sweaters for the new tournament in honour of Ken. With the proceeds, they purchased a set of Edmonton Oiler jerseys with Baird’s name and number (from his playing days with the club) and a set of Winnipeg Jet jerseys with his name and number. Former resident Darryl Wooley did much of the leg work in procuring the sweaters of the two teams Ken played for the in the old WHA. Baird got his start in minor hockey in Flin Flon, and when his family moved to Snow Lake in 1962, the 12-year-old continued playing at the midget level.

It was in Snow Lake that he made up his mind to pursue a career in hockey.

He played two years at the junior level, most of it with the Flin Flon Bombers; however, there was a onegame stint with the Estevan Bruins.

He set a record with the Bombers for points by a defenseman, with 75 during the 1970-71 campaign. He also made the 1970-71 WCHL All-Star Second Team. That second year of junior must have impressed NHL scouts, as he was selected in the second round of the 1971 draft, 15th overall by the California Golden Seals (who became the Cleveland Barons, then subsequently merged with the Minnesota North Stars, eventually becoming the Dallas Stars). He also played with the Oklahoma

Nickel Belt News photo courtesy of Tyler Samborski Ted Stabback (in old Jets sweater) and Terry Hornyak, present a new Jets sweater to Ken Baird’s daughter Amber Samborski.

Blazers of the CHL, Duisburg SC of the Bundesliga (Germany), the WHA’s Calgary Cowboys, the WHA Edmonton Oilers, who honoured him and others during the April 2016 opening of Rexall Place, and the WHA Winnipeg Jets, who in November of 2014 inducted him into the Winnipeg Jets Hall of Fame.

When the inaugural Ken Baird Memorial rolled around Dec. 26, there were 22 players who showed up – 18 skaters and four goalies. Additionally, there were close to 100 fans in the stands and a group of minor hockey players who played a 15-minute game between the main game’s 45-minute halves.

With players split into two teams, the age 34-andunder group wore the Oiler sweaters and 35-and-over

donned the Jets jerseys.

Local Bill Pleasance reffed during the day and René Gagnon and Tyler Samborski looked after the minor hockey game between halves. Judging by the double-digit score in the affair, calling the periods halves seemed appropriate.

A young Oiler team trashed the older gentleman Jets 18-11!

There were several items of note that occurred during and before the game.

Firstly, the official puck drop occurred between Mike Korchinski and his son, former Norman Northstar and Flin Flon Bomber Tanner Korchinski. Tanner travels from Camrose, Alberta each year for the game and his dad drives in from Flin Flon. Ken Baird’s son-in-law Tyler Samborski dropped the puck in addition to taking on time clock

After the game, Ted Stabback noted that there were numerous people who made the event and the day possible. They included those who donated to the sweater purchase, the Snow Lake Ice Devils, the Snow Lake North Stars, Dave Baird, Nick Shaw and Darryl Wooley. He added that they’d be back next Dec. 26 to do it all over again.

Join us for a FREE presentation on jobs

Tuesday, January 23, 2018 1:00 - 3:00 pm in the

YWCA Basement Classroom

Say it in

Featuring guests who work in science fields

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duties during the day.

Prior to the game getting underway, a special presentation was also made.

Baird’s daughter Amber Samborski was called out of the stands and onto the ice, where Ted Stabback and Terry Hornyak presented her with a Jets jersey emblazoned with her dad’s name. The sweater was donated by his old team … the Winnipeg Jets!

Refreshments will be provided

EVERYONE IS WELCOME Phone 204-778-1208 or 204-677-5016

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Watch for more “Jobs of the Future presentations in 2018 This presentation is brought to you by the following partners:

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Page 8

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, January 12, 2018

Columnists

End times: the beasts of Daniel and Revelation Many fear the end of world is near: maybe yes, maybe no. But the world will end for all of us in our lifetimes at the moment of our deaths when we will stand before God. The prophet Daniel give us an interesting end-times story. King Nebuchadnezzar was the king of world; but more than that, he was everyman. He had much to be thankful for: the gifts of life, abundant life, eternal life, but they only made him proud. With heart and lips, he said “my power and the might of my own hand have got me this.” (Daniel 4:30) He would not recognize the rightful authority of God in his life. God’s judgement: “Let his mind [the mind of the king] be changed from that of a human, and let the mind of an animal be given to him.” (Daniel 4:16) He became his choices; he lost his humanity and became

a beast. For seven years, until he ultimately surrendered to God, his world was a wasteland. The moral: when we try to play God in our lives, we dehumanize ourselves and bear the image of the beast; when we surrender to the love of God and are transformed by it to do righteousness and free the oppressed, we regain the image of God and become the children of God. (Daniel 4:27) The apostle John builds on the story of the beast.

“This calls for wisdom; let anyone with understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a person. Its number is 666.” (Revelation 13:18) Number means character.

Because the number of the beast is the number of a person, the character of the beast is the character of a certain type of person. That character is embodied in

Spiritual Thoughts robsutherlandlaw@gmail.com Rob Sutherland the number 666. 666 is a combination of two numbers: 6 and 3. Simply put, 666 is 6 taken 3 times: 6 6 6. Numbers have significance. Six is the number of man, created on the sixth day. (Genesis 1:31) Three is the number of God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:19) Six taken three times: 6 6 6, is man making himself God. The followers of the beast bear that mark on their foreheads and on their right hands. (Revelation 14:9) The anatomy is important. When

Jesus went to prayer, he wore phylacteries, a cube on his forehead and left arm by the heart, leather straps flowing down to his hands. In each cube was the moral command: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind and soul.” (Deuteronomy 6:59) The picture was simple: the love of God should be ever foremost in our minds, close to our hearts and issue forth in all our actions. With the beast, the image is reversed left to right as in a bronze mirror.

Their love of self is always

foremost in their minds, close to their hearts which are out of place and issues forth in all their acts. The name Lord God in the cube is another name for the I AM WHO I AM of the burning bush, the name Jesus would apply to himself (John 8:58) as the incarnate second person of the triune God of love come to earth to save all who wanted salvation. The children of the beast take that name into their minds and hearts and claim to be all-perfect.

I am perfect the way I am, there is no sin in my life, I have no need to change.

That is truly bestial.

The end of the world is always near. And it is always appropriate to examine ourselves, to know who and what we are.

Rob Sutherland is a graduate of University of Toronto and Osgoode Hall Law School He is a

criminal defence lawyer with 30 years experience, a member of the bars of Ontario, Alberta, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia and Manitoba. He is a Senior Canadian Fellow at the Mortimer J. Adler Centre for the Studies of the Great Ideas, an American think-tank based in Chicago. He has published one book “Putting God on Trial: the biblical Book of Job,” a defence of God’s goodness in the face of his authorization of undeserved and unremitted evil in the life of Job and the world, which is taught at a number of Canadian, American and Indian universities and available through Amazon. He is writing a second book “Putting Jesus on Trial: the biblical Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John,” a defence of Jesus’ divinity.

New DVDs Reviewed in This Column Will be Released the Week of Jan. 1, 2018

Thompson RCMP Drug Tip Line

204677-6995

American Made (R) — Tom Cruise is back behind the controls of a plane as Barry Seal, TWA pilot turned CIA mapmaker turned drug runner. It’s no surprise that Cruise shines in the role of characters that are larger than life, and his pure energy and charisma are on full display. Domhnall Gleeson plays CIA agent Monty, who approaches Seal, then a low-level pilot, to conduct a little extracurricular surveillance “for his country.” Seal’s drug contacts take advantage by using him to mule ever more drugs, then guns, etc. It’s a wild and dangerous ride, but somehow it all just seems crazy and harmless in the light of that megawatt smile.

Battle of the Sexes (PG-13) — It’s 1973. Social upheaval and the sexual revolution brought us a combination for the ages: colorful male chauvinist and former men’s champion Bobby Riggs (Steve Carrell) versus the then No. 1 women’s player Billie Jean King (Emma Stone). The match was billed as the Battle of the Sexes, and this movie was well-done start to finish.

It would be easy to make a comedy in this framework, but with both players struggling with personal issues off court (Riggs’ gambling addiction and King’s sexual preference), director Simon Beaufoy brings out the humanity point for point.

Rebel in the Rye (PG-13) — Based on the book “J.D. Salinger: A Life,” director Danny Strong tells the story of the writer behind an American masterpiece: “Catcher in the Rye,” starring Nicholas Hoult as Salinger in a strong performance. Victor Garber plays Salinger’s unsupportive father, and Zoey Deutch portrays Oona O’Neill, Salinger’s college love interest. Kevin Spacey commands as Salinger’s mentor, famed editor/publisher and

Columbia University teacher Whit Burnett, credited with inordinate influence on the young writer. A man who told stories but who had no love for film chronicled in a feature film?

The result is surprisingly watchable.

Love Beats Rhymes (PG-13) — Azaleia stars in the RZA-directed story of Coco, a young rapper on the verge of finding her voice. With her group going nowhere, Coco enrolls in a college poetry class. Jill Scott plays her college professor, who both walls up the worlds between poetry and rap music while challenging Coco to find her voice and dig deeper into her own expression. There is a nicely developing love story between Coco and TA Derek (Lucien Laviscount). Common

20th Century Fox

Emma Stone, Steve Carrell in “Battle of the Sexes” cameos as an influential and inspiring underground slam poetry rap guru. If you really can’t tolerate slam poetry or rap battles, you can skip this one.

NEW TV RELEASES Death Valley Days — The Complete 14th Season: The Ronald Reagan Years Last Tango in Halifax Holiday Special (AKA Season 4) Ten Days in the Valley: A 10-Part Limited Series © 2017 King Features Synd., Inc.

Friday, January 12, 2018

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

CLASSIFIED@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET 301 • HELP WANTED

Need to fill a

JOB? HIRING EXPERIENCED PLUMBERS Requires driver’s licence.

Please send resume: mrplumb@mts.net 204-677-2013 2nb-tfn-nb

501 • HOUSES FOR RENT SOUTHWOOD AREA Available ASAP. References required. Phone 204-7784000. 48nb-GCD-2-d

510 • RETAIL/ OFFICE SPACE OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE 500-5000 sq ft. available. Cameron/Hoe building 81 Churchill Drive. Contact Joe Aniceto.

204-679-0490 or Neil Cameron 306477-5668. 19nb-tfn-nb COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT AT SOUTHWOOD PLAZA. CALL 1-250491-3946 OR 204-677-2957. 06-tfn-d

ADVERTISE with us

call 204-677-4534

Church Services in Thompson

ST. JAMES ANGLICAN 10 Caribou 677-4652 11 am Sundays ST. JOSEPH UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC 340 Juniper Drive 778-7547 ST. LAWRENCE ROMAN CATHOLIC Fr Shantha Gandamalla and Fr Guna Sekhar 114 Cree R. 677-0160 Sat. 6:30 pm & Sun. 10 am THOMPSON PENTECOSTAL Pastor Dan Murphy Youth Pastor Colton Murphy Children’s Pastor Karen O’Gilvie 126 Goldeye 677-3435 thompsonchurch.ca Sunday school 9:45 am, coffee time at 10:40 am Church Service at 11:00 am ST. ANDREWS PRESBYTERIAN 249 Thompson Drive 204-677-2799 Pastor Murat Kuntel Regular Hours: 11 am Church service CHRISTIAN CENTRE FELLOWSHIP 328 Thompson Dr. N. 677-4457 Sun. School 9:45 am • service 11 am FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 456 Westwood Dr. S. Ph. 778-8037 service @ 11 am LUTHERAN - UNITED CHURCH OF THOMPSON Congregations worship at 52 Caribou Rd. at 10:30 am Sundays.

Phone 204-677-4495

LIVING WATER CHURCH Pastor Archie McKay Ph: 677-2469 Sunday services @ 7:00pm.

LIGHT OF THE NORTH CHURCH 32 Nelson Road GATEWAY BIBLE BAPTIST CHURCH Pastor Chris Lowe 159 Cree Rd 204-677-3000 Sunday school 10:00 am AM Service at 11, PM Service at 7 Prayer meeting - Wednesday 7 pm THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS everyone welcome Sundays at 10 AM 83 Copper Rd For more information, church tours or home visits call the missionaries at 204-939-4382 or visit Mormon.org THE SALVATION ARMY Thompson Corps (Church) 305 Thompson Dr. - 204-677-3658 Worship services every Sunday at 11 am Burntwood baptist Church 39 Beaver Crescent Thompson MB R8N 1C5 204-778-4494 Pastor Lee Pickett Sunday morning service 11:15 a.m Sunday evening service 7:00 p.m Wednesday prayer meeting 7:00 p.m

Page 9

Commission will examine Manitoba’s electoral divisions and adjust them if needed Manitoba’s chief justice and a University College of the North (UCN) dean are among the five members of Elections Manitoba’s boundaries commission reviewing the boundaries of the province’s electoral divisions, which happens once every 10 years.

The boundaries commission includes Chief Justice Richard Chartier, UCN deans of arts, business and science Harvey Briggs, University of Manitoba president David Barnard, Brandon University interim president Steven Robinson and Manitoba chief electoral officer Shipra Verma.

Using 2016 census data, which pegged the province’s population at a little less than 1.28 million, the commission will determine a quotient for the province’s 57 electoral divisions, which is approximately 22,500 people per division. Divisions south of the 53rd parallel can deviate by 10 per cent above or below the quotient and those to the north can deviate by up to 25 per cent. Keewatinook is currently about 20 per cent below the quotient and Thompson about 13 per cent while The Pas is less than two per cent below it. Flin Flon, however, is 30 per cent below the quotient based on 2008 census numbers.

The boundaries commission will issue an initial proposal on electoral divisions in June, with public hearings on that proposal in September. Its final report will establish the boundaries and names of electoral divisions for the 2020 general election.

The current boundaries will remain in effect for any byelections called be-

Nickel Belt News image courtesy of Elections Manitoba Northern Manitoba’s electoral divisions are within the allowable variance of 25 per cent from the average population of 22,500 people, with the exception of Flin Flon, which is 30 per cent below the target population. fore the next general election.

Manitobans can submit their views on electoral division boundaries online at www.boundariescommission.mb.ca or by email, fax and regular mail. They can also register to make submissions at a public hearing, schedules for which will be online in June 2018.

The boundaries commission website enables

users to move electoral boundaries and generate adjusted populations counts as well as to save their proposed boundaries and submit the with explanations to the commission. Website submissions may be made until March 16 and then again between July and September after the commission’s initial proposal is released.

“The redistribution of

Manitoba’s electoral division boundaries is a very important consultative process,” said commission chair Chartier in a press release. “The outcome will determine how Manitobans are represented in the Legislative Assembly. We encourage Manitobans to participate by sharing their opinions, making the redistribution a fair and transparent process.”

Page 10

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, January 12, 2018

Careers

Full-Time Truck Driver La Furlane Construction Thompson, Manitoba

Well established company in the construction industry is accepting applications for a Health Administrative Assistant

FULL-TIME TRUCK DRIVER, BOBCAT AND LOADER OPERATORS Class 1 and Class 3 driver’s licence required.

Successful candidate must be very responsible and be able to work with minimal supervision. This position offers a benefit package as well as competitive wages.

Please email your resume to isabel.lafurlane@mymts.net or fax to 204-677-4540

Parts Person

We have a parts counter position open for you if you have a commitment to work in a team environment and also deliver top level customer satisfaction.

Automotive knowledge is an asset.

Competitive wages and benefits package.

Resumes only please.

Resumes may also be dropped off at our office, 176 Hayes Road

Fax Kevin at

Thompson Ford Sales 204-778-6700 or email kevin@thompsonford.ca

SERVICE ADVISOR Are you looking for a career and not just a job?

We have an opening for a service advisor committed to customer service excellence.

Candidate must be able to build customer relations and listen and understand their problems, concerns and service needed, prepare work orders, be organized, possess the ability to multi task, work unsupervised and work in a team environment.

Previous automotive experience is an asset, extensive training will be offered to the appropriate candidate We offer competitive wages and benefits package.

Resumes only please.

Fax resumes to Kayla at 204-778-6700 or email

kayla@thompsonford.ca

Job Vacancy Full Time After hours Referral Clerk

Under the general supervision of the Referral Supervisor, the clerk provides patient services for patients in transit by; local transportation, repatriation of patients upon medical clearance; arranging accommodation/boarding, any other special services required while in transit; maintain patient medical records; provide information regarding Non Insured Health Benefits; maintain medical confidentiality at all time and perform other duties.

JOB VACANCY Casual/Part time OVERVIEW: Keewatin Tribal Council (KTC) will provide local transportation for registered, eligible and approved First Nations seeking medical services in the City of Thompson, Manitoba on behalf of the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch. Transportation will include referrals for elective, diagnostic and non-urgent medical services.

VEHICLE OPERATOR/DISPATCH JOB SUMMARY: Responsible for the safe and timely transportation of clients to and from a variety of First Nations Indian Health Branch (FNIHB) approved destinations in the city of Thompson. Applicants must have a valid class 4 driver’s license.

Qualifications: -Minimum Grade 12 or equivalent; -Must possess a valid class 4 driver’s license and a clean abstract; -Must possess a Manitoba driver’s license for a minimum of five years; -Minimum of two years’ experience in transportation industry or a related field; -Cree or Dene an asset; -Candidate must be willing to be submit to a criminal or child abuse registry check; -Must have CPR and First Aid training; -Must be able to work rotating shifts in a twenty four service, seven days a week; -Ability to work independently, must be friendly, courteous and excellent customer service orientated, high degree of attention while operating vehicles on public road.

-Must be able to maintain confidentiality at all times.

Qualifications: • • • • • • • • • • •

The incumbent should have completion of Grade 12 or equivalent.

Must be available for shiftwork Must have knowledge of medical terminology.

Must have current CPR and First Aid Certification.

Should have good communications and organizational skills.

Should have a thorough knowledge of transportation systems within the Province of Manitoba.

Should have a thorough knowledge of health care facilities within the Province of Manitoba.

Should be aware of native culture, lifestyles and spiritual beliefs.

Ability to speak Cree or Dene an asset.

Knowledge and proven proficiency in computers and various software programs (i.e. Database, Wordprocessing, etc.) work well under pressure – fast paced environment

A written application with detailed resume, including at least two references, with written permission to contact the references and your latest immediate supervisor should be submitted to: Lisa Beardy or Beverly Brightnose Keewatin Tribal Council Inc. 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N 0L6 Fax No.: 204-677-0258 Email address: bbrightnose@ktc.ca or lbeardy@ktc.ca

Applications will be accepted until 4:00 p.m. Wednesday January 24, 2018. We would like to thank those that apply for the position, but only those being considered for an interview will be contacted.

For further information or a full job description, contact Beverly Brightnose, Referral Supervisor.

Lisa Beardy or Bev Brightnose Keewatin Tribal Council Inc. 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N 0Y4 Fax No.: 204-677-0258 Email: lbeardy@ktc.ca or bbrightnose@ktc.ca

Applications will be accepted until 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 24, 2018. We would like to thank those that apply for the position, but only those being considered for an interview will be contacted.

For further information or a full job description, contact Beverly Brightnose at (204) 677-0311

Full Term Position The KTC Health Department staff works collaboratively with First Nation Health service providers to provide integrated health services and planning assistance to member communities. Under the direct supervision of the Director of Health, the Administrative Assistant will provide secretarial services by taking and transcribing minutes of meetings; typing a variety of materials; making and keeping up to date confidential files. She/he acts as receptionist to the Indian Residential School & Nursing Program Staff, actions and screens information requests and greets walk in clients.

The Health Administrative Assistant will also be required to initiate and provide input into the development and management of information systems. They will also be required to coordinate special events. This is a fast paced and busy role which is central to the coordination of Health Services at the Tribal Council.

Qualifications: 1.

Completion of secondary school 2.

Completion of a one- or two-year college or other program in office administration, special events coordination or a combination of experience and education will be considered.

3.

Previous experience is required.

4.

Possess initiative, judgement and respects confidentiality requirements.

5.

Good and accurate note taking, typing and electronic/ paper file management skills.

6.

Ability to work with others or independently with minimum supervision.

Excellent organizational skills and knowledge of various filing 7. systems is required.

8.

Knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) applications.

9.

Must have good communication and writing skills.

10. 1Respect for the customs, traditions and practises of the local member First Nation communities.

11. Ability to speak Cree or Dene would be an asset.

A written application with detailed resume, including at least two references, and written permission to contact the references and latest immediate supervisor should be submitted to: Keewatin Tribal Council Inc. Attention: Lisa Beardy, Office Manager 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N 0Y4 E-Mail: lbeardy@ktc.ca Fax: 204 677-0256 Deadline for Applications Friday, January 19, 2018 4:00pm Late applications will not be considered.

We would like to thank those that apply but only those persons selected for interviews will be contacted.

Friday, January 12, 2018

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Page 11

Juniper Centre Inc. INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICIAN & MILLWRIGHT

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT

We are looking for someone to join our existing sales team! This is a full-time position.

Applicant should be highly motivated, well organized, and possess excellent people skills. He/she should be a selfstarter who is capable of working within and meeting deadlines. The successful candidate will be capable of offering professional sales service to his/her clients in order to develop and maintain business relationships.

Basic computer knowledge is required. A valid driver’s licence and reliable transportation are required. Prior sales experience of advertising or promotional materials would be an asset, but is not necessary. The Thompson Citizen is willing to train. We offer a competitive wage structure and health benefits are also included.

The closing date for applications is January 19, 2018.

The interest of all applicants is appreciated, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Please submit your resume and references, along with a cover letter to: Lynn Taylor, Publisher, Thompson Citizen, P.O. Box 887, Thompson, MB R8N 1N8 Drop off: 141 Commercial Place, Thompson, MB Email: generalmanager@thompsoncitizen.net Fax 677-3681

Amsted Rail has immediate openings for licensed industrial millwrights & electricians. Applicants must be able to work shift work, and ideally have a manufacturing background. The successful candidate will work in a safe and organized manner, take initiative to work independently, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement. The positions offers relocation assistance, and competitive pay and benefits.

HELP WANTED Are you looking for work? Are you looking for a change?

Juniper Centre is looking for staff to support individuals in our day and residential programs.

Fulltime/Casual positions available.

If you are looking for a fulfilling and gratifying career, come join our Juniper Centre Team.

Send your resume to: Amsted Rail Attention: Human Resources Manager 2500 Day Street Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2C 3A4 Email: dmcleod@amstedrail.com Fax: (204) 222-7614

We offer a rewarding work environment with competitive pay and benefits. We are willing to train, so no previous experience is necessary. If you are compassionate and hard-working this might be the place for you!

Prior to employment: must have clean criminal record check, positive reference checks and not be on the Adult Abuse Registry.

OPASKWAYAK CREE NATION JOB COMPETITION – EXTERNAL POSTING

Priority will be given to the applicants who have a high school diploma and a class five driver’s license.

FACILITIES MAINTENANCE MANAGER

If you are interested please drop off a resume at 108 Nelson Rd Attn: daymanager@junipercentre.org If you require more information Call Sabrina Norman 677-2970 ext.1 Or drop by the Juniper Centre.

DEPARTMENT: Community Works and Operations SALARY: Negotiable CLASSIFICATION: Full Time Permanent LOCATION: Opaskwayak Cree Nation, MB JOB SUMMARY:

Pool Manager

Juniper Centre Inc.

The City of Thompson invites qualiĮed applicants for the posiƟon of Pool Manager.

The successful candidate will organize the day to day supervision of the Norplex Pool, supporƟng the programs and staī, ensuring safe and eĸcient use of the pool facility while promoƟng a high standard of health and safety and customer care. This execuƟve posiƟon reports to the Director of RecreaƟon, Parks and Culture.

The incumbent shall possess superior communicaƟon skills (both wriƩen and verbal), excellent organizaƟonal skills and problemsolving skills, be detailed oriented and have the ability to exercise good judgement at all Ɵmes. The Manager will require working knowledge of various computer programs, including MicrosoŌ Oĸce, program scheduling soŌware, and accounƟng soŌware.

The Manager will have demonstrated experience in budgeƟng, managing and moƟvaƟng in a Unionized environment, reviewing, interpreƟng and applying applicable legislaƟon, coordinaƟng programs or events, and promoƟon and adverƟsing. Preferred qualiĮcaƟons include: Pool OperaƟons Management educaƟon, post-secondary educaƟon in RecreaƟon, Facility Management, AquaƟc Facility Management or AquaƟc Supervisor training and cerƟĮcaƟon, as well as current cerƟĮcaƟon as NaƟonal Lifeguard Instructor and Instructor Trainer and previous demonstrated experience in delivering the LSS Swim for Life, Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross and Standard First Aid / CPR courses and programs. The City will consider a minimum of 3 years of related Supervisory experience or an equivalent combinaƟon of educaƟon and experience.

The salary range is $65,873-74,880 and the right candidate can expect a salary that reŇects their level of experience. The City of Thompson oīers an extensive beneĮts package for this posiƟon.

Please note the posiƟon is condiƟonal upon the successful passing of a Criminal Records Check and Child Abuse Registry Check.

Interested applicants must complete an online applicaƟon for employment at: www.thompson.ca/p/current-job-opportuniƟes Closing date: January 15th, 2018 at 4:30 pm General ApplicaƟons or resumes are not accepted.

The applicaƟon process is available in alternate formats upon request - please call 204-677-7924.

The City of Thompson is commiƩed to providing a superior quality of life and unlimited opportuniƟes.

We are dedicated to supporƟng healthy growth and our northern urban lifestyle while providing our residents with high quality municipal services and faciliƟes.

WORK WITH US & GROW A CAREER Glacier Media Group is growing.

Check our job board regularly for the latest openings: www.glaciermedia.ca/careers

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (Term with potential of Permanent, after six months)

The Facility Maintenance Manager is a Middle Management position responsible for the overall maintenance and operation of the OCN Government Buildings and grounds that are currently or may be in the future, operated and maintained by OCN Administration. The position is responsible for operation, maintenance and in some instances custodial services at these buildings.

Some duties include: •

Assist the CWO Manager in preparation of annual operating budgets

•

Involvement in Minor and Major Capital planning pertaining to OCN Government Buildings

•

Review and reporting on monthly financial statements

•

Develop, implement and maintain an effective maintenance program, including preventative maintenance for all facilities, buildings, building systems and grounds, while ensuring all OCN policies are adhered to

•

Coordinate with the OCN Property Manager to implement Hippo Computerized Maintenance Management System

•

Perform trade related duties

•

Schedule and allocate required work to contract trades and maintenance staff to meet priorities.

Recommends to the CWO Manager on the use of contracted services. Outline tasks and ensures contract compliance for contracted services.

RESIDENTIAL HOUSE MANAGER OF HIGH NEEDS FEMALE HOME Hours of work: To be determined based on resident needs.

Days, afternoons and alternating weekends.

Rate of pay: As per house manager contract.

Qualifications: • Must have Grade 12 Diploma.

• A valid Class 5 Drivers license.

• At least two years experience in the human services field.

• Strong computer skills (Word, excel, outlook, smart phone etc.)

• Good team leader with exceptional communication and organization skills.

• The ability to direct a workforce in an efficient and professional manner.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• The use of own vehicle for work purposes with third party liability insurance.

• Valid First Aid Certification • Completion of “Foundations in Disability and Community Support” from Red River College or a similar program, is a benefit, but not required. The successful candidate must be willing to obtain the “Foundations” certification within a year of their date of hire.

The qualified candidate will be a team leader responsible for: • Overseeing the needs of the residential home of three females.

• Ensuring home is up to RCL standards.

• Covering for residential managers at all residential homes.

• Screening, Interviewing and Orientation of new staff.

• Scheduling, organizing, training, directing, and disciplining staff.

• Responsible for HR filing. Scheduling staff for training.

• All areas of resident care and supervision in a high needs residential house.

• On-call duties in rotation and short notice coverage of all fill-in shifts for all houses.

• Preparing schedules, completing requests for time off, updating electronic scheduling program, and reviewing timesheets use records.

• Assisting residents with medical appointments and medications.

• Assisting residents with person centered planning and development of relationships within the community.

• Assisting with, reviewing, and reconciling resident and house finances.

• General care and cleanliness of Juniper Centre Inc. property (owned or leased).

• Assisting with meal preparation and meal planning.

• All other duties as assigned by senior management or their designate(s).

Submit letter of intent by Tuesday January 16, 2018 @ 16:00 to: Anna Nelson, Acting CEO ceo@junipercentre.org 108 Nelson Road Thompson, MB

QUALIFICATIONS: •

Diploma in Facility Maintenance or Journeyperson with Red Seal Certification in plumbing, carpentry or electrical.

•

Excellent knowledge of codes, standards, by-laws and engineering, architectural and construction practices related to building and grounds.

•

Minimum of 5 years related work experience.

•

Experience with the use of blue prints and O&M manuals

•

Valid Manitoba Driver’s License and daily access to a reliable vehicle

•

Criminal Records Check

For complete Job Description please contact Courtney Hester, Personnel Administrator Application Deadline: Open till Filled Please submit resume/cover letter to: Courtney Hester, Personnel Administrator P.O. Box 10880 Opaskwayak, Manitoba R0B 2J0 Phone: 204-627-7100 Fax: 204-627-7063 E-Mail: courtney.hester@opaskwayak.ca Please mark application “Personal and Confidential”.

Posting # 2017-11-24 -01 AN

We thank all who applied, however, only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.

Page 12

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, January 12, 2018

www.thompsoncitizen.net

L’Êcole en français, l’accueil en plus.

Inscrivez votre enfant dès la maternelle et offrez-lui une expÊrience Êducative unique dans une Êcole de la Division scolaire franco-manitobaine : 9 Un apprentissage de qualitÊ en français.

9 La maternelle Ă temps plein.

9 Un environnement stimulant et sĂŠcuritaire.

9 Des activitĂŠs sportives et culturelles dynamiques.

9 Le transport scolaire.

9 Un milieu oÚ on apprend et grandit ensemble en français.

L’Êcole de langue française maternelle à 12e annÊe à Thompson et sa rÊgion : École communautaire La Voie du Nord rd 271, chemin Weir Thompson (Manitoba) R8N 1P1 TÊlÊphone : 204 778-8699 Courriel : la.voie.du.nord@dsfm.mb.ca mb.ca

PÊriode d’inscription à la maternelle Quand : du DX MDQYLHU OÚ : à l’Êcole de langue française de votre rÊgion.

www.dsfm.mb.ca