April 6 2023

Nickel Belt News

Volume 58 Number 11

Friday, March 16, 2018

Thompson, Manitoba

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Thursday, April 6, 2023

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Volume 63 • Issue 13

Manitoba pegs $420M for transportation, infrastructure projects in the north

Book a way to preserve and pass on memories of growing up in Churchill

BY DAVE BAXTER

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, WINNIPEG SUN

The province announced last week they plan to pump more than $400 million into transportation and infrastructure projects in Northern Manitoba.

“We are making strategic investments that strengthen Northern Manitoba to create opportunities not only to compete today but to build on for generations to come,” Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Doyle Piwniuk said in a March 28 news release announcing $420 million will be invested over five years into Northern Manitoba.

“We believe a stronger, more vibrant northern economy can help propel the provincial economy forward.”

According to the province, as part of their 2023 Multi-year Infrastructure Investment Strategy, the

Thompson Citizen file photo Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Doyle Piwniuk speaks during a visit to Thompson last June. money will be spent on “strategic initiatives,” which include a plan to improve seven northern airports, with more than

$75 million invested into two new airport terminal buildings and approximately 150,000 square metres of planned runway repairs.

The province will put $74 million towards the development of a “sustainable northern corridor” through the Port of Churchill, and

spend another nearly $250 million to improve five existing northern roadways.

“We understand the importance of improving transportation linkages today to transport goods and services, promote tourism, mining exploration, and spur economic development,” Piwniuk said. “We are also committing to a bright future by making the Port of Churchill an inter-continental trade gateway.”

As part of the funding, the province said the Thompson Regional Airport Authority will receive $15 million to construct a new terminal building and to redevelop existing infrastructure.

The new terminal will also offer a “culturally sensitive” air travel experience for Indigenous people, and include a dedicated area for elders, the province said.

While speaking to the

Winnipeg Sun earlier this year, Thompson Mayor Colleen Smook said she has been impressed with the amount of money the province has been investing in Northern Manitoba in recent months.

“More and more I believe the government is starting to recognize how important the north is, and that is why you see more investments, and you see more ministers coming to visit the north and acknowledging its importance,” Smook said.

“The province and the federal government are starting to understand the importance of investing in the north, and we will keep pushing and advocating for those investments.”

Dave Baxter is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of the Winnipeg Sun. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the government of Canada.

Nursing stations sending home patients who later die, chiefs say over the phone, he said.

At the nursing stations The quality of heath care themselves, examinaprovided by federal nurstions are perfunctory, said ing stations is declining and Shamattawa First Nation costing people their lives, Chief Jordna Hill.

Northern Manitoba First “There’s not really much Nations leaders and MP of a proper assessment, Niki Ashton said during a maybe half-ass, maybe 40 press conference in Ottawa per cent assessment being April 3. done on our people,” he said, NDP MP Niki Ashton, with nurses often doubting who represents the Churchthe sincerity of residents’ ill-Keewatinook Aski riding, complaints. “We do know was joined in Ottawa by the how we feel in our own bodchiefs of two First Nations ies News when photo something’s wrong Nickel Belt

by Ian Graham in her district as well as the with us.”

Addictions Foundation of Manitoba northern director Gisele deMeulles has written a book about her experiences growing up, mostly in Churchill. grand chiefs of the AssemIn the immediate shortbly of Manitoba Nations full

BY IAN GRAHAMChiefs, to write things that you have ‘Oh, I’m just as bad, right?’ was not a very safe thing swallow when people say term, ForFirst all the harsh need weather Keewatin Tribal Council to figure out. It’s pretty clear I have all these stories and to do but I jumped at it. I that Churchill residents complements of nurses and EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET and the dangers of polar and Manitoba Keewatinowi also at deMeulles least one full-time Though she’s now written when I get through.”

I need to capture them for thought that was exciting should just find somewhere bears, said if it Okimakanak. physician in their a book about her experienDeMeulles said she wrote my grandchildren really until the plane landed and easier to live. had been viable shenursing would often her book, titled Whispers in because they will be lost if they started throwing the said Yellowback. cesNursing growing stations up in Churchill, “To say, ‘Those people stations, have moved back to Churchseem like little more than down the line, betAddictions Foundation of the Wind: Stories from the I don’t.” fuel off and I realized, ‘Holy choose to live there. They Further ill in a heartbeat.

Tylenol said North - Life in Churchill for ter health services must beI Manitobadispensaries, northern director She also has a reputation cats, I was probablyThompson sitting Citizen shouldphoto just leave,’ is quite “I miss the shoreline, courtesy of NDP Manto Sipi Creesaid Nation established, said Assembly Gisele deMeulles writ- a couple of reasons. as a storyteller herself. on a bomb.’” simplistic.

It’s quite disremiss the rock, I miss the Staffing shortages, inadequate services and lacklustre medical assessments at federal nursing stations are costing Chief Michael Yellowback, of Manitoba Chiefsthough Grand ing wasn’t something she on-reserve “I just sort of thought, “I had such a varied hisAnother thing that spectful.

If we were in the polar bears even Nations members their lives, Northern Manitoba chiefs said during an April 3 press conference in Ottawa Chief Cathy Merrick. noting that two God’s Riv- you know First always thought she would what, this his- tory and I would tell people spurred her on was the same boat in another area they’re very dangerous and with NDP MP Niki Ashton. er residents have died in tory, this stuff that’s “We should haveHudson full addo. in my stories and they would go, hard times facing Churchill I think we would scream I really miss the the“In lastmy nine months after it hospitals in our comseems nursing station is since “Wetheknow there Chief Walter youth I never head, it’s like going“they to be think gone come.

‘That’sThe not true, is it?’

I’d go, Hudson Bayaren’t Rail- said aboutGrand that so why don’t they equate Bay,” she says. “When I go having been further munities where our women that is awrite wonder drug she for ‘Yeah frequently understaffed enough nurses tooperations meet the have Wastesicoot of toKeewatin felt good at denied writing,” she if I don’t it down,” it’s true.’

They’d and go, way the option do that? back home, standing on the suspended care by nurses at the com- said. can giveBay birth,” Merrick everything,” a doctor only God’s community’s she ITribal which rep- Hudson said.

“But when I moved didn’t do visits all that, did north “My kidssaid areYellownot go- ‘You of Gillamneeds,” last spring. thinkCouncil, right now they’re looking out on munity’s health to centre.

One back, staff resents every two weeks.

11 Northern Mani- said. to Thompson get into ing tonoting get it that if I residents don’t do of it River you? You’ve got to be really said, “It noting used tothat be the a really feeling like they’re pawns the bay, it just gives you an was a 48-year-old manwork, who remote No onesense. wants isolated first According to‘No, information are working are in dan- toba First game Nations. and incredible the school of social and it’sand something I’veNaal- old.’

I was like, actually who thriving large community in a political and that’s Youspecial feel so died two weeks after treatment, Grand tions, particularly

by Ashton, per and ger of unlikesad Canadians in largerI small at that point I had to being write ways wanted mythose momthat to Iobtained did all that before 33 I was it’sexperiencing just dwindled burndown really for them because and said you MKO feel great.” sent home andand denied a ful- do.

Settee, just are My fly-in communities ex- 27,’ centand of Indigenous Servi- to outsuch that could prevent them think communities, they often Chief for university realized, mom’s an elder and they went ‘What?’” a small population the people ofare ChurchNowGarrison that she’s got ler health equalbook treatment. winter road Canada-operated nursdown the line. at mercy of to whether ‘Holy, I’m assessment not bad at after this, cept she’sduring an artist, she’s gotseaso cesLooking now,”working deMeulles says. under her belt, back, some of from ill the really want thrive.a one going toI certainly the nursing station. many “It’s as ifsays Canada is sayson, don’t have the option ing stations are notare meeting Manitoba and Ontario physicianbuilt decides accept deMeulles right?’ developed wonderful stories be- those experiences things “All Though she’s not there They’ve theirtoworlds she may try The ingproduce [First Nations residents] of seeking a second opincommunity needs and all of any nursing station ran below their case. a lot other, of skilla in37-year-old university cause she always tells her she might not do again. longer, her parents and there.

How would we feel to another. mother of five died ion, matter as much as the as itatcosts $1,000 in remote and isolated at least day if someone “There has totobeyou anand at- don’t and came out children, of there with stories Parksover Canada in them “I did some pretty bizarre capacity her sisterfor and otherone family came “I have another book in under circumstances. people the rest Canround-trip and to flyI’ve out always of such stuff communities have had [in the laststill twoare. months].” tending on the a verysimilar strong skill in my Churchill like fuel hauls intoperthe members said, ‘I’mphysician sorry, you have to me,” sheinsays.

“It’s aofdarker With and the confi number adian society but we’re here communities that, injust the high iods ofArctic reduced due On-reserve other your line home that iscommunity willing to story, writing dence of in hounded her,and ‘Please, atcapacity -35,” said “My cousinnursing owns stathe leave more about personpeople who are givenvery Ty- case say our and people matter you” in order to re- to his, 80 per cent of its staffing shortages the tions aren’tstore equipped do accept my writing.

I write put itofon tape, I will write it to deMeulles.

“It didn’t in dawn hardware there,”toshe and we’re going to displace al growth struggles. lenol andthat’s sent back a medical assessment are on your a fixed in- past two months. clear and it. It’shome, there. residents for you because story on me until after. That was a blood says. tests or give EKGs, ceive you somewhere else and all too.”

Maybe in the next five years

BY IAN GRAHAM

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Some people say it’s kind of blunt or direct. I don’t tend

is going to be lost,’ and she’s never done it and I thought,

very dangerous thing to do.

Being on a plane full of fuel

Because of that, deMeulles finds it hard to

your loved ones and your history is gone?’”

it’s something I’ll focus on doing.”

Page 2 • News

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Thursday, April 6, 2023

Fire in Tataskweyak kills young woman, chief says The chief of Tatasdkwyeak Cree Nation says a fire has claimed the life of a young woman.

Chief Tara Lee Beardy said in an April 3 press release that the federal government needs to fulfill its obligations to First Nations which do not have adequate resources to prevent and battle fires.

Since the time of a February fire that injured a tod-

dler and a 17-year-old and left nine families homeless but did not result in any loss of life, thanks to the teenager’s heroic actions to warn apartment residents that their building was on fire, TCN has purchased a fire truck, Beardy said.

“While waiting for Indigenous Services Canada to act, we scraped together what funds we had and purchased a fire truck and

received it in late March,” she said. “But we had no one available to train our personnel how to property use it. The results were fatal.”

Thompson Rural RCMP received a report of a fire on Airport Road in Split Lake around 11 p.m. April 2 and attended the scene alongside the TCN fire department. Once the fire was under control, fire-

fighters entered the home and found the body of a 25-year-old woman. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by Thompson Rural RCMP and the Office of the Fire Commissioner.

Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak’s mobile crisis response team and its MMIWG unit are taking action to support Tataskweyak in the wake of the

loss, said MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee.

“Everyone feels the loss in a small community when something tragic happens,” he said. “We recognize this and we will be doing everything we can to help TCN. This tragedy could have been prevented.”

Grand Chief Walter Wastesicoot of Keewatin Tribal Council, which represents 11 Northern Mani-

toba First Nations, said the fact that little has changed in Tataskweyak since the Feb. 11 fire is appalling.

“Another tragic fire which cost a life this time leaves me disheartened,” she said. “We needed more action from the government and didn’t receive it. We need more action from them to give us the ability to fight fires in our communities.”

Leaf Rapids RCMP officers use snowmobiles to rescue man needing medical care Leaf Rapids RCMP officers helped get a man in need of medical assistance from a remote cabin to the hospital on March 28.

Police were contacted around 6:15 p.m. that day by a man reporting that a friend of his was in medical distress near Suwannee Lake.

Accompanied by paramedics, officers drove about 40 kilometres south of Leaf Rapids on Highway 391 where they were met by the man who reported the medical emergency. They then snowmobiled with him to the cabin about 6.5 kilometres away to retrieve an 85-year-old man in medical distress, who was then transported back to the vehicles in a sled behind a snowmobile.

He was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

“In remote areas it can be a challenge to respond to emergency situations,” said Sgt. Lisa Wowchuk, Leaf Rapids detachment commander. “In this instance, our officers, EMS and community members worked together and were able to get this male the medical assistance he needed.”

RCMP photo Leaf Rapids RCMP and paramedics used snowmobiles to get to a man in medical distress at a remote cabin and transport him back to their waiting vehicles and from there to hospital on March 28.

FIREFIGHTER / PARAMEDICS

The City of Thompson’s Fire and Emergency Services Department is seeking those unique individuals with a passion for both firefighting and paramedicine. Our department provides EMS and fire protection to Manitoba’s fourth largest City. The City of Thompson offers a competitive salary and extensive benefits package. Join our team for a challenging and rewarding career in emergency services, with the ability to make a difference.

Qualifications: • Firefighter Level 2 (NFPA 1001).

• Current registration with the College of Paramedics of MB • Valid Class IV MB driver’s license with air brake endorsement.

• Proven ability to make decisions, initiate appropriate action and perform safely and effectively in stressful, demanding and hazardous situations and ability to deal and communicate effectively with the general public.

• Good interpersonal and communication skills and a commitment to a team oriented approach.

• Excellent physical health, mentally able to fulfill the Fire/Medics duties. Applicants must be able to pass a medical examination meeting department standards.

Preference will be given to those applicants who, in addition to the foregoing, hold: field experience in EMS and firefighting, current ACLS, NRP, BTLS and proven EMS skill progression and performance; NFPA 1031, NFPA 472, NFPA 1006, and NFPA 1035.

Posting will remain until all positions are filled. Short-listed candidates will be invited to attend an in-person Recruitment Process, including interview, written test and physical testing in Thompson.

Please send detailed resumes outlining experience, education, qualifications and references to: Human Resources – City of Thompson, 226 Mystery Lake Road, Thompson, Manitoba R8N 1S6 FAX: (204) 677-7981 E-Mail: jmelanson@thompson.ca We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Those requiring assistance with the application process should call 204-677-7924.

The City of Thompson is committed to providing a superior quality of life and unlimited opportunities.

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

CITY OF THOMPSON BUILDING PERMITS & INSPECTIONS NOTICE OF IMPROVEMENT The City of Thompson is pleased to offer residents, builders and business owners in our community an online system to apply for and track your building permits.

So if you are in the works of planning your new project whether it is an addition, alteration, conversion, repair, improvement to your principal building or accessory building (commercial or residential) we have made it simple and easy to apply.

The Cloudpermit building permit system allows you to apply for and to see the status of your applications anywhere, at any time. You can start an application and finish it later, and receive email updates on

CITY OF THOMPSON

226 Mystery Lake Road Thompson, MB R8N 1S6 Phone: 204-677-7910 communications@thompson.ca

the status of your permit application. You can even request building inspections with results sent immediately to your email!

To get started, create your Cloudpermit account by visiting https:// ca.cloudpermit.com/login.

Any questions or assistance with the system please go to https:// www.thompson.ca/p/permits or give us a call or email: Danny Haywood, Building Inspector 204-677-7953

PHONE NUMBERS

MAYOR AND COUNCIL . ................. (204) 677-7926 CITY MANAGER ............................. (204) 677-7951 GENERAL INQUIRIES . .................... (204) 677-7910 DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS ....... (204) 677-7973

Thursday, April 6, 2023

www.thompsoncitizen.net

News • Page 3

Thompson tops Flin Flon in online snowmobile contest vote

BY ERIC WESTHAVER FLIN FLON REMINDER

Flin Flon came up short of defending its SnoRiders Sledtown Showdown title, losing in the provincial final of the annual online poll.

In the provincial final of the vote, Flin Flon faced off against Thompson with the distinction of being Manitoba’s premier snowmobiling destination on the line.

Sheer numbers did the trick for Thompson over Flin Flon — the vote was not close, with the much larger community picking up 7,577 votes (65.1 per cent) to Flin Flon’s 4,052 votes (34.8 per cent) to be named Manitoba’s top snowmobiling destination.

Each year, SnoRiders — a Western Canada-based snowmobiling publication — holds a 16-community bracket for each of the four

western provinces to determine the top sled town in all four — online polls are used to determine winners. The winning community receives a Sledtown Showdown trophy, feature articles in SnoRiders and bragging rights for the town and for local snowmobile clubs. Last year, Flin Flon won the national vote in the competition for the second time, which consisted of the winners from all four western provinces going head-to-head.

In the past, people were able to fill the ballot box by voting once per day per device. The rules of this year’s poll had changed from previous editions — this year, only one vote per device could be cast. Flin Flon’s tactics in the past included promoting people to vote several times per day, using different devices — that strategy did not work this time around.

Flin Flon Reminder photo by Eric Westhaver Riders cross Highway 10A on their way out of Flin Flon during the 2023 Lions Club Journey for Sight.

23035rr0

2018

ditor

Page 4 • Opinion

Wednesday, March 21, 2018

Opinion Opinion OPINION www.thompsoncitizen.net

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Thursday, April 6, 2023 Thompson Citizen Thompson Citizen 141 Commercial Place, Box 887 141 Commercial Place, Box 887 Thompson, Manitoba R8N 1T1 Thompson,Thompson ManitobaCitizen R8N 1T1 Commercial Place, Box 887 Phone: 677-4534 • Fax 677-3681141 Phone: 677-4534 • Fax 677-3681 Thompson, MB R8N 1T1 e-mail: generalmanager@thompsoncitizen.net e-mail: generalmanager@thompsoncitizen.net Phone 204-677-4534 Fax 204-677-3681 Page 4 www.thompsoncitizen.net Page 4 generalmanager@thompsoncitizen.net

Letter to the Editor

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

p fighting Keep fighting How tuberculosis against many tuberculosis To the Editor:

more?

is a highly contagious disease, Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly contagious disease, Each year, caused TB claims lives Each year, TB claims the lives by the bacteria. le worldwide.

TB ismillion not only a worldwide. TB is not only a people To of the1.7 Editor: orld countries, but also here in problem in Third World countries, but also here in It isindifficult to fathom the er prevalence the north.

Canada, with a higher prevalence in the north. mentality of people who tolvaccination, disease prevention Due to the lack of vaccination, disease prevention erate murder in schools, Additionally,is some bacteria in most TB important.

Additionally, some TB bacteria terms of garnering by the years, giving rise to votes, forms have changed over the years, giving rise to forms supportmeans for thetreatment NRA lunatic ant TB, which of multi-drug resistant TB, which means treatment society. ted and accompanied severe is lengthy,bycomplicated Americans love their and accompanied by severe side effects. heroes, yetinarmed conflict t one in four people this world Did you know that one in four people in this world in elementary schools is is World TB have day, raising awareTB? March 24 is World TB day, raising awareunacceptable. an opportunity to and mobilize fundsan opportunity to mobilize funds ness providing Letting people with menion. I am glad to see Canada as towards TB elimination. arm themselves I am glad to see Canada as lobal fundtaltoaillness fight tuberculosis. top donor to the global fund to fight tuberculosis. with assault and kill mitment continues in rifles the future I hope that this commitment continues in the future children and their guardians our goal to stop TB.we can meet our goal to stop TB. so that

— obscene!

Human life is sacred so Karolin Klement to hell with the right to bear Calgary arms. How many more?

Angus Campbell Sr. EditorialThompson

Karolin Klement Calgary

chool board opts for status quo, School board opts foryear? status quo, Funding announcements in an election How unexpected! which willway citywill council go? which city council go?

B way B

omplocal odies prothe ntahem made not bers, rustainst ustee only o rer of n to

rlier, n a sonvoice proould from to the of ople for-

EDITORIAL

efore the dis- mentioned earlier in this fewer do during the few were it not such a hub for to Northern Manitoba and south of the 53rd parallel, precious warm months freight and for moving in the province as a whole to i.e. the official demarcasection of their paragraph. cynical timing Citizens need govern- that Northern Manitoba and out the people that are have a well-maintained and tion line between southern begins, let’s say this off ments to spend money to receives. Also, because needed to do construction reliable rail transportation Manitoba and the north. themany legislature is in ses- foror reducing link through north and Certainly, the top.

It isn’t bad thing many make their lives better, run the justice systemand northerners use mer councillor Luke the people workload around and members, the citizens oftheThompotha of Thompmerof councillor Luke of the people workload around for reducing members, the citizens of Thompwhen governments decide particularly unprofitable sion, the can andallows so onthey and forth. dito whether the ocean via section of the road truly to Robinson, who opposed to inthe plan allows for government greater diwhether son elected more truly son’sserved local Robinson, who served opposed to the plan forsobelong greater theyHudson belongthatson elected more Still, the airport terminget to Winnipeg, but Interto invest in community and sectors of the economy that actually do things to make Bay. That was also true five one term on council are the critics versity to the school board independent-thinking elected bodies one regular term on council are of theviewpoints, regular critics versity of viewpoints, to the school board independent-thinking regional infrastructure, par- of private industry isn’t apt though these announcements move oralcouncil, replacement project years ago, when lake residents use it more. from 2010 to 2014 bewho toattend Land is that it was candidates who Churchill aren’t have considered pro- council from 2010 2014 be- of Ryan council whowas attend though Ryan Land council, is that it candidates who aren’t ticularly when it is located to step inand and run because, forward, ratherinthan hav- will has save been in the works for married wasorwithout a aligning land trans- And while there has been fore being defeated by meetings ask their mostly correct saymoney.

The to posals to reduce fore being defeated and ask theirwhat mostly correct in say-portation will save money. married aligning in your community or re-the well, there isn’t any money by ingmeetings them be nothing more seems like forever, link for any moreThea fair amounttoof paving Mayor Dennis Fenske elected officials quesing elected that, in officials terms ofquesamount is notin large themselves with number of representaMayor Dennis Fenske ing that, terms of amount is not large themselves with gion. Without government in it. than empty words. Lastly, with much lobbying done than year. At that time, the work and other improve-any in the racecomprising to becomethem tionsinweek after week, classtions and ethnicity, the overall – about ethnicity, $20,000 particular side, because tives the race to become after week, overall – about $20,000 particular side, because funding from both the fedThat said, one can’t help once the week election is offiforclass years and before the feder-theprovincial government had ments done between Ponheadand of one council last their opinions may not trustees aren’t really in councillors’ salarright now, the numbersalar- right now, the number of them madebuthead of council their opinions may notal government trustees aren’t reallyno in councillors’ eral and provincial governbe a little suspiciouslastcially called, government announced interest in supporting ton and Thompson over the time Thompsonites beatenough to Thompsonites dissuade microcosm the to iesthat per year plus apof the opinions council athat choice March 13 not timetiming that be enough to used dissuade a itmicrocosm of$28the ies year plus of few opinions council ments, Thompson wouldn’t the of some re- a resources can’t of be was putting rail per line on to help it get,ap-past years, on it would went to the polls about the majority from forSchool District of Mysproximately half that is generally two – for to shrink its numbers, went to the polls about the majority from forSchool District of Mysproximately half that is generally two be getting 20 kilometres cent announcements by promote the Progressive million towards the pro- literally, back on track. really be nice to have– afor three-and-half years ging ahead, especially tery Lake’s population amount, on That’s average, against. as ofschool board trustthree-and-half years ging ahead, especially Lake’s population amount,though on average, and against. or so roads redone over jecttery in 2019. near- and Belated these passing lane, for example, Manitoba’s Progressive Conservatives’ achieveago was in favour ofthe since the– was number of as asince whole. you’vefor for travel and the may low travel turnvoted 6-1and against ago in favour ofments. theIfpublicity number ofly annual as ayears whole. you’ve for annual Maybe the 700 lowofturnlast–ees year, this year Conservative government, Getting four ago.IfBut of Maybe investments be, theyandbefore kilometre a reducing the numbers, people whoancare to you many expenses. the city, out of people three after that.

It wouldn’t given that election is ex- been policies thinkschool are good course, conareexpenses. welcome andwith will drive. Just a resolution by trustee reducing the about numbers, people who care about beentheFor toprovincial many school For the city,736-kilometre out of people with with the seven opthis one way or another board which has had ameetings budget of (and opinions on a budget how to ofsayin’. alsoRyan be other replacing water and pected happen later thisopis one of theway fundamental tribution, it been made hopefully demonstrate Land (the only withto the other seven thismeetings one or(and another board which has opinions on how posed.

Although coundoesn’t even reach apart from members around $30 million, many councillors there sewer lines over the same year. cornerstones of electoral back then, would have been politicians in Winnipeg do things vote in support) to re- posed. Although coun- doesn’t even reach apart from members around $30 million, Governments many councillors there are perfectly good on overshadowed by the moreyou people be all isn’t the time, period. it would thatthat supporting northern ciltime hasn’t yet voted on double of politics. the media, well, you that probshould be represents isn’t an ex-prob-forshould duce theAnd number of There cil digits. hasn’t yet voted double digits. ofrepresents the media, well, an exbe $11 millionfrom further away toWhether andsecond practical reasons why So Whether anyway, are def-the substantial federal support development is in the best inoften becauseof they believebut second reading of seven that or not the haven’t), youthere would ably less than a you drop in pression trustees reading of that or not haven’t), would ably of lessapathy than abut drop pression apathy from paying for a pool than number Manitobans are being initely reasons this is theandproverbial besides, governments all Manitobans, needed or just theExperiright bylaw, the next stage of the councillors know that they don’t bucket, of interest pragmatism.

Experifive. bylaw, next substage number ofwhy councillors know that they don’t the of proverbial bucket,it’sof pragmatism. it currently is, which may jected to a slew of spendhappening and it was great don’t usually get turfed out not just those who live thing to do.

Sometimes, towards it becoming ofor school board trustoften feature nearly as though it is about a ence has shown quite One night earlier, towards it becoming of- or school board trust- often feature nearly as though it is about a ence has shown quite be slightly farthere’s from amore announcements last week, the fifth after term cost unless north of the 53rdcouncil parallel.costhowever, they this feel council like ficial, atmajority leastthan a of ees be reduced orbethat divofonly the one overall often that aingshould ficial, there’s at now. leastmuch ato hear, eesdebate should reduced much debate or divfifth ofthis the overall often that the money that chance is needed is By the time summer rolls ision Thompson Regional Air- of they Speaking of the it53rd that friend that everybody have done something better than even not the sort of quesas city council the mayor and coun– and others before – half-dozen Thompson- better than even chance is not the sort of ques- ision as city council of the mayor and coun- – and others before it – to itcomplete the project, tion around, people will be busy port is getting $15 million it is rather rich has. You know, the one who really stupid or performed is parallel, that will be approved. for which there is meetings, at which least not going ites showed up to voice that it will be approved. tion for there cil. is meetings, at least not cil. to do what the is going to do what the but it still isn’t anything doing other stuff like not from the provincial govreally badly. for the government to tout shows up to your parties As watchers of council a right or wrongofanover a the past couple an-Critics of the promajority of its members their opinion on a proAs watchers council right or wrong over the past couple Critics of the promajority of its members to sniff at, particularly in shovelling snow (potentialernment to put towards Similarly, provincial its investments in Highway and reaches out when they will posed have bylaw noticed, the swer.will On have the pro side the of years.

But the they’ve posed reduction say thinkposed is right, regard- say think is right, regardthat would noticed, swer.

On pro side of years.

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God’s Lake Narrows traffic stop leads to seizure of alcohol, drugs and guns A 28-year-old man from Stony Mountain was arrested in God’s Lake Narrows March 27 after RCMP officers saw a gun in his vehicle.

God’s Lake Narrows RCMP stopped the man’s vehicle around 10 p.m. and noticed a firearm in the backseat as they spoke with the driver, who was the only person in the vehicle.

They completed police record checks showing that he had two outstanding arrest warrants and was on conditions to not possess any firearms.

A search of the vehicle following the driver’s arrest resulted in police seizing two rifles, ammunition, 31 bottles of alcohol, bear spray and illicit pills con-

Classified • Page 5

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Jordan Burton was stances and with possessing Burton was remanded charged with numerous fire- a controlled substance for into custody for a court aparms-related offences and the purpose of trafficking. pearance in Thompson that with failing to comply with God’s Lake Narrows is was scheduled for March a release order. He was also a dry First Nation where 29.

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Police watchdog looking into July 2022 Thompson arrest M a n i t o b a ’s p o l i c e watchdog is investigating a 2022 arrest that a Thompson man says left him with a fractured skull.

The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba, which looks into allegations of serious misconduct by on- or off-duty

police officers in the province, was notified of the incident by the RCMP on March 21.

The notification said that the man filed a complaint with the RCMP’s Civilian Review and Complaints Commission on March 10.

The allegation occurred during a July 28, 2022 interaction when the man was arrested on Elk Bay in Thompson. He reported to the CRCC that he sustained a fractured skull while being arrested.

A fracture is a serious injury under IIU regula-

Thompson RCMP seek missing 16-year-old male Thompson RCMP are asking for the public’s help to locate Wilfred “Willy” Spence, a 16-year-old who was reported missing March 18.

After he was reported missing, police used Spence’s social media activity to try to find him but he has still not been located. He may be actively trying to evade police but they need to find him to confirm his well-being.

Spence is 4’9” tall and 143 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.

Anyone with information on Spence’s whereabouts can call Thompson RCMP at 204-677-6909 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477. Tips can also be submitted online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com.

tions, so the watchdog agency is compelled to investigate.

People who witnessed the arrest or who have video footage or other information that could assist the investigation are asked to contact the IIU toll-free at 1-844-667-6060.

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RCMP photo Willy Spence 16, was reported missing to Thompson RCMP March 18 and police are still trying to find him to confirm his well-being.

Man arrested after Wasagamack shooting A 35-year-old man was arrested April 4 after another man was shot in Wasagamack First Nation.

The shooting was reported to Island Lake RCMP shortly after noon on April 3. The 27-year-old victim was transported to the

nursing station and then medevaced to a Winnipeg hospital in stable condition.

Charges have not been laid yet but the 35-year-old remains in custody and the investigation continues.

Police say the two men knew each other.

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Thursday, April 6, 2023

One MP on federal ethics committee disagrees with reduced cooling-off periods for lobbyists

BY NATASHA BULOWSKI

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, CANADA'S NATIONAL OBSERVER

All but one MP on the federal ethics committee has agreed with a proposal to reduce cooling-off periods for lobbyists doing political work.

Feedback from the committee on the proposed change was sent to lobbying commissioner Nancy Bélanger on March 20.

Bélanger is in the process of updating the Lobbyists’ Code of Conduct, which governs how paid lobbyists operate on Parliament Hill. She previously told Canada’s National Observer her intent with the update is to clarify the rules for the benefit of both lobbyists and the department. This includes rule changes that would reduce the amount of time a lobbyist must wait between helping on a politician’s campaign and lobbying them in government, also known as a cooling-off period.

The Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics wrote a letter to Bélanger after studying the updates to the code and hearing from witnesses. The letter broadly agreed with many of the changes Bélanger put forward and issued recommendations, but noted NDP MP Matthew Green opposes reducing cooling-off periods to one or two years for certain political work and in-

stead would have kept them as is: a full election cycle.

“The last thing somebody wants to see is somebody running a campaign for somebody who becomes minister, and then they have the ability to lobby them on behalf of big corporations or people with a financial interest,” Green said in an interview with Canada’s National Observer.

Under the current code, a paid lobbyist who works on a politician’s campaign can’t contact the individual for a full election cycle afterwards to avoid politicians feeling an obligation to them while in office.

Bélanger’s changes would shorten those limits to two years for lobbyists who work closely with a candidate (for example, on a fundraising campaign) and one year for lobbyists who do less involved activities like canvassing.

This change “raised the biggest flag” for Green, who sits on the House ethics committee. He wanted to maintain the current cooling-off period, at a minimum, the letter noted, while the other 10 MPs on the committee agreed with the commissioner’s proposal.

The letter suggested the code should define certain terms — particularly “frequent and interactive interactions” and “full-time” and “near full-time” — to decide whether a one- or two-year cooling-off per-

iod will apply to political work. Bélanger was already contemplating adding some definitions, according to the committee.

Some groups have advocated for stricter cooling-off periods.

Five years should be the minimum cooling-off period for less significant political activity, and more significant involvement should trigger an extension to 10 years, according to a letter to the lobbying commissioner from Democracy Watch, a non-profit, non-partisan organization advocating for democratic reform, government accountability and corporate responsibility. The letter was signed by 14 organizations, including the B.C. Civil Liberties Association, Climate Action Network, Dogwood, Ecology Action Centre, OpenMedia, Sierra Club B.C., Stand.earth and Unlock Democracy Canada.

In early March, more than 30 law and political science professors signed on to a Democracy Watch letter urging the ethics committee to reject the proposed changes.

Lobby groups, on the other hand, argue the cooling-off periods are too stringent and interfere with individuals’ rights to participate in electoral politics under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The committee noted this concern in its letter to Bélanger.

Green’s position is that

Helping Build Stronger Communities

it's a reasonable limit on Charter rights to restrict the way in which professional lobbyists and campaign staffers interact with government MPs and cabinet ministers.

“I think that our democracy is fragile,” said Green.

“Canadians are rightfully cynical, and the perception of there being a bit of a revolving door between campaign operatives and paid lobbyists only fuels that cynicism.”

Committee vice-chair and Liberal MP Iqra Khalid told Canada’s National Observer in an emailed statement that the current cooling-off period rule “was not specific and created some measure of confusion for registrants.” The new rules, she said, provide clarity and balance to the “importance of free and open access to government” and “the need for Canadians to be able to recognize who is lobbying the government.” The recommendations in the committee’s letter intend to provide even more clarity on the new rules to ensure compliance, said Khalid.

The new code would also change rules around gift-giving. The commissioner proposed a low-value limit of $40 and would set an annual limit for all allowed gifts at $80 in an attempt to offer lobbyists clear guidelines. The committee recommended increasing the gift allowance to $200 and the hospitality allowance (for refreshments and food provided at receptions or in-person meetings) to $200.

It also suggested exempting sponsored travel — “where it serves a legitimate purpose” — from the gift limits based on con-

cerns raised by witnesses that the low gift limit would effectively prohibit lobby groups from paying for politician’s travel.

This view is not shared by Duff Conacher, co-founder of Democracy Watch and one of the most vocal critics of the proposed changes.

“If a lobbyist or lobby group gives an MP a trip as a gift, it is never legitimate,” Conacher told Canada’s National Observer.

“Lobby groups that give such trips to MPs claim that they are just educating MPs about an issue. If MPs want to learn about an issue, they can travel on their own office budget or apply for money from Parliament to travel and then justify to the auditor general, the media and the public,” he said.

Conacher warns that under the current wording proposed by the commissioner, lobbyists can fundraise an unlimited amount of money during a campaign and lobby politicians immediately after without being subjected to the oneyear cooling-off period, as long as they do it less than near full-time and without frequent or extensive contact with the politician or party.

As lobbying commissioner, Bélanger operates independently and is not obligated to act on the committee’s recommendations and feedback, Green emphasized.

“Commissioner Bélanger appreciates the work of the committee on the Lobbyists’ Code of Conduct and is carefully considering the recommendations before finalizing the code,” the commissioner’s staff told Canada’s National Observer in an emailed statement.

Green thinks there's “larger conversations” to be had around the “unequal and, in my opinion, undemocratic access that some people have to decision-makers.”

He mused that MPs could perhaps respond to that larger issue with a private member’s bill, but said in this moment, it's out of their hands.

“It seemed to me that those with both the most to lose and the most to gain had the most amount of input. And that's part of the problem,” said Green.

“The average Canadian should have equal access to the moneyed interests that fund the lobbying ecosystem here in Ottawa, the culture of lobbying. And when you don't have that kind of equity of access and power then that, to me, is a threat to democracy.”

Conacher says the changes to the code are “deeply unethical and will allow for corrupt favour-trading between lobbyists and politicians.”

If Bélanger goes ahead with her proposed changes, “Democracy Watch will file a lawsuit challenging the new rules as they will violate voters’ constitutional democracy rights to government integrity, equal participation in policymaking processes, and adequate information to make voting decisions,” Conacher said in a press release.

“The NDP has said it opposes the changes, but is it going to do anything more to try to stop the changes, like introducing a resolution in the House opposing the changes that dares MPs from other parties to publicly approve them?” he asked.

Box-cutter attack inflicts ‘life-altering’ injuries in Garden Hill First Nation More than 400 community groups are building, repairing and enhancing projects big and small, thanks to funding from the new Arts, Culture and Sports in Community Fund.

Your turn could be next, but hurry − applications close as soon as April 17, 2023.

To find out if you qualify for capital funding or special initiative projects, go to www.gov.mb.ca/chc/

HISTORIC HELP FOR MANITOBANS

manitoba.ca

A 33-year-old woman is charged with aggravated assault, making threats and weapon possession after an April 3 attack in Garden Hill First Nation in which three people were slashed with a box-cutter.

Island Lake RCMP were called to a report of three people being attacked and injured in Garden Hill shortly before 1 a.m. Officers went to the nursing station where a 39-year-old man, a 26-year-old woman and a 24-year-old woman were being treated

for life-altering slash wounds.

Police learned that the victims had been at a party that the suspect had ben asked to leave. She left but came back armed with a box-cutter and attacked the victims.

The 33-year-old woman faces three counts of aggravated assault, two counts of uttering threats and one count of possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose. She was released from custody and will appear in court in May.

Two arrested for Thompson stabbing Two people from Thompson were charged with aggravated assault after a 38-year-old man was stabbed March 28.

Thompson RCMP received a call about a man being stabbed in an Ashberry Place apartment building around 6:30 a.m. and attended the scene, knocking on doors to try to locate the victim. Just before 7:30 a.m. they received a report of a man with a stab

wound at Thompson General Hospital and determined he was the victim in the incident they were investigating. The Pimicikamak Cree Nation man was transported to hospital in Winnipeg for further treatment of serious injuries.

A man, 48, and a woman, 25, were charged and released from custody with an upcoming court date.

Thursday, April 6, 2023

www.thompsoncitizen.net

News • Page 7

Doing it differently: In the days since the AJI, Winnipeg police taking strides to improve relationships with Indigenous people

BY DAVE BAXTER

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, WINNIPEG SUN

More than 30 years ago in the wee hours of a winter morning in Winnipeg's West End, police officer Robert Cross confronted John Joseph (J.J.) Harper, a gun shot rang out, and soon Harper lay dead on the frozen ground.

An inquiry into his death showed that “racism” had played a role in the shooting that night, and that a whole lot more needed to be done in this city to build and repair relationships and trust between police and Indigenous people and communities.

But now more than 30 years later, where does that relationship stand today? What more can be done to improve it? And is this city’s police force using recommendations made by the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry?

Over the course of several stories the Winnipeg Sun will work to uncover how police and Indigenous people interact in this city, and what the Winnipeg Police Service has been doing and continues to do to try to build and improve relationships with Indigenous people and communities, so the force can do a better job of both serving and protecting those communities.

The Aboriginal Justice Inquiry was a public inquiry first commissioned by the Manitoba government in 1988, and when its final report was presented in 1991, its stated purpose was “to examine the relationship between the Aboriginal peoples of Manitoba and the justice system.”

The AJI was commissioned by the Manitoba government partly in response to Harper’s death, as Harper, a member of the Wasagamack Indian Band in the Island Lake area, and the executive director of the Island Lake Tribal Council, was a well-known leader in Manitoba’s Indigenous community in 1988 when he was gunned down.

According to reports, Harper had spent the night out with friends and was walking in the West End towards his home at around 2:30 a.m. on March 9, 1988, when WPS Const.

Robert Cross confronted him, as Cross was, at the time, searching for a suspect in a car theft.

Although Harper had nothing to do with that car theft, a scuffle between the two ensued that ultimately led to Harper being shot in the chest and killed.

A massive public outcry and a demand for accountability in that case was one of the pillars for the Manitoba government commissioning the AJI, and in 1991 the final report from the inquiry painted a grim picture of

the relationship between police in Winnipeg and across the province, and Indigenous people.

It also showed that there were inequalities throughout the entire criminal justice system in the province that were negatively affecting Indigenous people in “grossly disproportionate numbers.”

“The justice system has failed Manitoba’s aboriginal people on a massive scale,” the final report stated. “It has been insensitive and inaccessible, and has arrested and imprisoned aboriginal people in grossly disproportionate numbers.

“Aboriginal people who are arrested are more likely than non-aboriginal people to be denied bail, spend more time in pretrial detention and spend less time with their lawyers, and, if convicted, are more likely to be incarcerated. It is not merely that the justice system has failed aboriginal people; justice has also been denied to them.

“For more than a century the rights of aboriginal people have been ignored and eroded.”

The AJI’s final report included hundreds of recommendations for improving the relationships between Indigenous people and police forces and the entire criminal justice system, but in Manitoba and across the country, Indigenous people continue to be greatly overrepresented in the justice system, both as offenders, but also as victims of crime.

According to a recent federal report, Indigenous people make up around 30 per cent of the federal prison population in Canada, while making up just five per cent of the country's population, but those numbers rise steeply here in Manitoba, where it is estimated that at Stony Mountain Penitentiary, this province’s largest federal penitentiary, as many as 70 per cent of inmates are Indigenous.

Federal data from 2014 also showed that 28 per cent of Indigenous people over the age of 15 reported being victimized in the previous 12 months, compared to 18 per cent of non-Indigenous people. That rate of violent victimization among Indigenous people was more than double that of non-Indigenous people.

And Indigenous women had an overall rate of violent victimization close to triple that of non-Indigenous women.

One longtime advocate for Indigenous people in Winnipeg says he knows that to this day there are many in the Indigenous community that still feel uncomfortable being around uniformed police officers, and that discomfort continues for many

reasons.

“I’d have to say that the uniform does present, very clearly, a challenge to many Indigenous persons,” Damon Johnston said.

“They would shy away from it, and they would fear it.”

Johnston speaks from experience working in the community and with local police, as he is currently the president of the Aboriginal Council of Winnipeg, which works to represent and advocate for urban Indigenous community members living in Winnipeg, while he also sits on the Winnipeg Police Board.

According to Johnston, who stressed he was speaking to the Sun in his role as president of ACW, there are always going to be issues of systemic racism in any police forces, and at all levels of society, but he said it is not fair to paint Winnipeg’s police service with a “broad brush” when it comes to its dealings with Indigenous people.

“We know there is racism in our society, there is prejudice, and discrimination towards certain groups, and we are one of those groups,” Johnston said.

“But that’s not the majority of police officers, and many do great work and they do very dangerous work. And we know it has gotten far more dangerous over the past few years, and it is probably as dangerous now as it has ever been.”

What is important for any police force, according to Johnston, is to have members of their leadership be actively seeking ways to improve relationships with Indigenous people and groups.

“It’s always up to leadership to open doors to engaging,” he said.

“What’s critical in every police service is showing that they are willing to do what it takes to improve those relationships, and it’s especially important to see that from the local chief of police.”

Johnston said he has been impressed with some of the ways that WPS Chief Danny Smyth has been working on those relationships.

“The city, as a whole, has Indigenous awareness training, and the police have their own training, and WPS has the office of Indigenous relations to assist police services in improving their relationships with Indigenous people,” Johnston said.

“There is definitely work being done.”

But how can that mistrust that Johnston said persists among many Indigenous people towards police officers be dealt with? He said a part of that is having people out

on the streets that Indigenous people can start to see as “peacekeepers,” rather than strictly as law enforcement officers.

“Some will see a uniformed officer and not want to do anything to engage with that officer, because they fear that if they do, things will not end well for them,” he said.

“The uniform has represented official police in our society for a long time, and I don’t think any of us when we talk to officers, aren’t a little more careful about what we say and do.”

He said that plans are currently in the works to train 20 Indigenous people that, once trained, will hold security guard and First Aid certificates, and will work on the streets of Winnipeg as what Johnston said will be in the role of “peacekeepers.”

He also knows that statistics back up the fact that outcomes for Indigenous people when they engage with police officers across this country are far worse than they are for non-Indigenous people, as data released in 2020 showed that Indigenous people in Canada were 10 times more likely to be shot by a police officer than non-Indigenous people.

He also sees how media

reports of situations regarding Indigenous people and police can often work to engrain fear of officers into some.

“There are reports every day in the media about individuals interacting with police, and we know that some of it is not good,” he said.

“It causes some trauma and that leads to some anxiety in our communities.”

One high profile incident that led to the death of a teenage girl in Winnipeg has put the issue of police and their dealings with Indigenous people in the public eye, when on April 8, 2020, a Winnipeg police officer shot and killed 16-year old Eisha Hudson.

Police have said the shots were fired because Hudson along with others was fleeing police after a robbery at a nearby liquor store and at one point she attempted to drive into police officers in a stolen Jeep near the corner of Fermor Avenue and Lagimodiere Boulevard in southeast Winnipeg, where she was shot and killed.

While an investigation by Manitoba’s Independent Investigation Unit determined that no criminal charges should be laid against the officer who shot and killed Hud-

son, some have continued to question what factors motivated the shooting.

Johnston said he knows that some have come forward with opinions that Hudson was shot because she was Indigenous, while others have said Hudson’s own actions led to her death, but he said in any high profile situation people on all sides are often far too quick to rush to judgment and form strong opinions that are not always based on the facts.

“What I say to myself is, ‘I was not there, and I don’t know what happened,’ ” Johnston said.

“I have to rely on other people who were there telling the truth about what happened.”

He added that he hopes to see the relationship between Indigenous people and WPS as one that always continues to improve, because there will be no single moment where people will decide that it has been fixed.

“It’s always about continuous improvement,” Johnston said. “I have always tried to apply that in my life and thought, ‘if I am doing something, is there a better way I can do it?’ And police should be working with that same attitude.

Continued on page 16

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Page 8 • News

Thursday, April 6, 2023

Justice ‘has been denied’ to Indigenous, problems persist as inquiry recommendations are ignored

BY DAVE BAXTER

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, WINNIPEG SUN

It has been more than three decades since the shooting death of J.J. Harper, and since the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry shone a light on how Indigenous people in Winnipeg and the province have been treated by the criminal justice system.

The statistics show it and it can be heard in the words of Indigenous leaders today — the same problems and inequalities that persisted in the justice system three decades ago continue today, despite the efforts of many, not much has changed.

The AJI was a public inquiry commissioned by the Manitoba government in 1988 the final report was released in 1991. Its stated purpose was “to examine the relationship between the Aboriginal peoples of Manitoba and the justice system.”

The AJI stated that inequalities throughout the entire criminal justice system in the province were negatively affecting Indigenous people in “grossly disproportionate numbers.”

“The justice system has failed Manitoba’s Aboriginal people on a massive scale,” the final report read.

“It has been insensitive and inaccessible and has arrested and imprisoned Aboriginal people in grossly disproportionate numbers.

“Aboriginal people who are arrested are more likely than non-Aboriginal people to be denied bail, spend more time in pre-trial detention and spend less time with their lawyers, and, if convicted, are more likely to be incarcerated. It is not merely that the justice system has failed Aboriginal people; justice has also been denied to them.

“For more than a century the rights of Aboriginal people have been ignored and eroded.”

When the inquiry’s report was released, it gave several recommendations for improving relationships between law enforcement, the criminal justice system and Indigenous people and communities, also providing steps that could be taken to make those improvements.

But even today, 32 years after it was released, the “grossly disproportionate numbers” that were talked about in the AJI persist, and Indigenous people of all ages continue to be greatly overrepresented in all areas of the justice system, both

OBITUARY JOHN BARNOWICH Suddenly, John lost his battle with cancer on March 24, 2023. A service will be held in his honour on April 8, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please donate to CancerCare Manitoba.

For those who wish to sign the online Guest Book please visit: www.chapellawn.ca Chapel Lawn Funeral Home 204-885-9715 4000 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg MB, R3K 1W3

School District of Mystery Lake

Success for all

2023/2024 School Year Registration

Registration for the 2023/2024 School year is being accepted Celebrate Education Week: April 16-20, at all School District of Mystery Lake schools, during2018 regular school hours. Please call the school to make arrangements.

The Board of Trustees invites you to celebrate Registration must beWeek completed child at your Education 2018 infor ouryour schools. catchment Applications of Choice must Happyschool.

Education Week tofor all School of the District staff. also be submitted to your catchment school on or before It takes everyone to support our May 15, 2023. The School inOftheir Choice form can be found students learning. at https://www.edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/schools/choice/index.

Thank you for all that you do to html#apps enrich the lives of our students.

School District of Mystery Lake will be offering half-day Kindergarten programs all schools for the “You can teach aat student a lesson for a2023/2024 day; school year. entering must be five but ifStudents you can teach himKindergarten to learn by creating years old

by December 31, 2023 (born 2018) process curiosity, he will continue the learning long as he lives.”

Clay Bedford Welcome toasKindergarten events forP.the month of June will be posted on the District web site www.mysterynet.

Thank you. mb.ca and school web sites.

The person registering the child must; Board of Trustees • Be a parent or legal guardian.

The School District of Mystery Lake School Contact information: École Riverside School.........119 Riverside Dr...............204-677-6115 Wapanohk Comm School ....453 Princeton Dr ............204-677-6140 Juniper School........................306 Juniper Dr .................204-677-6242 Deerwood School .................101 Beaver Cres ...............204-677-6125 Burntwood School ...............103 Arctic Dr ....................204-677-6100 Westwood School ................46 Mallard Cres...............204-677-6190

Thompson Citizen photo by Dave Baxter, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Winnipeg Sun Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Grand Chief Garrison Settee says he believes that “systemic racism” plays a role in the continued overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the justice system in Manitoba. as offenders and as victims Helen Betty Osborne in The MLA and Sagkeeng First ing to Fontaine, they often of crime.

Pas in 1971, and the ensu- Nation member Nahanni work with little money or According to recent fed- ing investigation and legal Fontaine said in a recent resources. eral data, Indigenous people proceedings which saw one interview.

“Currently, communmake up around 30 per of four men involved in the “And yet, 50 years after ity-based programs tell me cent of the federal prison incident face any jail time, her murder, I would sub- they are working on shoepopulation in Canada while and not until more than 16 mit the issues of missing string budgets,” Fontaine making up just five per cent years after Osborne’s grue- and murdered Indigenous said. “These programs are of the country's population, some death. women, girls and two- our community centres, afbut those numbers rise Many Indigenous women spirited are exponentially ter-school programs, landsteeply in Manitoba, where in Manitoba say they do not worse than they have ever based programs, programs it is estimated that at Stony feel safe and have not felt been.” for youth, young adults, Mountain Penitentiary, this safe for a very long time, Statistics paint a grim programs for the unhoused, province’s largest federal and the issue of violence picture of a justice system and those dealing with subpenitentiary, as many as 65 against Indigenous women in Manitoba where Indigen- stance use. to 70 per cent of inmates are has actually gotten worse ous people are greatly over“What these groups need Indigenous. and not better since the AJI represented, and Indigenous is strong, core-based fundFederal data from 2014 was released. leaders in the province said ing to pay qualified staff also shows that 28 per cent Indigenous women in recently that they have not a decent wage and just to of Indigenous people over Canada currently have seen a whole lot of change keep up with inflation.” the age of 15 reported being an overall rate of violent in the more than 30 years MKO Grand Chief Garvictimized in the previous victimization close to tri- since the AJI was released. rison Settee said he places 12 months, compared to 18 ple that of non-Indigenous On Feb. 24, in a joint much of the blame for that per cent of non-Indigenous women and continue to fall statement, leaders with lack of progress on the people, and that the rate victim to domestic abuse, the Assembly of Manitoba “systemic racism” that he of violent victimization violent crime, and murder. Chiefs, the Southern Chiefs said continues to plague all among Indigenous people “The AJI was predicated Organization and Manitoba areas of the justice system was more than double that upon the murder of Helen Keewatinowi Okimakanak and Canadian society, and of non-Indigenous people. Betty Osborne, and is one of all reflected on the imple- said that is the reason many The AJI was also com- the blueprints on protecting mentation and the impacts believe there has been little missioned in response to Indigenous women, girls of the inquiry, and all said progress since the AJI was the brutal beating death of and two-spirited,” NDP they believe there isn’t released. much to show for it.

“Incarceration rates for “It has been over 30 years First Nation people have since the Aboriginal Jus- only worsened,” Settee Cleaning and House Services! tice Inquiry, and our people said. “To date, most of the continue to be dispropor- 296 recommendations have tionately arrested and in- not been implemented. carcerated,” AMC Grand “Our citizens remain disChief Cathy Merrick said. proportionately overrepre“Both the Truth and Rec- sented in the justice system, onciliation Commission’s and our staff continues to calls to action and Nation- work diligently with First al Inquiry into Missing Nations to address the sysand Murdered Indigenous temic racism and discriminWomen and Girls calls for ation that still exist to this justice continue to highlight day.”

Available all summer. Now-August the lack of progress that has “We all have a responsbeen made since the AJI.” ibility to stand together and The lack of progress work towards immediate persists despite the many and significant changes Welcome and Thank You! community organizations, for our people within the Hi there! I'm Shaelyn Mitchell and I am a student looking not-for-profits, advocates justice system.” for some extra work this summer. My services offer — Dave Baxter is a Loand volunteers in this city cleaning houses & vehicles, mowing lawns and and province that work to cal Journalism Initiative help people and help en- reporter who works out of yardwork, pet and house sitting , and going for groceries tire communities that are the Winnipeg Sun. The Loor other misc errands.. struggling. cal Journalism Initiative is Please Text, Call or email me for info and details plus my rates! 204-307-7070 or But those organizations funded by the government Shaelynmitchell22@gmail.com struggle as well, as, accord- of Canada.

Shaelyn Mitchell

Thursday, April 6, 2023

www.thompsoncitizen.net

News • Page 9

Restorative justice programs showing positive results in Manitoba

BY DAVE BAXTER

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, WINNIPEG SUN

At one of the lowest points in his life, Sean Rayland Boubar was a convicted criminal with a lengthy criminal history serving time alone in solitary confinement.

But it was in jail that he would get in touch with his culture and his background for the very first time, something that finally put him on a different path, and changed the course of his life.

“Very early on in my life, I got involved in gang life, in trafficking, and all that came along with that lifestyle, I started selling crack when I was 12 years old,” said Rayland Boubar, a Winnipeg resident and Sagkeeng First Nation member.

“It was just a part of my life, my role models were guys that taught me how to sell drugs, how to rob people, and I don’t blame them because that’s all they knew.”

Early in his life, he said gang activity and drug dealing were a means for “survival” and over the course of many years, Rayland Boubar would be arrested multiple times, and be in and out of jail on charges including robbery, trafficking, and assault with a weapon.

The last time he was incarcerated, he was thrown into solitary confinement at Winnipeg’s Remand Centre, because of his gang ties, and he said he spent six months locked in “the hole” sitting alone in a small and isolated cell.

“I had just exited the gang, and when you are an ex-gang member, they keep you in the hole,” he said.

“Solitary is torture, it’s inhumane, but you have to get through it, so I came up with a bit of a routine and I survived.”

But while behind bars there was one opportunity Rayland Boubar found — one he said changed the course of his life — and finally pulled him away from the criminal lifestyle.

“They have an elder on hand, and I started talking with the elder and started learning about history and about colonization, but he had a very different story and different history than what I had heard about my people in the past,” he said.

“I believed everything society said about my people when I was growing up, I was told I was a savage and I believed it, but then I met someone with a new history.

“That was the moment I woke up, that was the moment everything changed.”

He said he also learned that what he was doing

Thompson Citizen photo by Kevin King/Winnipeg Sun Red Rebel Armour founder Sean Rayland-Boubar looks at the four sacred Indigenous herbs pictured on its Protection Path design at his shop on Century Street in Winnipeg on March 29. when he sold drugs was harming him, but also harming the people around him.

“The way I had been surviving was exploiting me and exploiting my people.

I’d been selling drugs to my friends, my aunties, my cousins, and once I finally figured that out, then I knew that I could never go back to that.”

After getting out of jail in 2018, Rayland Boubar went to Red River College, completed a degree in Indigenous Social Entrepreneurship, and he now runs Red Rebel Armour, a successful streetwear business that is run as a social enterprise.

He uses his business to offer jobs to those who have just gotten out of jail and need an opportunity for employment because he said he knows how very difficult it can be for someone with a criminal record to get a job.

But while Rayland Boubar does what he can to offer those opportunities, he said he knows that under the current judicial system, Indigenous men and women will continue to get involved in the justice system at high rates, and continue to reoffend and be in and out of jail.

“We need a new approach, and I think we need to look at the whole justice system differently because these men and women get out of jail and just keep going back, so what we’re doing now isn’t working,” he said.

And statistics back up what Rayland Boubar is saying, as in Manitoba it is estimated that 70 to 80% of

adults currently in custody are Indigenous.

But Indigenous people in Manitoba are also going in and out of jail, according to statistics released in 2019, there is an approximately 30 per cent recidivism rate for offenders in Manitoba who receive a jail sentence as part of their criminal conviction, meaning about 30 per cent of offenders are charged with a new offence and returned to custody within two years of release from jail, or other correctional supervision.

Kate Kehler, the chair of the Restorative Justice Association of Manitoba said one of the reasons she believes recidivism rates are so high in this province is because there is too much focus on punishing offenders and not enough focus on rehabilitating them.

“The conditions in our jails and in our prisons are inhumane,” Kehler said. “And it’s not working because we send them to these places and treat them inhumanly, and then we tell them they have to do better and be better.

“Prison does harm, it does significant harm to people, and then we send them back out into society after they have had no control over their decisions and tell them to get on with their lives, and you can see why it is so easy for them to get involved in criminal activity and back in jail.”

Kehler said she and others believe the solution to recidivism rates in Manitoba lies in offering restorative justice, while also offering more programs and services in and

out of jail.

“We want restorative justice to be the justice system,” Kehler said.

“What we have right now is not working for anyone, so we want to see a move away from that system, and a move to one that is restorative.”

Restorative justice is defined by the government of Canada as “an approach to justice that seeks to repair harm by providing an opportunity for those harmed and those who take responsibility for the harm to communicate about and address their needs in the aftermath of a crime.”

“With restorative justice, we need to help the person that has done the crime, the person who is the victim of the crime, and the larger society as a whole, because currently there is a lack of balance in the justice system, and a focus on punishing the offender,” Kehler said.

But although restorative justice has been defined by the federal government, Kehler said that kind of justice can mean many things, and in some cases can mean an offender and their victim communicating or even getting together in the same room, so they can both better understand what the other person has been through, and understand why the crime happened.

“It’s about accountability and offenders taking accountability for their actions, and one way to heal both the victim and the offender is for the victim to understand this person has taken accountability for what they have

done, and to understand why they did it,” Kehler said.

“When we do this we restore that balance between victim and offender, and the larger society, and if an offender can look their victim in the eye, often that’s a lot more impactful than sitting in a jail cell.”

But not all victims want to meet with offenders, and Kehler said that is understandable, so she said another part of restorative justice and what RJAM would like to see is the offering of more and improved services inside and outside of jail, so those who have been released from prison don’t end up back behind bars.

“Those services are essential because sometimes people spend decades in prison and then we just drop them on the streets,” she said.

“So when they are in and when they are out, it’s so important to have connections that can meet them and work with them without judgment so they know what they have done is in the past, and they can move forward.”

Kehler said she knows some like to refer to restorative justice strategies

as a “soft on crime” approach, but she said that view is not accurate.

“We have politicians go out and do that law and order talk and the tough on crime talk, but those strategies aren’t tough on crime, they’re stupid on crime,” Kehler said. “It makes it sound like you are doing something, but you’re really not helping anything.

“We need to be smart on crime.”

University of Manitoba professor of sociology and criminology Andrew Woolford said restorative justice works best when it is “flexible and used as a framework,” because it can mean very different things to different people and different communities.

“We need to be flexible in how we interpret restorative justice, it’s adaptive to context and it’s adaptive to communities, and communities can have restorative justice programs adaptive to their situations and their needs,” Woolford said.

“Essentially the idea is working through different stages in the aftermath of a criminal event, and when programs are well-resourced, we have seen that they can be very successful.

“It’s strategies that are smart on crime, not soft on crime, and that is what we need to understand.”

And as Rayland Boubar continues on the path he is now on running his business, helping others, and leaving the criminal and gang life behind, he said had an elder not been available when he was locked up in solitary conferment, life would probably look a whole lot different for him than it does now.

“No I would not be on this path if I had not met the elder,” Rayland Boubar said. “And that is why those kinds of services and those opportunities are so important.

“That was the moment I woke up, but if it never happened I would be either be locked up now or I would be dead.”

— Dave Baxter is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of the Winnipeg Sun. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the government of Canada.

Page 10 • News

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Thursday, April 6, 2023

Less than half of First Nations have high-speed internet: auditor general

BY JEREMY APPEL

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, ALBERTA NATIVE NEWS

Less than half of First Nations reserves have access to high-speed internet and cellular connectivity, according to a March 27 report tabled

by Canadian auditor general Karen Hogan.

“These findings emphasize

the persistent digital divide for people living on First Nations reserves and in rural and remote communities, compared to people who live in urban areas,” Hogan said in a news release.

“The government needs to take action so that there is affordable, high-speed connectivity coverage for

Stittco Utilities and Stittco Energy Thompson, Manitoba

Office Clerk/Administrator Full-time 40 The successful candidate will be responsible for answering phones, filing, account reconciliations, collection of accounts by means of small claims court and garnishments, letters and phone calls.

Customer service is a must. This job involves assisting customers with purchases, inquiries and concerns in person or by phone.

Other responsibilities include: Accurate and timely processing of payments and invoices, data entry, daily cash reports and deposits, providing assistance and support to co-workers and other administrative duties as required.

Must be skilled in oral and written communication. Work with little or no supervision and be self-motivated. Familiar with MS Office and the use of office equipment will be an asset.

This position is 40 hours per week with benefits. Salary will be based on experience. References will be required.

Email resume to: scott.scaddan@stittco.com or drop off at 31 Gay Street, Thompson, Manitoba.

year, yet connectivity remains net services, nor does the at 42.9 per cent on reserves Canadian Radio-television and 59.5 per cent in rural and and Telecommunications remote communities. Urban Commission. connectivity, by contrast, is While a community might 99.3 per cent nationally. technically have high-speed In Alberta, 98.65 per cent internet, it’s of little assistof urban households have ance if the connection is of high-speed connectivity, poor quality or prohibitively compared to 40.74 per cent expensive, the audit notes. of rural and 26.91 per cent This is particularly con-Prepared by th of First Nations. cerning as increasing num-HR ADWORK P.E.I. and New Brunswick bers of people work remotely, Service Tea are the only provinces where participate in the digital econFirst Nations connectivity omy, and access education, exceeds rural and remote. medical care, and government In Yukon, no First Nations services online. reserves have high-speed inCellular connection, deAD PROOF & ESTIMATE ternet access. fined by access to the 4G WhileSection the government network, Docket Media Insertion Date is more equitable, Ad Size has dedicated $8 billion to with 99.2 per cent of Can2303-21 C Thompson Citizen Careers Mar 31 & Apr 7, 2023 2 col x 4.3905” expanding internet and cel- ada covered, 100 per cent of Internet lular access across the coun- urban areas, 96.3 per cent of try, it’s unclear how much rural and remote areas, and more funds will be required 87.6 per cent of reserves.

Frontier School Division is seeking applicants to join the to reach its 2030 goal, the In Alberta, those figures are “Frontier Family” for the following position: report notes.

98.69 per cent for rural and Innovation, Science and remote areas and 91.51TOTAL per Guidance Counsellor (Teaching) PRIC Chan Kagha Otina Dakota Wayawa Tipi School Economic Development cent of reserves.

Canada, the ministry reWhile no First Nations Chan Kagha Otina Dakota Wayawa Tipi School is a Nursery sponsible for the connectivity communities in Yukon have to Grade 12 school located in the Birdtail Sioux First Nation, plan, tracks limited measures high-speed internet connecapproximately 4 hours west of Winnipeg. The school has a student population of 150 students with 15 teaching staff of connection quality and tivity, they have 100 per cent members. affordability across the coun- cellular coverage. try. For instance, it doesn’t The report found, however, The Division provides a competitive salary, comprehensive track how many people with that the government has no benefits, transportation and moving expense reimbursement, subsidized housing or housing allowance and isolation access to the internet have strategy for reaching full celallowance in qualifying communities, annual travel actually purchased inter- lular connectivity.

Canadians in all areas of the country.”

According to the report, there’s a growing divide between urban, rural and First Nations communities, despite the federal government’s 2019 connectivity strategy.

The government defines high-speed internet as 50 megabits per second for downloads and 10 megabits per second for uploads. Its long-term goal is to have 90 per cent of households con-

nected by 2021, 98 per cent by 2026 and 100 per cent by 2030.

The report notes that the government hasn’t accounted for whether this speed will be a sufficient minimum by the time its goal of full highspeed connectivity is reached.

Overall, access to highspeed internet has improved across the country, reaching 90.9 per cent nation-wide by 2021, a 4.7 percentage point increase from the previous

reimbursement, reimbursement for approved courses and more!

CREE NATION CHILD & FAMILY CARING AGENCY Family Enhancement Worker – 1-Term Position/1-Permanent Misipawistik Cree Nation Grand Rapids, Manitoba Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency (CNCFCA) is responsible for administering and providing for the delivery of Child and Family Services. CNCFCA is dedicated to providing comprehensive CFS Services that are community-based and incorporate both protection and prevention services.

Our agency will strive to maintain family unity.

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the Service Manager, the Family Enhancement Worker is responsible for providing and administering CFS Services in accordance with the Child & Family Services Act. The Family Enhancement Worker will develop and implement intervention plans within program guidelines and provide referrals, support, guidance and problem solving to families to address issues related to family functioning and mitigate the risk to children. The goal of the program is to increase family capacity and prevent children coming into care.

RESPONSIBILITIES: § Assessment; § Intervention Planning; § File Documentation; § Follow Up. QUALIFICATIONS § Work experience in Child and Family Services with demonstrated knowledge of child development, family centered service, early intervention, family support and community-based services; § Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or related undergraduate degree in Human Services (preferred); § Ability to converse fluently in Cree (preferred); § Excellent assessment, intervention and writing skills; § Knowledge of the Child and Family Services Act and provincial standards; § Ability to use a variety of computer applications including CFSIS and FACTS. CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT § Must pass a criminal records check, child abuse and prior check; § Cannot be active on a protection case; § Maintain absolute confidentiality; § Varied amounts of travel required; § Must have a valid Manitoba driver’s license; § Must be able to provide own vehicle for work; § Required to provide on-call services on a rotating basis; § Other duties related to the position may be assigned.

Deadline: April 14, 2023 @ 4:00 pm Submit cover letter & resume along with three (3) references marked “personal & confidential” to: Human Resource Manager Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency Box 10130, Opaskwayak, MB. R0B 2J0 Fax: 204-623-3847 Email: hr@creenation.ca We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

“Please visit our website at https://creenation.ca” Our office ensures that best practices in COVID-19 are observed. Under Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency’s COVID-19 vaccinations policy, all applicants are required to be fully vaccinated.

To apply for this position please visit our website at www.fsdnet.ca and select “Careers”.

UCN is building better futures for a stronger North. UCN provides learning opportunities to northern communities and its people offering more than forty academic degree, diploma, and certificate programs.

We commit to offering a safe, welcoming and inclusive work

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PROFESSIONAL environment where innovation and creativity is welcomed.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY We offer a generous Total Compensation Package with health benefits, great pension plan along with the opportunity for AWASIS AGENCY personal and professional growth.

OF NORTHERN MANITOBA THOMPSON CENTRAL OFFICE (TCO) DIPLOMA IN PRACTICAL AD & ESTIMATE 701 PROOF THOMPSON DRIVE, NURSING INSTRUCTORS THOMPSON,Media MB Docket Section Insertion Date Ad Size

Position: Accounting Clerk 2303-38 A Thompson Citizen One (1) Full-Time, Term Position (To February 2, 2024) Reporting to the Finance Officer, the Accounting Clerk is responsible for assessing, processing, preparing and completing accounts payable and receivable documents, journal entries, and sharing with the finance department the posting functions on a daily basis into the Accounts Payable system.

There is a requirement for thorough knowledge of the policies, procedures and regulations of the agency. The position involves public contact which requires explaining or defending relatively complex or controversial regulations or procedures. There is a requirement to demonstrate initiative by offering solutions when problems or discrepancies are identified in the system. There is a requirement to be a team player.

Qualifications: • Post-secondary education in finance, accounting or related field • A minimum of 2 years of experience working in accounts payable / receivable • Experience with accounting software • Exceptional attention to detail and assessment skills • Experience with data entry • Analytical problem solving and conceptual skills • Demonstrated knowledge of Northern communities • Ability to speak Cree/Dene preferred Working Conditions: • Fast-paced child welfare environment • Confidentiality environment with access to sensitive information • Provide satisfactory Criminal Record, Child Abuse Registry and Prior Contact checks prior to starting the position, and throughout employment as required.

Salary: Awasis Agency offers a competitive salary and employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience Closing Date: Thursday, April 13, 2023 Awasis Agency provides service to Indigenous children and families, therefore preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. Individuals interested in this challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number 2023-032 on your resume/cover letter and include it in the subject line of your email in confidence to: Human Resources Department Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba Competition #2023-032 701 Thompson Drive, Thompson, MB R8N 2A2 Fax: 204-778-8428 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process **Note: Awasis Agency Vaccination policy mandate: fully vaccinated plus booster

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Full Time Position Internet Swan River & Thompson, Manitoba Competition No: 23-026 Closing Date: May 7, 2023

Please visit our website for more detailed information about UCN and this employment opportunity. At http://www.ucn.ca, select “UCN Careers”, and select from the list of positions to TOTAL PRIC view. Thank you for your interest in UCN.

University College of the North

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UCN is building better futures for a stronger North. UCN provides learning opportunities to northern communities and its people offering more than forty academic degree, diploma, and certificate programs.

We commit to offering a safe, welcoming and inclusive work environment where innovation and creativity is welcomed.

We offer a generous Total Compensation Package with health benefits, great pension plan along with the opportunity for personal and professional growth.

KENANOW ASSISTANT PROFESSOR / UNIVERSITY INSTRUCTOR Kenanow Faculty of Education Full Time, Perm, Position Thompson, Manitoba Competition No: 23-011 Closing Date: May 12, 2023 Please visit our website for more detailed information about UCN and this employment opportunity. At http://www.ucn.ca, select “UCN Careers”, and select from the list of positions to view.

Thank you for your interest in UCN.

University College of the North

HERE YOU CAN UCN.CA

Thursday, April 6, 2023

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Thompson RCMP find missing teen dead A 15-year-old girl who was reported missing after not making it home from the rec centre the previous night was found dead in Thompson’s off-leash dog park March 28.

Her body was discovered around 8 a.m. in the park on Baffin Crescent after a night in which

temperatures dropped to as low as -24 degrees Celsius.

The girl had been reported missing just before midnight the previous day.

She had been with friends at the Thompson Regional Community Centre grounds and was reported missing when she did not

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make it home. She was last seen near where her body was found and police had conducted extensive patrols and made numerous inquiries trying to find her throughout the night.

An autopsy was scheduled to be performed and Thompson RCMP continue to investigate.

Cross Lake-bound booze seized in Thompson Four people from Cross Lake were arrested in Thompson March 26 because they intended to return to the dry community with numerous bottles of liquor.

Thompson RCMP pulled a vehicle over on Mystery Lake Road around 5:30 p.m. and saw several bags containing liquor in plain sight.

The 25-year-old driver said they were returning to Cross Lake to attend a wedding. He and three passengers — two males aged 20 and 21 and a 17-year-old female, all from Cross Lake — were arrested for Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Act offences

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Alcohol headed for Cross Lake was seized by Thompson RCMP on March 26. because the possession and sale of alcohol is prohibited in Cross Lake.

When the officers searched the vehicle, they discovered more alcohol in it.

The driver was charged with unauthorized sale of liquor and delivering liquor to a place where it may not be lawfully kept or possessed under the LCGA. Each charged carries a $2,542 fine.

Police say the estimated resale value of the seized alcohol in Cross Lake is about $3,600.

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA BUNIBONIBEE SUB OFFICE OXFORD HOUSE, MANITOBA Position: Receptionist One (1) Full Time Permanent position Summary of Position: As a member of the administrative team, the Receptionist is the important first contact for clients, visitors, and the public. The incumbent uses good customer service skills to manage calls, visitors, and admin related requests. The Receptionist is responsible for administrative support to staff and assists with projects and events for the Agency. This includes coordinating and communicating office activities, preparing correspondence, and maintaining office, and equipment supplies. The Receptionist is well organized and demonstrates strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with a variety of people in an environment where confidentiality is required.

Qualifications: • High School Diploma or equivalent • Experience living/working in northern First Nations communities an asset.

• 1-2 years office experience preferred.

• Demonstrated time-management skills.

• Good understanding of Microsoft Office suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams).

• Dene or Cree language preferred.

Working Conditions: • Child welfare office environment.

• Highly emotional situations may occur occasionally.

• Provide satisfactory Criminal Record, Child Abuse Registry and Prior Contact checks prior to starting the position, and throughout employment as required.

• Travel, overtime, and on-call responsibilities may be required occasionally.

• May be located in a remote community office or in an urban office.

Salary: Awasis Agency offers a competitive salary and employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience.

Closing Date: Friday, April 21, 2023 Awasis Agency provides service to Indigenous children and families, therefore preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. Individuals interested in this challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number 2023-028 on your resume/cover letter and in the subject line of your email in confidence to: Human Resources Department Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba Competition #2023-028 315 McGee Street, Winnipeg, MB R3G 1M7 Fax: 204-790-4455 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process **Note: Awasis Agency Vaccination policy mandate: fully vaccinated plus booster

News • Page 11

Heavy Duty Mechanic: (Application Deadline April 30) Industrial Mechanic/Millwright: (Applicaiton Deadline April 30)

Visit valejobs.ca or scan the QR code to visit Vale’s career page and apply to join the Vale Thompson family.

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA UNIT/OFFICE: THOMPSON SERVICE DELIVERY OFFICE (TSDO) LOCATION: THOMPSON, MB Position: Case Aide One (1) Full Time Permanent position Summary of Position: The Case Aide provides practical and administrative support to the Worker(s) and Supervisor(s) in their assigned Unit. While following guidelines related to clients’ safety and privacy, the Case Aide is responsible for facilitating case-related activities on behalf of the unit when working with families and children. Demonstrating a working knowledge of legislation, Agency policies and practices the Case Aide is responsible to check case progress, conduct interviews, assist with compiling case particulars for Court, ensuring accurate and timely documentation, among other tasks.

Qualifications: • Some post-secondary education, or an acceptable combination of education and work experience.

• 1-2 years of experience in an administrative role or child welfare work environment.

• Proficiency in use of Microsoft office (Excel, Word, Teams, and Outlook).

• Valid Class 5 Driver’s License.

• Good understanding of Northern First Nation cultures and communities.

• Ability to speak and write Cree/Dene an asset.

Working Conditions: • Fast-paced, time-sensitive child welfare working environment.

• Provide satisfactory Criminal Record, Child Abuse Registry and Prior Contact checks prior to starting the position, and throughout employment as required.

• Independent work performed as part of a team.

• Access to highly sensitive and confidential material for which privacy must be maintained.

• Performing on-call rotations, and overtime required.

• Occasional lifting to 30 lbs.

• Up to 20% travel, some of which may be remote and overnight.

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA SHAMATTAWA (UNIT OR THOMPSON) SHAMATTAWA OR THOMPSON, MB Position: Intake Investigator One (1) Full-Time Permanent Position ***Preference to Local Applicants*** A key member of the Child & Family Services (CFS) Unit, the Intake Investigator ensures that the appropriate range of services and programs to children and families are delivered in accordance with the philosophy, practices and policies as set forth by Awasis Agency First Nations and the Child and Family Services Act of Manitoba. The incumbent performs the work from a prevention and trauma-focused lens, acting on referrals, and completing thorough assessments to ensure the safety of children. The position requires critical thinking, problem-solving and analytical skills. The work is performed in an environment requiring collaboration with others, and confidentiality.

Qualifications: • BSW, or in progress of attaining a BSW in combination with relevant experience.

• 1+ years’ experience within the child welfare field.

• Knowledge of CFS legislation, standards, and regulations.

• Experience with using the CFSIS database, including IM an asset.

• A valid drivers’ license and access to a reliable vehicle.

• Knowledge of, or work experience in northern Manitoba communities preferred.

• Demonstrated understanding and respect for Indigenous culture.

• Ability to speak Cree an asset.

Working Conditions: • Fast-paced child welfare environment with a focus on prevention and trauma informed interventions.

• Overnight and remote travel approximately 40% of the time.

• Some overtime required.

• Access to very sensitive information for which confidentiality is required.

• Provide satisfactory Criminal Record, Child Abuse Registry and Prior Contact checks prior to starting the position, and throughout employment as required.

Salary: Awasis Agency offers a competitive salary and employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience

Salary: Awasis Agency offers a competitive salary and employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience.

Closing Date: Friday, April 14, 2023

Closing Date: Friday, April 14, 2023

Awasis Agency provides service to Indigenous children and families, therefore preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. Individuals interested in this challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number 2023-029 on your resume/cover letter and in the subject line of your email in confidence to: Human Resources Department Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba Competition #2023-029 701 Thompson Drive, Thompson, MB R8N 2A2 Fax: 204-778-8428 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process **Note: Awasis Agency Vaccination policy mandate: fully vaccinated plus booster

Awasis Agency provides service to Indigenous children and families, therefore preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. Individuals interested in this challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number 2023-031 on your resume/cover letter and include it in the subject line of your email, in confidence to: Human Resources Department Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba Competition #2023-031 701 Thompson Drive, Thompson, MB R8N 2A2 Fax: 204-778-8428 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process **Note: Awasis Agency Vaccination policy mandate: fully vaccinated plus booster

Thompson RCMP Drug Tip Line

204-677-6995

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Page 12 • Resource Guide

Thursday, April 6, 2023

Biden, Trudeau promise upgrades to Arctic defence

BY JEFF PELLETIER

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE RE­ PORTER, NUNATSIAQ NEWS

U.S. President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have committed billions of dollars in spending to bolster defence in the Arctic.

The announcement came in a joint statement March 31 following Biden’s address to Parliament, the first president to speak before Parliament since Barack Obama in 2016.

The spending includes $7 billion for surveillance-system modernization and acquiring new over-the-horizon radar systems.

Biden and Trudeau also announced $7.3 billion to go toward aircraft modernization, including preparation for Canada’s purchase of F-35 fighter jets.

In his wide-ranging speech to Parliament, Biden touted the importance of defending the Arctic through improvement and modern-

Thomson Citizen photo by Jeff Pelletier, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Nunatsiaq News U.S. President Joe Biden, left, speaks alongside Prime Minister Justin Trudeau after addressing Parliament on March 31. ization of the North American Aerospace Defence Command, or Norad.

“We’re working in close co-ordination to steward and protect the northern-

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA UNIT: SPLIT LAKE (TATASKWEYAK) SUB-OFFICE LOCATION: SPLIT LAKE, MB Position: Child & Family Services Worker One (1) Full-Time Permanent Position Reporting to a Unit Supervisor, the Child & Family Services Worker (CFS) is responsible to implement the policies, procedures and specific direction of Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba when working with families and children in child protection. Duties include managing a case load, conducting interviews and assessments, compiling case particulars for Court, investigating/follow up on allegations of child protection issues, maintaining regular visits, providing accurate and timely documentation, developing long/ short term case plans, developing/facilitating workshops, community education and networking with collateral resources/services.

Qualifications: • Bachelor of Social Work Degree (BSW) with experience in child welfare preferred, or a combination of experience and training.

• Commitment to community-based service delivery.

• Working knowledge of CFS legislation, standards and issues.

• Knowledge of Child & Family Services Information System (CFSIS) an asset.

• Assessment, interviewing, and counselling skills.

• Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills.

• A strong work ethic and reliable.

• Proven ability to prioritize workloads and meet deadlines.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.

• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently, as well as part of a child protection unit team.

• Sensitivity to, and an understanding of First Nations culture and values.

• Ability to speak Cree and/or Dene an asset.

Working Conditions: • Fast-paced environment.

• Confidentiality environment with access to sensitive information.

• Overnight and remote travel approximately 20% of the time.

• Provide satisfactory Criminal Record, Child Abuse Registry and Prior Contact checks prior to starting the position, and throughout employment as required.

• Maintain a valid driver’s license and have access to a reliable vehicle.

Salary: Awasis Agency offers a competitive salary and employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience.

Closing Date: Friday, April 21, 2023 Awasis Agency provides service to Indigenous children and families, therefore preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. Individuals interested in this challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number 2023-033 on your resume/cover letter and include it in the subject line of your email, in confidence to: Human Resources Department Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba Competition #2023-033 701 Thompson Drive, Thompson, MB R8N 2A2 Fax: 204-778-8428 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process **Note: Awasis Agency Vaccination policy mandate: fully vaccinated plus booster

most regions of our world,” Biden said.

“Soon, Norad will have a new next-generation over-the-horizon radar to enhance our early warning capacity, upgraded under-

sea surveillance systems, modernized infrastructure necessary to host the most advanced aircraft.”

Over-the-horizon radar has the capability to detect targets hundreds of kilo-

CREE NATION CHILD & FAMILY CARING AGENCY Family Enhancement Worker – Permanent Position Thompson Sub Office Thompson & Lynn Lake, MB Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency (CNCFCA) is responsible for administering and providing for the delivery of Child and Family Services. CNCFCA is dedicated to providing comprehensive CFS Services that are community-based and incorporate both protection and prevention services.

Our agency will strive to maintain family unity.

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the Unit Supervisor(s), the Family Enhancement Worker is responsible for providing and administering CFS Services in accordance with the Child & Family Services Act. RESPONSIBILITIES: § Responsible for gathering information and assessing child and family functioning problems; § Responsible for the development of case plans for children and families within program guidelines and provide referrals, support, guidance and problem solving; § Responsible for all file documentation, referrals, ensuring services are applied; § Case Monitoring, Risk Assessment & Follow up; § Provides case management and support for children in care and families.

QUALIFICATIONS § Work experience in Child and Family Services with demonstrated knowledge of child development, family centered service, early intervention, family support and community-based services; § Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or related undergraduate degree in Human Services (preferred); § Ability to converse fluently in Cree (preferred); § Excellent assessment, intervention and writing skills; § Knowledge of the Child and Family Services Act and provincial standards; § Ability to use a variety of computer applications including CFSIS and FACTS.

metres beyond the scope of ordinary radar.

“I’m looking forward to continuing to work in close partnership with Canada as we deliver on these needs so that our people can continue to rest soundly knowing Norad is on the watch,” Biden continued.

His speech received a standing ovation from the audience of MPs and invited dignitaries.

Trudeau echoed Biden’s comments on Arctic security.

“We’re continuing our work to meet the evolving security challenges we face today,” Trudeau said in a press conference after the speech.

Strengthened northern security was a concern for the MPs from Nunavut and Nunavik ahead of the presidential address. Nunavut Sen. Dennis Patterson said so directly to Biden, in a greeting line on Parliament Hill March 31.

“We’re going to modernize Norad and guard North

America for you,” Patterson said while shaking Biden’s hand.

Biden covered several topics in his speech.

The war in Ukraine was top of mind. The president reaffirmed the U.S. and Canada’s support for the country in its fight against the Russian invasion.

Biden also used his speech to touch on trade, resource extraction, job growth, and Canada and U.S. involvement in the ongoing conflict in Haiti.

The speech held an overall optimistic tone for the future of the Canada and U.S. relationship.

“The world needs Canada and the United States working together with our partners around the world to rally strong and effective global action,” Biden said.

He also threw a humorous jab at the Toronto Maple Leafs, saying that as a Philadelphia Flyers fan the Leafs are the only Canadian NHL team he doesn’t like.

CREE NATION CHILD & FAMILY CARING AGENCY Human Resource Generalist– Permanent Position LOCATION: Regional Office OFFICE: The Pas, Manitoba Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency (CNCFCA) is responsible for administering and providing for the delivery of Child and Family Services. CNCFCA is dedicated to providing comprehensive CFS Services that are community-based and incorporate both protection and prevention services.

Our agency will strive to maintain family unity.

POSITION SUMMARY: The Human Resource Generalist facilitates and provides a full range of HR services to CNCFCA and all employees in various locations.

Provides guidance, support and direction regarding all Human Resources matters to all CNCFCA. RESPONSIBLITIES: § Employee Attendance § Training and Development § Benefits Administration § Compensation § Recruitment and Selection § Employee Communication EDUCATION & TRAINING § Human Resources Management Diploma or related equivalent education (preferred) § Minimum three years human resources management experience is required KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE § Ability to use a variety of computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and database systems § Ability to deal effectively with a variety of visitors and circumstances § Knowledge of customer service (preferred) § Good organizational skills and working knowledge of office and administrative procedures and related equipment (preferred) § Excellent oral and effective communication skills (preferred)

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT § Must pass a criminal records check, child abuse and prior check; § Cannot be active on a protection case; § Maintain absolute confidentiality; § Varied amounts of travel required; § Travel is required to work in Lynn Lake office one week per month; § Must have a valid Manitoba driver’s license; § Must be able to provide own vehicle for work; § Other duties related to the position may be assigned.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT § Must pass a child abuse registry check and prior contact check § Cannot be active on a protection case. § Must maintain absolute confidentiality in accordance with agency requirements. § Varied amounts of travel required § Must have a valid Manitoba’s driver’s license § Must be able to provide own vehicle for work § Other duties related to the position may be assigned

Deadline: April 7, 2023 @ 4:00 pm

Deadline: April 14, 2023 @ 4:00 PM

Submit cover letter & resume along with three (3) references marked “personal & confidential” to: Human Resource Manager Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency Box 10130, Opaskwayak, MB. R0B 2J0 Fax: 204-623-3847 Email: hr@creenation.ca

SUBMIT COVER LETTER & RESUME ALONG WITH THREE (3) REFERENCES MARKED “PERSONAL & CONFIDENTIAL” TO: Human Resource Manager Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency Box 10130, Opaskwayak, MB. R0B 2J0 Fax: 204-623-3847 Email: hr@creenation.ca We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

“Please visit our website at https://creenation.ca” Our office ensures that best practices in COVID-19 are observed. Under Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency’s COVID-19 vaccinations policy, all applicants are required to be fully vaccinated.

We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

“Please visit our website at https://creenation.ca” Our office ensures that best practices in COVID-19 are observed. Under Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency’s COVID-19 vaccinations policy, all applicants are required to be fully vaccinated.

Thursday, April 6, 2023

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Careers • Page 13

Steven Guilbeault disappointed Bloc, NDP, Greens supported Tories’ carbon price exemption bill

BY NATASHA BULOWSKI

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, CANADA'S NATIONAL OBSERVER

A bill exempting fossil fuels used for certain farming activities from the federal carbon price is headed to the Senate after the Conservatives, Bloc Québécois, NDP and Greens joined forces to pass it on March 29.

If it becomes law, Bill C-234 will add natural gas and propane used to dry grain and heat livestock barns to the list of exempted farm fuels, which already includes diesel and gasoline.

“It’s disappointing to see the NDP, the Green Party and the Bloc — parties who claim to be progressive — vote alongside the Conservative Party to effectively weaken climate action in Canada,” Environment and Climate Change Minister Steven Guilbeault said in an emailed statement to Canada’s National Observer.

“Our government will always stand up for putting a price on pollution, which has long been recognized by people

on both the right and the left as the best market-based approach to cutting greenhouse gases and driving cleaner technologies.”

Guilbeault went on to reference the high cost of climate-related disasters like floods, storms and wildfires, which often hit farmers hard.

Three Liberal MPs voted in favour of the bill, which was sponsored by Ontario Conservative MP Ben Lobb: P.E.I. MPs Heath MacDonald and Robert Morrissey, and Kody Blois, MP for Kings-Hants, N.S. Because the carbon price is a “highly charged issue that matters in an agrarian riding” like Blois’, it made sense for him to vote against his party, said Alex Marland, professor and head of the department of political science at Memorial University. As Marland pointed out, Kings-Hants has some Progressive Conservative voting history. The federal Conservatives have made the carbon price a key issue, with leader Pierre Poilievre and his caucus harping on it at every opportunity.

In a news release, Warren

CREE NATION CHILD & FAMILY CARING AGENCY Intake Worker – Permanent Position Designated Intake Office The Pas, Manitoba Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency (CNCFCA) is responsible for administering and providing for the delivery of Child and Family Services. CNCFCA is dedicated to providing comprehensive CFS Services that are community-based and incorporate both protection and prevention services.

Our agency will strive to maintain family unity.

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the DIA Service Manager and as required under the Child and Family Services Act, the Intake Worker assesses requests for service with reference to risk of children, functioning of families and service needs of families, provides crisis intervention, initiates child protection investigations, apprehends children at risk and places them in appropriate and/or available placements, initiates referrals to other community collaterals as required, and completes written reports, file recordings, forms and correspondence.

RESPONSIBILITIES: § Receive & Assess Requests For Service § On-Site Risk Assessment § Determine & Implement Service § Documentation, Practice & Relationship Building EDUCATION AND TRAINING § Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or related undergraduate degree in Human Services § Work experience in Child & Family Services with demonstrated knowledge of child development, child abuse, family-centered service, early intervention, family support and community-based services EXPERIENCE § Excellent assessment, intervention and writing skills § Knowledge of the Child and Family Services Act and provincial standards § Understanding of child development and child abuse theory and practice § Knowledge of available resources within the community § Ability to use a variety of computer applications such as CFSIS and FACTS § Ability to converse fluently in Cree (preferred) CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT § Must pass a criminal records check, child abuse registry check and prior contact check. § Cannot be active on a protection case. § Varied amounts of travel required within this position. § Must have a valid Manitoba driver’s license. § Must be able to provide own vehicle for work. § Other duties related to the position may be assigned.

Deadline: April 14, 2023 @ 4:00 PM Submit cover letter & resume along with three (3) references marked “personal & confidential” to: Human Resource Manager Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency Box 10130, Opaskwayak, MB. R0B 2J0 Fax: 204-623-3847 Email: hr@creenation.ca We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

“Please visit our website at https://creenation.ca” Our office ensures that best practices in COVID-19 are observed. Under Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency’s COVID-19 vaccinations policy, all applicants are required to be fully vaccinated.

Steinley, the Conservative’s associate shadow minister for agriculture, declared the bill’s passage a “big win” that will “put tens of thousands of dollars back in the pockets of Canadian farm families.”

Many environmental groups, including Environmental Defence, warn the bill will erode the power of carbon-pricing signals used to drive innovation for low-carbon solutions.

While farmers “do not yet have a full suite of options available to replace fossil-fuelled grain dryers and barn space heating,” tax rebate programs have, and can, be used to support farmers without weakening the carbon price, Tim Gray, executive director at Environmental Defence, said in a news release.

“Exempting these high-emission activities from carbon pricing for farmers will only further encourage other sectors to demand similar treatment,” he said, pointing to ongoing problems with this in other sectors, in particular, the oil and gas industry.

The environmental organization is urging the Senate to make amendments requiring the federal government to change the tax and regulatory regime to accelerate the development and adoption of clean energy technologies that can be used in farm operations.

Last year, the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food amended the bill to include a sunset clause that will end the natural gas and propane exemption eight years after the bill comes into force. It also includes the option for Parliament to extend the exemption if viable technologies are not available.

This means the industry will get “a little break right now, but it's not going to last forever,” NDP agriculture critic Alistair MacGregor said in January.

In response to concerns about the erosion of the carbon price signal, MacGregor has said the carbon price isn’t incentivizing farmers to switch technologies because there’s a lack of commercially viable alternatives to propane-run grain dryers.

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA UNIT/OFFICE: WINNIPEG SERVICE DELIVERY OFFICE (WSDO) 315 MCGEE STREET WINNIPEG, MB Position: Case Aide One (1) Full-Time Permanent Position Summary of Position: Reporting to the Regional Unit Supervisor the Case Aide is responsible for facilitating case-related activities (on behalf of their unit) when working with families and children in the field of child protection and must follow all guidelines related to clients’ safety and privacy. The duties would include, but not limited to assist with case management administration, provide administrative support to case workers/Unit, including developing strong relationships with clients, acting as a liaison for Agency and clients, preparing reports, check progress and reports about cases, conducting interviews, assisting with compiling case particulars for Court, ensuring accurate and timely documentation, assist with developing long/short term case plans, developing/facilitating workshops, community education and networking with collateral resources/services.

Qualifications: • Combination of education and experience in related field • Previous experience in child welfare is preferred • Knowledge of CFS legislation, Regulations and Provincial Standards • Knowledge of Child & Family Services information System (CFSIS) would be an asset • Excellent written and oral communication skills • Excellent assessment skills • Good organizational, time management and prioritizing skills • Proficiency in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, and Outlook) • Must be self-motivated with the ability to work independently and in a team setting • Sensitivity to and an understanding of First Nations culture and values • Ability to speak and/or understand the Cree or Dene language would be considered an asset

The same day Bill C-234 was passed, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada announced up to $22.2 million for 45 new projects related to farmers adopting more efficient grain-drying technology across the country.

Geerts Farms Ltd. is receiving up to $2 million to purchase and install a new grain dryer and biomass boiler powered by locally sourced wood waste, thus completely eliminating the need for propane to dry its crops, according to the release.

To date, the adoption stream of the department’s Agricultural Clean Technology Program has supported 99 grain dryer projects across the country, according to the federal agriculture department.

Over the last two years, the federal government has invested more than $1.5 billion in programs to help farmers reduce emissions, including the aforementioned nearly half-billion-dollar Agricultur-

al Clean Technology Program, which helps farmers purchase more energy-efficient grain dryers and heating systems, said Guilbeault.

Liberal NDP Ryan Turnbull told Canada’s National Observer the eight-year exemption does not encourage farmers to change or invest in new technology because it takes away the power of the carbon price signal.

Disincentivizing investment in developing alternative technologies is only one of several problems with the bill, Turnbull told Canada’s National Observer in late January.

“One other big problem with this bill is that it actually double compensates, because we've already offered farmers a rebate in the last federal budget,” said Turnbull. “So it creates problems and confusion, because now we're going to have a rebate and an exemption … it doesn't work. You can't have both.”

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA OFFICE: FOX LAKE SUB-OFFICE LOCATION: FOX LAKE, MB Position: Family Enhancement Worker One (1) Full-Time Permanent Position Reporting to a Family Enhancement Supervisor, the Family Enhancement Worker will provide children and families with support services to keep them from entering the child and family services protection system by providing preventative service opportunities and resources, facilitating awareness and education, advocacy and counselling. The overall aim is to engage parents, extended family, and community partners in identifying problems and participating in services and supports that address family needs. The Family Enhancement Worker will utilize a continuum of resources, develop case plans, coordinate the resources and supports needed and arrange linkages/connections to other community resources such as day programs, respite services and other culturally appropriate resources. The Family Enhancement Worker will possess and utilize the interpersonal skills to work with children, families, staff, and collaterals.

Qualifications: • • Bachelor of Social Work Degree (BSW) with experience in child welfare preferred, or a combination of experience and training • • Commitment to community-based service delivery • • Working knowledge of CFS legislation, standards and issues • • Knowledge of Child & Family Services Information System (CFSIS) an asset • • Assessment, interviewing, and counselling skills • • Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills • • Demonstrated crisis intervention and conflict resolution skills • • A strong work ethic and reliable • • Proven ability to prioritize workloads and meet deadlines • • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook • • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently, as well as part of a prevention unit team • • Sensitivity to, and an understanding of First Nations culture and values • • Ability to speak and/or understand the Cree language would be an asset

Working Conditions: • Fast-paced environment • Confidentiality environment with access to sensitive information • Overnight and remote travel approximately 5% of the time • Satisfactory Criminal Record, Child Abuse Registry and Prior Contact checks prior to beginning work and throughout employment as requested.

• Maintain a valid driver’s license and have access to a vehicle

Working Conditions: • • Fast-paced environment • • Confidentiality environment with access to sensitive information • • Overnight and remote travel approximately 20% of the time • • Maintain a satisfactory Prior Contact check, Child Abuse Registry Check, Criminal Record Check and Driver’s Abstract prior to starting the position and throughout employment as required.

• • Maintain a valid driver’s license and have access to a vehicle

Salary: Awasis Agency offers a competitive salary and employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience

Salary: Awasis Agency offers a competitive salary and employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience

Closing Date: Friday, April 14, 2023

Closing Date: Friday, April 14, 2023

Awasis Agency provides service to Indigenous children and families, therefore preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. Individuals interested in this challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number 2023-027 on your resume/cover letter and in the subject line of your email in confidence to: Human Resources Department Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba Competition #2023-018 315 McGee Street, Winnipeg, MB R3G 1M7 Fax: 204-790-4455 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process **Note: Awasis Agency Vaccination policy mandate: fully vaccinated plus booster

Awasis Agency provides service to Indigenous children and families, therefore preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. Individuals interested in this challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number 2023-030 on your resume/cover letter and include it in the subject line of your email, in confidence to: Human Resources Department Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba Competition #2023-030 701 Thompson Drive, Thompson, MB R8N 2A2 Fax: 204-778-8428 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process **Note: Awasis Agency Vaccination policy mandate: fully vaccinated plus booster

will incorporate NHR core competencies into working practice (Customer/ Client Focused, Initiative & Pro-activity, Diversity Awareness, Teamwork, and Collaboration, Development of Self and Others, and Adaptability).

The incumbent must fulfill the requirements of the Criminal Records/Vulnerable

Page 14 • Careers Person, Child Abuse Registry check and Adult Abuse Registry check, and adhere

upon to assist with other duties within the scope of the department.

Position Requirements:

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to all Northern Health Region policies and procedures.

Qualifications: t Grade 12 education or equivalent t Successful completion of a recognized Dental Assistant Program required t Current active practicing registration with Manitoba Dental Association t Excellent knowledge of Windows based programs (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Internet) t Minimum three (3) years’ experience as a Dental Assistant required t Previous experience working with Pediatric cases preferred t Ability to speak Cree an asset

• • • • • • • •

For complete list of qualifications please visit our website www.nrha.ca.

Closing Date: January 5, 2018 at 4pm. No late submissions will be accepted.

The City of Brandon is currently accepting applications for a:

Millwright- Journeyperson ICI

Please submitaresume 2, 2018 to: Millwright trade as part To perform varietyby ofFebruary duties related to the Lori Rasmussen, Recruitment Officer of a journeyperson team that performs skilled maintenance work 867 Thompson Drive South within the water and1Z4 wastewater treatment facilities, lift and booster Thompson, MB R8N stations, and groundwater wells of Development Services.

Fax: (204)lagoons, 778-1477 Email: recruiteast@nrha.ca Competition # 230044 $BMM VT UPEBZ -PDBM PS 5PMM 'SFF

Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on April 14, 2023.

Northern RHA has a Representative Workforce Strategy, we encourage all applicants to selfFor more detailed information about this opportunity and how to apply, declare. Criminal Record, Child Abuse, & Adult Abuse Registry Checks are required. We thank all please go candidates for to: applying. Only those selected for interview will be contacted.

http://jobbank.brandon.ca/

www.nrha.ca

WORK WITH US & GROW A CAREER

Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical CRNM or CLPN – Active Registration Valid Manitoba Class 5 Driver’s License Daily access to a vehicle Criminal record & child abuse registry checks 2 years of related nursing experience Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook Immunization record up to date

Highway and winter road patrols disrupt bootlegging

A three-day blitz of pa- District Crime Reduction Include: Enforcement Support Team, trolsApplications on northernMust highways and winter roads disrupted traffic services and the rov• A cover letter that clearly indicates how you meet bootlegging and drug traf- ing traffic unit conducted the position requirements ficking and led to numerous patrols on Highway 6 and • Resume tickets RCMP Highway 373 as well as on • being Copy issued, of credentials (licenses, training, education) say.• Three references (colleague, the supervisor winter roads leading to or manager) Fromand March 10-12, of- the Island Lake and Gods contact information ficers detachments Lakeabuse areas.registry checks • from Criminal record check & child (or indication that they have75 been appliedwere for) issued in Wabowden, Cross Lake tickets Personal contact information & email) period and• Norway House, along over(phone the three-day with members of the North and four arrest warrants Your application will not proceed to interview without the above information. To obtain a complete job description, for additional information or to apply for this position please contact or submit your application to:

Glacier Media Group is growing.

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

Got a job to advertise?

CREE NATION CHILD & FAMILY CARING AGENCY

Administrative Assistant – Permanent Position Pukatawagan Sub Office Colomb Cree Nation call us at Mathias 204 -6774534

Our agency will strive to maintain family unity.

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the Service Manager, the Administrative Assistant serves as the first point of contact for Agency clients, guests, visitors or others. The Administrative Assistant serves to receive and direct people, correspondence and contact/calls to the appropriate Agency personnel or department. The Administrative Assistant provides a professional and pleasant point of entry for the Agency and will maintain strict confidentiality in performing all duties.

RESPONSIBILITIES: § Types, edits, formats and transcribes reports, forms, correspondence, files, recordings, minutes, case planning notes and other material as assigned by the Unit Supervisor. Composes routine correspondence and maintains templates; § Receives, screens, assesses, transfers telephone calls and takes messages; § Maintains daily attendance records, monitors, records, and relays information regarding staff whereabouts; § Assists with photocopying, faxing and other administrative duties as assigned; § Manages incoming and outgoing mail; § Provides information about administrative procedures for all unit staff; § Coordinates meetings and meeting spaces. Takes minutes at meetings as required; § Enters information on CFSIS; § Monitors and operates office equipment; § Provides support to other administrative staff as needed; § Maintain confidentiality in accordance with the agency policy and procedures; § Petition documents; § Apprehension papers; § File court documents; § Attend court when required; § Order birth certificates.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE § Post Secondary Diploma or equivalent; § Ability to converse fluently in Cree (preferred); § Ability to use a variety of computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and database systems; § Ability to deal effectively with a variety of visitors and circumstances; § Knowledge of customer service (preferred); § Good organizational skills and working knowledge of office and administrative procedures and related equipment (preferred); § Excellent oral and effective communication skills (preferred).

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT § Must pass a criminal records check, child abuse registry check and prior contact check; § Cannot be active on a protection case; § Must maintain absolute confidentiality in accordance with agency requirements; § May be assigned to provide coverage or support for other office locations from time to time and as required; § Other duties related to the position may be assigned.

Deadline: April 7, 2023 @ 4:00 pm Submit cover letter & resume along with three (3) references marked “personal & confidential” to: Human Resource Manager Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency Box 10130 Opaskwayak, MB. R0B 2J0 Fax: 204-623-3847 Email: hr@creenation.ca We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

“Please visit our website at https://creenation.ca” Our office ensures that best practices in COVID-19 are observed. Under Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency’s COVID-19 vaccinations policy, all applicants are required to be fully vaccinated.

Qualifications: •

RN or BN preference for someone with a nursing background in rehab care and must be in good standing with CRNM; or Bachelor of Education or Bachelor of Social Work were • executed.

SupervisoryCharges and case management experience; were laid against one Principle Child First Initiative; • also Knowledge of Jordan’s • for Child development background or equivalent person impaired driving Experience in First Nation Communities; and•against anotherworking for traf• CPR and Aide Certification; ficking under theFirst Cannabis Excellent skills Act.• Police also computer seized sig• Knowledge of Cree language and culture; nificant amounts of liquor, • A highly-motivated individual who is innovative and including bottlesability from to a work with a very high degree has26 a proven single vehicle. of accuracy and attention to detail; • Excellent time management and facilitation skills; RCMP patrolled winter roads • Effective verbal and listening communications skills; March • 10-12.

Strong leadership, critical thinking, decision making RCMP photoskills. and problem solving • Valid Driver’s License, with ability to travel weekly.

• The position is subject to satisfactory criminal and other checks, and is subject to terms and conditions in a proposed written agreement.

Missing 18-year-old found dead in Cross Lake Email or drop off only

Cree Nation Tribal Health Centre 107 Edwards Avenue, The Pas An 18-year-old Pimi- was found dead by a lake on Noreen Singh, Finance Manager, nsingh@tribalhealth. cikamak Cree Nation womanca or March 24.

Wilma Cook, TNO/Team Lead, wcook@tribalhealth.ca Please mark all correspondence “CONFIDENTIAL”

HELP WANTED

Please note that 2 only thoseSecurity selected for an Airport Guards interview will be contacted

or email ads@thompsoncitizen.net

Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency (CNCFCA) is responsible for administering and providing for the delivery of Child and Family Services. CNCFCA is dedicated to providing comprehensive CFS Services that are community-based and incorporate both protection and prevention services.

Assistant to the Case Manager and Respite Workers, in each SCTC community to provide a model of service delivery for children with complex needs and their families. Provide elements in which services have a particular responsibility to take the lead in securing Thursday, April 6, 2023 effective development, delivery and review of services.

Recognize the deficits with service systems and the need to protect children through early intervention, sharing of information, effective co-ordination of services and appropriate training.

Thompson, MB

Please forward a resume with 3 references along with cover letter, in confidence, to:

The woman, whoEmail police munity for the woman in the or drop off only believe had Singh, been outside hours leading up to the discovNoreen Financefor Manager, nsingh@tribalhealth.ca period of time prior to dying, ORery of her body.

Wilma Cook, missing TNO/Team wcook@tribalhealth.ca autopsy was scheduled had been reported thatLead, An morning after having last been to be performed and Cross Deadline to Apply: Open until filled. seen on March 21.

Lake RCMP continue to investigate.

Officers searched the comOnly successful applications will be contacted for further interview.

HELP WANTED

Start: Salary: Hours:

As soon as possible 21.00 hourly 80 hours bi-weekly Permanent, Full-time employment Day, Evening, Weekend, Overtime, Early Morning, Morning Benefits: Health benefits, Long term benefits Job Bank #2370253

Start: Salary: Hours:

Overview Languages • English Education • Secondary (high) school graduation certificate • or equivalent experience Experience • Will train Work site environment • Air conditioned • Noisy • Wet/damp • Cold/refrigerated • Odours • Hot • Outdoors Work setting • Airport • Transportation facility Responsibilities Tasks • Enforce regulations to maintain order and resolve conflicts and to monitor establishment activities • Investigate unlawful acts of employees or patrons of establishments and recommend security systems • Operate security control room equipment • Patrol assigned areas • Pick up and deliver cash and valuables Credentials Certificates, licences, memberships, and courses • Class 5/5F/G Licence (cars, small trucks and other 2-axle vehicles) • Security Guard License Experience and specialization Computer and technology knowledge • MS Excel • MS Outlook • MS Word Additional information Security and safety • Child Abuse Registry check • Driver’s validity licence check • Criminal record check Transportation/travel information • Own transportation • Valid driver’s licence • Own vehicle Work conditions and physical capabilities • Attention to detail • Sitting • Combination of sitting, • Standing for extended periods standing, walking • Walking • Fast-paced environment • Work under pressure • Physically demanding Personal suitability • Efficient interpersonal skills • Reliability • Excellent oral communication • Team player • Judgement Benefits Health benefits • Dental plan • Health care plan • Disability benefits • Vision care benefits Long term benefits • Life insurance • Pension plan How to apply By email: melissa.lounsbury@fly-yth.ca By mail: Box 112 Thompson, MB R8N 1M9 This job posting includes screening questions. Please answer the following questions when applying: • Are you available for shift or on-call work?

• Are you currently legally able to work in Canada?

• Do you currently reside in proximity to the advertised location?

• Do you have previous experience in this field of employment?

• Do you have the above-indicated required certifications?

Overview Languages • English Education • Secondary (high) school graduation certificate Experience • Experience an asset Responsibilities Tasks • Arrange and co-ordinate seminars, conferences, etc.

• Record and prepare minutes of meetings, seminars and conferences • Determine and establish office procedures and routines • Schedule and confirm appointments • Answer telephone and relay telephone calls and messages • Answer electronic enquiries • Compile data, statistics and other information • Order office supplies and maintain inventory • Arrange travel, related itineraries and make reservations • Greet people and direct them to contacts or service areas • Open and distribute regular and electronic incoming mail and other material and co-ordinate the flow of information • Set up and maintain manual and computerized information filing systems • Type and proofread correspondence, forms and other documents Experience and specialization Computer and technology knowledge • Electronic scheduler • MS Word • MS Excel • Quick Books • MS Office Technical terminology • Financial • Business Area of specialization • Correspondence • Invoices • Reports and records • Charts, tables, graphs and • Statistics diagrams Additional information Transportation/travel information • Own transportation • Valid driver’s licence Work conditions and physical capabilities • Repetitive tasks • Fast-paced environment • Work under pressure • Attention to detail • Tight deadlines Benefits Health benefits • Dental plan • Health care plan • Disability benefits • Vision care benefits Long term benefits • Group insurance benefits • Registered Retirement Savings • Pension plan Plan (RRSP) How to apply By email: melissa.lounsbury@fly-yth.ca By mail: Box 112 Thompson, MB R8N 1M9 This job posting includes screening questions. Please answer the following questions when applying: • Are you available for shift or on-call work?

• Are you currently legally able to work in Canada?

• Do you currently reside in proximity to the advertised location?

• Do you have previous experience in this field of employment?

• Do you have the above-indicated required certifications?

Administrative Assistant Thompson, MB As soon as possible 22.00 hourly 80 hours bi-weekly Full-time employment Day, On Call Benefits: Health benefits, Long term benefits Job Bank #2371758

Thursday, April 6, 2023

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Careers • Page 15

‘Drop in the bucket:’ Indigenous advocates weigh in on Budget 2023 RoseAnne Archibald said over five years to establish a lack of investment in youth positive, but she wanted to lion investment over seven Prime Minister Justin Trudeau federal-provincial-territorial programming. see the federal government years in housing for urban, has failed to create economic committee to respond to the The federal government pro- invest in programming for rural and northern Indigenous opportunities for First Nations. crisis, according to the budget. posed $171 million in funding Indigenous children in urban communities, but the money The federal government Indigenous advocates said the Efforts will include discussing for Jordan’s Principle, a legal environments to help them net- is “nowhere near the amount should have invested more in budget lacks sufficient invest- how best to launch an alert to rule that ensures Indigenous work, find mentors, develop that's needed to fill the gap in Indigenous people, critics and ments in Indigenous youth and find Indigenous women and youth have access to the prod- leadership skills and have fun. housing.” advocacy groups said about its action plan to respond to the children when they go missing. ucts, services and support they Formsma and Groulx both “(Ottawa) stated their prithe budget released March 27. crisis of missing and murdered “It's such a small amount,” need. Ottawa also announced it orities and their goals around said they had hoped Ottawa This year’s federal budget Indigenous people.

Groulx said. “It's like a drop would provide $444.2 million reconciliation, and the well-be- would budget more to ensure includes investments in In“There was a bit of shock,” in the bucket in the scale of over three years to support the ing of children and youth really Indigenous people had equitdigenous Peoples’ housing, Lynne Groulx, the CEO of the what's needed to really address Peguis First Nation in Mani- needs to be a cornerstone of able access to the same sereconomic participation, Native Women’s Association the issue.” toba and Louis Bull Tribe First that,” Formsma said. “We want vices and amenities as other health care and child welfare. of Canada, said. “We are more Jocelyn Formsma, CEO Nation in Alberta, which took to see them going up front and Canadians.

Congratulations to the “We think they could do It also contains funding for the than disappointed.” of the National Association control over their child welfare helping to build and support $2.8-billion Gottfriedson Band Ottawa announced about of Friendship Centres, said systems this year. folks Century early on.” better,” Groulx said. “That's Quarter Inductees class settlement agreement and $145 million towards its MMI- she had requested funding Formsma said these investFormsma said she was not what this reconciliation is Ottawa’s plan to end the tra- WG action plan, including for friendship centres, which ments in child welfare were “encouraged” by the $4-bil- about.” gedy of missing and murdered $95.8 million over five years offer community, cultural Indigenous women and girls to help Indigenous families and support programming 1990 – 26 years of service Congratulations to the (MMIWG). However, critics find information about their for Indigenous people across Jamie Braendle Refinery Mine Job Title: Heavy Duty Mechanic say that’s not enough. Quarter missing relatives. Inductees Canada. When she saw the Birchtree Century James Lister Bill Cox Peter Marks On March 28, Assembly of The federal government budget on March 27, she Join Vale today.

Rob Vancoughnett Stan Wong Ryan First Nations National Chief will also spend $2.5 million was “underwhelmed” by the Raymond Continuously learn throughout career.

Russell Dick Dean your Richter Grant Richter

BY ISAAC NAY

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, CANADA'S NATIONAL OBSERVER

1990 – 26 years of service

Jamie Braendle Refinery Birchtree Mine Job Title: Industrial Mechanic/Millwright James Lister Bill Cox Peter Marks Join Vale today.

Rob Vancoughnett Stan Wong Raymond Ryan Continuously learn throughout your career.

Russell Dick Dean Richter Grant Richter David Randell Shops and Thomas Balfour Who We Are: Sheldon Yurkiw Transportations Divisional Welcome to Vale in Canada. Our purpose is to improve life and transform the future. We value our Tyler Teneycke Smelter workforce and offer continuous training and career development opportunities for our people.

Support Steve Nelson Mine of nickel. Active in ToniVale Paulic is a global leader in the production of iron ore and one of the largestT1 producers Darcynearly Hayduk Keith Belton Canada for over 100 years, Vale employs 6,000 people across our corporate office in Toronto and Lab Darryl Gerus Kenneth Dreolini sites in Manitoba, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador. Applying the latest technologies to sustainably Brian Brass Kevin Danroth mine critical minerals that power electric vehicles, create renewable energy solutions and help develop T3 Mine Warehouse life-saving medical equipment is atKevin the heart of what we do.

Robert Van Drunen Stadnek Brian Wilson With our global headquarters in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and approximatelyHuman 125,000 employees in over 30 Richard Sanche Resources/Safety and Reid changing. We invite you to be Health part of our evolution Millcountries, Vale is constantly growing Travis and Environment have a proud history of mining in Manitoba. with two operating Jeff We Haney Perry Oxford Ralph Brown Our operations in Thompson, mines and concentrator plant, is located in the awe-inspiring heart of the northern boreal region. It has a strong future in mining and milling, with an ongoing mission to grow as a safe, prosperous, and sustainable nickel producer.

1991 – 25 years of service

David Randell Sheldon Yurkiw

Shops and Transportations Divisional Welcome to Vale in Canada. Our purpose is to improve life and transform the future. We value our Tyler Teneycke Smelter workforce and offer continuous training and career development opportunities for our people.

Support Steve Nelson Mine of nickel. Active in ToniVale Paulic is a global leader in the production of iron ore and one of the largestT1 producers Darcy Hayduk Keith Belton LabCanada for over 100 years, Vale employs nearly 6,000 people across our corporate office in Toronto and Darryl Gerus Kenneth Dreolini sites in Manitoba, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador. Applying the latest technologies to sustainably Brian Brass Kevin Danroth mine critical minerals that power electric vehicles, create renewable energy solutions and help develop T3 Mine Warehouse life-saving medical equipment is atKevin the heart of what we do.

Robert Van Drunen Stadnek Brian Wilson With our global headquarters in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and approximatelyHuman 125,000 employees in over 30 Richard Sanche Resources/Safety and Reid changing. We invite you to be Health part of our evolution Millcountries, Vale is constantly growing Travis and Environment have a proud history of miningRalph in Manitoba, dating back to 1956 whenPerry we discovered Jeff We Haney Oxford the Thompson Brown Thomas Balfour Who We Are:

Nickel belt. Our operations in Thompson, with two operating mines, is located in the awe-inspiring heart of the northern boreal region. It has a strong future in mining and milling, with an ongoing mission to grow as a safe, prosperous and sustainable nickel producer.

1991 – 25 years of service

Mill Chris Lagace Birchtree Mine Our Team: Travis Bloomer Glenn Michel The Caron Heavy Duty Mechanic is integral forHofer employee safety and Vale’s long term operating strategy.

Corey Willoughby DanMembers Decorbyof this team will work atSteve the T3Long Mine to ensure the mobile fleet is effectively contributing to Camille Meuse and shortproduction profile. Team members are also involved in the development of long-term Jensthe Henkel Refinery maintenance initiatives, practices procedures.

Kenneth Kolada Terryterm White Johnand McNevin Scott MacMillan Chad Redman Dennis Nychuk Why Thompson

Mill Chris Lagace Birchtree Mine Systems Thompson the North.”

The town was developedIT in the 1950s around our mine Lothian Craig Hanlonis known as the “Hub ofStuart Our Team: Travis Bloomer Glenn Hofer and is now a thriving community.

Our home boasts a close-knit and involved community Michel Caron Angela Haasewith a vibrant Pat Lamontagne Gary Unrau The Industrial Mechanic/Millwright is integral for employee safety and Vale’s long term operating artsFilipe and music scene and is knownRoger for its Katchmar hospitality and welcoming nature.

Willoughby Long Danstrategy.

Decorby Members of this team willSteve work at the Thompson Operations to Corey ensure the process equipment David T1 Mine Camille Meuse Thompsonites, as we call ourselves, areHanlon always ready to welcome new people to town and excited to infrastructure is effectively contributing members are also involved Jensand Henkel Jeff Refineryto the production profile. Team John Dygos Divisional share its gems with them.

Above all, the main draw to Thompson is its unspoiled wilderness filled with the development of long-term and short-term maintenance initiatives, practices and procedures.

Kenneth Kolada Rob Ricketts Terryin White John McNevin Allan Goudy Support waterfalls and wildlife, making it the perfect place for the adventurous soul.

Scott MacMillan Chad Redman Dennis Nychuk Why Thompson Ian Mckenzie Utilities EricFrom Antonyshyn the Northern Lights1990 to ice fishing, skating, skiing,of hockey, sledding, hunting and every winter – 26 years service – 26 years Systems Thompson “Hub ofStuart the North.”

The townof was service developedIT in the 1950s around our mine Lothian Craig Hanlonis known as the1990 Warren Heath Steve Nakonechny Claude Hykawy sport you can imagine, if you love the outdoors, Thompson is the perfect place for you and your family. and is now a thriving community.

Our home boasts a close-knit and involved community with a vibrant Angela Haase Pat Lamontagne Gary Unrau Wayne Schroeder General Engineering Jamie Braendle Refinery Jamie Braendle Refi Birchtree Mine Birchtree Warehouse artsFilipe andMine music scene and is knownRoger for nery its Katchmar hospitality and welcoming nature.

The Opportunity David T1 Mine Kevin Murphy James Lister Smelter Bill Cox James Lister Bill Cox Peter Marks Peter Marks Greg Fennell We are currently seeking Heavy Duty Mechanics to join our Maintenance Department in Thompson, Thompsonites, as we call ourselves, areHanlon always ready to welcome new people to town and excited to Jeff John Dygos Bert Wentzell Rob Vancoughnett Divisional Brad Wright Stan Wong Rob Vancoughnett Stan Wong Raymond Ryan Raymond Manitoba.

This is a permanent position share itsRyan gems with them. Above all, the main draw to Thompson is its unspoiled wilderness filled with Sean Parsons Rob Ricketts Allan Goudy Marvin Russell McNevin Dick David Mitchell Dean Richter Support Russell Dick Dean Richter Grant Richter waterfalls perfect place for the adventurous soul.

Grant Richterand wildlife, making it the As a Heavy Duty Mechanic, you will be responsible for repairing, troubleshooting, adjusting, overhauling, Human Resources/Safety Ian Mckenzie Utilities Kent Korzenowski David Randell Eric Antonyshyn Shops and David Randell Shops andand every winter Thomas Balfour servicing maintaining underground mobile mining equipment. Your experience and skills will contribute Thomas From Balfour the Northern Lights to ice fishing, skating, skiing, hockey, sledding, hunting Health andand Environment Warren Heath Steve Nakonechny Gerry Pilloud Sheldon Yurkiw maintenance work to Transportations Sheldon Yurkiw Claude Hykawy Transportations to scheduled or emergency repairs, and preventative be done in the shop or field. sport you can imagine, if you love the outdoors, Thompson is the perfect place for you and your family.

Divisional Divisional Sheila Thompson Wayne Schroeder General Engineering Sean Gallagher Adrian Degroot Tyler Teneycke Tyler Teneycke Smelter Smelter Additionally, in this position, you will.

Warehouse Support The Opportunity Support Kim Hayes Kevin Murphy William Birch Terence Milligan Smelter • Inspect, diagnose, adjust, repair, assemble, replace and test internal combustion, electric mobile Steve Nelson Steve Nelson T1 Mine Greg Fennell T1 Mine are currently seeking Industrial Mechanic/ Millwrights to join our Maintenance Department in Toni Paulic ToniWe Paulic Brad Volanski Bert Wentzell Ronald White Eddy Dusecina Brad Wright equipment and electric/hydraulic production equipment and related systems Darcy Hayduk Darcy Hayduk Keith Belton Thompson, position.

Keith Belton Sean ParsonsManitoba. This is a permanent Lab• Perform Marvin McNevin Lab Chris Grieves metal welding, excluding pressure welding David Mitchell Mines Engineering T3 Mine Darryl Gerus Darryl Gerus Kenneth Dreolini Kenneth Dreoliniinspecting, As anResources/Safety Industrial Mechanic/Millwright, you will be responsible for installing, dismantling, Human Brian • Brass Align and safety regulations Brian Brass Don Landego Kent Korzenowski Shops andwill contribute to Cecile Kellywith work safety policies Keith Hykawy Kevin Danroth Kevin Danroth and maintaining mine and/or surface plant equipment.

Your experience and skills T3 Mine T3 Mine Health and Environment • Lamontagne Report deviations to established procedures Gerry Pilloud Warehouse Terry Warehouse James MacInyre Learning Development interpreting instructions, sketches, drawings, templates, work orders,Transportations procedures data sheets Robert Vanand Drunen Robert Van and Drunen Kevin Stadnek Kevin Stadnek • Respond to emergency situations as required Sheila Thompson Sean Adrian Degroot Brian Wilson Dan Dnistransky Steve Peterson Richard Blake related to work assignments in either theGallagher shop or field.

Brian Wilson Richard Sanche Human Resources/Safety Richard Sanche Human Resources/Safety • Follow established Company Health, Safety, and Environment policies and procedures Kim Hayes William Birch Terence Milligan MillAbout You MillAbout Travis Reid Health and Environment You Travis Reid Health and Environment Brad Volanski Ronald White Eddy Dusecina The ideal candidate will have anRalph Inter-Provincial Red Seal Certificate of Qualification as an Industrial Jeff •Haney Jeff •Haney Oxford as a Heavy Ralph Brown Red Seal (CertificatePerry Perry Oxford Brown The ideal candidate will have an Inter-Provincial of Qualification) Chris Grieves MinesMechanic/Millwright Engineering T3 Mine Duty Mechanic Don Landego Cecile Kelly of 4 years of industrial • Minimum is preferred. This includes experience with: Keith Hykawy • Minimum of 4 years of 1991 industrial – experience is preferred. includes experience with: 25 years of This service 1991 –experience 25 years of service ◊ Installing, maintaining and repairing hydraulic equipment, mechanical drives, systems, Terry Lamontagne James MacInyre Learningconveyors and Development ◊ Braking systems on large mobile equipment overhead Mill on mobile equipment Chris Lagace Birchtree Mine Mill ChrisDnistransky Lagace Birchtree Mine cranes and pumpsRichard ◊ Maintenance of hydraulic systems Dan Steve Peterson Blake Installing and maintaining boilers compressors Travis Bloomer Michel◊Caron Travis Bloomer Glennand Hofer Complex electrical and radioGlenn remoteHofer control systems Michel◊Caron ◊ Experience maintaining grinding mills, crushers, and screening systems Corey Willoughby ◊ Differentials, torque converters andLong power transmissions Steve Corey Willoughby Steve Long Dan Decorby Dan Decorby ◊ Experience maintaining mine hoisting and conveyance systems would be considered an asset. ◊ Air and liquid cooled, DPU controlled diesel engines Camille Meuse Camille Meuse Jens Henkel Jens Henkel Refinery Refinerypressure piping system ◊ Fabricating, installing and maintaining ◊ 24 VDC wiring/control systems Kenneth Kolada Kenneth Kolada Terry White Terry White John McNevin John McNevin ◊ Welding experience would be considered an asset How can Vale grow your career?

Scott MacMillan Scott MacMillan Chad Redman Dennis Nychuk Chad Redman How can Vale grow your career? Dennis Nychuk The Heavy Duty Mechanic is a maintenance position that will allow theITright candidate to shape our Systems Stuart Lothian IT the Systems Craig Hanlon Lothian position that will allow Craig TheHanlon Industrial Mechanic/MillwrightStuart is a maintenance right candidate to shape mining operations. Additionally, Vale Canada offers a series of benefits including: Angela Haase Angela Haase Pat Lamontagne Gary• Unrau PatVale Lamontagne Garyour Unrau mining operations. Additionally, Canada offers a series of benefits including: Competitive salary Roger Katchmar • Competitive salary Roger Katchmar David Filipe Mine David Filipe T1 Mine • Attractive pension and benefits (company paid core coverage, health,T1 dental and disability plans) • Attractive pension and benefitsJeff (company paid core coverage, health,John dentalDygos and disability plans) Jeff Hanlon Hanlon John Dygos • Leave for all of life’s reasons (vacation, sick, top up for maternity/parental) Divisional Divisional • Leave for all of life’s reasons (vacation, sick, top up for maternity/parental) Rob Ricketts Rob Ricketts • Work culture dedicated to safety, diversity & inclusion and career growth Allan Goudy Allan Goudy Support Support • Work culture dedicated to safety, diversity & inclusion and career growth • Online training and career development opportunities Ian Mckenzie Ian Mckenzie Utilities Utilities Eric Antonyshyn Eric•Antonyshyn Online training and career development opportunities • Opportunities to grow your career in aNakonechny large global company, and mining industry leader Warren Heath Warren Heath Steve Steve Nakonechny Claude • Opportunities Claude Hykawy to grow your career in a large global company, and mining industry leader • OnHykawy site Gym Facilities Wayne Schroeder Wayne Schroeder General Engineering General Engineering • On site Gym Facilities • Participation in our Employee Family Assistance Program Warehouse Warehouse Kevin Murphy • Participation in our Employee Family Assistance Program Kevin Murphy Smelter Smelter GregDifference Fennell Makes All the Difference Greg Fennell Bert Wentzell Bert Wentzell Brad Wright Difference Makes All the Difference Brad Wright Sean At Parsons Vale, we are committed to ensuring an inclusive work environment where people feel comfortable to Sean Parsons Marvin McNevin Marvin McNevin David Mitchell David Mitchellwork environment where people feel comfortable to At Vale, we are committed to ensuring an inclusive be themselves.

Vale encourages everyone to express their ideas and opinions and values the plurality Human Resources/Safety Human Resources/Safety Kent Korzenowski be themselves.

Vale encourages everyone to express their ideas and opinions and values the plurality Kent Korzenowski Shops and respected and Shops and of individual profiles. We want our people to feel that all voices are heard, all cultures Health and Environment Health and Environment of individual profiles. We want our people to feel that all voices are heard, all cultures respected and Gerry Gerry Pilloud Transportations that a variety of perspectives are not onlyPilloud welcome – they are essential Transportations to our success. We treat each Sheila Thompson Sheila thatThompson a variety of perspectives are not only welcome – they are essential Adrian to our success.

We treat each Sean of Gallagher other fairly and with dignity regardless race, gender, nationality, ethnic origin,Degroot religion, age, sexual Adrian Sean Gallagher Degroot fairly and with dignity regardless of race, origin, religion, age, sexual Kimorientation Hayes or any other personal William Kimother Hayes consideration Birchthat makes us different.Terence Milligan William Birchgender, nationality, ethnic Terence Milligan consideration that makes us different.

BradVale Volanski Bradorientation Volanskior any other personal Ronald Ronald White Eddy Dusecinaand improve is an equal opportunity employer seeking to increase diversity across our operations White Eddy Dusecina Vale is an equal opportunity employer seeking to increase diversity across our operations and improve equal opportunity at Vale and in the mining industry.

Chris Grieves Chris Grieves Mines Engineering Mines Engineering T3 Mine T3 Mine equal opportunity at Vale and in the mining industry.

Don Landego In accordance with the Accessibility for Manitobans is available throughout our Don Landego Cecile Kelly Cecile Kelly Keith Hykawy Act, accommodation Keith Hykawy In accordance with the Accessibility for Manitobans Act, accommodation is available throughout our recruitment process for applicants with disabilities.

Terry Lamontagne James MacInyre Learning and Development Terryrecruitment Lamontagne MacInyre Learning and Development process for applicantsJames with disabilities.

Apply by: April 30, 2023 Dan Dnistransky Steve Peterson Richard Blake Dan Dnistransky Steve Peterson Richard Blake

Congratulations to the Quarter Century Inductees

Apply by: April 30, 2023

Congratulations to the Quarter Century Inductees

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Page 16 • Resource Guide

Thursday, April 6, 2023

Doing it differently: In the days since the AJI, Winnipeg police taking strides to improve relationships with Indigenous people Continued from page 7 “I want to listen to their side of the story and be able to tell them our side of the story, and see if we can meet someone in the middle. It’s those kinds of things that can lead all of us to a better place.”

One way WPS has been working to improve relationships with Indigenous people and with all communities is by creating the superintendent of community engagement position and appointing long-time WPS police officer Bonnie Emerson to that role.

Emerson, a Métis woman, said police want to improve relationships with any and all groups that have been historically marginalized.

“We have looked at, ‘Who are the leaders in the diverse communities, including Indigenous people, people of colour, LGBTQ and other groups so we can have collaboration, and have a police service that hears diverse views and opinions,” Emerson said.

According to Emerson, in interactions that Winnipeg police have in the community, the goal is always conflict resolution, and never conflict.

“It’s a timely trend that

we’re seeing now across the country with police figuring out, ‘How do we respond with a measured approach using education before enforcement wherever possible, and with the goal always being to de-escalate?’ ” Emerson said she believes WPS should be recognized as a police force finding unique and effective strategies to work with Indigenous communities.

“I will never say any organization is perfect,” Emerson said. “But I think more and more here in Winnipeg, police are seen as an example of how you can take steps to decolonizing the system, and an example of how things can be done differently.”

She did admit she wishes more police officers on Winnipeg’s force would be willing to share the things they do to help people in the community, but said often officers don’t want publicity for doing their jobs.

“I’m blown away by the caring of police, but we don’t often hear those stories because we will say, ‘Let’s put out a release’ and a lot of officers will just say, ‘No we were just doing our job.’

“But in the absence of

hearing those positive things it’s a lot easier to focus on the negative.”

She said that high profile incidents like the death of Eisha Hudson do put more focus on the interactions of police and Indigenous people, but she said it is important for people to form opinions based on facts.

“First of all, the effect of anyone losing their life is deeply, deeply disturbing, and I think that police officers care and we absolutely want to do the right thing,” she said.

“But more and more the extreme hostility on either end is completely inappropriate. Asking your police to be accountable and to be transparent is absolutely appropriate, but extreme hostility is not.”

NDP MLA Nahanni Fontaine, who is a member of the Sagkeeng First Nation and a long-time advocate for rights and justice for Indigenous people under the criminal justice system, says it is also a long and disturbing history that continues to have Indigenous people lacking trust of police officers, and something that is engrained into many Indigenous people.

“There still is longstanding distrust of the WPS or

any policing institutions for that matter,” Fontaine said.

“It cannot be overstated enough the role police played in the oppression of our peoples. Most Canadians don’t realize or know the North-West Mounted Police were solely created and established as the vehicle and the means by which western settlement was executed.

“The N o r t h - We s t Mounted Police cleared lands to make way for Euro-Canadians westward.”

She said police also played a role for generations in forcing Indigenous children into residential schools, and that’s not something that can be easily forgotten.

“The RCMP was implicit in the theft and forced removal of our children to residential schools, and with parents and grandparents often put under the threat of arrest if they didn’t give up their own children.”

And although she said she has seen WPS implement strategies to better work with Indigenous communities in Winnipeg, she does not believe those strategies always translate into positive changes on the city’s streets.

“I believe the WPS have developed strategies or engaged on a more respectful relationship with Indigenous peoples at the executive level,” Fontaine said.

“But I suggest that doesn’t necessarily always get translated into those interactions on the ground, in the street, in general patrol.”

She added she is often concerned because that lack of trust leads to some Indigenous people avoiding contacting the police, sometimes even in emergency situations, which could leave some in dangerous situations, and feeling they have nowhere to reach out for help.

“No one should ever feel they can’t reach out to police,” Fontaine said.

Fontaine does believe changes and improvements could now be “sped up” because more Manitobans of all backgrounds understand the history of Indigenous people in this country, and understand they have historically been marginalized by systems including police forces and the criminal justice system.

“I think what’s changed in the last many years is a sense of awareness and solidarity from settler

Canadians who are beginning to see and somewhat understand colonial Canada, the Indian Residential School system and its intergenerational harms, and that the system is set up to favour non-Indigenous people.

“This new awareness and understanding manifests agency from these folks demanding better from governments, education, health care and themselves.”

And although she said the relationship has “ebbed and flowed” over the years, what she says has never changed is the over-representation of Indigenous people within the justice system in Winnipeg, the province and across the country and until that is dealt with no one can say that any relationship is improving.

“Despite having the blueprint, we still have a system that discriminates against Indigenous peoples,” Fontaine said.

“That’s the bottom line, and that fact remains.”

— Dave Baxter is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of the Winnipeg Sun. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the government of Canada.

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3 Station Road Thompson, MB R8N 0N3 Phone 677-3642 Fax: 778-6557 Office Rentals

Top to bottom, trust the experts!

ü Creaks ü Squeaks ü Clunks ü Bangs WE FIX THOSE! Hi-Tech Automotive 36 Nelson Rd, Thompson, MB

204-677-5936

Bob’s Towing Services

Now running under new ownership!

Indigenous owned and operated.

Call us for all your local and long distance towing needs.

TOWING–WINCHING–BOOST–LOCKOUT–TIRE CHANGE Our exceptional staff will be happy to assist you.

204-677-8699 • 73 Hayes Rd, Thompson MB

N.C. Crossroad Lanes 10 Pin & 5 Pin Bowling • Glow Bowling Sports Bar • Strikers Lounge Homemade Pizza • VLTs • Video Games Computerized Scoring • Birthday Parties Twoonie Tuesdays • Closed Sundays + Holidays 2nd Floor North Centre Mall - 677-4415 Nick Di Virgilio, Proprietor

HAIR STUDIO - TANNING SALON MANICURES & PEDICURES