March 24 2023

Nickel Belt News

Volume 58 Number 11

Friday, March 16, 2018

Thompson, Manitoba

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Friday, March 24, 2023

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Volume 63 • Issue 11

Provincial bill to loosen alcohol sale laws could be headache for Thompson

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

BY IAN GRAHAM

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Councillors are generally in agreement that legislation to enable the sale of alcohol in stores other than government liquor stores and private beer vendors would not be beneficial for Thompson.

The bill, which is currently making its way through the Manitoba legislature, was discussed by council at their March 20 committee of the whole meeting.

A provincial news release says the legislation wold establish a five-year pilot project enabling retail stores to sell booze and bring Manitoba more in line with other Canadian jurisdictions where the sale of liquor in retail stores is permitted, according to Municipal Relations Minister Andrew Smith.

“As this is before the house, I believe that council should have a look at this and the City of Thompson make its feelings felt because I can see a number of impacts on policing ser-

vices, issues in the retail stores,” said city manager Anthony McInnis. “We've had multiple discussions with the previous [RCMP] inspectors that when liquor is available in the community, the issues that show up at three, four or five in the morning, as the liquor is consumed.”

Mayor Colleen Smook said the city should voice its concerns to the provincial government and also encourage surrounding communities to do the same, “We also get a lot of complaints that a lot of bootlegging happens out of Thompson,” she said.

Expressing doubts that private retailers would have the same sort of security as Liquor Mart, where customers have to provide identification so the information on it can be scanned and stored temporarily in the computer system to discourage theft, Coun, Brian Lundmark asked if the province would be sending a fleet of social workers to help cope with

the fallout of the proposed change as well.

“I just don't see this helping us in any way,” he said. “We need to be spending more time on all the social problems.”

McInnis said in response to a question from Coun, Sandra Oberdorfer that it wasn’t clear if the city would have the ability to regulate the hours of liquor sales or only the hours that stores that sell liquor can be open.

“Is it you can just say the shop can open or closed or can you actually specify products X, Y, Z that can only be sold during these hours?” he said.

Whether councillors like or dislike the idea of alcohol being sold in more locations is less important than finding out what, specifically, the city can do to regulate its sale, said Coun.

Duncan Wong.

“We can agree or disagree,” he said. “I think you just need to find out what other restrictions, what can we do? What type of authority we can have.”

Thompson Citizen photo by gilaxia/Getty Images Provincial legislation to allow liquor to be sold in retail stores as part of a five-year pilot project did not find favour with Thompson councillors at their March 20 committee meeting.

20.6 cm of snow that fell Wednesday officially third-highest one day snowfall in March since 1967 snow on the ground at the end of March 15 this year, It didn’t set an all-time slightly less than the 82 cm record, but March 15 was that were on the ground on — officially — one of the the same date two years ago. snowiest days in March since There is, however, an Nickel Belt News photo by Ian Graham weather records started being asterisk beside these recAddictions Foundation of Manitoba northern director Gisele deMeulles has written a book about her experiences growing up, mostly in Churchill. kept back in 1967. ords. Environment Canada Environment Canada says did not record any snowBY GRAHAM For all the harsh weather that you7have 20.6IAN centimetres of snow to fallwrite datathings on March and ‘Oh, I’m just as bad, right?’ was not a very safe thing swallow when people say EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET I have all these stories and to fi gure out.

It’s pretty clear to do but I jumped at it.

I that Churchill residents and the dangers of polar fell in Thompson on March March 8, 2017, when a she’s I get through.”

15,Though a record fornow thatwritten date. when massive blizzard basically I need to capture them for thought that was exciting should just find somewhere bears, deMeulles said if it a book about her experienDeMeulles said sheforcing wrote my grandchildren really until the plane landed and easier to live. had been viable she would However, it wasn’t even the shut down the city, ces growing up in Churchill, her book, titled Whispers in because they will be lost if they started throwing the “To say, ‘Those people have moved back to Churchsnowiest March day overall City Hall and Thompson Addictions Foundation of the Wind: Stories the I don’t.” fuel off and I realized, ‘Holy choose to live there. They ill in a heartbeat. of the last three years, with schools to close forfrom at least Manitoba director - Life Churchill for She also has a reputation cats, I was probably sitting should just leave,’ is quite “I miss the shoreline, I a total onenorthern cm less than the North one day andin other facilities Gisele deMeulles said writa couple of reasons. as a storyteller herself. on a bomb.’” simplistic.

It’s quite disremiss the rock, I miss the 21.6 centimetres that fell on like the arena and pool and ing wasn’t something she “I just sort of thought, “I had such a varied hisAnother thing that spectful.

If we were in the polar bears even though March 29, 2021. The snow- services such as transit and always thought would this days his- tory and I would tell people spurred her on was the same boat in another area they’re very dangerous and iest March day onshe record in you trashknow pickupwhat, for three do. this stuff that’s in my stories and they would go, hard times facing Churchill I think we would scream I really miss the Hudson Thompson was March 16, tory, or longer.

Multiple vehicles “In my youth I never head, it’s going to be gone ‘That’s not true, is it?’ I’d go, since the Hudson Bay Rail- about that so why don’t they Bay,” she says. “When I go 1996, when 26.4 cm of snow were stranded on city streets felt good at writing,” it down,” she ‘Yeah it’s true.’ They’d go, way suspended operations have the option to do that? back home, standing on the fell in the city.

Those areshe the if forI don’t days write during that March said.

“But when I moved said.

“My kids are not go- ‘You didn’t do all that, did north of Gillam last spring. I think right now they’re Hudson Bay looking out on only three recorded March storm. Emergency medical to Thompson to get into ing to get it if I don’t do it you? You’ve got to be really “It used to be a really feeling like they’re pawns the bay, it just gives you an dates in Thompson since responders used two Bomthe of more socialthan work, it’s snowcats something I’ve al1967school that saw 20 and bardier loaned to old.’ I was like, ‘No, actually thriving large community in a political game and that’s incredible sense. You feel so at pointfall I had write ways wanted my&mom to I did all that before I was and it’s just dwindled down really sad for them because I small and you feel great.” cmthat of snow in 24tohours.

Thompson Fire EmerforMore university and realized, do.

My mom’s an elder and Now that she’s got snow fell in Thomp- gency Services by Manitoba 27,’ and they went ‘What?’” to such a small population think the people of Church‘Holy, I’m not bad at this, she’s an artist, she’s got so now,” deMeulles says. one book under her belt, Looking back, some of ill really want to thrive. son on Tuesday and Wed- Hydro to respond to calls that right?’ certainly developed wonderfulatstories be- those experiences are things Though she’s not there They’ve built their worlds deMeulles says she may try nesday Iof last week — 34.2 many year, including least one a lotincluding of skill in13.6 university she always her she might not do again. any longer, her parents and there. How would we feel to produce another. cm, cm on cause emergency that wastells a matter and came out of there with stories at Parks Canada in “I did some pretty bizarre her sister and other family if someone came to you and “I have another book in March 14 — than usually of life and death. a very strong all skill in my Churchill said, ‘I’m sorry, you have to me,” she says. “It’s a darker falls throughout of March, At one and pointI’ve in always March stuff like fuel hauls into the members still are. writing and confidence in hounded ‘Please, just high Arctic at -35,” said “My cousin owns the leave your home community Thompsonstory, Citizenmore photoabout

by IanpersonGraham which has a historical aver2017, thereher, were more than my writing.

I write very put it on tape, I will write it deMeulles.

“It didn’t dawn hardware store there,” she and we’re going to displace al growth and struggles. highest age of 23. 4 cm over its 31 100 cm of snow on the About 34 centimetres of snow fell in Thompson March 14-15, including 20.6 centimetres on Wednesday, one of the clear that’s it. It’s there. you in because your story on me until after. Thatsnowfalls was a says. you somewhere else and all Maybe in the next five years days.and There were 80 cm of for ground Thompson. recorded single-day in March since 1967.

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

Friday, March 24, 2023

Provincial missing persons response team being established Manitoba’s government announced March 20 that it will spend $2.1 million to establish a provincewide integrated missing persons response team, headed up by the Winnipeg Police Service’s missing persons co-ordinators.

More than 9,300 people were reported missing in Winnipeg alone in 2022 and Manitoba RCMP receives about 10 missing persons reports across the province every day — more than 3,500 a year — with 53 per cent of those being reported to northern detachments, said Asst. Comm.

Rob Hill, Manitoba RCMP commanding officer.

The reasons people are reported missing vary, said Manitoba Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen, though he noted that a high percentage — 63 per cent of all missing persons in 2021 — are runaway female youth.

“Many are young people in the CFS system,” he said.

“Others are runaways from northern First Nations communities and they remain on the street and vulnerable to violence, to exploitation, and abuse.”

Some missing women and girls travel to Winnipeg or other urban centres or are lured there or trafficked there and find themselves at high risk of being exploited, said Families Minister Rochelle Squires.

Winnipeg Police Chief Danny Smyth said the two biggest sources of missing persons reports in the city are youth runaways from group homes and also people who have moved to Winnipeg for education or employment or travelled there for health care or even just visited for fun.

“They’re not used to the dangers and harms that can come with the city and they become vulnerable,” he said.

The integrated response team will facilitate better sharing of information between city police services in Winnipeg and Brandon and RCMP detachments throughout the rest of the province.

“By having that co-ordinated response it allows us to share information quickly,” Smyth said.

Heidi Spence, director of Manitoba Keewatinowi

YouTube screenshot Manitoba Keewatinowi Okmakanak Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls liaison unit director Heidi Spence speaks during a March 20 news conference announcing provincial funding for an integrated missing persons response team while Manitoba Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen looks on.

Okmakanak’s Missing said better communication when their loved one goes Reach North team a little and Murdered Indigenous between police and the missing.” over three years ago. By Women & Girls liaison unit families and loved ones of As recently as 2019, establishing relationships missing people is important. Thompson alone had more with children and youth “I’m really happy to hear than 2,000 missing persons at risk of going missing or about this initiative,” she reports filed with RCMP an- being exploited, including said. “I look forward to nually. Over the past few teens in CFS care living in working with everyone and years, that number has de- group homes in Thompson, seeing how we can better clined to about 1,500 per the team manages to deterwork with each other and year, and was trending even mine the whereabouts of be able to share informa- lower for 2022. A big factor many AWOL group home tion quickly to families so in the decline was the re-es- residents before police get we can try to help them tablishment of the Street- involved.

HISTORIC HELP

for Manitoba Seniors Budget 2023 provides more for seniors to strengthen home care, expand seniors' housing and enhance accessible transportation.

It creates new programs to fund hearing aids, insulin pumps and diabetes glucose monitors and dedicates more to expanding and building new hospitals.

Shoplifters who threatened workers have knives and brass knuckles seized

Budget 2023 Help for what matters most

manitoba.ca Manitoba Budget 2023 TC 3col x 120ag 4.84"x8.57"

RCMP photo Thompson RCMP seized brass knuckles and knives from five youth accused of stealing and making threats March 20 at the City Centre Mall.

Thompson RCMP seized store asked the teens to leave either incident. brass knuckles and knives and were threatened with bear When police arrived, a from five teenage males who spray, police say, before the short foot pursuit ensued were shoplifting and threat- five youth fled. before the suspects, who ening store employees and The teenage males re- included a 13-year-old, security guards on March 20. turned and tried to get into three 14-year-olds and one Police were called to the the mall another way but were 16-year-old, were arrested.

City Centre Mall around 8:20 prevented from doing so by The weapons were seized p.m. Monday by a report of security, who were allegedly and the five youths were refive youths stealing from threatened with knives. manded into custody pending businesses. Employees of a No one was injured in a court appearance.

Friday, March 24, 2023

www.thompsoncitizen.net

News • Page 3

Union says proposed registry would make teachers vulnerable

BY MAGGIE MACINTOSH

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

A Manitoba bill to create a virtual registry of teachers — resumés and disciplinary records included — has been touted as a step towards transparency, but the profession’s largest union says it must be tossed to protect its members’ rights.

“Absolutely, we need to keep kids safe, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of making teachers

vulnerable,” said Nathan Martindale, newly appointed president of the Manitoba Teachers’ Society.

The Stefanson government has revealed its plans for sweeping reforms to regulate the teaching profession and handle incidents of malpractice, which are currently dealt with internally by MTS and through the court system.

Bill 35, the Education Administration Act (Teacher Certification and Professional Conduct), would es-

tablish an online database of educators and task an independent commissioner with reviewing complaints about registrants.

A government-appointed commissioner would have the discretion to close matters or investigate them, be it through a public hearing in front of a panel of teachers, school board representatives and members of the public, or otherwise.

If an educator were to be found guilty of professional misconduct or

Indigenous leadership accuse northern health authority of mistreatment

BY DAVE BAXTER

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE RE­ PORTER, WINNIPEG SUN

Accusations of mistreatment of First Nations people were levelled against the Northern Regional Health Authority and a member of its leadership on March 16.

In a news release, leaders with Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak and Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin say they are frustrated with health authority, and are so far disappointed with a new partnership agreement recently signed that pledged to work to stamp out anti-Indigenous racism in the region.

“Incidents continue to occur even with the formalization of a new relationship between the three parties, when each signed the Declaration to Eliminate All Forms of Indigenous-Specific Racism on September 26, 2022,” MKO and KIM said in a joint release.

MKO and KIM claim a “series of incidents” were brought to the attention of the NRHA board and administrators by a delegation of chiefs as well as Dr. Barry Lavallee during a meeting held in The Pas on March 6.

But Lavallee, the CEO of KIM, a First Nations-led health entity in Northern Manitoba, is now also claiming there was an “example of racism exhibited at the highest level by a system lead” during that March 6 meeting, that he says has put further strain on the relationships between the health authority and Indigenous leaders.

“It is difficult to stay silent while observing our leaders being treated in a dismissive manner, while emotively sharing about health care related incidents.” Lavallee said in a news release regarding the March 6 meeting and the alleged incident.

“They revealed the details with courage and equanimity, to draw attention to what needs to change in the northern health sys-

Selkirk Ave

• NEW LOCATION the plaza

Thompson Citizen photo courtesy of Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin Dr. Barry Lavallee, seen here, the CEO of Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin, is claiming that there have been recent incidents of mistreatment of First Nations people and leadership by the Northern Regional Health Authority. tem. The response at first but received no response appeared supportive with before Thursday’s press platitudes about agreeing deadline. to work on the relationship, In an email, a spokeshowever at one point there person with the NRHA said was laughter as one of our that as of March 16 officials leaders revealed from the with the health authority heart about the death of a were not aware of the alfamily member. leged incident on March 6, “This is unacceptable but will now be following behaviour, and is really an up on the allegations. example of racism exhibited “We are unaware of the at the highest level by a referenced situation during system lead, and unfortu- a recent meeting, but the nately has done nothing but NRHA does not condone cause further damage to the inappropriate behaviour relationship.” as described. We will be Both MKO and KIM now following up with MKO/ say they wonder if the only KIM,” the spokesperson way the fix health care for said.

First Nations people in the The spokesperson addnorth is for First Nations ed that the NRHA is “sadcommunities to take more dened” by the accusations control over those health made in the news release, care systems. and claimed they are com“While MKO and KIM mitted to combating anti-Inexpect that they will con- digenous racism. tinue to work with the “Our goals have not Northern Health Region, it changed, neither has our has become apparent that understanding that Ina new health governance digenous anti-racism will arrangement where First not be solved overnight," Nations take the lead is es- the spokesperson said. "We sential to real health trans- are committed to moving formation in the north,” the forward with our efforts organizations said. as a health region and as “We won’t resign our- a partner in this important selves to this reality any endeavor and mindful of the longer. This must change.” Seven Sacred Teachings.”

The Winnipeg Sun — Dave Baxter is a Loreached out to MKO and cal Journalism Initiative KIM asking for an interview reporter who works out of with Lavallee, or if the or- the Winnipeg Sun. The Loganizations had any further cal Journalism Initiative is details of any recent alleged funded by the government incidents of mistreatment, of Canada.

incompetence, they could be suspended, lose their teaching certificate, face professional limitations or be reprimanded another way.

The proposal states appeals would be handled through the Court of King’s Bench.

“There’s a public appetite for more transparency,” said Cameron Hauseman, an assistant professor of education who studies school governance at the University of Manitoba.

“Right now, we don’t know how many teachers are involved in misconduct types of situations on a yearly basis. Right now, we don’t know what disciplinary procedures look like, let alone what the consequences of substantiated misconduct look like.”

Hauseman, a former elementary school teacher in Ontario, has long been vocal about his support for a regulatory college in this province so parents, members of the public and employers across the world can quickly find teacher qualifications.

The Ontario College of Teachers, of which he re-

mains a member in good standing, was established more than 25 years ago.

B.C. and Alberta have similar Rolodexes.

When reached by phone, the MTS leader provided a laundry list of concerns the union has about the legislation, from its broad definitions about misconduct to the absence of information about union representatives at disciplinary hearings.

Martindale said Manitoba teachers — who must agree to a code of professional practice that deems student safety their No. 1 priority — do not oppose regulation. However, he called Bill 35 “unacceptable,” claiming it does not protect teachers’ due process, follow the rules of natural justice and sets up members to be exposed to “frivolous and malicious complaints.”

If passed, this legislation will hinder efforts to recruit educators amid a labour shortage, he said.

In contrast, Manitoba Liberals are in favour of expanding the scope of the legislation by explicitly equipping the regulatory

commissioner with a mandate to monitor issues of co-worker mistreatment in schools.

“The conditions of work are the conditions of learning, in this case,” said party leader Dougald Lamont, adding he would also like to see a more detailed definition of professional misconduct included in the bill so any government of the day cannot simply define what constitutes a valid case.

In a generic statement on the subject, NDP education critic Nello Altomare noted the vast majority of teachers follow the rules.

Outliers must be met with “a fair and measured process that is focused on the safety and well-being of the child,” said Altomare, a retired principal.

Hauseman said he is impressed by the great lengths the government has taken to set out a fair complaint process for educators.

Should the bill pass, his recommendation to the province is to be careful about choosing a strong, trusted and well-respected K-12 leader for the commissioner job.

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Page 4 • Opinion

2018

Wednesday, March 21, 2018

ditor

Letter to the Editor

Opinion Opinion OPINION www.thompsoncitizen.net

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, March 24, 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

p fightingKeep fighting tuberculosis against tuberculosis To the Editor:

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. not only a worldwide. TB is not only a of TB 1.7ismillion people orld countries, but also here in problem in Third World countries, but also here in er prevalenceCanada, in the north. with a higher prevalence in the north. vaccination, disease Due to prevention the lack of vaccination, disease prevention Additionally,is some bacteria Additionally, some TB bacteria most TB important. the years, giving rise to forms have changed over the years, giving rise to forms ant TB, which means treatment of multi-drug resistant TB, which means treatment ted and accompanied severe is lengthy,bycomplicated and accompanied by severe side effects. t one in four people in this world Did you know that one in four people in this world is World TB have day, raising awareTB? March 24 is World TB day, raising awarean opportunity to and mobilize fundsan opportunity to mobilize funds ness providing ion. I am glad to seeTB Canada as towards elimination.

I am glad to see Canada as lobal fund toa fight tuberculosis. top donor to the global fund to fight tuberculosis. mitment continues in the future I hope that this commitment continues in the future our goal to stop TB.we can meet our goal to stop TB. so that EDITORIAL

Lynn Taylor’s return to the City of Thompson the end of an era for the Thompson Citizen

Karolin Klement Calgary

Karolin Klement Calgary

Editorial

chool board opts for status quo, School board opts for status quo, B which way willway citywill council go? which city council go?

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-

efore you read years as general manager lection and for part of the hold it against me. things that happened in qualities that made her so the rest of this and publisher.

2010 general municipal During her time at the Thompson, having been valuable to this paper and editorial, let your Though many people, election campaign before Citizen, Lynn Taylor was her for most of the last 51 to the people she worked eyes scan down to the bot- including myself, often she resigned from that pos- the best kind of boss. She years. with here haven’t changed tom of the page it’s on, if thought of and referred ition and joined the Citizen delegated responsibility There’s a lot of good now that she’s moved back you’re reading the print to Lynn as a former city as general manager. Any- and expected account- things I could say about to her previous employer. edition. If you’re reading manager, she spent almost ways, I was doing one of ability. She knew which Lynn Taylor, even though But perhaps, above all, the onine, go find the March as many years in the news- my infrequent fill-ins as a lane was hers and stayed I know that part of her thing that will make Lynn mer councillor Luke the aspeople workload and forin reducing members, thewill citizens Thompoth of Thompmerof councillor Luke many around of thereporter people workload around and forsort reducing members, the addition citizens to ofthe Thompit for the most part, oc24 print edition and turn many paper industry she did municipal politics of of hate this col- a great city Robinson, who served opposed to the plan allows for greater diwhether they belong son elected more son’s local Robinson, who served opposed to the plan allows for greater diwhether they belong administration son electedis more truly to Page 4 or look it up in in that role, and the people and I remember sitting in casionally veering over to umn because shetruly likes her dedione council arewho the regular critics of to suggest the school board elected bodies one termhereon theviewpoints, regular critics versity of viewpoints, to made the the school independent-thinking theare audience at City Hall, the term digital on edition availworked withcouncil her versity a story idea here independent-thinking being centreboard of cation to Thompson and from 2010 to 2014 be- proof will council who though or orcouncil, isnever that it was candidates who as aren’t able here considered on the website. likely always thinkberather than Land at who thewas press there butRyan obtruattention about desire to seewho it be aren’t the have from 2010 toattend 2014 of Ryan council attend though Land or council, is much that it hercandidates fore being defeated by meetings anda ask their by mostly correct in reason, say-their will saveormoney. married to having aligning Theposals keen-eyed youthe sively demandingly. as will she loves city it can.to She moved of fore her being as newspaper table for some to among reduce defeated meetings and ask mostly correct The in saysave money.her The best married aligning Mayor Dennis Fenske officials quesingopening that, my in officials terms bag ofquesis her notin large any willnumber notice that face of elected publisher. camera to amount Sheing treated employees taken.with She this in 1972 and remained of the representaMayor Dennis Fenske elected that, terms themselves of photo amount is gave not large here themselves with any Taylor, who served The first time I rememdig out my notebook and like family and fought on newspaper everything she here for eight years in Lynn the race to become tions week after week, class and ethnicity, the overall – about $20,000 particular side, because tives comprising them in the race to become tions week after week, class and ethnicity, the overall – about $20,000 particular side, before because as and general manager and berhead meeting wasn’t suffering an epic journalist behalf with her bosshad, from putting in salarex- spending six years Winhead of one council last their opinions may not last trustees really in their councillors’ salarright the number of them made of Lynn council their aren’t opinions may not trustees aren’t really innow, councillors’ right now, theinnumber published ofMarch the paper was city man- a fail. notebook.

Cam- ieses.per couldplus take no hours thecouncil evenings But Thompson had time Thompsonites bewhen enough to dissuade microcosm of the year apof tra opinions athat choice 13 not timeshe that Thompsonites beNo enough to dissuade aShemicrocosm of forthe ies perinon year plus ap- nipeg. of opinions on council (I began my polls time here era?

Check.

Pens?

Check. on weekends trying already become an School answer from since September 2010, theager went the polls majority from forSchool District of Mysproximately halfthose that is and generally two –half for that clearly toto shrink its about numbers, went to the about the majority from forDistrict of she Mysproximately is generally two her – for is no the ging at the Citizenespecially focusing years on tery Notebook.

No check, be- amount, reported to, but was also and to against. stay on top of many home she jumped at three-and-half yearstrustahead, Lake’s population on average, as longer school among board three-and-half ging ahead, especially tery Lake’s population amount, ontheaverage, andand against. members of Thompson local sports and only occacause I obviously didn’t formore than willing to ask Maybe hats shethe wore in turnher role the chance to move back ago –ees was in he favour of since the– was number of as whole. you’ve travel Ifand low voted 6-1 against ago in favour of asince theIf number of annual as a whole. you’ve for annual travel and Maybe the low turnCitizen news team. sionally wrote about pol- been check itmany before school heading expenses. them the For samethe important at the top.people But perhaps it’s and hasn’t left since. reducing the numbers, people who care about to city, out of a resolution by trustee reducing the numbers, people who care about been to many school expenses. For with the city, out of people with of youopwho this itics andway other topics board questions and again most fitting on to use her own Lynn will tell you that she to City Hall. So, as I which withFor the those other seven ornews another meetings has again ameetings budget of (and opinions how Ryan Land (the onlyor one with the other seven op-was this one way notes or(and another board which hasher. a budget opinions how don’t know already, Lynn filled in for other reporif that wasn’t the answer words against The day of would have neveronhad the scribbling on posed.

Although coun- redoesn’t even reachcounapartdoesn’t from members around $30 million, manyaround councillors there in support) Although even reach $30 million, many councillors that there hasvote resigned from to the tersposed. to cover things like the back of my business sheapart wanted,from which itmembers never before her last day at the career opportunities cil hasn’t yet voted on double digits. of the media, well, you that ofrepresents probshould isn’t an ex-prob- should be isn’t an exduceafter themore number hasn’t meetings yet votedor on double digits. the wasn’t media,afraid well, to you thatbe she represents paper than a ofcitycilcouncil cards, which I have always was, and Citizen, told me and she did in her life if she second reading of seven that toWhether or not the haven’t), you or would ably haven’t), less than a you drop in pression of apathy trustees from second reading of that Whether not the would ably less than drop pression dozen years in order to school board). It was after had literally hundreds of tell them exactly what she Ryan Lynds, whoabut have in hadn’t movedoftoapathy Thomp-but bylaw, the next stage number of councillors know that they don’t the proverbial bucket, of pragmatism.

Experifive. bylaw, the next stage number of councillors know that they don’t the proverbial bucket, of pragmatism.

Experireturn to the city, which she retired as city man- since I usually forget to actually thought. a both been employees of son. That’s probably towards itpreviously becoming ofor ager school board trustoften nearly astrustthough is about a as ence has quite One night served earlier, towards it ago, becoming orfeature school board oftenit feature nearly it is about ence shown quite she has 15 years havingofhand them out, someone With her firsthand thisthough papershown from before her a little bit has modest on her ficial, there’s at least a ees should be role reduced fifth of the debate overall cost often that this slightly more than aserved ficial, atforleast atapped eesdebate should be divreduced much or divfifth the overall cost behalf often that this council as city manager, as assistin there’s the 13 much on myorshoulder. knowledge of Thompson’s first dayofon thecouncil job until because she would better than even chance is not the sort of quesision as city council of the mayor and coun– and others before it coun– if be –capable better thanknow evenLynn, chanceIt was is not theHanding sort of quesisionandas council of the mayor and others before anthalf-dozen treasurer, asThompsonan exec- years.

If you Lynn. me history the city way that its after her last one,and that of what she’sit – that it will be approved. tion for which there at which least not is itgoing dous, what utive assistant to youthat may the ideais of meetings, a notebook.

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On have the of And years.

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She also knows approved

by Only at least school board members board trustees at least ally, reduce the diversit really matter how one of approved by at least school board members board trustees at least ally, reduce the divers- it really matter how fortwo-thirds the cityisinthe a of 2009 paper, shefor, didn’t to itya of lot of 2022. funnybut stories ed ity herof new job, but all Ian Graham, Editor during 12-plus two-thirds ofentire its memopted for, arguuntil 2022. opinions, that of many them there that her handful of people its byememopted is seem the arguuntil of opinions, butthe that -many of them there bers with and,angiven that mentbers that itand, spreads the thatOne of the arguments would One onlyofbe if are? would only be true if opinion – forgiven ment that it spreads the thetrue arguments

are?

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Classified • Page 5

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

THOMPSON CITIZEN Quiet revolution or World War III? CLASSIFIED SECTION

To the Editor: I have lived to see men on the moon, women given equal status, Pierre Elliot Trudeau legalize homosexuality, the internet, cell phones (portrayed in Dick Tracy cartoons) and now what I hope for is the end of people like Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump, George H.W. Bush and Justin Trudeau elevated to the highest executive offices in government — what is gong on?

No wonder Putin and

Trump bonded — they are both (sadly) control freaks who failed, thank God. Unlike the propaganda we were subjected to when two little nations — Germany and Japan — put an end (with great loss of life) to two stains on the globe — French Indochina and the British Empire — Russia, Germany and Japan were the victims in World War II and let us pray we don’t allow power mongers to lay waste to our Earth.

Trump and Putin are hopefully the last emperors of neo-Nazis to inflict pain on beautiful nations like Ukraine, Poland, Guatemala and Chile, to name only four nations devastated by the ignorance of freedom lovers disguised as populist heroes. Both Putin and his buddy Donald Trump are narcissists and we will see Ukraine prevail, peacefully.

John Lennon, Jimmy Carter, Mikhail Gorbachev

AMC decries appointment of WPS to oversee missing person hub

BY DAVE BAXTER

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, WINNIPEG SUN

One of this province’s most powerful Indigenous leaders says she has “little faith” that a newly announced Integrated Missing Persons Response unit that will be run by the Winnipeg Police Service will help police locate more missing Indigenous people in Manitoba.

“We have little faith that the Winnipeg Police Service can handle a hub for our missing loved ones,” Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Cathy Merrick said in a March 21 media release.

“Families of missing persons feel time and time again that police do not prioritize their cases, and lack proper effort and cooperation with communities.”

On March 20, the province announced $2.1 million in funding to create the new Integrated Missing Persons Response unit, which will see WPS oversee all missing person reports in Manitoba.

According to the province, there were 9,300 missing person reports in Winnipeg alone last year, and another 3,500 missing persons investigations launched by the RCMP outside of Winnipeg.

“The investment will reduce the number of missing adults and children across the province, and provide coordinated inter-agency supports to those that go missing chronically,” the province said in a media

release.

But Merrick criticized the announcement, and what she said was a lack of consultation with AMC on the plan.

“The WPS has already had oversight on these files for decades, which has not served us well,” Merrick said.

“As well, this announcement came without proper consultation of our First Nations and our regional political office which is currently working with a number of organizations, including the WPS, the RCMP and the province on searching for loved ones in landfills.

“One would assume they would have come to us to share this news before it was announced.”

The province said the unit also aligns directly with several recommendations of the final report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, such as the need for better-supported community-based first response, and more responsive, transparent, and accountable policing.

Merrick also criticized the plan because she said it will give more money, and more control over data to WPS. “The WPS has already proven that the resources they were given for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) have been expended without any notable improvement on the issue,” Merrick said. “And

and Gandhi all struggled as they strived to bring peace to our Earth, peace that cannot be gotten from horrors.

“Find the pine of friends/ Buried in the ground/Mother Earth will swallow you/ Lay your body down,” sang David Crosby, who left us in 2023. And as Neil Young sang in Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, “How many more?”

Angus Campbell Sr. Thompson

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Wednesday, 21, 2018 Contact 204-621-7160. 7-6-nb create an March MMIWG2S+ database that is more interactive and informed by families. This database HELP WANTED would include a historical and active missing persons database, with a space for families to share details CLASSIFIED@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET when needed and be able to connect to resources.”

510 • RETAIL/ SERVICES deA201 WPS•spokesperson OFFICE SPACE fended recent WPS efforts 7 SELKIRK main floor office area 1990 to STRUGGLING locate missing WITHpeople.

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183 Cree Rd, Thompson MB, R8N 0C2 The province said on Toll free: 1-800-565-2401 PH: 204-778-8387 204-677-4087 Monday FAX: that more consultation will beand required Looking for full part time to housekeepers determine thestarting final wage make$13.00/hr up of the new unit, and did Apply at the front desk not say when the unit would begin operating.

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RCMP seeking fou Easterville home Four men from Easterville are wanted by police in connection with an assault that left another man with serious injuries.

AUCTIONS RCMP Chemawawin were alerted around 11 a.m. March 11 that a 24-year-old man was being taken to the Easterville nursing station for treatment of serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Investigation determined that four men entered the victim’s home earlier that morning, assaulting him and causing extensive damage before leaving.

Police are asking for the public’s assistance in finding 29-year-old Mitchell Howard Ledoux, 27-year-old Steven Shane Klyne, 26-year-old Shawn Eric Umpherville and 20-year-old Nathan Walter Umpherville, all from Easterville, who are believed to have fled to Winnipeg. The four RV face numerous charges including aggravated assault, assault with a weapon and breaking and entering.

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Page 6 • News

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, March 24, 2023

Farms yield fresh veggies all year in places where growing season is as short as two months ges securing fresh produce.

“Walking to the grocery store, it becomes pretty evident that what we take Virginia Muswagon’s for granted here in Ottawa parents grew tomatoes, is not the lived reality of cucumbers, peppers and a lot of people across the potatoes in a greenhouse country,” Ellis said, notwhen she was young. In ing a case of water could Norway House Cree Na- fetch $80 in a grocery store tion, where she’s from, the and a head of lettuce could growing season can be as sell for $10. “This is what short as two months. So people are willing to put up when an Ottawa-based star- with, what they have to pay tup helped Muswagon put every day.” a hydroponic farm on the Ellis and Burke dereservation, she jumped at veloped a farm inside a the chance to start growing shipping container. Now, leafy greens year round. in slightly larger units of “I used to love what (my about 400 square feet, the parents) would grow — farms can produce 8,500 the colour and the taste of pounds of greens each the vegetables were really year. All the farm needs, good,” Muswagon said. “So Ellis said, is space, a perit was a no-brainer to try son to farm inside and an growing myself.” electricity connection.

In 2019, Muswagon Each unit consumes up to and her co-manager, Ian 86,000 kilowatt-hours of Maxwell, started Pimâ- electricity per year in a tisiwin Nipî Kistikânihk, four-season climate — 3.5 or Life Water Gardens, a times the amount of energy hydroponic farm inside a consumed by the average refurbished shipping con- Canadian household in the tainer from a startup called same time — and about The Growcer. Almost four 76,000 in the frigid North years later, Muswagon and where air conditioning is Maxwell harvest about 450 unnecessary. plants each week and supAccording to The Growply greens to a local high cer’s website, in Ottawa, school, hospital and grocery one farm would reach an store. electricity bill of about They are one of about 70 $680 per month. In Nunacommunities across Canada vut, a monthly energy bill to purchase a hydroponic could reach above $1,900. farm from The Growcer.

In December 2017, Now, Muswagon said she Ellis and Burke’s starter hopes her community can farm held its first harvest get a second one. in Churchill. Ellis said it “Fresh vegetables just wasn’t long before other recan't be compared to what mote communities started you buy at the store,” reaching out for containers.

Muswagon said.

“Honestly, it was word The Growcer co-founder of mouth,” Ellis said. “The Corey Ellis started the com- Far North is a small place, pany with his business part- and everybody hears about ner, Alida Burke, when everything that's going on.” they were students at the More than 450 kilometres University of Ottawa. Ellis north of Winnipeg, Maxand Burke would travel to well said frost can continue Iqaluit each reading week into the second week of with a school club meant to June and return to kill crops Thompson Citizen photo courtesy of Life Water Gardens/Facebook help students create social as early as September. With An August 2019 photo shows the interior of the Life Water Gardens shipping container greenhouse. purpose businesses. There, funding from non-profit​​ In Ottawa, Ellis said Ellis said he realized remote Food Matters Manitoba Binder Dijker Otte Can- umbia’s Highway 16, near ed from mainland B.C. or ada, Norway House Cree the end of the supply chain.

California. the container farm startup communities faced challen- and accounting company Nation was one of the first “The terrain here is either “If you buy a head of is launching up to four communities to purchase rock or muskeg,” Mirau lettuce and you leave it farms every month. The a farm. said. “What we understand in your fridge for three or company’s farms include The hydroponic farm is to be traditional agriculture four days, it's gonna start projects in the northern equipped to grow food year or farms, there’s nothing to deteriorate,” Mirau said. Quebec community of Kuuround in the extreme cold. within 140 kilometres that “With our stuff, you can jjuaq and in Yellowknife.

STELLA “DORENE” Muswagon said the unit at looks like that.” probably stretch it three One farm grows greens on DICKSON [NÉE LAMBERT] Norway House Cree Nation Earlier attempts to grow weeks in the fridge and the University of Ottawa’s July 1, 1947- March 7, 2023 grows greens, including produce in a greenhouse fell still eat it without feeling campus. Ellis said he even oregano, cilantro, spinach, flat. In 2020, Mirau said, compromised.” had visitors arrive from the It is with deep sadness that we butterhead lettuce and even the organization was able to Mirau said the society Bahamas to tour the experiannounce the passing of our devoted wife, mother, grandmother bok choy. get funding for one of The sells about half its greens mental unit in Ottawa. Ellis Stella “Dorene” Dickson, on March “In the dead of winter, Growcer’s first shipping through a subscription said he sees the farms as a 7, 2023 at Thompson, MB at the we've gotten as low as -50 container units and since service that offers week- way to help communities age of 75.

C,” Muswagon said. “When then has had better luck. ly and biweekly packages protect their food security.

Dorene will be lovingly you go in (the farm), it's “When the pandemic hit, of produce. Each package “There's a huge risk from remembered and forever missed like you walk into another there were a lot of empty contains five to seven fresh a food security point of by her husband, Kenneth Dickson, dimension.” shelves in the grocery plants, and the shipping view in the North, where it's her son, Keith [Milva]Dickson and daughter Deidre [Marc] Perron, her The startup also caught store,” Mirau said. “That container farm can sustain acute and where the need is grandchildren Amber-Lee Himmelman, Kaylene [Levi] Wilson, Dillon the attention of the Gitmax- just kind of added fuel to up to 60 customers. Just by most present,” Ellis said, M. Perron, and Noel Dickson. mak'ay Nisga’a Society, a our fire to get this project selling produce, Mirau said “but also in a place like OtDorene, was born in Tuelon, MB and grew up in Hodgson, MB. She non-profit that represents done faster.” the farm was able to start tawa, where COVID made moved to Thompson, MB in 1966. the 1,400 Nisga’a people Now, Mirau said the farm making revenue in less than us realize maybe our food It was in Thompson that she met Ken, married and started a family. living in Prince Rupert, produces about 600 leafy eight months. supply chain isn't as secure B.C. The society had been green plants per week, The other half of the as we once thought it was.”

A celebration of her life has taken place on Saturday, March 18, 2023 trying to grow fresh pro- including lettuce, spicy farm’s greens are sold to a Back at Norway House at 2:00pm - 4:00pm at Glen Lawn Funeral Home 455 Lagimodiere Blvd, Winnipeg, MB. duce in Prince Rupert for mustard, spinach and bok cafe the society opened in Cree Nation, Maxwell and years, said Blair Mirau, the choy. While each plant is late May. The cafe’s rev- Muswagon said they are The family would like to thank the hospital staff at the Thompson General economic development of- only about 60 per cent as enue, Mirau said, helped considering getting another Hospital and the Northern Spirit Manor (PCH) for their kindness and care. ficer for the society. Prince large as its ground-farmed offset the cost of the units, unit. Muswagon said some Family and friends may sign a book of condolence at www.glenlawn.ca.

Rupert is almost 1,000 kilo- counterparts, Mirau said which Ellis says can cost of the growers have experiGlen Lawn Funeral Home metres north of Vancouver, the plants are much fresh- anywhere from $200,000 mented growing strawber204-982-7550 at the end of British Col- er than produce transport- to $300,000 to install. ries in the hydroponic farm.

BY ISAAC NAY

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, CANADA'S NATIONAL OBSERVER

OBITUARY

rmre

Friday, March 24, 2023

www.thompsoncitizen.net

News • Page 7

Imperial Oil tailings leak highlights another oilsands problem

BY NATASHA BULOWSKI

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, CANADA'S NATIONAL OBSERVER

The recent revelation of a massive leak from Imperial Oil’s tailings ponds highlights the question of what to do with the rest of the oilsands waste accumulating along the Athabasca River.

Massive ponds filled with more than 1.4 trillion litres of toxic waste are set to hit capacity in 2025. At that point, the sludge-like oilsands tailings will be treated and dumped into the river, in accordance with federal regulations still being developed.

That is, unless Environment and Climate Change Canada identifies an alternative; the federal agency says dumping treated tailings is just “one of the options” under consideration.

The federal Fisheries Act currently prohibits the release of harmful substances into fish-bearing waters.

The federal government is in the process of developing oilsands mining wastewater regulations under the Fisheries Act to authorize releases of treated tailings “under strict effluent quality standards to minimize risks to the environment.” Releasing untreated tailings into the Athabasca is not being considered.

But many First Nations say treated or not, oilsands tailings should not be dumped into waterways they rely on.

The Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation is against the release of any treated tailings, and last summer at the Dene National Assembly, northern nations unanimously passed a motion opposing the government’s proposed plan.

“It has to stop,” Dene National Chief Gerald Antoine told Canada’s National Observer in an interview. “You see how they're toying around to change the rules of engagement to meet their needs or meet their wants, which

doesn't meet the needs of the land or the people that live there.”

The tailings ponds are located in northern Alberta, but disposal of the thick mixture containing arsenic, leftover bitumen, toxic naphthenic acids, silt and clay will have ramifications that cross provincial and territorial boundaries. Already, evidence shows tailings are leaching into groundwater.

Fed by the Columbia Glacier in Alberta’s Jasper National Park, the Athabasca River flows north into an immense network of rivers and waterways called the Deh Cho watershed, or Mackenzie River Basin, which encompasses the northern half of Alberta, parts of British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Yukon, and most of the Northwest Territories.

The water’s 4,000-kilometre journey through the watershed ends at the Beaufort Sea. But high levels of naphthenic acids and salinity will persist even after the toxic wastewater is treated, and releasing tar sands tailings into the watershed poses “serious risks to the rights of Dene in Treaty #8 and Treaty #11 territory,” the Dene resolution states.

The “Dene Nation opposes the release of treated tar sands tailings into the Deh Cho watershed and requires Canada to abandon its plans to allow such action,” it reads, adding that Canada must fulfil its obligation to obtain the free and prior consent of the downstream Dene.

Federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault has previously said the government hasn’t ruled out other options, like possible “technical solutions to tailings ponds issues.”

Currently, a Crown-Indigenous Working Group including nine First Nations and Métis communities is

“exploring alternatives” to ensure all options are considered before a decision is made on the path forward, according to a statement from ECCC. “This assessment is still in early stages and includes a global literature review to identify potential options,” read the statement, sent to Canada’s National Observer. No specific alternatives to releasing the tailings were identified in the statement.

ACFN, the First Nation that sounded the alarm about the tailings leaks on Imperial Oil’s Kearl site, is part of the working group.

The working group meetings occur every three to six weeks, and so far, the ACFN is “very happy with the process,” according to an email from Brian Fung, ACFN’s manager of government relations.

“One major outstanding issue is how to address human health,” said Fung. The federal government says human health is outside the scope of the Fisheries Act, which is, unsurprisingly, focused on fish, he explained. But Canada is obligated to deal with issues brought up during consultation so the ACFN will keep trying to get human health impacts addressed, he added.

In December, more than 40 scientists and health-care professionals penned a letter to Guilbeault outlining concerns about the proposed oilsands tailings release. Signatories say any water released must meet the highest water quality standards and insist detailed toxicological information on the makeup of tailings be made available to the public so risks can be assessed.

The regulations being developed must guarantee “no further exposure” to harmful chemicals, which the letter says contrasts with the government’s proposed “reduction of threats” approach. It points out that ongoing leaks

and evaporation from tailings ponds mean there is already an elevated level of exposure to the contaminants, which releasing treated tailings would only add to.

Identifying and filling data gaps regarding the condition and composition of oilsands tailings is on the working group’s agenda, according to ECCC. Because most studies on the composition of tailings come from industry research, it’s hard to know the chemical composition of the ponds, which is a barrier to exploring possible solutions, said Aliénor Rougeot, program manager of climate and energy with Environmental Defence.

Along with the Crown-Indigenous working group, ECCC told Canada’s National Observer it is also consulting with other Indigenous communities, including the Dene Nation.

“There have been some small steps … there is a tendency, though, to try to steer us into their process,” Antoine said.

“They need to be mindful that this is our home here and that historically, we have a very special relationship with the land, we really connect with that.”

The land has its own processes and natural laws, which human beings need to acknowledge, said Antoine.

Last week at the Dene

Nation Water Summit, Dene families came together to share traditional knowledge and their observations and experiences. This summit was an important step to move the conversation forward, which was part of the resolution’s directive, said Antoine.

The federal government’s due diligence in exploring other options is good, but there is a lack of urgency to the approach, Rougeot said.

Both the provincial and federal governments are allowing the problem to grow — with about 1.5 barrels of tailings created for each barrel of bitumen extracted — with no discussion of imposing a moratorium or limiting oilsands mining expansion until solutions are identified, she said.

If released, the high salinity of treated tailings will affect the water temperature of the Mackenzie River watershed and have devastating impacts over time, said Jesse Cardinal, executive director

of Keepers of the Water, a coalition of First Nations, Métis, Inuit, environmental groups and local communities committed to protecting all living things within the Arctic Ocean Drainage Basin.

The current process puts a lot of pressure on under-resourced First Nations to come up with solutions when it should be industry, with all its resources and technology, leading the way, Cardinal told Canada’s National Observer in an interview.

“Money should not be an excuse in treating the tailings ponds … [industry] shouldn't be looking for the cheapest, quickest option” at a time when companies are raking in record profits, she said.

‘We're in a climate crisis, which includes a water crisis,” she said, pointing to First Nations already without access to clean water because of proximity to industrial projects. “We're trying to reverse that and repair that, not grow that issue.”

23034gg0

How are rainbows formed?

Rainbows are beautiful optical illusions. Have you ever seen one before and wondered how they’re made? Here’s a quick explanation.

Although sunlight looks clear, it’s a blend of many different colours. A rainbow is created when white light enters a water droplet and splits into many colours. This happens because the water scatters the light waves through a process called refraction. The pattern of colours starts with red on the outside and changes through orange, yellow,

green, blue, indigo and violet on the inside.

The rainbow effect can be seen when water drops are in the air, like after a big rainstorm or near a waterfall. If you want to see a rainbow, your back must be to the sun. The lower the sun is in the sky, the higher the rainbow’s arc will be.

Keep your eyes out for a rainbow in the sky next time it rains.

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AN AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP CAN! Get a rebate on a qualifying air source heat pump.

Visit efficiencyMB.ca/heatpump to learn what a heat pump can do for you.

Page 8 • News

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, March 24, 2023

Trojans teams end basketball season with consolation semifinals losses at provincials

BY IAN GRAHAM

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

R.D. Parker Collegiate’s varsity basketball teams were both knocked out of the AAA basketball provincials by the eventual consolation title winners on March 17.

The squads each opened the three-day tournament with a loss on March 16, eliminating them from contention for a provincial championship. The Trojan girls fell 79-46 to the Béliveau Barracudas in their opening match while the boys’ team dropped a 68-36 decision to the Neelin Spartans.

The Trojans’ second-day matches were closer, with the girls falling 54-36 to the St. James Jimmies and the boys getting knocked out of the tournament with a 78-57 loss at the hands of the Léo-Rémillard Renards.

The Jimmies went on to beat the Nelson MacIntrye Torchbearers in the girls’ consolation final while the Renards beat out the Transcona Titans on the boys’ side.

The Garden Valley Zodiacs, who beat the Renards in the first game for each team, won the provincial championship with a 61-51 victory over Nelson MacIntrye in the boys’ final while the Neelin Spartans beat the Barracudas 66-64 in the girls’ title match.

Thompson Citizen photos by Ian Graham R.D. Parker Collegiate’s varsity basketball teams were winless as hosts of the AAA high school basketball provincials March 16-18.

Thompson Citizen photos courtesy of R.D. Parker Collegiate The boys’ and girls’ champions in the AAA high school basketball provincials hosted in Thompson March 16-18 both stopepd for photos at Pisew Falls on their way back home and sent words of praise to R.D. Prker Collegiate for putting on a first-class tournament.

Friday, March 24, 2023

www.thompsoncitizen.net

News • Page 9

Thompson teen wins Blue Bombers anti-bullying award

Isabel Carter poses March 21 with her Samatha Mason Friendship Award certificate and her personalized Winnipeg Blue Bombers jersey signed by Nick and Noah Hallett.

BY IAN GRAHAM

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Isabel Carter will remember March 14, 2023 for a long time.

A school day that included jazz band and choir performances in the evening and a pep rally ahead of the high school basketball provincials that started at R.D. Parker Collegiate a couple days later was also the day she received an award for kindness.

Speaking the the Thompson Citizen March 21, Carter said she was totally caught off guard by the honour.

“It’s not something I was ever expecting or hoping for,” she said.

Ensuring Carter was around to receive the Samantha Mason Friendship Award, named for a 15-year-old Winnipeg girl who killed herself in May 2015 after years of bullying and presented to someone 17 or younger who embodies the virtue of kindness, took a little trickery.

As far as Carter knew, the Tuesday morning assembly was really for the pep rally, but the rally was really a ruse.

A teacher had enlisted Carter’s help to get students seated for the assembly in order to ensure that she didn’t leave the school during the last period of the morning, since she didn’t have a class.

When she saw that a couple of players from the Winnipeg Blue Bombers were there, she thought it was odd but didn’t make much of it.

“That’s kind of weird for

a pep rally,” she thought.

Displaying one of the characteristics that helped her earn the award, Carter thought of someone else.

“I got a card signed for my brother,” she says, explaining that her family members are fans of the football team.

When principal Bonnie Rempel took the microphone and explained that the assembly was really to give out an award before a video about Samantha Mason played for the students, Carter was confused.

“I thought that was kind of weird,” she said. But still she didn’t anticipate the waiting surprise. “I was totally in the dark.”

Then she heard her name and went up to the front of the gym to receive the award.

“I started crying up there,” she said.

Rempel told the assembled students that the recipient was more than deserving.

“This is a rare moment where she’s acknowledged for her kindness and just

Thompson Citizen photos by Ian Graham Winnipeg Blue Bombers players Noah Hallett, left, and Nick Hallett, right, present Isabel Carter with the Samantha Mason Friendship Award and a personalized team jersey during an assembly at R.D. Parker Collegiate March 14. know that even when you’re kind to somebody it is making a difference.” said the principal. “You may never know it but it is making a difference. It’s well-deserved.”

Following a chance for her family and her to hang out with Nick and Noah Hallett of the Blue Bombers and even shoot a few hoops with them, followed by lunch, Carter was on a high the rest of the day.

“I’m going to hold on to this for the rest of my life,” she said. “It’s going to be something I think back on, for sure.”

In addition to the award, Carter also ended up with $1,500 to put towards her education.

When Rempel asked Twin Motors if they had a van she could borrow to drive the Blue Bombers around, she explained what was happening to Jimmy Pelk, who did more than just lend the school a vehicle “He’s writing a cheque for a $500 scholarship,” Rempel said.

When the Samantha

A personal tribute to

MIRIAM EILEEN CAMPBELL My mother landed a “big fish” and became his lifetime partner during World War II – Corporal Murdoch Campbell.

After a ten year stint at Hydro and Inco I returned home to my mother’s palace at 14 Cottage Street, Glace Bay, Nova Scotia.

She was the most loving woman in the universe of clan Campbell.

With love: Angus and Nancy Campbell, NCN Florette, Reanne & Liam Campbell, Thompson Acelyn and Doran Campbell and Tyler Dolon Bonnie, Angus H, Aiden Angus & Jayden Campbell, Oakville Star Madalen Campbell, B.C. Miriam Campbell, Winnipeg Your spirit dwells with the angels now, but your legacy is alive and well in all of the Manitoba Campbells.

Mason Foundation and the Blue Bombers heard about that, they stepped up and matched that donation.

Though it’s nice to be recognized and to have the financial burden of attend college or university eased, Carter says that she gives because she enjoys it.

“It’s really enjoyable to just be able to know that you’re doing something,” Carter says. “Even if it doesn’t get noticed, you can feel it in yourself that you did something. That’s really all I do. I was just taught to always help out and do the best I can.”

Even when talking about being the centre of attention, Carter can’t help but share the spotlight.

“I wanted to say thank you to everyone, especially Ms. Rempel, Twin Motors, the Blue Bombers and the Samantha Mason Foundation.”

Invitation to public and concerned stakeholders regarding the upgrades of the “Tote Road”

(MB PTH 283 and SK PTH 55) to RTAC standards When: Wednesday April 19, 2023 from 10am - 4pm Where: The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #19 4 Veterans Way The Pas, MB Registration: 9:30am (coffee provided) Public Presentations and Meeting: 10am– 3pm (lunch provided) Annual General Meeting: 3pm – 4pm This meeting is hosted by Gateway Keewatin Corridor (GKC) Inc.

GKC is an inter-provincial lobby group working to significantly improve highway conditions of MB PTH 283 and SK PTH 55.

For more info call Len (204) 734-8355 or Brian (204) 620-1366

Sponsored by:

Page 10 • News

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, March 24, 2023

In wake of tailings leaks, Inuit elder says nations must help each other ‘to stop this abuse’

BY NATASHA BULOWSKI

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, CANADA'S NATIONAL OBSERVER

Pollution from oilsands tailings dominated the agenda at the Dene Nation Water Summit last week as northern Indigenous leaders and community members discussed how to respond to recent news of multiple leaks hidden for months from neighbouring Indigenous communities.

The annual Dene Nation Water Summit took place last week in Inuvik, N.W.T., amid a barrage of national and international media coverage over Imperial Oil’s leaks in northern Alberta that went on for nearly nine months outside the public eye.

Representatives from the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation — which called out the company and the Alberta regulator

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If you do not appear an order may be granted in your absence.

Enquiries may be made at the Thompson Court Office at 59 Elizabeth Drive, Thompson, MB, telephone no. 204-677-6761 or at the Thompson Community Law Centre,Thompson, MB, R8N 0N3, telephone no. 204-677-1211. Thank you.

for failing to notify them about the leaks — updated attendees on the situation and what can be done.

ACFN has asked Imperial Oil for access to the Kearl site where the leaks originated to do community monitoring and urged other nations to sample and monitor their lands and waters for contaminants. ACFN is also considering legal action against both Imperial Oil and the provincial regulator for the contamination and lack of communication.

“We have to help each other out in order to stop this abuse so that people can live in their own regions, happily,” said Mary Okheena, an elder from Ulukhaktok, N.W.T., representing her Inuvialuit community. She lives far from the oilsands, on an island in the Beaufort Sea, and says this abuse to the land — and by extension to people, animals, plants and all beings — must be stopped before it gets worse and impacts other regions and communities.

“It's almost like a silent killer that we have to stop before it really affects the people and the land,” Okheena told Canada’s National Observer in a phone interview.

Okheena is one of many elders who gathered in Inuvik for the water summit to share their knowledge and life experience.

All the discussions have been punctuated with “the cries of the elders, the cries of the people,” she said. “They're asking for help. They're trying to get their voices heard.”

But to be heard, they have to put their voices together as a nation because the calls of individ-

ual regions often fall on deaf ears, she said.

“We need our leaders to start speaking up for us … not to be scared,” she said.

ACFN Chief Allan Adam has courage aplenty when it comes to speaking out about the tailings leaks. In recent weeks, he has called out Imperial Oil, the Alberta Energy Regulator and the provincial government both for failing to notify the nation and responding with suggestions this is merely a communications issue.

At the summit, elders and participants are trying to give leaders the power and the tools to fight for them, said Okheena. Many elders are going to be passing away, and when their time comes, she wants them to be satisfied in knowing the nations are pulling together for that fight, she added.

Several presentations offered information and toolkits to push back on specific issues, for example, oilsands tailings.

There was talk of using legislation like the federal Species at Risk Act, Chief Robert Charlie-Tetlichi of the Inuvik Native Band told Canada’s National Observer in an interview.

He noted the presence of boreal caribou, which are listed as threatened under the law, in the Mackenzie River Valley, downstream of the oilsands.

“If I remember correctly, we can use that as one of the tools, if you will, in the toolbox, to make government accountable for ensuring the safety of the resources that we depend on, which includes water and fish, caribou, moose and what have you,” Chief Charlie-Tetlichi said.

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COMPLETE EACH GRID WITH NUMBERS FROM 1 TO 6, KEEPING IN MIND THAT: - a number can only appear once per row - a number can only appear once per column - a number can only appear once in each box of 6 squares

Inuvik is in the northwest corner of the Northwest Territories, thousands of kilometres away from the tailings ponds that line the glacier-fed Athabasca River. But the Athabasca River flows north into the Mackenzie River Basin’s vast network of rivers and waterways, including the Mackenzie River itself, which empties into the Beaufort Sea. “Being at the mouth of the Mackenzie River, we have concerns on potential impacts to us,” said Chief Charlie-Tetlichi.

These concerns are likely shared by other communities along the river, he added.

The Northwest Territories and Alberta have a water management agreement, which requires them to inform each other about incidents affecting shared waters, but the Northwest Territories government found out about the Kearl leaks at the same time as the public.

“What does that say about the agreement?” asked Chief Charlie-Tetlichi, noting Indigenous communities in the Northwest Territories aren’t parties to the agreement.

The territorial government has already activated the agreement’s dispute resolution measures.

Seepage from four tailings ponds began in May 2022, and then 5.3 million litres of water reportedly escaped from a tailings overflow drainage pond on Feb. 4, according to the environmental protection order issued by the Alberta Energy Regulator two days after the spill.

Federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault has voiced con-

cern about the situation, particularly Alberta’s silence. When something like this happens, the province has to report it to Environment and Climate Change Canada within 24 hours, which it failed to do, said Guilbeault. ECCC has told Imperial Oil it must act immediately to prevent any seepage from entering fish-bearing waters to ensure the company complies with the Fisheries Act. Enforcement officers will continue to visit the site, monitor cleanup and collect more inspection information to determine whether the company is complying with the law, according to a March 15 press release.

On March 14, Guilbeault met with Alberta Minister of Environment and Protected Areas Sonya Savage regarding the ongoing spill situation at the Kearl oilsands mine. Guilbeault introduced the idea of a joint federal-provincial-Indigenous working group, with participation from oil companies, “to address the immediate concerns around the Kearl oilsands mine situation to restore trust and give transparency to all parties involved.”

Imperial Oil has said that based on its monitoring, the released fluids did not enter any waterways and there have been no impacts on local drinking water sources and wildlife.

At the summit, doctors, including Fort McMurray physician John O’Connor, called for more studies on the health impacts of tailings and noted a high prevalence of rare cancers in the small Fort Chipewyan population.

This presentation was particularly alarming to 24-year-old Keenan Hunter-McKay, a youth delegate representing the Fort Resolution Métis government.

Hunter-McKay has been fishing on Great Slave Lake and Little Buffalo River for as long as he can remember. He loves to fish, so hearing elders and community members at the summit talk about the impacts of contaminants on fish was upsetting.

At home in Fort Resolution, Keenan says elders have told him about catching fish with blackened livers, and he thinks more fish studies should be done to determine the level of contaminants and whether they are safe to eat.

This year’s water summit “shows governments that we are a united front, that we won't stand for the desecration of our lands and our waters,” said Hunter-McKay. “We won't just stand idly by while they do it and while they are lying to us.”

Friday, March 24, 2023

www.thompsoncitizen.net

News • Page 11

Flin Flon will move ahead with pool project, but price tag is up government Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program grant and almost $2.9 million from the Manitoba government. The Saskatchewan government has not contributed any funds for a new pool complex.

“When we’re talking about a big increase like this, we have to really be sure that it’s the best option for our community,” said councillor Alison Dallas-Funk.

“Every building project across the country is facing exactly the same thing. Just look at the cost of anything — go to the store and see what it was three years ago and see what it is now. Any project is the same. We had to ask where are we on this scale, then how does this affect us in the future — but we were sure we can still do it,” said Fontaine.

“What were going to be our best case and our worst case scenarios, we tried to look at both of those. Especially financially, we tried to look at all those things and think, ‘What are we doing here?’ and we decided yes, we can and yes, we will.”

The cost of the project jumped shortly before last fall’s local election, then again early this year. The city is pursuing more grant money to help cover the increased construction cost, including an application to the provincial capital fund for around $3 million.

“The numbers they were working with are quite different from the numbers we have now, especially with the increase of everything out there under COVID-19,” said Dallas-Funk.

“That's a factor, and there’s granting as well — there is a grant

BY ERIC WESTHAVER FLIN FLON REMINDER

Flin Flon’s city council has announced they will continue with plans to replace the Flin Flon Aqua Centre. The estimated cost of the project has risen, but councillors say the City will still be able to afford the project.

A formal resolution, introduced by councillors at their March 7 meeting and passed unanimously by those in attendance, said that the City would continue with the project’s arrangements. Those include work with Winnipeg-based construction company Ernst Hansch Construction to design and build a new pool and to work with the Aqua Centre Community Committee — as well as other members of the community — to help fundraise and seek input on the pool project. Members of the committee came to the meeting and sat in the public gallery, applauding the move when it was announced by council.

“Council is pleased to inform the community that after much discussion a decision has been reached to continue to move forward with the construction of a new aqua centre,” reads the meeting agenda, read out at the meeting by Mayor George Fontaine.

Councillors are slated to meet again with representatives from Ernst Hansch this week, the latest in a series of meetings meant to get an almost entirely new city council up to speed with the status and scope of the project.

The scope remains mostly unchanged from how it was presented at a public meeting last June–a four-lane lap swim pool, a leisure pool located to one side,

Flin Flon Reminder image courtesy of City of Flin Flon An artist’s rendering of what the replacement to the Flin Flon Aqua Centre may look like, as prepared by Ernst Hansch Construction. closed off from the pool itself there. We tried our best with by a concrete island but with the that,” said Fontaine. same water supply, along with “We wanted to have all the ramps allowing the pool to be questions we had in our minds, accessed by people with mobil- at least sift through them as best ity issues. The project will still as we could. We could have been include a multipurpose activity a few months earlier if we just room and a single open unisex said ‘let’s go ahead’, but we felt changing area space visible to like this was a lot of money — lifeguards from the deck — pool- this is a huge project.” goers will get changed in a series Cost of closed-off change stalls. The Back in June, the City had ansite for the new pool will be on nounced that the pool project had the same site as the old pool, near grown in price from its original Ross Creek and the water treat- $9 million price tag to around $11 ment plant off Ash Crescent. The million in total. That price has area formerly occupied by the since increased, then increased Willowpark Curling Club, about again recently.

200 metres northeast of that site, As of last week, the revised was seen as the most likely site price tag for the project sits just for a new pool until last spring, over $17 million. Last June, City when geophysical results for the officials said there was a continsite showed it would not be suit- gency plan in place to cover up able to build a new pool on. to a 20 per cent increase in costs “The support never wavered. from the $11 million figure.

We questioned whether there The project itself has received were any potential partners out over $3.4 million from a federal

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On the date and at the time and location shown below, a PUBLIC HEARING will be held to receive representations from any person(s) who wish to make them in respect to the following matter:

The automated carts must be placed along your curb no later than 8 am on the day of scheduled pickup AT LEAST one metre apart from other cart/objects. No Parking on residential streets between the hours of 8 am and 4:30 pm during Garbage/Recycle days for that area. Example: if 4 1 no parking 2 on the 3 residential 4 streets in the it is Westwood’s Garbage/Recycle day there is to be Westwood Area. This is to aid in the safety for both the residents of Thompson as well as City crews. Vehicles found parked on the streets will be ticketed.

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that they already have obtained.

We had to get an extension on that because of the delay. There's a second grant that they've granted for previous council and administration that we were unsure of.

We had to see if we were denied, if we were in the queue waiting, what's all going on with that.”

The City of Flin Flon will release its 2023-24 fiscal year budget later this spring, a document likely to shed some light on the next steps for the project.

“It’s a big dream and yes, it would have been nice if it went ahead about a year ago, but we’ve got to look at this where we are now,” said Fontaine.

One thing pursued by the new council was whether or not a new pool could be built on City land on the Saskatchewan side of the provincial border, in hopes of making the project cheaper. No agreements could be made on that front — mainly because if the city pursued that matter, the funding already allocated from the Manitoba government could be in jeopardy.

“We questioned whether there was any other location where this thing could be done, even if we had to redesign. We questioned other locations — for example, being able to go into the Saskatchewan side to build it, to see if we could get grants on the Saskatchewan side,” said Fontaine.

“It looked like a good idea and I had discussions with the Saskatchewan mayors, but the problem is that we would probably lose the Manitoba funding if we switched over to that side.

It all turned out to be that wasn't likely going to be the answer.”

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AREA AFFECTED 305 Thompson Dr. N Lot B Plan 5692 in Pt. NE 4-78-3 WPM

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT Lyle Safronetz Director Development & Technical Services City of Thompson Ph: (204) 677-7922, Email: lsafronetz@thompson.ca

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.

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So if you are in the works of planning your new project 6 whether 7 it is an 8 addition, 9 alteration, 10 conversion, 11 12repair, improvement to your principal building or accessory building (commercial or residential) we have made it simple and easy to apply.

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S M T W T F S S 13 The M14 T W T F 1 2 3 4 S 19 5 15 16 17 18 Cloudpermit building permit system allows you to apply

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2 of your3 applications 4 anywhere, 5 for and to see1the status at any time. You can start an application and finish it later, receive email the status 6 and21 7 8 updates 9 on10 11 20 22 23 24 25of your12 26permit application. You can even request building inspections 6 with results 7 8 immediately 9 10your email!

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A copy of the above proposed By-law may be inspected at the location noted above during normal office hours, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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

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Bids will be received by the Purchasing Agent at City Hall, 22

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Page 12 • News

Friday, March 24, 2023

First Nations teen signs one-day contract with NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins

BY SAM LASKARIS

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, WINDSPEAKER.COM

When he was diagnosed with a potentially dangerous heart condition back in 2016, Chayce Taylor had to cut back on his athletic activities, including giving up playing hockey.

But that hasn’t prevented Taylor, a 14-year-old from Berens River First Nation in Manitoba, from making it to the National Hockey League.

Earlier this month, Taylor signed a one-day contract to join the roster of the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins, through Make-A-Wish. The foundation, launched in 1980, helps fulfill wishes

for children under 18 with a critical illness.

Taylor was diagnosed with Long QT syndrome.

He was born with a heart defect that can significantly alter his heart rate, leading to a potentially life-threatening situation. He now takes daily medication to regulate his heart rate.

Though signing a contract with the Penguins was obviously a highlight in his life, Taylor, who lives in Edmonton, said most of his friends were nonchalant about the experience.

“My friends didn’t care about it,” said Taylor, whose cousin is former NHL star Reggie Leach, a member of the 1975 Stanley Cup

champion Philadelphia Flyers. “They’re mostly all into soccer. But my teachers were definitely impressed. And so were my neighbours.”

Taylor’s mother Kody said her son had actually been waiting a handful of years to have his wish granted of joining the Penguins’ organization for a day.

Officials with Stollery Children’s Hospital in Edmonton had completed paperwork that he was eligible for the Make-A-Wish program several years ago.

Program officials then contacted Taylor’s family to determine what Chayce’s wish would be. His top preference was always to join

the Penguins in Pittsburgh for a day.

After being told his wish would be granted, the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world in early 2020 putting Taylor’s wish and travel plans on hold.

His wish was finally fulfilled a few weeks ago, on March 8. Taylor was one of four youth who signed one-day contracts to join the Penguins’ organization.

He travelled from Edmonton to Pittsburgh for a five-day trip with his mother, eight-month-old sister Beaux and his stepfather Kurt Johnson.

“It was absolutely incredible,” Kody Taylor said.

“He’s been waiting for this for years.”

Chayce and the three other wish recipients started off their trip by having breakfast in the Penguins’ dressing room.

Various Pittsburgh players, as well as the team’s head coach Mike Sullivan, popped into the dressing

room at various times during the breakfast, held before a team practice.

Sullivan said it’s not just the wish recipients but also those who are part of the Penguins organization who were fortunate to be part of the day.

“It's an incredible experience for all of us that have an opportunity to share an experience with these kids that are going through a difficult time,” he said. “I think we gain every bit as much fulfillment out of it as they do. I know it's a huge thrill for our guys. They look forward to this opportunity. It's certainly a privilege from our standpoint to meet these kids.”

After their breakfast and meet-and-greets in the dressing room, the wish recipients and Penguins general manager Ron Hextall participated in a press conference during which one-day contracts to join the club were signed.

“We're excited to have

Radio Operator Clerk Term/Full time (Recallable) Department of Natural Resources and Northern Development, Thompson, MB Advertisement Number: 40744 Closing Date: April 3rd 2023 Salary Range: $1,373.88 - $,1566.00 bi-weekly The Manitoba government recognizes the importance of building an exemplary public service reflective of the citizens it serves, where diverse abilities, backgrounds, cultures, identities, languages and perspectives drives a high standard of service and innovation.

The Manitoba government supports equitable employment practices and promotes representation of designated groups (women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, visible minorities).

Employment Equity is a factor in selection for this competition. Consideration will be given to Women, Indigenous People, Persons with disabilities and Visible Minorities.

An eligibility list may be established for similar positions for up to 12 months.

Candidates who do not meet all essential criteria may be considered on an underfill basis at a commensurate rate of pay.

This is a full-time position during the fire season to start as soon as possible and will end in 42 weeks. If staffing plans are approved (each year) then the candidate is recalled to this term position to work another 42 weeks. The position will be located in Thompson in Northern Manitoba approximately 760 kilometers from Winnipeg, MB. Qualifications: Please see Competition No. 40744 at gov.mb.ca/Govjobs for further information on Conditions of Employment and Qualifications.

Duties: The incumbent will be responsible for operating a two-way radio network to track and record aircraft and personnel movement within the region as well as providing clerical support for the Regional Wildfire Centre. During the wildfire season this position will work in a fast paced and dynamic environment and be expected to contribute as a team member.

Apply to: Advertisement No. 40744 Service Centre 4 Human Resource Services 600-259 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3B 2A9 Phone: 204-945-7518 Fax: 204-945-0601

them as part of our team today,” said Hextall, a former NHL goaltender. “It's an exciting day for all of our players. I know our players are pumped.”

Following the press conference, the four wish recipients donned hockey gear and hit the ice as the Penguins’ practice was ending.

Several of the team’s players, however, stuck around and skated with the youth for about half-an-hour.

The next day the wish recipients and their family members watched the Penguins square off against the New York Islanders.

Pittsburgh captain Sidney Crosby offered the family members use of his charity suite to watch the game.

“They covered all of our expenses,” Kody Taylor said. “They went above and beyond.”

The Penguins have been involved with the MakeA-Wish program for about three decades now.

Dana Antkowiak, the senior manager of marketing and communications for Pittsburgh’s Make-A-Wish branch, was pleased to see the Penguins return to fulfilling wishes this year.

“These kids already faced isolation and difficult times before the pandemic,” Antkowiak said of this year’s recipients. “Then you add a pandemic on top of that, it's been exceptionally challenging for these families. For wishes to return to normal, it just means the world to them. It's so impactful on their life.”

Besides his NHL contract which he plans to get framed, Chayce returned from Pittsburgh with several other souvenirs, including a Penguins’ jersey with his name on the back, as well as a helmet signed by the team’s players.

We’re Hiring We’re changing with the world.

Be a part of our evolution.

As one of the world’s largest producers of high-quality, low-carbon nickel, copper and cobalt, Vale mines the critical minerals essential to building a greener future. We are focused on developing our people and our workforce to build a truly inclusive and diverse workforce.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process.

When applying to this position, please indicate the advertisement number and position title in the subject line and/or body of your email. Your cover letter, resumé and/or application must clearly indicate how you meet the qualifications.

Please be advised that job competitions may be grieved and appealed. Should a selection grievance be filed, information from the competition file will be provided to the grievor’s representative or the grievor, if unrepresented. Personal information irrelevant to the grievance and other information protected under legislation will be redacted.

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

Find out about other current job opportunities — click on the Jobs button at manitoba.ca.

People. Purpose. Progress.

Our operations in Thompson are located in the heart of the Northern Boreal Region — the Hub of Northern Manitoba. Vale’s Thompson Manitoba Operations are now hiring for the following positions:     

Summer Support Student (Application Deadline: March 20) Mines Manager Manitoba (Application Deadline: March 28) Health, Safety & Risk Summer Student (Application Deadline: March 30) Industrial Mechanic/Millwright (Application Deadline: March 31) Heavy Duty Mechanic (Application Deadline: March 31)

manitoba.ca/govjobs

Any personal information provided including employment equity declarations will be used for employment and/or statistical purposes and is protected by The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Alternate formats available upon request

Manitoba Civil Service Commission Thompson Citizen

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

Friday, March 24, 2023

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Careers • Page 13

Manitoba proposes child welfare amendments for First Nations Prepared by the HR ADWORKS Service Team

REP.

DESIGNER

Prepared by th HR ADWORK Service Tea

PROOFED

ESTIMATED to recommendations from the province and the federal vice delivery standards that Children and Youth and children and families in the for joint re- child welfare system, and Indigenous leaders and CFS government, regarding their must be followed when pro- would allow SENT partner agencies, and they child welfare systems. viding services to Indigen- views upon request by In- improving services for all The province introduced align with federal law re“Our government re- ous children and families.” digenous governments, and All prices exclude taxes families in need of CFS supAD specting PROOF ESTIMATE AD PROOF & ESTIMATE Prices do not include 5% GST amendments to the Child First& Nations, Inuit mains committed to the The province said the would recognize “alternate ports,” the province said.

Docket Media Section Insertion Date Size decision-makers” Price for health and Family Services Act Media Section Insertion“Amendments Date Ad Size and Métis children, youth successful wouldAdalso are aimed realization Docket of amendments to give more control 2303-15 to and agencies2Citizen ac-x 4.0505” care or education out-x 4.0505” jurisdiction A families.

Thompson Citizen Indigenous Careers Mar 24give &B31, CFS 2023 Thompson col 2303-16 Careers decisions Mar 24at&improving 31, 2023 life-long 2 col Indigenous communities In 2019, Bill C-92, a for CFS and engaging In- cess to more resources to when a child is cared for comes for children by foInternet and more opportunities for federal law that gives First digenousInternet leadership and support children and fam- by someone other than their cusing on the preservation communities looking to Nations, Inuit and Métis community partners about ilies outside of the court parent or legal guardian. of cultural continuity and take back control of their communities in Canada changes that affect their process, including new The amendments are community connections CFS systems. the authority to take over communities, as a measure agreements to provide ex- being proposed while, cur- for Indigenous children, On March 14, Families child welfare systems was of our commitment to truth panded support to families, rently, as many as 90 per prioritizing placements Minister Rochelle Squires passed. and reconciliation,” Squires new placement options that cent of children and youth with family for all chilTOTAL PRICE TOTAL PRIC announced the Manitoba Earlier this year, Peguis said. “These amendments emphasize the importance in care in Manitoba identify dren, and allowing new government is proposing First Nation became the first would adapt the provincial of placing children with as Indigenous and the prov- agreement-based supports changes to CFS and to other Indigenous community in system to be responsive to family or community, and ince said in a statement they to prevent children from statutes that she said would Manitoba to take back child new Indigenous CFS laws.” more opportunities to ex- believe the proposed chan- coming into care.” “recognize the jurisdiction welfare responsibilities — Dave Baxter is a LoAccording to the prov- tend some temporary orders ges would work to lower of Indigenous governments since Bill C-92 was passed, ince, the amendments to reduce the need to sever the number of Indigenous cal Journalism Initiative over this vital area of public and the province says there would work to bring prov- parental ties due to missed children in care. reporter who works out of service.” are several other Indigenous incial CFS laws more in line deadlines.

“The changes would be the Winnipeg Sun. The LoThe proposed amend- communities in Manitoba with the 2019 federal act, The changes would also a significant step towards cal Journalism Initiative is ments, according to the currently pursuing co-co- and would work to “har- clarify the jurisdiction of addressing the over-rep- funded by the government province, come in response ordination agreements with monize principles and ser- the Manitoba Advocate forPrepared resentation of Indigenous of Canada.

Prepared by th by the

BY DAVE BAXTER

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, WINNIPEG SUN

HR ADWORKS Service Team

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

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.

REP.

HR ADWORK Service Tea

DESIGNER PROOFED

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

All to prices exclude taxes welcoming and inclusive work commit to offering a safe, welcoming and inclusive work commit offering a safe, AD PROOF & ESTIMATE We AD PROOF & ESTIMATE We Prices do not include 5% GST environment where innovation and creativity is welcomed. environment where innovation and creativity is welcomed.

KEEWATIN

Docket

2303-17 B

Media

TRIBAL Thompson Citizen COUNCIL

FULL TIME NIGHT SHIFT REFERRAL CLERK 1 Position – Monday to Friday 2300hrs to 0700hrs (11:00 PM to 7:00 AM) Under the general supervision of the Referral Supervisor, the clerk provides patient services for patients in transit by; local transportation, repatriation of patients upon medical clearance; arranging accommodation/boarding, any other special services required while in transit; maintain patient medical records; provide information regarding Non-Insured Health Benefits; maintain medical confidentiality at all time and perform other duties.

QUALIFICATIONS: • The incumbent should have completion of Grade 12 or equivalent.

• Must have knowledge and at least 3 years’ experience of medical terminology.

• Must have customer service skills • Previous knowledge of the MTRS National Program • Must have current CPR and First Aid Certification.

• Should have good communications and organizational skills.

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

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

• Should be aware of Indigenous culture, lifestyles and spiritual beliefs.

• Ability to speak Cree or Dene an asset.

• Knowledge and proven proficiency in computers and various software programs (i.e. Database, Word processing, etc.)

• Work well under pressure – fast pace environment; problem solver • Candidate must submit a Criminal Record Check or Fingerprint Check and also a Child/Adult abuse registry check; within one month of employment All interested applicants must hand in a detailed resume, including at least two references, one being your latest immediate supervisor should be submitted to: Lisa Beardy, Office Manager Keewatin Tribal Council Inc. 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N 0L6 Fax No.: 204-677-0258 Email address: lbeardy@ktc.ca or dmcivor@ktc.ca

Applications will be accepted until Tuesday, March 28, 2023.

We would like to thank those that apply for these positions, but only those being considered for an interview will be contacted.

For further information or a full job description, contact Dion McIvor, Medical Transportation & Referral Supervisor.

We offer a generous TotalDocket Compensation with health We offer aPrice generous TotalInsertion Compensation Media Section Date Package with health Ad Size Section Insertion Date Package Ad Size benefits, great pension plan along with the opportunity for benefits, great pension plan along with the opportunity for Careers 24 & 31, 2023 2 col x 4.0505” Careers Mar 24 &B31, 2023 Thompson 2Citizen col x 4.0505”personal personal and professional2303-18 growth. and professionalMar growth.

Internet

Internet

CENTRE COORDINATOR UCN Tataskweyak Education & Training Centre Full Time Position Tataskweyak (Split Lake), Manitoba Competition No: 23-021 Closing Date: April 14, 2023

CENTRE COORDINATOR UCN Norway House Education & Training Centre Full Time Position Norway House, Manitoba Competition No: 23-016 TOTAL PRICE Closing Date: April 14, 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

TOTAL PRIC

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

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.

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.

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.

CENTRE COORDINATOR

CENTRE COORDINATOR

UCN Pimichikamak Education and Training Centre Full Time Position Pimichikamak (Cross Lake), Manitoba Competition No: 23-022 Closing Date: April 14, 2023

UCN Bunibonibee Education & Training Centre Full Time Position Bunibonibee (Oxford House), Manitoba Competition No: 23-023 Closing Date: April 14, 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.

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

University College of the North

RCMP Drug Tip Line 204-677-6995

HERE YOU CAN UCN.CA

Service Tea

Page 14 • Careers

www.thompsoncitizen.net

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.

HOUSING COORDINATOR Facilities, Ancillary Services and Workplace Safety and Health Full Time Position The Pas, Manitoba Competition No: 23-025 Closing Date: April 6, 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

AD PROOF & ESTIMATE

17-year-old charged after Moose Lake shooting Docket

Media

Section

Insertion Date

Ad Size

2303-19 A

Thompson Citizen

Careers

Mar 24 & 31, 2023

2 col x 4.2305”

Internet

A 17-year-old male is charged with aggravated assault and numerous other offences after a 38-year-old man was shot and wounded in Moose Lake March 18.

Moose Lake RCMP received a report of shots fired on Portage Road

around 5 a.m. March 18.

While they were responding, an injured man was reported on Stagg Crescent.

Police found the man who had been shot and took him to the nursing station for first aid. He was later transported out of the com-

SERVICE ADVISOR

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

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA UNIT: THOMPSON SERVICE DELIVERY OFFICE (TSDO) LOCATION: THOMPSON, MB Position: Placement Desk Worker One (1) Full-Time Permanent position As a member of the Foster Care department, the Placement Desk Worker (PDW) tracks available placements for children in care and finds appropriate placements. Working collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary team, the incumbent possesses excellent problem solving, time management and organizational skills in order to meet the demands in this fast-paced and time sensitive position. The PDW is knowledgeable in, and follows applicable legislation, program standards, directives, and Agency policy. The work environment requires confidentiality, empathy, and cultural sensitivity.

Qualifications: • BSW and 1-year of child welfare work experience preferred, or a combination of education and related work experience.

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).

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

• Valid drivers license and access to a reliable vehicle required.

• Effective, verbal and written communication skills.

• Speak and understand the Cree or Dene language an asset.

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

Working Conditions: • Fast-paced, community-based, multi-disciplinary child welfare environment.

• Confidential environment with access to highly sensitive information.

• Satisfactory Criminal Record, Driver’s Abstract, Child Abuse Registry and Prior Contact checks prior to starting the position and throughout employment as required.

• Overnight and remote travel required approximately 30% of time.

Salary: Awasis Agency offers a competitive salary and employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience Closing Date: Wednesday, April 5, 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 2023-025 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 #2022-025 701 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

Help keep Thompson

GREEN and CLEAN

Friday, March 24, 2023

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

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

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

Resumes only please.

Fax resumes to Kayla at 204-778-6700

munity for further treatment of injuries considered serious but not believed to be life-threatening.

As they investigated, RCMP officers identified a suspect and arrested the 17-year-old shortly past noon.

In addition to aggravated assault, he faces charges

TOTAL PRIC of discharging a firearm with intent, using a firearm in the commission of an offence, possessing a firearm while knowing that possession is unauthorized and five counts of failing to comply with court conditions.

He was remanded into custody.

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.

BUILDING SERVICE WORKER Facilities, Ancillary Services and Workplace Safety and Health Full Time Position Thompson, Manitoba Competition No: 23-024 Closing Date: April 3, 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.

or email

kayla@thompsonford.ca

KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY FULL TIME PERMANENT AFTERHOURS REFERRAL CLERK 1 position–Sunday – Thursday 15:00-23:00 and 2 positions–Tuesday – Saturday 15:00-23:00 Under the general supervision of the Referral Supervisor, the clerk provides patient services for patients in transit by; local transportation, repatriation of patients upon medical clearance; arranging accommodation/boarding, any other special services required while in transit; maintain patient medical records; provide information regarding Non-Insured Health Benefits; maintain medical confidentiality at all time and perform other duties.

QUALIFICATIONS: • The incumbent should have completion of Grade 12 or equivalent.

• Must have knowledge and at least 3 years’ experience of medical terminology.

• Must have customer service skills • Previous knowledge of the MTRS National Program • Must have current CPR and First Aid Certification.

• Should have good communications and organizational skills.

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

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

• Should be aware of Indigenous culture, lifestyles and spiritual beliefs.

• Ability to speak Cree or Dene an asset.

• Knowledge and proven proficiency in computers and various software programs (i.e. Database, Word processing, etc.)

• Work well under pressure – fast pace environment; problem solver • Candidate must submit a Criminal Record Check or Fingerprint Check and also a Child/Adult abuse registry check; within one month of employment All interested applicants must hand in a detailed resume, including at least two references, one being your latest immediate supervisor should be submitted to: Lisa Beardy, Office Manager Keewatin Tribal Council Inc. 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N 0L6 Fax No.: 204-677-0258 Email address: lbeardy@ktc.ca or dmcivor@ktc.ca

Applications will be accepted until Tuesday, March 28, 2023.

We would like to thank those that apply for these positions, but only those being considered for an interview will be contacted.

For further information or a full job description, contact Dion McIvor, Medical Transportation & Referral Supervisor.

University College of the North

HERE YOU CAN UCN.CA

KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL CASUAL REFERRAL CLERKS Weekends & Holidays Saturday/Sunday and Holidays 0700hrs -1500hrs (7:00 AM to 3:00 PM) OR 0900hrs – 1700hrs (9:00 AM to 5:00 PM) Under the general supervision of the Referral Supervisor, the clerk provides patient services for patients in transit by; local transportation, repatriation of patients upon medical clearance; arranging accommodation/boarding, any other special services required while in transit; maintain patient medical records; provide information regarding Non-Insured Health Benefits; maintain medical confidentiality at all time and perform other duties.

QUALIFICATIONS: • The incumbent should have completion of Grade 12 or equivalent.

• Must have knowledge and at least 3 years’ experience of medical terminology.

• Must have customer service skills • Previous knowledge of the MTRS National Program • Must have current CPR and First Aid Certification.

• Should have good communications and organizational skills.

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

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

• Should be aware of Indigenous culture, lifestyles and spiritual beliefs.

• Ability to speak Cree or Dene an asset.

• Knowledge and proven proficiency in computers and various software programs (i.e. Database, Word processing, etc.)

• Work well under pressure – fast pace environment; problem solver • Candidate must submit a Criminal Record Check or Fingerprint Check and also a Child/Adult abuse registry check; within one month of employment All interested applicants must hand in a detailed resume, including at least two references, one being your latest immediate supervisor should be submitted to: Lisa Beardy, Office Manager Keewatin Tribal Council Inc. 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N 0L6 Fax No.: 204-677-0258 Email address: lbeardy@ktc.ca or dmcivor@ktc.ca

Applications will be accepted until Tuesday, March 28, 2023.

We would like to thank those that apply for these positions, but only those being considered for an interview will be contacted.

For further information or a full job description, contact Dion McIvor, Medical Transportation & Referral Supervisor.

Wednesday, January 31, 2018 Friday, March 24, 2023

www.thompsoncitizen.net www.thompsoncitizen.net

Careers

Manslaughter charge laid in death Louisiana Pacific Friuli Suite Rentals Swan Valley of 18-year-old Gods River woman A 17-year-old woman is charged with manslaughter in the death of an 18-yearOn March 21, police arrested a products 17-year-old oldLouisiana-Pacifi woman inc, Employer Gods River, of Choice, a leader in the forest industry known say. for the development of innovative, affordable, environmentally woman from Gods RivRCMP friendly products and for excellence Safetycharged and Quality isher currently God’sbuilding Lake Narrows er inand with seeking Labourers at ourto Swan Swan Valley,She Minitonas RCMP responded a Valley re- SmartSide®, manslaughter. was operation. port of an injured woman remanded into custody cations: at Qualifi a Gods River residence pending a provincial court The successful candidate the following around 8:30 p.m.

Marchmust 19.possess appearance in Thompson qualifi cations; The victim had been taken March 22.

• Good written and verbal skills perpetrator to the nursing station withcommunication The alleged • Physically fit to perform all duties life-threatening injuries and and the victim knew each • • • • •

Ability to multitask and problem solve Ability to operate equipment as required PROFESSIONAL Computer literacy will be considered an asset Valid driver’s licenseEMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Shiftwork AWASIS AGENCY

OF join NORTHERN The successful candidates will a dynamicMANITOBA team in providing support to the facility UNIT: locatedTHOMPSON in the beautiful Swan River Valley SERVICE DELIVERY as it embarks on a new and exciting journey of producing siding OFFICE (TSDO) for a growing market.

LOCATION: THOMPSON, MB

Louisiana-Pacific offers a competitive wage and benefit package in Position: with Childthe & Family Services Worker Agreement. Louisianaaccordance Collective Bargaining Full-Time Permanent Pacific is an One equal(1)opportunity employer.Position Reporting Supervisor, the Childonly & Family Services Worker We thankto alla Unit applicants, however, those selected for (CFS) is responsible to implement the policies, procedures and interviews will be contacted. Candidates will be subject specific direction of Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba when to successful completion of comprehensive background working with families andchecks. children in child protection. Duties include screening and health managing a case load, conducting interviews and assessments, Please forward cover letter and resume to: compiling caseyour particulars for Court, investigating/follow up on Lorraineissues, Schneider allegations of child protection maintaining regular visits, Human Resource Generalist developing I providing accurate and timely documentation, long/ Louisiana-Pacifi c Canada Ltd. short term case plans, developing/facilitating workshops, community P.O.networking Box 189, with Minitonas, R0L 1G0 education and collateralMB resources/services.

Phone: (204) 525-2479 Ext. 2104 Fax: (866) 678-5969 Qualifications: e-mail : lorraine.schneider@lpcorp.com • 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. t $PNQFUJUJWF 4BMBSJFT t 3FMPDBUJPO "TTJTUBODF • At $POUJOVJOH &EVDBUJPO t 3FNPUFOFTT "MMPXBODF t &YDFMMFOU #FOFöUT strong work ethic and reliable.

• Proven ability to prioritize workloads and meet deadlines. >Dental Assistant • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.

5IPNQTPO (FOFSBM )PTQJUBM o 0QFSBUJOH 3PPN • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently, as well 1BSU 5JNF '5& as part of a child protection unit team.

5IFSF XJMM CF BO PQQPSUVOJUZ UP XPSL QBSU UJNF GPS UIF %FOUJTU JO • Sensitivity to, and an understanding of First Nations culture BEEJUJPO UP UIJT QBSU UJNF QPTJUJPO and values.

Under the direct the Patient Carean Manager asset. or designate, assists • Ability to supervision speak Creeofand/or Dene

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

multi-disciplinary team personnel in performing a variety of patient care Working Conditions: activities and related non-professional services necessary in caring for the personal needs andenvironment. comfort of the patient. This is an integrated position that • Fast-paced includes coordination and schedulingwith of dental procedures for the Operating environment access to sensitive information.

• Confidentiality Room (OR). This will require expertise in developing and maintaining excellent • Overnight and remote travel approximately 20% of the time. working relationships with a broad range of individuals and organizations.

The Provide satisfactory Criminal Child Registry OR•Dental Assistant will function within theRecord, provisions of theAbuse Vision, Mission, Values,and policies and procedures of the Northern Health Region (NHR) and Prior Contact checks prior to starting the position, and will incorporate NHR core competencies into working practice (Customer/ throughout employment as required.

Client Focused, Initiative & Pro-activity, Diversity Awareness, Teamwork, and • Maintain a valid driver’s andand have access to a reliable Collaboration, Development of Selflicense and Others, Adaptability).

vehicle.

The incumbent must fulfill the requirements of the Criminal Records/Vulnerable Salary:Child Awasis a competitive salary and Person, AbuseAgency Registryoffers check and Adult Abuse Registry check,employee and adhere tobenefit all Northern Health Salary Region policies and procedures. with education and package. will commensurate experience.

Qualifications: t Grade 12 education or equivalent Date: Tuesday,ofApril 5, 2023Dental Assistant Program required t Closing Successful completion a recognized t Awasis Current active practicing with Manitoba Dental Association Agency provides registration service to Indigenous children and families, t Excellent knowledge of Windows based programs (Microsoft Word, Excel, therefore preference Outlook, and Internet) will be given to Indigenous applicants. to self-identify. interested in t Applicants Minimum are threeencouraged (3) years’ experience as a DentalIndividuals Assistant required t this Previous experience working with Pediatric cases preferred challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number t 2023-026 Ability toon speak Cree an asset your resume/cover letter and include it in the subject

line of yourlistemail, in confidence For complete of qualifications pleaseto: visit our website www.nrha.ca.

Human Resources Department

Please submit resume

by February 2, Northern 2018 to: Manitoba Awasis Agency of Lori Rasmussen, Recruitment Officer Competition #2023-026 867 Thompson Drive South Thompson,701 MBThompson R8N 1Z4 Drive, Thompson, MB R8N 2A2 204-778-8428 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca Fax: (204)Fax: 778-1477 Email: recruiteast@nrha.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, $BMM VT UPEBZ -PDBM PS 5PMM 'SFF

only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to

Northern RHA has a Representative Workforce Strategy, we encourage all applicants to selfthe materials or Child activities throughout the selection declare.

Criminal Record, Abuse, &used Adult Abuse Registry Checks are required. process We thank all candidates for applying.

Only those selectedVaccination for interview will be contacted. **Note: Awasis Agency policy mandate:

fully vaccinated plus booster

www.nrha.ca

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develop management skills for long term future considerations.

• Full time, permanent, 35 + hours per week, must be bondable, able to pass criminal background check, have driver’s licence and access to own transportation.

• Must have excellent communication/typing skills, experience with Microsoft Office and basic bookkeeping preferable.

• Preparing bank deposits, able to organize, prioritize and complete reports by deadline dates.

• Attention to detail, ability to work independently and within a team environment FULLapplying TIMEconfidentiality POSITION in all matters.

• Be open to new ideas and changes that may improve efficiency TECHNICAL ADVISORY SERVICES / in day to day operations. &when TRAINING • Ability to fillEDUCATION in for the manager required/willingness to ADMINISTRATIVE CLERK carry company cell phone in case of emergency.

• Training provided, flexible work environment, baseda The Keewatin Tribal Council Health Departmentwages is seeking on experience. highly motivated individual with management skills for a fullStart date: ASAP time position role of Administrative Clerk within the Student Email resume to Carolyn Turpie: Services and Technical Services department. manager@friulirentals.com PURPOSE or fax to: 204-677-3195 Under the general direction of Keewatin Tribal Council (KTC) or drop off atand 31 Oak St. Office.

Director of Student Services Director of Technical Services Closing date: February 16, 2018 perform a variety of administrative, clerical and accounting data entry duties in support of the Education & Training and We appreciate the interest of all applicants, howeverservices only those Technical Advisory Services individuals selected for interviews will be contacted.

JOB DUTIES: Perform some or all of the following duties: • Create, organize and maintain a comprehensive filing management system for Technical Services projects.

• Assist staff in the preparation and maintenance of Technical Services project progress claims to Government.

• Assist in the maintenance and reconciliation of projects on a regular basis.

• Accounting Data Entry for the Technical Department’s Project Management Infrastructure Projects.

Home Care Nurse- External Posting • Record and prepare minutes of meetings.

• Travel arrangements for staff; Colomb Firstand Nation Healthcorrespondence, Authority is seeking a • Marcel Prepare, key in, edit proofread reports, qualifi ed individual to fulfi ll the role of Home Nurse. invoices, presentations, forms and other relatedCare material using

KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL

computerized systems.

Summary • Job Conference and event planning: • Compile data, statistics and other information and conduct Reporting torequested the Homeusing Carecomputerized Manager, thesystems.

Home research as Nurse is responsible forand promoting, protecting • Care Set up and maintain manual computerized information &filing preserving the health of Marcel Colomb community systems. services directed to home care • members Share andthrough maintain front desk reception duties with other clients.

The Home Care Nurse provides holistic & administrative secretaries on a rotational basis ascare required.

• practices May schedule and business appointments nursing as confirm defined by the Registered Nursesand meetings of Programwith Managers Act & in compliance the College of Registered • Nurses Prepareofcorrespondence, reports, information related to Manitoba Standards ofand Practice & Canadian these duties as required.

Nurses Association Code of Ethics; cares for & directs • the Determine and establish office overall care of clients;departmental is responsible for procedures advocating,for a continual improvement. providing information, educating & supporting clients to • ensure Attendance at Employment & Training Student Servicesisstaff that the highest possible standard of service / Technical provided; follows Marcel Colomb policies & procedures; • works Advisory meetings team & may be called in aServices multidisciplinary JOB QUALIFICATIONS upon to assist with other duties within the scope of the The Administrative Clerk should have the following qualifications: department.

• Completion of secondary school.

Completion of a two-year college or other program for • Position Requirements: Business Administration • •Completion of anNurse accounting and/orPractical finance courses.

Registered or Licensed • •MustCRNM be reliable or CLPN – Active Registration • •MustValid have at least Class 3 years clericalLicense and administrative Manitoba 5 Driver’s •experience Daily access to a vehicle • •Requires experience in child coordinating activities.

Criminal record & abuse registry checks • Possess initiative and judgement.

• 2 years of related nursing experience • Excellent planning, organizing, interpersonal and • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook communication skills.

• Immunization record up to date • Respect for the customs, traditions and practices of the local member First Nation communities.

Date: January 5, 2018 at 4pm.

No late • Closing Knowledge of Proposals and preparing proposals willCree be accepted.

• submissions Ability to speak or Dene would be an asset.

• Class 5 Drivers License is a mandatory requirement Must Include: • Applications Ability to travel

A written application with detailed resume; including at least two • A cover letter that clearly indicates how you meet (2) references with written permission to contact the references the position requirements of your latest immediate supervisors should be submitted to: • Resume Lisa Beardy, Office Manager • Copy of credentials (licenses, training, education) 23 Nickel Road, Thompson, MB R8N 0Y4 • Three references (colleague, supervisor or manager) Email: lbeardy@ktc.ca Fax 204-677-0256 and contact information Deadline Tuesday, March 28, 2023@4:00 pm • Criminal record check & child abuse registry checks Successful applicants will be required to provide proof of (or indication that they have been applied for) COVID-19 vaccination by providing a Government of Manitoba • Personal contact information (phone & email) issued QR code and photo identification or providing proof of an exemption from the COVID-19 vaccination approved by the Your application will not proceed to interview without the Government of Manitoba. above information. To obtain a complete job description, We like to thank those who haveforapplied.

Only those forwould additional information or to apply this position selected for an interview will be contacted. please contact or submit your application to: Email or drop off only

Cree Nation Tribal Health Centre 107 Edwards Avenue, The Pas Noreen Singh, Finance Manager, nsingh@tribalhealth. ca or Wilma Cook, TNO/Team What doLead, youwcook@tribalhealth.ca get Please mark all correspondence when you cross“CONFIDENTIAL” fish

Q:

and elephants?

Please note that only those selected for an interview will be contacted

A: Swimming trunks.

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Page 11 Careers • Page 15

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• Manage email and phonelevel inquiries

Requirements: Thompson Ford offers competitive salaries; • Prepare clientand documents  Strong written verbal communication skills complete health care benefits tasks and a workplace • Perform various administrative as neededthat  Attention to detail supports growth and development your profession.  Ability to work independently and manage timeineffectively Requirements:  Proficient with Microsoft Office • Strong written and verbal communication skills an asset  Experience working within the financial industry will be considered

• Attention to detail Please offto:resumes at Email cover letter, resume, and drop references • Ability to work independently and manage time effectively Thompson Assante Capital Management Ltd. Ford Sales • Proficient with Microsoft Office #2-40 Moak Crescent 15 Stationindustry Road will be the financial • Experience working within Thompson, MB considered an asset Attn: Kayla Lafreniere R8N 2B7

murbanowski@assante.com Email cover letter, resume, and references to: Only applicants considered We thank all applicants for theirCapital interest; however only those selected Assante Management Ltd. for an interview for the position will be contacted. will be contacted. #2-40 Moak Crescent Thompson, MB R8N 2B7 murbanowski@assante.com

We thank all applicants for their interest; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

KEEWATIN TRIBAL JOB OPPORTUNITY – External Posting Marcel Colomb First Nation COUNCIL JP-CFI Case Manager (Full-Time Term Position) FULL TIME Cree Nation Tribal Health Center Inc. is seeking applications for a full-timeLIAISON-CASE term position of Case Manager PATIENT SUPPORT MANAGER (Registered Nurse, Bachelor of Liaison Education, Bachelor The goal of the Patient Support Case Managerofis to SocialNon-insured Work), funded under the Jordan’s PrincipleChild ensure Health benefits are delivered in accordance Firstthe Initiative ProjectHealth for Marcel Colomb First Nation with Non-Insured Benefits (NIHB) Transportation The purpose theguidelines newly funded Jordan’s Principle program policyofand to eligible clients in Keewatin ChildCouncil First Project is to implement a comprehensive and Tribal Inc Region. integrated approach of coordinated services to help Under the generalFirst direction ofHealth Keewatin Tribal Council (KTC) Marcel Colomb Nation to provide support Medical Transportation and Referral Supervisor and Director and respond to children with complex and special needs ofand Health Keewatin Tribal Council, the Patient Support their of families, in partnership with other health and Liaison Manager will client centered service and social Case professionals and provide, agencies.

These services should maintain liaison between authorized service that providers significantly contribute tothe quality of life ensuring ofchildren transportation accommodations First Nationa and and theirand families are enabledand to experience life Inuit that Health. is as full and as normal as possible.

DUTIES Summary: • Position This position inspects service providers by attending/ arranging regular site visits Case and Manager position • The Meeting interacting withprovides clients a comprehensive service in conjunction with its health • community Discussing health and documenting the client experience team. The Case will provide supervision • care Researching the issueManager including: peer support to the Child Developmentarrival Workers, • &Verifying appointment availability/client the Case Manager and Respite Workers, in • Assistant Denial ofto service SCTCofcommunity to provide a model service • each Standard service including medical facilityofexperience for in children withaccommodation complex needs and their • delivery Standards meals and Provide elements in which have a • families.

Being the point of contact for issuesservices and complaints responsibility take the lead in current securing • particular Documenting issues andtoadvocating within structure effective development, delivery and review of services. of KTC, would check accommodations and verify and support Recognize the defi cits with service systems and the need the client and complaint/issue being rectified immediately towith protect through early intervention, sharing hotelchildren manager/owner. of information, effective co-ordination of services and QUALIFICATIONS: appropriate training.

• The incumbent should have completion of Grade 12 or equivalent; Qualifications: • Should have excellent communication and organizational skills; • RN or BN preference for someone with a nursing • Knowledge and proven proficiency in computers and various background in rehab care and must be in good software, programs, ie: word processing, email, client records standing with CRNM; or Bachelor of Education or software, Excel – creating and use of spreadsheets.

Bachelor of Social Work • Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment; • Supervisory and case management experience; • Should have thorough knowledge of transportation systems • Knowledge of Jordan’s Principle Child First Initiative; within the Province of Manitoba; • Child development background or equivalent • Should have thorough Knowledge of health care facilities • Experience working in First Nation Communities; within the province; • CPR and First Aide Certification; • The knowledge of medical Terminology is an asset; • Excellent computer skills • Should be aware of native culture, lifestyles and spiritual • Knowledge of Cree language and culture; beliefs; • A highly-motivated individual who is innovative and • The ability to speak Cree or Dene is an asset; has a proven ability to work with a very high degree • Must have current Driver’s License and access to vehicle. of accuracy and attention to detail; • Provide a currently clear Criminal Records Check and • Excellent time management and facilitation skills; Fingerprints, Child and Vulnerable persons checks. Prior to • Effective verbal and listening communications skills; commencement of employment.

• Strong leadership, critical thinking, decision making A written lettersolving with detailed andcover problem skills.resume, including at least two (2) with written permission to contact theweekly. references • references Valid Driver’s License, with ability to travel and immediate supervisor should be submitted • your Thelatest position is subject to satisfactory criminal and to: Lisa Beardy, other checks,Office and isManager subject to terms and conditions oraDion McIvor, Referral & MTS Supervisor in proposed written agreement.

23 Nickel Road Thompson, R8N OY4 Please forward a Manitoba resume with 3 references along with coverEmail: letter, lbeardy@ktc.ca in confidence, to:Fax: 204 677-0256 Closing Date: Tuesday, March 28, 2023 Late applications not be Emailwill or drop offaccepted only Noreen Singh, Finance nsingh@tribalhealth.ca Successful applicants willManager, be required to provide proof of OR a Government of Manitoba COVID-19 vaccination by providing Wilma TNO/Team Lead, wcook@tribalhealth.ca issued QRCook, code and photo identification or providing proof of an exemption from the COVID-19 vaccination approved by the to Apply: Open until filled.

GovernmentDeadline of Manitoba We would like to thank those that apply for the position but only Only successful applications will be contacted those being considered for an interview will be contacted. For for further interview. further information or a full job description contact Lisa Beardy, KTC Office Manager.

A: A taxi driver.

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Page 16 • Resource Guide

Friday, March 24, 2023

Why claim to be Indigenous when you’re not?

BY PETER JACKSON

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, THE TELEGRAM

When a recent CBC investigative piece questioned the indigeneity claims of Memorial University president Vianne Timmons, the revelations may have come as a shock to many.

For others, it reflected a pattern that’s been going on for many years.

Timmons has taken a paid leave of absence while the university ponders its next move.

The parallels between her case and that of prominent Indigenous health expert Carrie Bourassa are striking, so much so that when two sets of journalists with the public broadcaster broke the stories separately, they opened with much the same scenario.

The local article sets the tone with Timmons walking across the stage at the 2019 Indspire awards, holding a trophy awarded for her efforts in education in one hand and an eagle feather a student had given her in the other.

Here’s how the October 2021 exposé on Bourassa began: “With a feather in her hand and a bright blue shawl and Métis sash draped over her shoulders, Carrie Bourassa made her entrance to deliver a TEDx Talk at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon in September 2019, where she detailed her personal rags-to-riches story.”

Paternal tales Going further behind the

scenes, both Bourassa and Timmons cite similar sources for their claims of native heritage: in short, their father or grandfather told them so.

Timmons says her father was told not to talk about his Mi’kmaw heritage by his parents, but that he shared it with his own family and they’ve been researching it ever since.

Bourassa claimed she was Anishinaabe Métis from Treaty Four Territory and that her Métis grandfather would sit her on his knee and tell her she was going to be successful one day.

However, genealogical records in both cases point to their biological roots being entirely European.

The same goes for Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond, a prominent academic and former judge who was stripped of a number of honorary degrees and awards after her claims of Cree status were disputed.

Like Timmons, Turpel-Lafond said her father was Indigenous, but had no proof beyond that her grandfather apparently spoke Cree, helped residential school students, and was “adopted” by a Cree chief in some sort of ceremony.

Muddy motives It’s not clear what inspires someone to go down a rabbit hole of Indigenous identity when there’s no clear evidence of it.

A strong and continuous connection to an Indigenous community is usually the most important factor, but not always.

Carrie Bourassa Children who were snatched from parents for adoption, or sent to residential schools, lost their identity in their formative years, but have every reason and right to seek to reclaim what was stolen.

Indigenous journalist Justin Brake recently told National Public Radio he was determined to prove his Mi’kmaw heritage first before he felt comfortable laying claim to it.

“At some point, I had to accept that if I'm being 100 per cent honest with myself, if I'm really looking for answers here, I have to accept

Thompson Citizen photo by SaltWire files/Local Journalism Initiative the possibility that I'm going to land on, no, I'm not Mi'kmaw, and no, I don't have a right to claim my identity,” he said.

In the same NPR piece, University of Texas anthropologist Circe Sturm says race shifters — people who dubiously claim ethnic or Indigenous heritage — do not always realize they are being deceptive.

“I never ran into anyone where I felt like they were overtly lying, and fabricating this in order to get something. It doesn't seem to be that instrumental. I think that most of the people who are

engaged in this process of claiming think that they are reclaiming,“ she said.

Caroline Tait, a Métis professor in Saskatchewan who worked with Bourassa, says the kind of attention that comes with claiming native roots can be irresistible after awhile.

“Everybody cheers and claps, and it’s beautiful,” she told the CBC. “It is the performance that we all want from Indigenous people — this performance of being the stoic, spiritual, culturally attached person (with) which we can identify because we’ve seen them in Disney

movies.”

Both Bourassa and Turpel-Lafond were defiant when their claims were called into question.

As recently as this month, Turpel-Lafond told media she feels comfortable with her past work and her identity, and raised the spectre of “trial by media.”

Timmons has been more contrite, at first insisting she has always qualified her claims to say she does not identify as Mi’kmaw, and subsequently issuing an apology to any Indigenous people she may have offended.

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