Looking Back Moving Ahead - The Grand Council of the Crees

Eeyou EenouSPRING 2003the voice of the peopleLooking BackThe Grand Councilof the CreesAn interview withTed MosesPrinciples andPriorities on Areasof InvestmentAllocation of2003-04 Paymentfrom Cree-QuebecThe NadoshtinArchaeologyand CulturalHeritage ProgramForestry in EeyouIstchee: One year laterMoving Ahead1 YEAR

The mandate of the Grand Councilof the Crees (Eeyou Istchee)The Grand Council of the Crees (GCCEI) is the political voice ofthe Cree people who live in the province of Quebec, Canada. OurCouncil, established in 1974, represents the nine Cree communitieswhose lands and traditional way of life were threatened by theconstruction of the James Bay hydroelectric development projectin the northwestern portion of the province. Today the GrandCouncil continues working to promote and protect the rights ofthe Cree Nation.A Messagefrom the Editor,Bill NamagoosePlease sendcorrespondence to:Bill Namagoose, EditorEeyou Eenou NationEmbassy of the Cree Nation81 Metcalfe Street, Suite 900Ottawa, Ontario K1P 6K7or by e-mail:billnama@gcc.caTo read the New Agreement on theInternet see: http://www.gcc.caPlease send feedback to:E-mail: cree@gcc.caCree Regional Authority2 Lakeshore Rd.Nemaska QC J0Y 3B0Photos by Fred Cattroll© Reproduction is prohibited without written permissionof the Editor.Table of Contents5 Board of Directors 20036-13 An Interview with Ted Moses14 Principles and Priorities on Areas of Investment15-16 Allocation of 2003–2004 Payment from Cree-Quebec17 Establishing a Financial Foundation for the Future18-19 Mistissini Lodge Prepares to Welcome Visitors20-30 The Nadoshtin Archaeology and CulturalHeritage Program31-36 Forestry in Eeyou Istchee: One Year Later37 The Kanak Visit38 New Protected Areas for Waskaganish Territory39-41 Boumhounan—One year later42-43 Weh-Sees Indohoun and Ad-Hoc Committee44-45 Vocational Training Centre to be Built in Waswanipi46 The Troilus Agreement47 Exercise and Healthy Eating: Solutions toChildhood ObesityIt was interesting to see our Grand Chief’s appearance atthe Cree/Naskapi Commission in February. The main issuewas the comments made by Indian and Northern AffairsCanada (INAC) in their presentation to the Commissionlast year concerning the financial health of the CreeCommunities and of the Grand Council/CRA.Besides having made false allegations, what wasparticularly shocking was that the Departmenthad apparently not even read many of the auditedfinancial statements that we had submitted to it!Indian and Northern Affairs Canada is proposingnew legislation to impose increased accountabilitystandards on First Nations across Canada and couldnot even keep up with the 10 audit reports thatthey had received from the Crees. The proposedchanges to the Indian Act do not apply to the Creesbecause we already have a strong accountabilitysection that we negotiated for with Canada in theCree/Naskapi Act in 1984.However, what is apparent from our experienceis that Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, theGovernment of Canada, is as Grand Chief Mosesstated, “not ready for self-government.” Yet theDepartment’s communications spin doctors havemanaged to convince the Canadian public thatAboriginal Nations aren’t ready.The Cree/Naskapi Act is also flawed. Canadainsisted in the Cree/Naskapi Act that if a band hadfinancial problems, the Minister of Indian Affairsand Northern Development could come in, seizethe operations of the Band and appoint a thirdparty from an outside accounting firm to run thecommunity. Yes, there are time delays during whichthe band can try to get its house in order and thereare notices that INAC has to send first, but it isbasically a “get out of the way Indian, the IndianAgent is back” type of approach to “supporting”our Cree local governments. I don’t buy it.The Cree Nation has moved beyond those days. Itis time that we pushed the Government of Canadato amend the Cree/Naskapi Act to remove thoseprovisions. The fact is that over the years Canadahas controlled the over 600 First Nations underthe Indian Act by dealing with them individuallyand in a high-handed manner. INAC doles out alittle money to the good Indians and punishes whatit considers the bad ones by cutting the fundingand by taking over their operations. There is littleincentive for First Nations to work together becauseeveryone is beholden to INAC. In fact, it is morethan this; First Nations often jealously guard their“contacts” with the Minister so they can beg for alittle more money than what their neighbour goton some program or another. They seek advantageagainst one another.This is often how they are controlled, theMinister gives out a little money here and thereso he feels good, he has a few Chiefs for friends,but the real problems are never addressed.Housing and community infrastructure continueto be inadequately funded, Aboriginal Peoplescontinue to be unemployed while the resources3

4are exploited to benefit the non-aboriginalcommunities around them. The question ofstandards is never addressed. In fact, under thissystem Aboriginal Peoples are blamed and insome cases blame themselves for their poverty.The truth is that Canada is following a policyof promoting the status quo where AboriginalPeoples are always off-balance, always unemployedand living in poverty, never recognized and foreveralone and dependent on Indian and Northern AffairsCanada. Canada’s policy has been the cause of theloss of languages and ways of life and seems to bedesigned to wait until most of the more than 600First Nations disappear.The alternative is something that the Creeshave gone part of the way in realizing. In 1975,we signed the James Bay Agreement not justas separate bands, but also as “The Crees,”organized together as The Grand Council of theCrees. At the time, the governments of Canadaand Quebec refused to recognize Cree NationGovernment in the Agreement, but we stilldecided and stood as a Nation by making theGrand Council the protector of the rights of allCrees. You will see in the James Bay Agreementthat Cree government is only referred to as “TheCree Regional Authority.” In the 1970s whenQuebec passed its legislation to recognize thepowers of the CRA as set out in the James Bayand Northern Quebec Agreement, we managed toget them to include the Cree words for it: “EeyouTabeytachesiw” and you know what that means,“Cree Government”, the words that they wouldnot accept in their own language.After almost 30 years of fighting for the recognitionand acknowledgement of our rights, last year wesigned an agreement with Quebec on a Nation-to-Nation basis and in that new Agreement we tookover many obligations for community and economicdevelopment that Quebec formerly had to theCrees in the James Bay Agreement, but had neverimplemented. To some extent, it was our speakingout in Johannesburg, where we said that our rightto self-determination had been violated, that wewere excluded from the economy of our territoryand that we did not have enough housing for ourpeople, that caught Quebec’s attention. The Creeshave needs like any People and we have the rightto participate in the benefits from the developmentof the resources on our traditional territory,forget about category 1, 2 and 3 lands, it is allEeyou Istchee.However, Canada is still in denial of the rights ofAboriginal Peoples, including Cree rights. Whilewe have managed to get some acknowledgement ofour existence as a People, through the signature bythe Grand Council on the James Bay Agreement,Canada has yet to recognize and acknowledge theCree Nation Government in all of its aspects.Cree Nation Government should adopt standardsfor housing, employment and for Cree rights sothat all Crees can strive to have equal opportunityand access to the means to help themselves. Everyfamily needs a house. We need a nation governmentthat helps the band administrators, treasurers,firefighters, police, economic development officersand environment managers to do their jobs inways that are more effective in serving the people.We need to work together because we serve theCree People.By working together on a national basis, all ofthese will find ways to make sure that all Creesget access to programs that provide them withequality of service. If we have problems, weshould sort them out ourselves and if one ofour communities needs more resources, thenwe should work together to help them. Over theyears we have accomplished much together asthe Cree Nation. It is time that we built the CreeNation Government so that we can keep Indianand Northern Affairs Canada out of our businessand get on with the job of improving the lives ofour people. Canada must accept a relationshipwith the Crees where we are recognized andacknowledged as the Cree Nation, as the CreePeople and as a permanent and growing part ofthe political and social landscape.Board of Directors 2003CRA MONTRÉALGrand Chief Ted MosesT – (514) 861-5837F – (514) 861-0760CRA NEMASKADeputy Grand ChiefPaul GullT – (819) 673-2600F – (819) 673-2606CHISASIBIChief Abraham RupertSteve BearskinT – (819) 855-2878F – (819) 855-2875EASTMAINChief Edward Gilpin Jr.Kenneth GilpinT – (819) 977-0211F – (819) 977-0281MISTISSINIChief John LongchapThomas NeeposhT – (418) 923-3461F – (418) 923-3115 or -3625NEMASKAChief Josie JimikenThomas Jolly Sr.T – (819) 673-2512F – (819) 673-2542OUJE-BOUGOUMOUChief Sam R. BosomKenny MianscumT – (819) 745-3911F – (819) 745-3426 or -3168WASKAGANISHChief Robert WeistcheBilly DiamondT – (819) 895-8650F – (819) 895-8901WASWANIPIChief Robert KitchenRhonda OblinT – (819) 753-2587F – (819) 753-2555WEMINDJIChief Reggie MarkDanny TomatukT – (819) 978-0264F – (819) 978-0258WHAPMAGOOSTUIChief David MastyLosty MamianskumT – (819) 929-3384F – (819) 929-3203 or -3969GCCEI OTTAWABill NamagooseT – (613) 761-1655F – (613) 761-1388CRA NEMASKAEddie DiamondMatthew SwallowWillie IserhoffT – (819) 673-2600F – (819) 673-2606CNYD NEMASKAAndrew NeeposhT – (819) 673-2600F – (819) 673-2606CHRD MISTISSINIHenry MianscumT – (819) 923-2525F – (819) 923-2111MONTRÉALNorman Gull, CSAT – (819) 866-1234F – (819) 866-1331MONTRÉALCorporate SecretaryJohn Paul MurdochT – (514) 878-9641F – (514) 878-14505Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

An Interview with Ted MosesLa Paix des Braves is working. It has been over a year since it was signed. Since then hundreds of Cree jobshave been created and local development is flourishing. Exciting new projects are being undertaken in manyof the Communities. Mistissini is in final stages of completing its hotel, Ouje-Bougoumou is about to open astate-of the-art athletic complex, the regional training center in Waswanipi has been announced, there are plansfor a new Band office in Waskaganish, Wemindji and Nemaska are going to build more houses and Chisasibihas a new youth center and is building a new Band Office. Eastmain and Whapmagoostui are planning howto use the funding received this year. Every Cree community has projects underway or being planned.6“ Forestry remainsa difficult issue,even with the newregime. However,for the first timewe have a freeand open dialoguewith Quebec andthe companies onprotecting someof the forest …“Local housing in all the Cree communities has received a vital boost. Some ofthe longest-standing problems regarding crowded and rundown shelter in thecommunities are finally beginning to be resolved. Indeed, the leadership hasmade housing and infrastructure a priority issue.The Cree Trappers Association is finally beginning to catch up on its funding,with the result that the trappers are finally starting to receive benefits that werepromised in 1975. It will now be up to the Crees to decide how much to pay to theCTA with respect to Quebec’s past obligations under the James Bay Agreement.So the good news is that La Paix des Braves is helping the Cree communitiesand the Cree Nation in clear and important ways.The new regimes for forestry and mining have begun their work. The CreeMineral Exploration Board has been established and is beginning its work.Existing and developing Cree mining enterprises now have access to financialresources and expertise to assist them in taking full advantage of miningopportunities in Eeyou Istchee.Forestry remains a difficult issue, even with the new regime. However, for thefirst time we have a free and open dialogue with Quebec and the companies onprotecting some of the forest, so that Cree hunting can continue. Not everyoneis happy with the new regime. Some of the forestry companies complain thatthey are losing wood volume and that the Paix des Braves is threatening forestryjobs. Some Crees are not satisfied because they have yet to witness change onthe land. Others have expressed frustration because discussions are going tooslowly and the promised Cree/Quebec Forestry Board is still not up and running.These are legitimate causes for concern. We must take a strong stand on forestryand not allow the gains that we have made to be undermined by those whowould blame us for job losses. We must not allow ourselves to be held responsiblefor years of mismanagement and over harvesting by the forestry industry.The forestry provisions in the Paix des Braves have finally brought sustainabilityto an industry that was marching toward a wood supply disaster. It is up to usto remain firm and use the regime to improve on the way the forest has beencut in the past. If forestry is properly managed in the future, it will bring longterm employment and development benefits for the region.A long term vision for the future is something that the Crees have been voicingsince the days when we were eight isolated communities that no one in Quebechad ever heard of. Now that vision is helping shape the course of the entire“We must remindthese people andany politician whothinks the Creeshave forfeitedtheir rights thatthe Paix des Bravesis a Nation toNation Agreement,not based onsurrender, but basedon our rights andon cooperation andmutual respect …”province. We were the people who warned of the dangers of Great Whaleand the NBR projects. And the same goes for forestry. Our determinationas a Nation continues to play an important role in shaping the long termvision, not only for Eeyou Istchee but for the entire province.The sad thing is that, despite all our efforts over the years, there are still thosewho criticize us for having the courage to sign the Paix des Braves—thecourage to accept EM1A over NBR, to accept 350 square kilometers offlooding versus 6500 square kilometres. We made the decision and thePaix des Braves is based on the fact that future development requires ourconsent. It is these people who falsely state that this is not true. When theyheard Quebec politicians in the election talking about the Great WhaleProject, these Crees turned and criticized their own people rather thanattacking the views of those politicians. I opposed the project, as the peoplehad already decided, and stated so publicly.We must remind these people and any politician who thinks the Creeshave forfeited their rights that the Paix des Braves is a Nation to NationAgreement, not based on surrender, but based on our rights and on cooperationand mutual respect in our relations with Quebec. That is, cooperationand respect from Quebec for the Crees and the same from the Creesto Quebec. Our position on Great Whale remains as clear as it was at thehistoric Special General Assembly in 1989. We will not consent to a projectthat floods over 3000 square kilometers and destroys 4 larger rivers. Thosewho think otherwise risk repeating history.Curiously, those people who really care about the environment areastounded to learn what we have accomplished for the environment andfor Eeyou Istchee through La Paix des Braves in just one short year. Despitepopular misconception, they are surprised to learn that the new forestryregime has resulted in the closure of several Cree hunting territories to activelogging. They are surprised to learn that through our new partnership withQuebec, 6 new protected areas have been created in Eeyou Istchee. Theywonder why we do not hear more about this from the opposition partiesin Quebec and from those who support the environment in the Cree camp.They wonder why these issues are not covered in the media.I believe it is because people find it difficult to accept that the Crees canhave it both ways. That development, that benefits both the Crees and7Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

8Quebecers, can be tempered with a sustainablelong term vision. For the truth, ask the trappersand those who earn their livelihoods from all theincreased employment and activity created by LaPaix des Braves. Ask someone who enjoys the lifein the bush as hard as it sometimes is. Ask the CreeTrappers Association. Ask those who still live thetraditional way of life. La Paix des Braves is workingfor them. Ask those who have new jobs. Ask thepeople who are receiving training. Ask the majorityof the Crees who voted to approve the agreement.The debate on La Paix des Braves is over.There will still be discussions and hearings involvingthe environmental and social impacts according tothe James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement. Allof those regulations will continue to apply. Theywill now determine whether the EM1A-RupertProject goes ahead or not.But also, let’s not ignore the vastly improved relationsbetween the Cree Nation and the Government ofQuebec. Let’s not ignore all of the agreements,the ease of doing business, the hugely increasedeconomic opportunities that have emerged, andthe pleasure of working with a government thatlistens to and hears the Crees.La Paix des Braves is having a huge impact internationallybecause it is the first agreement thatactually recognizes aboriginal peoples’ right tobenefit from their own resources. It is also the firstagreement that implements a major recommendationof Canada’s Royal Commission on AboriginalPeoples, that we have access to more benefits fromresource development. It is the first agreement tobring aboriginal peoples into the larger economy.It is the first agreement to provide the beginningsof an economic base for the development of theeconomy of an aboriginal nation.I welcome any questions about La Paix des Braves,but let’s not hide the facts. Let’s acknowledge whatwe all accomplished by deciding to accept the NewAgreement. Let’s admit that these are things we havebeen struggling for years to obtain. Let’s acknowledgethe cancellation of NBR and its six thousandfive hundred square kilometers of reservoirs. Let’sacknowledge the changes in the forest regime thatsave more of the forest. Let’s acknowledge thatwe are part of the management of the Territorialresources and are no longer marginalized andexcluded from these decisions. Let’s acknowledgethat our rights are being respected. Let’s acknowledgeour win for the Cree Nation, for the environment,and for the Cree way of life.This is what we have now begun with Quebec. Itis what we thought we had accomplished in 1975but now we have commitments on the details ofhow we are involved and we have the means toenforce our rights if ever again they are ignored.There are those who seek to seize the territory,exclude others and stop development. In theirfierce opposition, whether they know it or not,these people will give their opponents the excuseto use violence. There is a time for opposition andthere is a time for agreement. Those who seekextreme solutions risk spending their lives on roadblocks. We must choose a future for our people,one built on peaceful means. Education, employment,housing, community facilities and new Creecompanies, these are what we need. This is part ofbuilding our Cree Nation. – Meegwetch!!9Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

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Principles and Prioritieson Areas of InvestmentLa Paix des Braves FundsAllocation of 2003–2004Payment from Cree-QuebecNew Relationship AgreementAllocation of the 2003–2004 payment from the Cree Quebec New Relationship Agreement—La Paix des Braves.14The Limited Partnership meeting of March 26, 2003 resolved that the allocation of the 2003–2004 paymentfrom La Paix des Braves will be allocated on the following basis. The community allocation of $36,500,000is based on a compromise by the local Cree leadership.1. Future GenerationsThis investment was resolved when the JointPartnership of the Cree Boards and the GrandCouncil adopted a bylaw to set aside and invest15 percent of the funds from Quebec starting inyear three. Discipline is required to ensure thatwe adhere to the mission to create and managethe fund whose revenues in the final year of LaPaix des Braves will be equal or greater than thepayments from Quebec.2. Economic DevelopmentThis investment’s main priority would be to createjobs. The allocation could be the same as the Boardof Compensation formula Community Fund that isbased on per capita. The four small communitiesget the first 5 percent and that balance is dividedon per capita.3. Community DevelopmentThis investment would be based on need. The housingbacklog would be used to allocate this portionon a prorated basis. These projects are for shelter aswell as other community infrastructure and facilities.4. JBNQA/La Paix des Braves Legal ObligationsThis investment would cover the expensesrequired to implement Quebec’s Section 28 JBNQAobligations that were transferred to the Cree Nationin La Paix des Braves. These obligations are:Responsibilities of SODAB, Cree Trappers Assoc.,Cree Outfitting and Tourism Assoc., Cree NativeArts and Crafts Assoc., Training Courses andPlacement, Community Centres, EssentialSanitation Services, Fire Protection, Assistanceto Cree Entrepreneurs.5. Loans and DebtsThe Crees have incurred loans and debts over theyears in trying to get the Quebec government torespect its obligations and interim measures in theforestry areas. These loans and debts are owed tothe Board of Compensation and James Bay Eeyou.6. Overhead Costs to ImplementLa Paix des Braves/JBNQAThe costs to implement and enforce La Paix desBraves such as Standing Liaison committee, LimitedPartnership expenses, various committees expenses,Cree Mineral Board and Forestry Regime.7. Enforcement of Cree RightsThe Board of Compensation’s (BOC) past expendituresto highlight and protect Cree Rights in manyareas have provided the most beneficial return tothe Cree Nation. The Cree Nation still needs to applypressure against the federal government to force itto fulfill its obligations in the JBNQA.8. Leveraging Additional Revenue from Quebec,Federal or Other Source of FundsNeed to invest in areas of joint Quebec and federalJBNQA obligations in order to increase the federalfunding that would normally be available. Otherinvestments that will generate additional revenuefor the Cree Nation, such as federal or Quebecprograms that require applicants to provide afinancial contribution, will be a priority.These funds will go to shelter and economic development programs.The allocation of $9,500,000 is not finalized and is intended to cover the items listed. This amount will beallocated by the GCCEI/CRA.The Limited Partnership is the Recipient of Funding preferred to the Cree Quebec New RelationshipAgreement commonly known as La Paix des Braves.Allocation to Cree CommunitiesPartnership Final Approved Allocationpop pop%3302 24% Chisasibi 7,300,000 20%580 4% Eastmain 2,350,000 6%2951 21% Mistissini 8,000,000 22%617 4% Nemaska 2,000,000 5%628 5% Ouje-Bougoumou 2,000,000 5%2127 15% Waskaganish 4,000,000 11%1590 12% Waswanipi 5,000,000 14%1183 9% Wemindji 3,500,000 10%755 5% Whapmagoostui 2,350,000 6%13,733 36,500,000Cree Communities 36,500,000 80%Allocated to other obligations 9,500,000 20%Total allocation for 2003–2004 46,000,00015Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

La Paix des BravesLoans and Debt AllocationAmountEstablishing a FinancialFoundation for the FutureThe Cree Nation has taken an important step towards establishing a financial foundation for the future asa result of the decision to contribute a share of the annual funding to be provided pursuant to the NewRelationship Agreement with Quebec to the new Waayapisinigan Fund.An annual obligatory contribution of 15% of Quebec’s contribution to the Cree Nation shall be set asidein the Waayapisinigan Fund as of April 1, 2004.16GCC (EI) – Negotiation Costs (Unfunded balance of deficit, March 31, 2002)GCC (EI) – Balance of Funding Requirement for 2002-2003 (Current estimate)Board of Compensation – Forestry Loan (Balance to be repaid)JBEC – Trapper’s Assistance Program Loan – Principle PortionJBEC – Trapper’s Assistance Program Loan – Projected Accrued Interest CostsJBEC – EM1 Negotiations and Litigation (1996)Commitments/Undertakings Relating to AgreementCree Quebec Forestry BoardOther Forestry Related ExpendituresTBDTBDTBDTBDTBDTBDTBDTBDThe Waayapisinigan Fund will grow over the life of the Agreement with Quebec as the annual contributionsand all income derived by the fund cannot be distributed for the first 50 years. The fund will be professionallymanaged similar to a Pension Fund and shall be subject to very strict investment and management rules.The contribution level of 15% was determined as the required contribution to ensure that the fundwould generate as of April 2052 a sustainable revenue stream from investments equal to or exceedingQuebec contributions. The contribution level will be reviewed over time with a view to ensuring thatthis objective is achieved.Evolution of the Waayapisinigan Fund(with a 15% contribution to the Heritage Fund)Environmental Review – RupertTBDLimited Partnership ExpensesTBDLiaison Committee ExpensesTBDAgreement Implementation CostsTBDVarious Committee Representation Fees and ExpensesTBDLocal Environmental Support – Rouyn Support FunctionTBDCree Mineral Board Contribution to Operations – Approved by Council/BoardTBDCree Development CorporationTBDCree Trappers AssociationTBDAssests accumulated in the Waayapisinigan Fund in 2002 $Growth effect over the yearsCree Outfitting and Tourism Association (Operations only)Cree Native Arts and Crafts Association (Matching funds)TBDTBDProjected Evolution of Québec payments to Crees17James Bay Advisory and Evaluating CommitteeTBDFire Protection services (Community services)TBDOther RequestsTBDAllocation to GCC (EI) for the Protection and Enhancement of Cree RightsTBDTBD–To be determined Final Approved Allocation March 26, 2003 9,500,000Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

Mistissini Lodge Preparesto Welcome VisitorsSituated on the shores of Lake Mistissini, the largest freshwater lake inQuebec, the Mistissini Lodge is expected to attract more fishermen andeco-tourists to the area, says Don McLeod, head of the community’sEconomic Development Department. With the new lodge, he says, Mistissinialso plans to promote the area’s winter recreational activities, such assnowshoeing and cross-country skiing.“Initially, we’re planning on 25% of our business being tourism,” says Don.“We expect business meetings and delegations to account for about 50%of our business and local residents to account for the other 25%.”Funding for the Lodge was provided by the Quebec government as partof a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with all of the Creecommunities in 1995. While the community will own the lodge, theEconomic Development Department has set up a company to operatethe facility on a day-to-day basis. Funds generated by the operation willall flow back into the community.Not only are local residents helping to build the Lodge, they will fill asmany as 20 full-time positions once the facility is complete, says InterimManager Angus Donnelly. “A number of training programs are alreadyunder way,” he says, “with more coming on stream over the next fewmonths.” Some courses (specifically cooking and table service) are MEQcredit courses.Angus says the plan is to have test groups in the facility as early as lateMay. It will be open to regular clientele as early as June, although theentire facility will not be complete until later in the summer.“There’s a real excitement in Mistissini about the new facility,” says Don.“I’m sure it will do wonders for the community’s future.”18Although it is the second largest of the nine Cree communities inEeeyou Istchee, Mistissini has never had a formal facility to housetourists or welcome business groups. Visitors requiring accommodationor conference space had to go to the neighbouring community ofOuje-Bougoumou to find the facilities they needed.Later this year, all that will change. A state of the art multi-use facility, designedfor tourists, business groups and local residents, is expected to open its doorsin Mistissini in June. The Mistissini Lodge will provide 20 guest rooms, a diningfacility for 60 to 80 people and flexible meeting and conference rooms for upto 50 people. In addition, the building will feature an outdoor patio, a deck area,a gift and craft shop and a small cultural museum. The lodge will also houseMistissini’s tourism offices.“ … Initially, we’replanning on 25% ofour business beingtourism. We expectbusiness meetingsand delegations toaccount for about50% of our businessand local residentsto account for the19other 25% … ”Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

The Nadoshtin Archaeologyand Cultural Heritage ProgramDavid DentonKreg Ettenger andDonovan Moses20This stone axe wasfound in the EM-1area by Hydro-Québecarchaeologists last year.According to provinciallaw, it is now the propertyof Quebec. Many Cree,however, feel that objectsmade by their ancestorsrightfully belong to them.It is said that a long time ago, a hunter was travellingon the shores of Mishiipaaushtikuu [the great rapids] andspotted an otter sitting on a big rock. He shot and killedit instantly. As the blood was seeping out, a few drops fellon the water, and suddenly the waters rose and the rapidsbecame increasingly high, drowning the rock where he hadshot the otter and creating a massive whirlpool. Frightened,the hunter quickly took out his tobacco and gave an offeringto the area he had disturbed. Moments later, the waterssubsided and the noise diminished. The ancient peopleknew there was something dwelling under the watersof Mishiipaaushtikuu that caused the great disturbance.[told by Hattie Moses, translated by Donovan Moses]Mishiipaaushtikuu is the long series of rapids located above the Eastmain-OpinacaReservoir, on the Great Bend of the Eastmain River. Traditionally avoided, ortreated with great caution and respect, this is the site of a soon-to-be-built damon the Eastmain River. The dam will create the EM-1 reservoir, stretching over100 kilometres upriver and flooding some 600 square km of Iyiyuu lands andwaters. The reservoir will flood portions of five traplines associated with thecommunities of Eastmain (RE-1 and VC-37), Nemaska (R-19) and Mistissini(M-18 and M-14A).The Nadoshtin Agreement, signed in February 2002, provides funding forenvironmental remediation related to the EM-1 project, and for other thingslike job training and work contracts. While these will partially mitigate thenegative effects of the project, it is fair to ask: what knowledge, memoriesand stories of the area will remain, decades after the flooding? What is the… The programis designed todocument andprotect variousaspects of thecultural heritageof the areaaffected by theEM-1 project.This includesarchaeologicalsites and burialsites, as well asthe knowledgeand stories offamilies from thethree affectedcommunities …significance of this area to Crees who lived here for thousands of years,and how will this story be passed on once the lands are no longer there?The Nadoshtin Agreement also allows Crees to address these and otherquestions through the Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Fund, to be usedin carrying out the Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Program, or ACHP.The program is designed to document and protect various aspects of thecultural heritage of the area affected by the EM-1 project. This includesarchaeological sites and burial sites, as well as the knowledge and storiesof families from the three affected communities. This information will becollected over the next few years by a project team that will include localresidents as well as other Cree and non-Cree staff members.Under the Nadoshtin Agreement, a new Cree-controlled corporation calledNadoshtin Companee has been created. Nadoshtin Companee’s board ofdirectors includes representatives from Eastmain, Nemaska, Mistissini andfrom the CRA, as well as from Hydro-Québec, and is chaired by Rusty Cheezo.This board oversees all the activities carried out under the Agreement,including the ACHP. In August 2002, the CRA was given a mandate byNadoshtin Companee to begin implementing the ACHP, including hiring acoordinator, setting up a Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee, carryingout a historical study relating to potential archaeological sites, and holdinga workshop. This work is being carried out by the CRA’s Traditional PursuitsDepartment, whose staff has many years of experience in the area ofarchaeology and cultural heritage. While the current contract expiresat the end of March 2003, if this model of cooperation and support issuccessful it may be continued for future years of the project.The ACHP Project TeamCurrently the three co-authors form the principal staff of the Nadoshtin ACHP.We have worked closely together to develop the project’s goals and methodsduring this first year of funding, and are now putting together a work planfor the next 5–6 years. In future years, the project team will include moreCrees, working on all aspects of the project from archaeological andethnographic research to communicating results through educationalproducts and media.21Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

The Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee met twice during the workshop, in addition to taking part in regular sessions.(l-r), Johnny and Tony Neeposh of Mistissini, along with Eastmain delegates Hattie Moses, Florrie Mark-Stewart andSally Gilpin, and Waskaganish Cultural Institute representative Jim Chism, took part in the follow-up meeting.22Donovan Moses is the Program Coordinator,managing various aspects of the project anddeveloping skills and expertise in others. Donovanhas a close connection to the EM-1 area as hisfamily’s trapline will be most affected by the newreservoir. His role as coordinator, which involvesinterviewing local residents, gives Donovan thechance to work directly with his own family,including his grandmother Hattie and his father,Grand Chief Ted Moses. He will also learn aboutthe history and traditional use of the Nadoshtinarea from many other families in Eastmain,Nemaska and Mistissini.Mistissini tallyman Robert Jimiken acts as translator during thesecond day of the workshop, while David Denton takes notes.David Denton, CRA archaeologist, is providinghis expertise to the project and giving guidanceand support to Donovan during his initialtraining. David has managed many projects inthe Cree communities over the years, includingarchaeological studies in Wemindji, Mistissiniand other parts of the territory. He also workswith the local Cultural Coordinators on variousprojects and programs. David and Donovanboth work out of an office in Val-d’Or.Kreg Ettenger, a consulting anthropologistbased in Montréal, is providing his services ona contract basis to the CRA. He has worked ona number of projects in the Cree communitiesover the past decade, most recently on theoffshore islands claim and the protection ofMuskuuchii (Bear Mountain). He is helping todocument the cultural knowledge and valuesrelated to the EM-1 area, and will also helpdevelop the communication products that willeventually be created through the project.Community Ownership and ControlThe ACHP has an Advisory Committee madeup of ten members selected by their respectivecommunities. The structure of the committeewas determined by Nadoshtin Companee.Eastmain, Nemaska and Mistissini each havethree representatives, including the local CulturalCoordinators, while Waskaganish, whose landsare not directly affected by the EM-1 project, hasone representative. The role of the committee isto provide guidance and community input intoall aspects of the project, including researchand communication activities, ethics, methodsand other issues.The committee will help determine, for example,how cultural artifacts are displayed, how sacredknowledge or stories are treated and how differenttypes of Cree knowledge should best be collectedand communicated. This guidance will be crucialto the success of the project, and help to ensurethat all ACHP activities and products respect localinterests and concerns, and accurately reflectresidents’ knowledge and wisdom. The committeewill meet several times per year and communicatewith the project team on a regular basis. Thecommittee members will also provide an importantlink with other residents of the communities,especially those families whose territories will bemost affected by the flooding and other changesto the land.Mistissini resident and ACHP Advisory Committee memberJohnny Neeposh listens to the presentation.Nadoshtin ACHPCultural Heritage Advisory CommitteeEastmain Sally Gilpin*Florrie Mark-StewartHarry MosesHattie Moses (alternate)Nemaska Isaac Meskino*Peter WapacheeJohn TentNoah Wapachee (alternate)Mistissini Tony Neeposh*Johnny NeeposhGeorge CannashishWaskaganish Walter Hester, Jr.Alec Weistche (alternate)*Cultural coordinatorThe ACHP in a NutshellThe ACHP is designed to collect information aboutthe cultural heritage of the EM-1 project area, topreserve this information for future generations,and to create and distribute educational productsfor both Cree and non-Cree audiences. The threetypes of information that will be documented are(1) archaeological sites and artifacts, (2) culturalknowledge and values and (3) burial sites. Thisinformation will be collected through a combinationof community research, archaeological fieldwork,and other techniques to be determined by theproject team and the local communities.(continued on page 26)23Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

26(continued from page 23)One of the main goals of the Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Program is to pass on the knowledgeof the areas affected by the EM-1 project to future generations of Cree, as well as to non-Cree who areinterested in learning more about local culture and history. The findings of the study will be communicatedthrough various products, including exhibits and displays of cultural artifacts; books, maps and otherprinted materials; electronic media such as film, video and audio; and possibly interactive multimediaproducts like CD-ROMs or DVDs. In this way the cultural heritage of Nadoshtin will not only be preserved,but transmitted to young people using the types of products that they are most familiar with. The ACHPtherefore can play an important role in the preservation of Cree language and culture, even if the landitself is changed forever.The series of large rapids above Nadoshtin are featured in a number of local stories and legends, many involving notions of powerand danger. Hunters have been known to fall deathly ill, for example, after visiting the area around the falls. Collecting such storiesbefore this section of the river is dammed and flooded by the EM-1 reservoir is an important part of the ACHP.With respect to burials, at the request of the nextof kin, the Nadoshtin Agreement requires that theNadoshtin Companee identify burial sites in areasaffected by the project, and endeavour to relocateor “provide suitable alternate means of remembranceof Cree dead buried in such sites.” In the past, Creeshave opted for various forms of remembrance andcommemoration and have avoided relocation ofburials, a choice which will likely be followedagain for the EM-1 project.One final goal of the ACHP is to provideemployment and training for Crees interested incultural heritage and related topics. Some Crees,especially younger people with interests in theseareas, will receive training in the methods used byarchaeologists, anthropologists and others whodocument cultural heritage. There may alsobe training and employment in video and audioproduction or other areas that relate to thecommunication aspect of the project.The first few months of work on the ACHP hasmainly involved explaining the project to localfamilies and doing planning and preparation forfuture years. In addition to the preliminaryresearch and other activities described below, wehave been developing a strategy for carrying outvarious studies, communicating the results, andbuilding local capacity. There has also beenconsiderable preparation in the form of gatheringtools and resources needed for the project andtraining staff in their use. This careful planningand development will eventually lead to betterresearch and education, and to a greater senseof community involvement and ownership ofthe project.Community Meetings and InterviewsAmong the initial activities of the ACHP has beenbackground research to get a better sense of generalpatterns of Cree use of this area. The focus forthis work has been the identification of areaswhich, based on the knowledge of local people,may have archaeological potential. In Septemberand October some 15 interviews were conductedin Eastmain and Nemaska with family groups fromall three affected communities to further explainthe project and collect preliminary information.The main focus of these preliminary interviewswas on collecting local knowledge that could helpidentify areas of archaeological potential, since fieldsurveys must begin in 2003. Information collectedincluded locations and descriptions of old campsites, travel routes, resource harvesting locations,burial sites, and place names. The data was recordedon maps and will help guide ACHP archaeologistsas they begin field surveys in the coming months.The information will also be used to identify possiblesites for historic re-enactments, demonstrations oftraditional activities, and so on.Above, Donovan demonstrates the map-generating featuresof the MapInfo GIS software being used by the project.The interviews also provided families with the chanceto share their knowledge, stories and memories ofthe land, to help us understand more fully the Creeoccupation of this area. Topics covered in variousinterviews included historic land-use patterns, localecology, stories and legends, and family history.This information will also be used to guide theplanned archaeological investigations as well asinform future research and communication relatedto the cultural knowledge and values of the area.All interviews were recorded using audio andvideotape, which may ultimately be used to helpcreate educational and cultural products.We know that we have barely scratched thesurface with this information, and that puttingtogether a full portrait of the EM-1 area, its historyand significance will take several years. While theACHP provides funding for this period, the landitself will be flooded within the next 3–4 years,and some changes are already affecting the area.This means that project staff and local residentswill have to work hard to document the culturalheritage of this important part of Eeyou Istcheebefore it is gone forever.Getting a Feel for the Land:Site Visits and Burn SurveysTo collect more information on archaeologicalsites and other aspects of local history, DonovanMoses and David Denton visited the camp ofMatthew Wapachee, tallyman of trapline R-19,for a week in late September. During this periodit was possible to visit a number of old campingareas with Mr. Wapachee and learn a great deal27Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

transmit information that will be useful to future generations, as well as to tell their own personal or familystories connected to the project area. They would also like see the products of the ACHP have broader relevanceto the Cree communities.Another issue discussed was the ownership of artifacts discovered in the project area. According to Quebeclaw, any cultural artifacts found in the province become the property of Quebec, regardless of who madethem or where they are found (with limited exceptions, like Category 1B lands in the James Bay territory).At the workshop, several participants spoke out against Quebec retaining possession of artifacts found inthe EM-1 area, and said they believe the Cree communities should have the right to these objects as partof their cultural heritage. Feedback from the workshop, as well as further discussions with the AdvisoryCommittee and local families, will help the ACHP develop a formal position on this important issue, whichwill then be discussed with the province.28Documenting the activities of the ACHP through the use ofphotos, video and audio is an important project goal. Above,Donovan records Matthew describing the use of a canoe sled.concerning the recent and historic use of theportion of his trapline that will be affected bythe EM-1 reservoir.The first-hand information obtained about thearea will be helpful in selecting areas of higharchaeological potential for this zone. The on-sitevisit also permitted identification of sites that aresignificant in terms of the recent history of thearea, and which could serve as a focus foreducational or commemorative activities. Finally,the visit provided the ideal setting for recountingstories and personal accounts of the area, many ofwhich took place at campsites, portages or othersignificant locations.An aerial survey of several areas burned by lastyear’s wildfires was also conducted in October.The goal was to determine whether these and otherrecent fires may have created conditions in whicharchaeological sites are more readily visible on theground surface. Our conclusion was that the surfacevegetation of most areas burned in the 1990s hasregrown, and that finding archaeological sitesthere is just as difficult as in other areas. Only inareas burned in the 1990s and then again in 2002was there significant exposure of the groundsurface. Most such sites occur outside the areathat will be affected by the EM-1 reservoir,however, such as Nadoshtin.ACHP Pow-Wow:the January WorkshopIn mid-January 2003, families from Eastmain,Nemaska and Mistissini (along with other localand regional representatives) came together inEastmain to hear about and discuss the Program.The purpose of the workshop was to explain theACHP in more detail and seek input concerningprogram goals, methods and general orientations.The workshop also allowed the ACHP staff todisplay maps and present initial results of theinterviewing work and site visits carried out inthe fall, and to seek feedback on this work. Finally,the workshop provided the ideal opportunity formembers of the Cultural Heritage AdvisoryCommittee to be introduced, and to become moreaware of community interests and concernsregarding the ACHP.The workshop raised some of the issues that needto be resolved in coming weeks, and generateddiscussion on the many topics, stories, and valuesto be considered. A sentiment expressed by severalparticipants was the importance of collecting thetraditional knowledge and stories held by elders inthe three communities. Examples were given ofsome of the types of knowledge that should bedocumented, such as traditional medicine, wildlifeharvesting and food processing methods, and soon. Local families, in general, wish to record andConsiderable attention was devoted to burial sitesand their importance in Cree culture. Participantsstated that, in general, burial sites within the projectarea should not be relocated, even if they lie withinthe eventual area of flooding. It was felt that movingor disturbing human remains would be a sign ofdisrespect, whereas leaving them where they werewould not pose any serious ethical or spiritualproblem. On the other hand, there is concern thatsome burials will not simply be covered with waterfollowing the flooding, but may be disturbed byerosion or construction activities. Participantsemphasized that there are many grave sites fromthe distant past that can never be identified andthat any memorial services and commemorativemonuments should take these “unknown” ancestorsinto consideration. The Cultural Heritage AdvisoryCommittee will play a key role in developing ACHPpolicy concerning burial sites and proposingappropriate means of remembrance.Advisory Committee MeetingsThe January workshop provided the setting for thefirst meetings of the Cultural Heritage AdvisoryCommittee. The meetings covered a lot of ground,from intellectual property issues to project scheduleand goals. One clear direction from the committeeinvolves the importance of taking groups of youthon the land with knowledgeable elders to point outcertain sites, tell stories, and demonstrate traditionalactivities. And if these on-the-land sessions canbe properly recorded, then the teachings can bepreserved and shared more widely. If possible, thecommittee would like to see such activities carriedout in conjunction with archaeological surveys.Also mentioned was the idea of holding additionalworkshops to collect information on specific topics,arranged by season or type of activity. Suchworkshops could include topics like traditionalmedicine, food preparation, wildlife harvestingtechniques, myths and legends, childhood inthe bush, and so forth. This idea will be furtherexplored in the ACHP Work Plan, currentlyin preparation.Workshop participants came from four communities (Eastmain, Nemaska, Mistissini and Waskaganish), two Cree entities(the Cree School Board and the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay), and Hydro-Québec.29

ConclusionFor the families concerned, it is clear that the ACHPand whatever educational products and programs willbe developed cannot hope to make up for the floodingof the land and waters in the EM-1 project area. Still,in this difficult context of loss, the ACHP can be seenas a remarkable opportunity for the families, individualsForestry in Eeyou Istchee:One Year LaterIt has been a busy year full of change and challenge for everyone involved with forestry in Eeyou Istchee.For the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), it has meant learning to adapt to the needs of the Crees.For the forestry industry, it has meant revising plans to account for many of the new rules that themeasures within the “Adapted Forestry Regime” have brought about. For the Cree members of the localJoint Working Groups, it has meant establishing offices, developing databases and becoming acquaintedwith the state-of-the-art mapping technologies. For the Cree tallymen and hunters, it has meant meetingsand more meetings!1 YEAR30and communities concerned to fully documentand explore the significance of these lands; toremember and show respect to the ancestorsburied there; to celebrate their knowledge,values and traditions; and to share these thingswith others.For more information, please contact ProgramCoordinator Donovan Moses at the ACHP officein Val d’Or (819-825-9603), or NadoshtinCompanee General Manager, Rusty Cheezo,at the Nadoshtin Companee office in Eastmain(819-977-2110).In the photo above, ACHP Coordinator Donovan Moses(right) listens to Eastmain trapper Abel Moses describe hisuse of the Nadoshtin area. Unlike most of the communityinterviews, this one was conducted at Abel’s camp near theMatagami–LG2 highway.While it is only year one of the three-year transitionalphase, we are already witnessing numerous favourablechanges in the way that forestry is conducted inEeyou Istchee. First and foremost is that the Creesnow have an organized voice in the planning process.Each of the five Cree communities affected byforestry operations has successfully establishedlocal Joint Working Group offices and begun thearduous task of consultation. Since February oflast year, the Cree local Joint Working Groupmembers have been meeting with Tallymen in orderto identify areas of their traplines to be permanentlypreserved. The Tallymen have also been identifyingspecial “wildlife areas” where logging will have tobe done, carefully, through mosaic cutting.With the aid of the MNR Joint Working Groupmembers, this information has been transmittedto the various forestry companies operating in theterritory. These companies have revised their forestryplans to respect the wishes of the Cree Tallymen.In some cases, this has meant relocating theirplanned operations to different parts of the traplineor rerouting a road to avoid sensitive areas on thetraplines. Despite the added time and in somecases expense, the forestry companies have beenadjusting to this new element of planning.Another important change that has come aboutsince the Agreement was signed is the applicationof restrictions on how much of a trapline can bedeforested. Previous to the Agreement, forestrycompanies had the legal right to log 100% of thetrees on a trapline. With the new provisions of the“Adapted Forestry Regime” no more than 40% ofa trapline can be deforested in a 20-year period.This also includes natural disturbances such asfire and insect defoliation. The forest disturbancemap on the following page illustrates the currentimpact of these provisions.As can be seen, the traplines coloured in redare those currently closed to all logging. Thosecoloured in orange have between 30 and 39% oftheir forests already disturbed and will be closedto logging in the near future. The yellow areas havebetween 15–29% disturbance and the traplinescoloured in green have been 0–14%. It must beemphasized that this map will change over time.Those traplines that are currently closed willreopen as the trees on those traplines grow back.However, what is assured is that no trapline willever have more than 40% of its forests removedby logging at any given time.One challenge that has recently been met, wasestablishing firm trapline boundaries for thepurposes of forest management. In the NewAgreement traplines are identified as the key unitfor all forestry planning. As a result it was necessaryfor the Cree Tallymen to come together andfinalize the placement of these boundaries. Thisprocess has been conducted locally over the pastyear. In March the Tallymen from all five of thesouthern communities affected by forestry met inWaswanipi to finalize the intercommunity boundaries.This exercise was a success due to the efforts ofthe CTA, the Cree Joint Working Group members,the CRA and the representatives from Waswanipiwho generously hosted the meeting. With thetrapline boundaries firmly in place, future forestryplanning can proceed more efficiently.31Satellite photos such as the LandSat 7 image above are helpful in identifying possible sites for archaeological investigation. In thisimage of the Eastmain River near Nadoshtin, areas burned by recent forest fires (reddish-brown patches) stand out clearly fromthe surrounding forest. Burned areas are easier to survey for archaeological sites, since much of the ground cover has already beenremoved. An aerial survey of some of these areas was conducted by ACHP staff in the fall of 2002, as explained at the workshop.Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

“While it is only year one of the three-year transitional phase, we are alreadywitnessing numerous favourable changes in the way that forestry is conductedin Eeyou Istchee.”32“With the newprovisions of the‘Adapted ForestryRegime’ no morethan 40% of atrapline can bedeforested in a20-year period.This also includesnatural disturbancessuch as fire andinsect defoliation.The forestdisturbance map atleft illustrates thecurrent impact ofthese provisions.”An important outcome of theAgreement can be seen in the numberof new employment opportunitiesthat have been created as a resultof the positive environment in theterritory. Increasingly, individualTallymen are being offered directsilviculture contracts for areas ontheir traplines. In Waswanipi forexample, two Tallymen have takenon contracts and hired local peoplefor tree planting. In Ouje-Bougoumou,the number of contracts beingoffered to the community by forestrycompanies has increased significantly.As one member of the communityexpressed, “we used to have to calland almost beg for contracts, nowthey call us and provide their listand ask us to pick the contracts wewant.” In Mistissini, the unexpectedforest fire has created several positionsrelated to road clearing and maintenancefor those families affected bythe fire. Internally, it is estimated thatbetween 10–12 new positions inthe communities have been, or willbe created to administer the newforestry provisions of the Agreement.These positions include mapping,monitoring and consultation relatedwork that the Joint Working Groupsare responsible for at the local level.33Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

34These new opportunities are also in addition to thejobs created by Mistuk and Nabakatuk operationsin Waswanipi with their new 70,000 m 3 of timbersupply. This timber allocation is the first instalmentof the 350,000 m 3 scheduled to be granted to theCrees over the next two years.In reviewing the past year, the implementation ofchapter 3 has been, for the most part, successful,however some key issues remain. The mostprominent is the timely creation of the CreeQuebec Forestry Board, the implementationof which is overdue.In the spring of 2002, the Council/Boardnominated the Cree members to this Boardand are now awaiting Quebec to reciprocate.However, Quebec has indicated that it does notwant to appoint members to the Board untilBoard Chair has been named. Finding a suitablecandidate for Chairperson has been a difficultprocess. At one point the Crees and Quebec hadagreed on a candidate, however that individualwithdrew his name after having received a universityposition. The Crees and Quebec are still lookingfor a qualified person, however the Cree membersof the Standing Liaison Committee have suggestedthat the Board should begin to meet with aStanding Liaison Committee member as actingChair, or even begin meeting without a Chair.Quebec is currently reviewing this proposal.Forest Fires Summer 2002The first real test of the new “Adapted ForestryRegime” came this summer when several largeforest fires burned in the Nemaska and Mistissiniregions. The negotiators did not contemplate catastrophicevents like this when the provisions forforestry were set in place. As a result the Crees andthe MNR were faced with uncharted waters whenit came to determining how to address these fires.The MNR, interested in preserving jobs andsalvaging timber, set up a generous incentiveprogram to encourage the forestry companies tolog in these large burns. However, one of the twokey burned areas was north of the commercialforestry limit and the affected Cree Tallymenbecame concerned about the impacts of a salvagelogging operation so far north. They viewed thefire as a blessing, because it would ensure thespeedy renewal of the animal habitat on theirtraplines. As has been the case with other salvagedburned areas, they were concerned that loggingon these burned areas would slow down forestrenewal for many years. The other major fire eastof Lake Mistissini occurred mostly on one traplineand resulted in a 60% disturbance of the productiveforest. Technically, under the new provisionsthat limits disturbance to a maximum of 40%,this trapline could have been considered closedto all logging.Without specific measures to address catastrophicevents within the new “ Adapted Forestry Regime,”the Crees and the MNR were left to resolve theissue through consultation. In the case of the firenorth of the commercial limit, it was decided,based on the decision of the Tallymen affected,that this area would not be salvaged. For theTallymen affected by the other fire east of LakeMistissini, they agreed to allow salvage operationsso long as specific protective measures wereapplied and a thorough consultation processwas undertaken.As a result, the Tallymen flew over the burnedareas of the trapline and made specific changesto where the access road would be placed. It was35Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

36also agreed that harvesting would be conductedwithin blocks no larger than 400 ha. Furthermore,20% of the burned stands within these blockswere to be left as residual seed stands to ensuretimely renewal of the site. Other measures includedan understanding that only burned trees would beharvested and that the entire area would be closedto logging for a period not less than 20 years afterthe salvage operations were completed.These special measures were developed throughconsultative meetings with the Tallymen directlyaffected, the MNR, the concerned forestrycompanies, and representatives from the Mistissiniand the GCCEI in late November 2002. The Creeparties involved understood that salvage planswould be developed in accordance with thesemeasures and that they would have an opportunityto review these plans before salvage operationsbegan. Unfortunately, none of this occurred.For reasons that are still not clear at this time,the MNR authorized salvage operations to beginwithout specific cutting plans. The result has beenvery disappointing for the Crees. It now appears thatneither the MNR, nor companies have interpretedthe special measures in the same fashion as theCrees, even though all were present at the meetingwhen the measures were established. What is moredisturbing is that the two companies involved inthe salvage operations each interpreted thesemeasures differently.In a preliminary review of the salvage operations,it appears as if Chantier Chibougamau Ltee treatedthe burned forest as one contiguous block. Inother words, their salvage cutting was done in onesingular block, far exceeding the Crees’ expectationof a 400 ha maximum. While the company appearsto have left the required amount of residual forest(20%), this has been within one massive cut block.Abitibi-Consolidated, on the other hand, appearsto have done its cutting in smaller blocks asexpected by the Crees, however they do notappear to have left the required 20% residualstands that the Crees expected.For its part, the MNR has not been able to offera satisfactory explanation for the difference ofinterpretation of the special measures betweenthe two companies, nor has the MNR been ableto demonstrate that an official interpretation ofthe special provisions was ever transmitted tothe two forestry companies. Representatives fromthe GCCEI have indicated that any differences ininterpretation of these special measures wouldhave been revealed in the cutting plans, and thatthis was why they had been insisting that theseplans be filed with the Crees for review.As it stands, the entire matter is being reviewedby the GCCEI and the Mistissini leadership andrepresentatives from the MNR have indicated thatthey will support an assessment of the salvageoperations and will attempt to work with theCrees to ensure the matter is resolved to theirsatisfaction. This work is ongoing.The Kanak VisitThe Canadianmining giant, InCOLimited, is currentlyseeking approvalto develop severallarge open-pitmines on theIsland. Each ofthese projects isto be developedin environmentallysensitive areasadjacent to theworld’s secondlargest coral reef.Members of the Ottawa staff were honoured with a visit froma delegation of Indigenous representatives from the Island ofKanaky-New Caledonia in the South Pacific. The eight delegateswere on a fact-finding mission to review the political strategies ofCanadian Aboriginal Peoples. They were interested in meeting withthe Grand Council to discuss strategies and share experiences inthe promotion and protection of their rights as Indigenous Peoples.The Canadian mining giant, InCO Limited, is currently seeking approvalto develop several large open-pit mines on the Island. Each of theseprojects is to be developed in environmentally sensitive areas adjacentto the world’s second largest coral reef. These areas are critical to theKanak Peoples’ economy and culture.Philip Awashish briefed the Kanak delegation on the history of theCree Nation and the political activities of the Grand Council. RomeoSaganash also provided information related to the Grand Council’sinternational work and a review of the key features of the Cree-QuebecNew Relationship Agreement.37Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

New Protected Areas forWaskaganish TerritoryEarly in March, Quebec Ministers of the Environment and Natural Resources jointly announced thecreation of five new protected areas in the Waskaganish territory. Included in Quebec’s list of new areas arethe Ministikawatin Peninsula, Boatswain Bay, the Missisicabi Plain, the lower section of the Harricana Riverand Muskuuchii.Boumhounan—One year laterThe “New Relationship with Quebec Agreement” is intended to favour a global approach to developmentwhile favouring greater autonomy and responsibility on behalf of the Crees. It also commits the parties toa development model based on the principles of sustainable development, partnership and respect for thetraditional way of life of the Crees. One year after the signature of this historic agreement, it is too early tojudge if the initiative is a success. However, we have begun our discussions with Quebec representatives andwe believe that with continued dialogue and effort among the Crees, HQ and the government of Québec,there is every reason to believe the Crees will substantially benefit from the efforts of the parties.38The latter area, Muskuuchii, is distinct because it was an identified jointCree/Quebec project in the “La Paix des Braves” Agreement. Under theAgreement, both governments agreed to work toward protecting thisenvironmentally and culturally sensitive site. After several months ofwork between various departments of the Government of Quebec,The Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) and the Council ofWaskaganish the participants agreed on an area of suitable scope toprotect the unique natural and historic importance of Muskuuchii.Established Protected Areas: BiodiversityReserves and Aquatic ReservesThe Eastmain-1-A/Rupert diversionproject is in thefeasibility anddesign-study stage.Intensive fieldworkThe Eastmain-1-A/Rupert diversion project is in the feasibility anddesign-study stage. Intensive fieldwork to collect data was carriedout from May to October 2002. Hydro-Québec plans to file anenvironmental impact assessment report in early 2004, in order toobtain the necessary government approvals. The construction shouldbegin in 2005 if these approvals are granted. The diversion is presentlytargeted for completion in 2007 and the Eastmain-1-A powerhouse forcommissioning in 2010.The Cree/Hydro-Québec Feasibility study group was created by theBoumhounan agreement and has met seven times since. Its last meetingtook place on January 30 and 31, 2003 in the community of Waskaganish,while previous meetings have been held in Mistissini, Nemaska and Montréal.to collect data wascarried out fromMay to October2002.Hydro-Québecplans to file anenvironmentalimpact assessmentreport in early392004, in orderto obtain thenecessarygovernmentapprovals.Chief John LongchapEeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

The group is composed of six members representing Cree entities and six members representingHydro-Québec/SEBJ.The representatives of the Cree communities and entities are as follows:• Vice-Chairman Paul Gull, Cree Regional Authority• Donald Gilpin, Cree Trappers Association• Stanley Gilpin, Eastmain• Lawrence Jimiken, Nemaska• Wilbert Shecapio, Mistissini• Simeon Trapper, Waskaganish40There are also local coordinators in each of thesefour communities, as well as in Chisasibi and inWemindji. They are as follows:• Robbie Tapiatic, Chisasibi• Roderick Mayappo, Eastmain• Johnny Jolly, Mistissini• Steven Neeposh, Nemaska• Jeffrey Salt, Waskaganish• David Visitor, WemindjiThe SEBJ periodically informs and consults withthe Cree representatives in the study group on thefollowing issues:• Study programs (technical andenvironmental)• Inventory results (technical andenvironmental)• Development and operations designconcepts, impacts and mitigation measures• Monitoring and follow-up programsStudies have been carried out with the cooperationand participation of the communities and the Creehunters concerning the following matters:• Geomorphology• Fish studies• Sturgeon studies• Vegetation and rare species• Large and small game• Avifauna• Cree land use, hunting, fishing and trapping• Social aspects• Regional economy and economic spin-off• Non-native land use and access roads• Archeology• ForestryThroughout the summer, a number of Creesworked with specialists and technicians on theabove mentioned studies. The overall number ofhours of work by the Crees on these feasibilitystudies has amounted to 60,000 hours, throughvarious service contract agreements.The Boumhounan Agreement created variouscommittees and working groups to address“technical” issues and to facilitate the carrying outof the various studies needed for Hydro-Québecto get the necessary environmental permits tobuild the EM1A-Rupert Diversion project.Although these committees meet regularly, theresults of these meetings are as yet limited as itis early in the process. More feedback is neededto inform the community representatives of theactions taken to respond to their concerns aboutthe shape and content of studies being carried out.Hélène LeducDeputy Grand Chief Paul GullIn January 2002, Deputy Grand Chief Paul Gullmet with community representatives on theHQ-Cree feasibility study working group to gettheir impressions on a range of issues. Althoughcommunity representatives were quick to pointout that there were no strong preferences in thecommunities for or against the EM1A-RupertDiversion project, there has yet to be sufficientinformation provided by SEBJ or Hydro-Québecon the scope, impacts and potential benefits ofthe project to the entire community.In particular, there are growing concerns thattraining programs will not be in place or willnot have been completed sufficiently prior toconstruction to enable the Crees to benefitfrom employment opportunities to be createdby the project. The community representativeson the HQ-Cree feasibility study group are feelinga sense of isolation, as it is as yet unclear whothey could ask for assistance within the CRAand Band Councils. The focus of Hydro-Québecstudies and local consultations has been on thefamilies potentially impacted by the project, notthe community at large. In addition, more andmore people want to know the status of theEM1A-Rupert Diversion Project. There is ageneral consensus among the communitiesimpacted that studies are proceeding tooquickly, and that there has not been enoughtime to respond.Summary of issues raised by communityrepresentatives:• Due to time restrictions and restrictionsimposed on mandates by Hydro-Québec,researchers are focussing their informationgathering on the families impacted, and noton the community at large.• There are concerns about the trainingprograms, and whether they will becompleted in time for the youth to get jobs.• The studies are going very quickly, andpeople are just beginning to understand whatit involves. The important issue that manyask about is how a project of this size couldbe finalized on the basis of studies coveringonly one year.• There is great concern about the residualflow and the placement of the weirs belowthe diversion point. The communities wouldlike a visual tool to show them what it wouldlook like with 20% to 50% residual flow asthe volume of water gradually increases downthe river to its mouth.41Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

Weh-Sees Indohoun andAd-Hoc CommitteeTogether were created pursuant to the Nadoshtin Agreement for the purposes of the Eastmain-1 project.– Control the access to fish and wildlife and managethe harvesting thereof during the construction phaseof the project.– Provide opportunities to promote the developmentand diversification thereof during the constructionphase of the project.Jean Paul Murdoch42Ad-Hoc CommitteeIn March 2002,the committeesubmitted itsproposal to theMinister responsiblefor the FAPAQ andit was approved.• The first of its discussions began in January 2002.• This committee was created to assist the Weh-Sees Indohoun Corporation.• Mandated to draft a proposal, in which it defines:– the area for wildlife management– the conditions of harvesting in the said area– a plan in conformity with the JBNQA– the human, financial and material resources needed– a methodology for evaluating the harvest and the resultsof enforcements of the regulations.• In March 2002, the committee submitted its proposal to the Ministerresponsible for the FAPAQ and it was approved.• Composed of representatives from the Cree parties, Hydro-Québecand the Société de la faune et des parcs du Québec.• Members of the committee:– Cree party René Dion– Hydro-Québec Rejean GagnonRichard Laforest– Société de la faune et des parcs du Québec David ErdelyDenis VandalRules govern smallgame hunting andfishing and alsogovern sportsmoose hunting,except in thesectors closed toboth fishing andmoose hunting.• Members of the committeeDeputy Grand Chief Paul GullChief John LongchapHugo HesterLloyd MayappoMatthew WapacheeRichard LaforestRéjean GagnonRichard VerdonHélène LeducCree Regional AuthorityCree Nation of MistissiniCrees of the WaskaganishFirst NationCree Nation of EastmainCree Nation of NemaskaHydro-QuébecHydro-QuébecHydro-QuébecHydro-Québec• The Special hunting and fishing zone (Zone 22) came into effecton June 1, 2002.• Covering a total area of approximately 9,000 km 2.• Within the zone there is a sector that is closed to moose huntingand another sector closed to fishing.• Rules govern small game hunting and fishing and also governsports moose hunting, except in the sectors closed to both fishingand moose hunting.43Weh-Sees Indohoun• The boundaries of the established zone include:• Number of meetings: 2• The founding meeting was held in Nemaska on November 26, 2002. Thesecond meeting in Montréal on February 13, 2003.• It’s mandated to:– Promote the conservation of fish and wildlife and ecosystems inaccordance with the definition of conservation in the JBNQA.– All of the land and bodies of water affected by the futureEastmain-1 reservoir and the future Rupert Diversion.– All permanent or temporary access infrastructures and receptionfacilities associated with both projects.– Nemaska Category I and II lands.– Habitat of wildlife that is thought to be vulnerable in theshort term.Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

Vocational Training Centreto be Built in WaswanipiThe Cree School Board, with financial support from the Quebec government, will build a Vocational TrainingCentre in the community of Waswanipi. In addition to training facilities, the centre will provide residencesfor students and for training and support staff.The $18.3 million required to build the centre will be provided by the Province of Quebec’s Ministère del’éducation. The money will cover the cost of the facility, the residences and any equipment required forthe study programs. Sylvain Simard, Quebec’s Minister of State for Education and Employment, saysthe vocational centre will “allow young people as well as adults of the Cree Nation to increase theirqualifications and to receive the training they need in their own territory.”That sentiment is shared by the Cree School Board’s Gordon Blackned who says the centre’s flexibility—ithas the ability to adapt its training programs to meet the needs of the region’s businesses—will go a longway to supporting the continuing growth of the Cree Nation.The partnership that led to the creation of the Vocational Training Centre is the result of the new relationshipthat now exists between the Government of Quebec and the Cree Nation.44“The new centrewill offer a widevariety of studyareas. Proposedprograms include:cooking, carpentry,cabinet making,worksite equipmentmechanics,landscaping work,fitting and welding,northern buildingmaintenance,secretarial skills,accounting andstarting a business.”Officials had originally planned to release plans for the training centre inDecember 2002 but a number of issues had to be resolved. As a result,the time frame for construction has been moved back as well. The DirectorGeneral of the Cree School Board, Gordon Blackned, says “there is a strongpossibility that construction will commence in the fall or early winter of2003.” The centre is expected to open in December 2004 or January 2005.While the Cree School Board already offers a variety of vocational trainingworkshops, they are currently spread over several communities in the region.Mr. Blackned says “the new facility should make it easier for students throughoutnorthern Quebec to obtain the training they need.”The new centre will offer a wide variety of study areas. Proposed programsinclude: cooking, carpentry, cabinet making, worksite equipment mechanics,landscaping work, fitting and welding, northern building maintenance,secretarial skills, accounting and starting a business. Also, the school isbeing established on a sectoral approach. That means programs will beoffered on an alternating basis.45Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

46The Troilus AgreementThe Cree Nation of Mistissini and Inmet Mining Corporation (formerly known as METALL) enteredinto an agreement in 1995 respecting the Troilus Mine, before startup of the project in 1996.The negotiations leading up to the agreement were difficult as the community of Mistissini neededaccess to a fair share of the economic benefits and the mining corporation was faced with the marginaleconomics of the project. At the time, both parties were faced with restrictive interpretations of theQuebec Government on Cree participation in development.The Agreement establishes a working relationship between the communityand the corporation concerning: Cree employment, training, contracts andbusiness opportunities and other issues such as the environment and certainmitigating works.An Implementation Committee was set up where representatives of thecommunity and corporation discuss all matters relating to the Agreement.This committee played a key role in the development and planning stagesreviewing the hiring process, working conditions, job descriptions andtraining to ensure that Crees could access the jobs at the site. The hiringof a Cree Employment Coordinator was a key to the success at the minesite and throughout the life of the project.Cree employment levels at the mine site have consistently met or exceededthe target levels of 25% of direct employment, amounting to some 75 directemployees. In addition, some 15 additional full-time Cree jobs were createdthrough subcontracts to Cree-related enterprises and an additional 10+ positionsare provided through other contractual opportunities.The community gives great importance to the Agreement and the Chief regularlyattends meetings of the committee. The local Council visits the mine site torecognize and express appreciation for the efforts of the employer. The miningcompany has also appointed a senior head office official to sit as a regularmember of the committee.The depressed metal prices and marginal economics associated with the projectrequired that the Cree party work with the employer to meet the challenges.At the same time, INMET has consistently recognized the importance of theCree workforce and has invested time and money to ensure that the Creesplay an important role at the mine site.The Troilus Agreement is a positive example of how a developer and local Creescan work together for the common interests.Exercise and Healthy Eating:Solutions to Childhood ObesityWeight problems, including obesity, are becoming a serious health problem among Cree school childrenand adolescents in Eeyou Istchee.A recent study, carried out by public health departments,schools and clinics in three communities incooperation with the Public Health Department ofthe Cree Board of Health and Social Services ofJames Bay, revealed the seriousness of the problem.The study compared the heights and weights of 6- to12-year-olds in schools today with Cree children ofthe same age 50 years ago.Two officials who took part in the study inChisasibi—Rose Iserhoff, a CHR, and Violet Bates, aPublic Health Officer—described the study’s findingsas alarming. “Between 1930 and 1950, only two Creechildren in every 100 (aged 6–12) were consideredobese,” they said. “Today, that number is closer to 35out of a 100.” By contrast, only 17 school childrenout of 100 throughout Quebec are considered obese.The study, which was conducted in Nemaska andWemindji as well as Chisasibi, found that almost asmany children are also overweight. This means thatin Eeyou Istchee, up to six of every 10 Cree childrenare either overweight or obese.Solomon Awashish, who works with the regionalPublic Health Department, says the solution lies inrelearning healthy lifestyles, eating healthier foodsand becoming more physically active. “In the olddays, Cree society was physically active. Kids alwaysplayed outside. As parents, we must learn more aboutnutrition and start doing more physical activity withour children, just like our ancestors did,” saysSolomon. “In this age of technology, with computers,Internet, TV and video games, we need to findhealthier ways to entertain ourselves. We shouldlook to our Cree Elders for guidance."Dr. David Dannenbaum warns that childhoodobesity can cause a number of health problems,including diabetes. In fact, diabetes amongAboriginal children and youth has increaseddramatically in recent years, the result of childrenbeing overweight, less active and eating unhealthyfoods. In Manitoba, for example, youth diagnosedwith diabetes are having heart attacks, kidney failureand even dying by the age of 25.The Cree Health Board is also supporting the workof Noreen Willows, a University of Alberta Professorof Nutrition who is studying the increase in obesityamong Cree children. She believes that a markeddecrease in physical activity and a major change indiet—largely due to store foods—are contributingto the increase.She also cited the fact that many Crees see fat intheir food as nourishing and consider extra weightas a sign of robustness and strength. In the past,most Crees associated thinness with weakness,infectious diseases or tuberculosis.In light of the seriousness of the problem, the PublicHealth Department is beginning to work with localand regional Cree officials to develop effective andculturally sensitive strategies to prevent weightproblems among Cree children.Here are a few ways you can help your childrenovercome weight problems:• Limit children to 30 minutes of TV, videoand computer activities a day or to certaindays of the week.• Promote healthy food in the home; if thereare no chips, pop or other junk food inthe house, your children can’t eat them.• Encourage your children to walk to schooland play outside.• Be a healthy role model; choose healthyfood, eliminate junk food, limit TV timeand walk to work if possible.For more information, contact your local clinicor the regional Public Health Department.47Eeyou Eenou Nation: Spring 2003

We’re not just isolated communities.We have access to the world andwe’re known around the world and we’rerecognized. We’re one of the strongestAboriginal nations—people know the Crees.It’s because of public awareness.Ted Moses