News

“On behalf of the CSTC Staff and Board of Directors, thank you for taking time to join us, we appreciate that many, if not all communities have pressing priorities and matters to attend. This online format seems to be the new standard of outreach and engagement.” – CSTC Tribal Chief Mina Holmes

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the AGA was held online for the first time, allowing members to attend from their homes and communities. This initiative was intended to assist with social distancing and to avoid increasing the risk of infection during this global pandemic.

The eight-hour presentation was a success in large part due to CSTC staff and leadership, community members, sponsors and many contributors who joined us to share their knowledge as speakers.

Several resolutions were passed during the AGA. Because the volume of resolutions was higher than usual, which we are grateful for, and because we were not able to maintain quorum for the full length of time, some resolutions did not make it to the floor to be voted on. CSTC will inform the communities promptly on how this will be resolved and will also release the resolutions that were already voted on. Community engagement and access to information are high priorities for the Tribal Council, so we are working to ensure the remaining resolutions are handled with careful consideration. An AGA Report will be provided to the CSTC Board of Directors including resolutions and action items for the CSTC Tribal Chief and General Manager.

Tribal Chief Mina Holmes and General Manager John Lewis provided great insight into the many developments and accomplishments of CSTC in the last fiscal year, within which the CSTC member nations began to feel the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, CSTC has continued to work tirelessly to serve the communities through projects funded by the Pathways Agreement 2.0, as well as some new initiatives designed to serve those in need of housing and access to food.

CSTC is also grateful for the contributions of Kym Gouchie, Camille Callison, Regional Chief Terry Teegee, Chief Clarence Louie, the Snotty Nose Rez Kids, Dr. Judith Sayers and Zandra Ross. Each of these contributors added their unique element of depth, inspiration, energy and wisdom to the AGA. Our theme, Resilience Through Unity: since time immemorial, was strengthened by all of their thoughtful words and care.

We thank our many sponsors for making this event possible and enriching it through the generosity of financial and material donations: Capri CMW Insurance Services, MNP Financial, Gowling WLG, Forest Eco System Solutions Ltd., TC Energy, Upper Fraser Fisheries Conservation Alliance, Radloff & Associates, Royal Bank of Canada and Canfor. Because of you, CSTC was able to create an unforgettable experience during our 38^th Annual General Assembly.

Finally, CSTC thanks each and every community member who made the time to engage with us through this event. All of the work we do here at CSTC is for the benefit of members and it is our pleasure to report to you and to hear your feedback whenever possible.

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CSTC member nations have witnessed the apathy and inaction of RCMP in response to acts of violence towards the Mi’kmaq people. It is the responsibility of the federal government to immediately ensure Canadian laws that protect treaty rights to earn a living from fishing are enforced.

The escalating events in the Atlantic lobster fishery dispute are further revealing a deeply flawed standard of justice that is fueled by systemic racism.

Immediate action from the highest level of government must be taken as those inciting hatred and fear have instilled and perpetuated an environment of lawlessness and little action has been taken to prosecute this criminal behavior.

CSTC works hard to build on promises of reconciliation from all levels of government and continues to support meaningful progress and respect for the rights, title and jurisdiction of it member First Nations. We stand in solidarity with Mi’kmaq communities and call on the federal government to exercise its power in upholding the constitution.

(Unceded territory of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, Prince George, B.C. – Sept. 3, 2020) — Carrier Sekani Tribal Council usually conducts its research on endangered white sturgeon by sourcing Sockeye salmon to use as bait from the Lheidli T’enneh or Stellako First Nations. But salmon returns are so low this year, there isn’t enough salmon to use as bait without getting it from the grocery store. It’s a symbol of just how endangered the runs are. CSTC Fisheries Program Manager Christina Ciesielski had no choice but to purchase 30 kilograms of salmon from Save-On-Foods, in order to attract juvenile sturgeon to be studied.

“It felt criminal that we’re buying these food-grade fish from a corporation to catch an endangered species that we’re studying — when there’s people in our communities who are starving. That could have fed members of our communities,” says Ciesielski.

CSTC values its ability to trade for or buy the salmon from neighbouring First Nations. “We do it to help each other out,” says Ciesielski. “We’re First Nations and we want to support other First Nations groups. It’s what people used to do and we want to keep that alive.”

The Early Stuart Sockeye Run has been reduced to a fraction of its historical peak numbers from 500,000 salmon to what’s estimated to be 16,000 this year. The Late Stuart Run and part of the Summer Run (Stellako) are also low this year at 55,000, down from a historical peak of over 1.6 million and about half the 2015 return numbers.

Ciesielski says that without rapid investment from Fisheries and Oceans Canada to train CSTC’s member nations to run new hatcheries in their communities, those numbers won’t improve.

A recent study (2009, Levy et al.) by the Upper Fraser Fisheries Conservation Alliance (UFFCA) shows that high water, high temperatures and other migration conditions have played a big part in the decline of the Early and Late Stuart Sockeye runs. Adding to that the recent Big Bar landslide and a multitude of factors in the ocean all contributing to devastating returns.

Decades-old frozen milt brings hope for Chinook salmon revival

Community Futures of Fraser Fort George is currently seeking a dynamic and energetic individual to join their team as a LEAP Project Assistant. This role of the Projects Assistant is to act as assistant and social media co-ordinator for the LEAP project coordinator.
 
The Leadership & Entrepreneur Accelerator Program (LEAP) is designed to assist women to break down barriers that are holding them back from starting or expanding their business, taking their place as leaders, or moving into male dominated sectors.  
 
Community Futures was established by the Federal Government in 1985 as a community-based economic renewal initiative. Our main objectives are to help rural Canadians start or expand a business and to help sustain and improve communities and their local economies. Locally, Community Futures Fraser Fort George serves the communities of Mackenzie, Prince George, McBride, Valemount and surrounding rural areas.

Requirements: 

This position is required to work 20 hours per week, Monday to Friday; however, may require some flexibility in accommodating work outside of regular hours or on weekends.
The service area of this position includes all of the Fraser Fort George region, as such travel may berequired 
The incumbent is expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the CFBC Core Values and QualityStandards

Roles and Responsibilities:

The Project Assistant is responsible for assisting the LEAP Project Co-ordinator in planning, delivering and reporting on the LEAP Project or other new projects as they emerge. The core duties of the Project Assistant are, but are not limited to:

Project Assistance:

• Coordination and facilitation of workshops and community events;
• Graphic design, marketing and promotion of LEAP programs & events;
• Social media marketing on 3 different platforms;
• Purchase and development of social media advertising;
• Development and maintenance of social media advertising budget;
• Delivery of a social media analytics report;
• Preparation of reports for internal and external stakeholders, including CFDC Board of Directors project funders, project partners, and community stakeholders;
• Delivery of internal Community Futures Fraser Fort George training workshops;
• Work with the other team members where and when required;
• Ensures that CF FFG is presented in a positive manner in all public relations.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Demonstrated experience as a social media marketer or similar role;
• Background in marketing, graphic design and social marketing will be considered an asset;
• Demonstrated communication and workshop facilitation skills;
• Must be familiar with Microsoft programs, including Office 365, and online delivery platforms (such as Zoom);
• Strong organizational skills, including multitasking and time management;
• Knowledge of event coordination, marketing, grant writing and reporting;
• Reliable transportation and valid driver’s license are required.

How to Apply:

Forward resume along with cover letter via email to: Susan Stearns, General Manager    email:  susans@cfdc.bc.ca
 
Closing Date: June 17, 2020 at 5:00pm

• Access COVID-19 Provincial Support
• Access BC Government News
• Access COVID-19 BC Support App and Self-Assessment Tool

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) is working closely with First Nations partners, the Public Health Agency of Canada, other departments such as Heath Canada, Public Safety and provincial and territorial counterparts to protect the health and safety of First Nations and support First Nations communities in responding to public health threats, including COVID-19.

To read the full version please click the links below.

English version: Self Screening Tool – visitors and returning members to communities_0403

Version français: Outil d’auto-observation – visteurs et membres revenant dans la communauté

APRIL 3, 2020 01:00 PM

Carrier Sekani delivering care packages to vulnerable P.G. residents.  Please click the link below to read more:

https://www.princegeorgecitizen.com/news/local-news/carrier-sekani-delivering-care-packages-to-vulnerable-p-g-residents

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CKPG 

Apr 03, 2020

CSTC expands hamper delivery service to reach more families.   Please click the link below to read more:

CSTC expands hamper delivery service to reach more families

Part 1
Part 2 

From Indigenous Services Canada

For information on accessing financial benefits and support during the COVID-19 outbreak.

This pandemic has made it especially challenging even for those who have not needed support before this crisis, with job losses and temporary layoffs, etc. We at the Tribal Council want to support our Indigenous brother and sister AND our neighbours in the Prince George area. Please forward a Nomination email to: 

Alberta Alec at reception@cstc.bc.ca or call/text to 250-562-6279.
Expected delivery dates: March 4-7, Saturday to Tuesday.
Please identify what type of Care Package you are nominating.

Personal Hygiene and Social Distancing

The World Health Organization recommends are 6 important steps to take during the current health emergency:

1. Wash your hands frequently
   a) Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.
2. Maintain social distancing
   a) Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
3. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
4. Practice respiratory hygiene
   a) Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.
5. If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early
6. Stay informed and follow advice given by your healthcare provider and trusted news sources
   a) Stay informed on the latest developments about COVID-19. Follow advice given by your healthcare provider, your national and local public health authority or your employer on how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.

For more information on protecting yourself during the COVID-19 emergency, visit:
https://www.fnha.ca/what-we-do/communicable-disease-control/coronavirus

Accessing Federal Funding

The First Nations Leadership Council has set up FNLC.ca for First Nations in BC to stay up to date on the COVID-19 crisis.

The Federal Government has made $305 million available for First Nations to respond to the COVID-19 emergency. For more information on how to apply for this funding, and what expenses are eligible, go to:
https://www.fnlcemergency.ca/fnlc-covid19-guidance-package-for-leaders

The Federal Government has also made funding available for individuals who need financial support. For more information, check https://www.fnlcemergency.ca/quick-guide-individuals-covid19

Finally, if you own a business, there are a number of supports available. Please visit: 
https://www.fnlcemergency.ca/quick-guide-businesses-covid19

Information for Nations

The First Nations Health Authority has a quick guide for First Nations Communities on steps to take to keep your communities safe. To view it go here:
https://www.fnha.ca/AboutSite/NewsAndEventsSite/NewsSite/Documents/FNHA-Coronavirus-Info-Important-Steps-for-Communities-to-Take.pdf

Grocery Store Opening Hours

Below is a list of opening hours for grocery stores servicing our main communities.

Burns Lake

Save-On
7 days a week
7am-8am for seniors
8am-8pm for everyone

Wholesale Club
Monday to Saturday
9am-10am for seniors
10am-8pm for everyone
Sunday
9am-10am for seniors
10am-6pm for everyone

Fort St. James

Save-on-Foods
7 days a week
7:00am-8:00am seniors
8:00am-8:00pm everyone
Ordering online available, recommended if you can shop in-store to do so.

Suspenders General Store
Monday to Thursday
6:00am-8:00pm
Friday 
6:30am-9:00pm
Saturday
8:00am-8:00pm
Sunday
8:00am-7:00pm
Elder Hours: 65+, or have high risk health concerns (i.e. cancer, auto-immune or pregnancy) 
10:00am-11:00am
Will deliver to your car.

Mr. G/Fas Gas
7 days a week
5:00am-9:00pm

Fraser Lake

Canada’s Grocery Store & More
7 Days a week
8:00am-9:00pm
Delivery service available for seniors, those ill or with immune disorders.
Delivering to 4 areas:
Area 1: $5.00 – Village of Fraser Lake. Charlie Rd. to LePoidevin Rd. and Chowsunket Rd./Airport Rd. Junction.   
Area 2: $7.50 – Stellako, Lejac, Dry William, Deer Run. Airport Rd., Stella Rd./Sharpe Rd. Junction.  
Area 3: $12.50 – Edako, Fort Fraser, Nadleh. Stella Rd., Dahlgren Rd., Francois Lake Road/Gelnannan Rd. Junction.
Area 4: $15.00 – Parker Subdivision, Birch Bay, Savory, Highway 16 West/Butler Rd. Junction. Highway 16 East/Westgate Way Junction. Dog Creek Trail/Becker Rd. Junction.
To place your order call 250-699-0009 between the hours of 9am – 4pm. Your orders will be picked then delivered the following day between 9am – 4pm. All orders must be minimum of $35 in value.
The order pickers will pick the lowest priced item unless specifically specified by the customer. Once the order is picked, the customer will receive a call back with the total. Customers can pay via etransfer or over the phone credit card. All orders must be paid for prior to delivery.

Slenya Store
7 days a week
8:00am-9:00pm

Nautley Store
Monday to Friday
9:00am-7:00pm
Saturday
10:00am-7:00pm
Sunday
Closed

Prince George

Save-on-Foods
7 days a week
7:00am-8:00am seniors
8:00am-8:00pm everyone
Ordering online available, recommended if you can shop in-store to do so.

Superstore
7 days a week
7:00am-8:00am seniors
8:00am-8:00pm everyone

Costco
Monday to Friday
9:00am-8:30pm
Saturday
9:00am-6:00pm
Sunday
9:00am-5:00pm
Limited number of people allowed in the store at a time.

For Seniors 60+
Tuesday and Thursday
8:00am-9:00am

Walmart
7 days a week
8:00am-8:00pm
Monday to Friday Senior Hour
7:00am-8:00am

Foothill Foods & European Deli
Monday to Friday
9:00am-7:00pm
Saturday
10:00am-7:00pm
Sunday
Closed

Vanderhoof

Jim’s Independent
7 days a week
7am-8am for seniors
8am-8pm for everyone

Co-op Food Store
Monday to Thursday & Saturday
8:00am-7:00pm
Friday
8:00am-8:00pm
Sunday
9:00am-6:00pm

For Seniors, ill or have an immune disorder 
Offering free delivery and will choose low-cost food items unless otherwise specified. Can order from Monday to Friday between 8:00am & 12:00pm:
Email: grocery@vhfcoop.com or housewares@vhfcoop.com
Fax: (250) 567-4355
Telephone: (250) 567-4414

CSTC/CSFN Nations Closing

A number of Carrier Sekani First Nations office have closed. Here is a list of current closures

Burns Lake Band: Closed, but members have access to Cyndi or Sara when needed.

Nadleh Whut’en: Closed

Nak’azdli Whut’en: Closed

Saikuz: Closed, some staff working from home

Stellat’en: Closed, some staff working from home

Takla Nation: Closed

Tl’azt’en: Closed to the public

Wet’suwet’en: Closed

The Carrier Sekani Tribal Council is closed to the public. If you have a question that is not answered by the resources listed here, please call (250) 562-6279.

Business Travel and Meeting Prohibitions and Restrictions

• A ban is now in effect on all non-essential business travel where the travel by air or rail (this does not include travel to your home office), regardless of whether your travel destination is international (outside of Canada) or domestic, but does not affect your commute to your home office.  If you have essential business travel booked, this must be approved before it is undertaken. Please direct approval requests with specific details of your planned essential business travel to Mina Holmes or John Lewis. 
• All in person meetings in the workplace with 15 people or more are now prohibited.  This includes, but is not limited to, meetings that we may host, external events that our member nations may wish to host in our premises, and internal meetings and gatherings.  We encourage you to use video or audioconferencing facilities where appropriate.
• Staff and contractors are now prohibited from attending any external business events, conferences or other large gatherings when on CSTC business and where 15 or more people are in attendance, regardless of location.

CSTC would like to assure you that everyone’s collective health remains our top priority, as we continue to refine best practices in our office. It is important to utilize the highest standard in infection control procedures.

So it is most important that we all do our part to help slow the spread of this virus. By educating ourselves with the latest scientifically driven information along with advised protocol, we can make a difference.

Please take the time to become informed daily through reliable links like the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control:  http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/coronavirus-(novel) and if, “Anyone concerned that they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of the novel coronavirus, should contact their primary care provider, local public health office, or call 8-1-1.”