Backgrounder: Supplemental Agreement between Canada and the Federation of Newfoundland Indians

On July 4, 2013, the Government of Canada and the Federation of Newfoundland Indians (FNI) announced a Supplemental Agreement that clarifies the process for enrolment in the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation and resolves issues that emerged in the implementation of the 2008 Agreement for the Recognition of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq Band. This Supplemental Agreement also addresses the surge in applications received for membership in the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation, which had prevented the parties from reviewing all applications submitted prior to the November 30, 2012 application deadline.

This Supplemental Agreement reflects the original intention of the parties to the 2008 Agreement for the Recognition of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq Band and resolves a number of issues which had prevented conclusion of the process for enrolment in the First Nation. Specifically, the Supplemental Agreement:

• extends the timelines for review of the applications, ensuring all previously unprocessed applications can be reviewed;
• ensures that all applications received during all phases of the enrolment process, except those previously rejected, will be assessed or reassessed;
• provides that all those whose applications will be assessed or reassessed will be sent written notification and will have an opportunity to provide additional documentation, if necessary;
• provides clarity regarding the assessment of an applicant’s self-identification as a member of the Mi’kmaq Group of Indians of Newfoundland; and
• provides guidance related to an individual’s acceptance by the Mi’kmaq communities of Newfoundland, particularly as it relates to individuals not residing in the communities of the Mi'kmaq Group of Indians of Newfoundland.

Through this Supplemental Agreement, the Government of Canada and the FNI will ensure integrity in the enrolment process, while ensuring that all applicants are treated fairly and equitably. As set out in the 2008 Agreement, final decisions on eligibility will be made by the Enrolment Committee, which will include two representatives from Canada, two Mi’kmaq representatives, and one independent Chair.

Canada and the FNI will provide information in the coming weeks outlining the steps applicants can take to prepare documentation in support of the review of their applications.

For more information, including the Supplementary Agreement and Frequently Asked Questions, please visit: www.aandc.gc.ca/qalipu or www.qalipu.ca.