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NUNAVUT WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT BOARD
MINUTES - REGULAR MEETING No.6
31 JANUARY - 02 FEBRUARY, 1995 PADLEI C0-OP HOTEL - ARVIAT, NT Agenda Greetings from Community Representatives and Minister of Renewable
Member’s Regional Presentations/Concerns Date and Place of Next Meeting Meeting Adjourned (Motion 95-097)
The Chairman recognized a quorum and called the meeting to order at 9:00 A.M. Joannie Ikkidluak led the opening prayer. The Chairman welcomed the Board Members, participants and invited guests to the sixth meeting of the Board.
2. Greetings from Community Representatives and Minister of Renewable Resources
His Worship, David Alagalak, Mayor of Arviat introduced his Deputy Mayor, David Kritterdlik and his Senior Administrative Officer, Mr. Bob Lawson to the Board. He welcomed the Board and guests and thanked them for choosing Arviat for the location of the Board’s sixth meeting. He went on to say how important wildlife is to the people of Arviat. He noted that the nearby McConnell River Bird Sanctuary is rich in waterfowl and should be protected for all the people in the Keewatin. He mentioned that Renewable Resources has their head office in Arviat and if the Board decides to open an office in the Keewatin, Arviat would be a good location.
The Chairman thanked the Hamlet delegation for coming and noted that he was aware of the community’s needs and concerns regarding wildlife. He noted that negotiations would have to take place with the Indians of Manitoba about use of common hunting areas. He also mentioned concerns regarding polar bear management in the Hudson Bay area. The Chairman then turned the floor over to the Minister of Renewable Resources, Silas Arngna’naaq.
The Minister thanked the Board for coming to his constituency for the meeting. He noted that Marius Tungilik was unable to attend the meeting and that his Regional Superintendent and staff would be available to assist the Board. He mentioned that mineral exploration is intensifying in the N.W.T. and that policies pertaining to this exploration are currently under review. One area of concern is the calving grounds of the Beverly and Qamanirjuaq caribou. He noted that the work of the Board in this area will be very important.
The Chairman thanked the Minister for taking time to attend the meeting.
The Board reviewed the agenda, made some additions and approved.
The Board reviewed the minutes listed in the agenda. It was decided that committee meeting minutes do not require Board approval and should not be included in the agenda. It was also noted that all motions have to be included with the minutes for future meetings. The Lake Harbour minutes of August 9-11 were approved; consideration of all other minutes were put forward to the next regular meeting. (Motion 95-084)
There was a brief discussion on the handling of incoming mail. The Executive Director advised that in future, library items will be listed in the log but will not be carried to meetings. Future lists will indicate (on the title page) the period covered, and receipt dates will be included for each item incoming.
7.A.1. Proposed Endangered Species Legislation
Lynda Maltby and Simon Nadeau of the Canadian Wildlife Service, Department of the Environment in Ottawa, provided the Board with an overview of the proposed Endangered Species Legislation. They advised that bi-lateral discussions were being held with provincial/territorial governments, aboriginal groups and industry, and that public workshops will follow. A scientific advisory committee will be established to review listings of endangered species. It was noted that there is some pressure to include sub-species and populations in the National List, but that the present aim is to adopt more of a sustained-ecosystem approach. They further noted that two things were required:
1. A federal/provincial/territorial National Framework for endangered species. 2. A federal legislative component to the framework.
It is the goal of CWS to have consultation and a product ready by September. A CWS “backgrounder”, overheads concerning the consultation process, and a public consultation workbook were provided to the Board.
Board members stressed that the new process needs to allow for the Board to approve listings for species that occur in Nunavut.
Lynda Maltby presented the Board with the book “On The Brink”. This book, produced by Environment Canada deals with endangered species in Canada.
Kevin McCormick attended the “Ecological Monitoring and Assessment Network” National Meeting in Burlington, Ontario January 16-19, 1995. This meeting was to discuss a system of monitoring ecological changes over time. Kevin noted that there is an obligation in the NFA to monitor such changes.
7.B Department of Fisheries and Oceans
7.B.1. Groundfish Management Planning Process
Mr. Kimber provided briefing notes on the Groundfish Management Planning Process. The main issue emerging from the discussion was that appropriate officials in DFO (Ottawa) still do not appreciate the framework for controlling resource allocations in the Nunavut settlement area, including fish out to the mean extent of landfast ice. Therefore to avert proportional cutting to the Nunavut quota, should a general reduction occur for turbot, a justification to share based on the land claims agreement should be emphasized instead of usual historical levels of harvest. It was noted during this discussion that the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans had agreed to meet with the Board on these issues. It was restated that Renewable Resources (GNWT) would be willing to assist with arranging such a meeting.
7.B.2. Walrus Live Capture Proposal
Mr. Moshenko asked the Board how DFO should respond to a request for two orphaned walrus pups for zoos in Sweden and Thailand. It was indicated that the company should address their request directly to the Board. It was also agreed that the Board must address sustained yields and requirements for beneficiaries before consideration is given to outside requests for surpluses.
7.B.3. Conservation Issue Protocol “How Does DFO Advise the NWMB on a Potential Conservation Concern”
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans noted a concern of both the HTA and scientists regarding the Kingnait Fiord (Pangnirtung) arctic charr stocks. This area is fished commercially, has a sports fishery and is harvested domestically. Information indicates that a conservation problem may exist if fishing continues at present levels. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans was questioning whether the Board should be working with the HTA or whether the Department should continue to work with the HTA in an effort to reduce fishing. The general Board view was that the Department should continue working with the HTA and the RWO to resolve the concern. The Board would only assist if problems developed and/or if a facilitator was required.
7.B.4 Croatian Vessel Application to Traverse the Northwest Passage
The Embassy of the Republic of Croatia has requested DFO permission to have a ship navigate the Northwest Passage during the summer of 1995. They have requested permission to take plankton samples as they sail through the area. The Department was interested to know if the Board had any concerns about granting permission. The Board concluded that they had no legitimate concern or jurisdiction.
7.C. Department of Renewable Resources
7.C.1. Nunavut Legislation Study on Conservation Areas
Discussion was held on the need to change regulations pertaining to status of pre-existing Conservation Areas such as the Thelon and various bird sanctuaries. A method is required to protect critical habitat from development such as mining exploration. It was agreed that Renewable Resources should proceed with development of these regulations in consultation with the Board and regional organizations.
7.C.2 Renewable Resources Habitat Conservation Program
It was noted that this item was discussed during the November meeting, however the discussion paper was received late and thus was included in the current agenda. Derek Melton indicated that the item had been covered in the November meeting.
7.C.3. Critical Wildlife Area Regulations
There is a need for regulations to underpin administration of critical wildlife areas; however other groups such as the Nunavut Planning Commission and RWOs have to become better established before changes can be made. It was suggested that the Department of Renewable Resources develop a draft (example) so the Board can develop questions.
7.C.4 Discussion Paper on Protection of Caribou Calving Grounds
Once again it was noted that regulations need to be developed, in this case to protect critical calving grounds. The Board agreed that regulations are required but that the appropriate Boards/Agencies(Nunavut Planning Commission, RWOs, etc.) should be involved.
7.C.5. 1994 Victoria Island Caribou Survey
An interim report was presented on the Victoria Island Caribou Survey, funded in part by the NWMB. A final report on the survey is due by the summer of 1995. The joint funding effort was deemed a success.
7.C.6. 1994 Beverly & Qamanirjuaq Caribou Census Report
An interim report was presented on the survey conducted in 1994, showing the herds are in good condition numbering almost 500,000 animals. A final report on the survey is due by the summer of 1995.
7.C.7. Renewable Resources - Updates
An update was provided on developments with respect to changes in the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection legislation to permit importation of polar bear parts. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service expects opposition from animal rights groups. The new changes are specific to polar bears, e.g. do not apply to walrus. Mention was made of developments pertaining to the Slave Geological Province. It was noted that the Kitikmeot have concerns regarding the diamond exploration program. It was noted that a workshop was planned for the end of February in Cambridge Bay.
7.C.8. Canadian Co-operative Wildlife Health Centre
Discussion deferred to the next meeting.
7.D. Akiliniq Planning Committee/Thelon Management Plan
Edwin Evo gave a review of the planning committee’s activities to date. The committee is made up of HTA members, elders, Dene, DIAND, and Renewable Resources. An Inuit Impact Benefit Agreement will need to be produced in parallel with the management plan for the Thelon.
7.E. Review of Non-hunting regulations Within Thelon Sanctuary
Discussion followed
on the question of Inuit hunting rights in the Thelon. Legal opinions
would be required to resolve the issue of maintaining the status quo
or allowing hunting as per the NFA. There was further discussion on
the DIO designation and which group is correct, the Regional Inuit
Association or the Regional Wildlife Organization.
7.F.
Beverly and Qamanirjuaq Caribou Management Board Updates David
Kritterdlik gave an overview of the Board, its membership, mandate
and activities. He highlighted the following issues: 1.
Commercial quotas in the Keewatin are still controversial 2.
The Board offers assistance with design of the Nunavut Harvest Study. 3.
Opposition to the collaring program is decreasing. 4.
A video documentary is required to discuss caching of meat. (Funding
support would be welcome) 5.
Conservation protection measures must be linked to development. 6.
There is need for better use of traditional knowledge. 7.
Manitoba and Saskatchewan Dene had requested a seat on the
NWMB. Board members advised that this was not possible. It may be
possible for them to visit the NWMB to discuss certain issues, and the NWMB
will look to the advice of the BQCMB on matters of overlap. 7.G.
NWMB - Bathurst/Bluenose Caribou Management Board (s) The Board has received
requests for consultation on the possibility of establishing a management
board or boards for the Bathurst and Bluenose herds. Derek Melton explained
that this was not necessary and that the plan was to establish an agreement
and management plan rather than creating new Boards. Discussion followed
on what the role of the Nunavut Planning Commission was with regards
to caribou. It was noted that overlap will occur. Mr. Melton mentioned
that the Dogrib Renewable Resource Committee would be interested in
meeting on this subject. It was noted that all parties would be present
at the Slave/Kitikmeot Regional Study meeting at the end of February
and that this could be discussed at that time. It was generally agreed
that development of new Boards is too expensive and that small sub-committees
would be more practical. 7.H.
NPC/Resource Centre/GIS Workshop Gordon Koshinsky gave
a brief report on the Nunavut Planning Commission Workshop to discuss
a Nunavut Resource Centre and GIS Centre. Discussion was centered around
types of maps to use and types of GIS equipment to obtain. Gordon suggested
that it would suffice, at least initially, if the NWMB had only “viewing
capability”; some members felt that the Board should have full access
and full participation. 7.I.
COSEWIC - Snowy Owl Report The Board has an invitation
to attend the next COSEWIC meeting. It was agreed that a formal letter
of acknowledgment will be sent to COSEWIC thanking them for their invitation.
With regards to the snowy owl listing, the Board has no particular
concerns. 8.A.
Department of Renewable Resources Derek Melton confirmed
that all types of seal pelts are included in the new Fur Pricing Program.
The $30.00 subsidy is payable on all species of seal. 8.A.2.
Transfer of Renewable Resources Contribution Funding The
January 23, letter from Renewable Resources was reviewed. The Board
felt that the letter did not provide the details requested at the Iqaluit
meeting. Concerns remaining: -analysis
of current administrative costs -analysis
of current commitments for allocating funds -confirmation
that funds may be transferred between programs -clarification
of whether separate accounting of GNWT funds would be
required -confirmation
of continued assistance of Ren. Res. Officers It was agreed that
a letter be drafted to the Deputy Minister regarding these concerns. “ Gordon
Koshinsky noted that the mandate of NWMB pertains primarily to Wildlife
management rather than to harvesting assistance, and that attempting
to combine both could lead to internal conflicts.” 8.A.3.
DFO Workshop - DFO/NWMB Reporting Relationship It was noted that
this issue had been discussed on several earlier occasions and that
there was considerable correspondence on the issue. The Department
of Renewable Resources had offered assistance in setting up such a
meeting. It was agreed that such a session is needed before the Board
decides which, if any, committees the Board should join. It was also
agreed that this meeting should occur as soon as possible, but not
until the Board is well prepared and knows precisely what it wants
to achieve. 8.B.1.
Bylaws and Operating Procedures The draft Operating
Procedures had been circulated for feedback, with some sections still
incomplete. It was agreed that the Inuktitut translation should be
started. Sub-committees should be reviewing the sections applicable
to them. Discussion was held on the number of Board meetings required
during a year. 8.B.2.
Walrus Management Planning Workshop The task of getting
this process underway (Executive Director) had not yet been started.
Several communities are requesting action on this issue along with
the RWO. It was agreed that Jim Noble and Tim Surette will arrange
for a workshop before the end of March. The framework prepared earlier
by Gordon Koshinsky will serve as an outline for the process. 8.B.3.
Southeast Baffin Beluga Co-management The Board had earlier
approved the co-management plan and had given direction on re-establishing
a Southeast Baffin Beluga Committee. A meeting must now be arranged
to begin implementing the co-management plan. It was agreed that, pending
recruitment of the Wildlife Director, the Executive Director with assistance
from Joannie Ikkidluak will work with DFO to chart an appropriate course
of action, based on the framework agreed earlier. A variation notice
has to be produced (by DFO, with NWMB input) for 1995-96 to ensure
that the appropriate quotas are maintained. 8.B.4.
Defining and Funding Research Priorities - Administration of the Nunavut
Wildlife Research Trust Fund Kevin McCormick advised
that the procedures for application to the fund had been completed.
It was decided that this material should be forwarded to all the appropriate
government agencies. 8.B.5.
Bowhead Knowledge Study David Aglukark presented
a short status report on the Bowhead Knowledge Study. A planning group
had been established, a questionnaire designed, and communities had
been requested to provide interviewers. He noted that a workshop had
been planned for the interviewers February 28 and 29 in Iqaluit. The
biologist and board members would circulate throughout the communities
to discuss the study and assist interviewers. 8.B.6.
Beluga, Narwhal and Walrus Basic Needs Level It was noted that
the Makivik members needed to participate in discussions on establishing
basic needs levels for these species. DFO presented historic harvest
levels, but no translation was available. It was suggested that a working
group be put together by the Chairman to deal with this item. (Motion
95-087) 8.B.7.
DFO Request for NWMB Priorities for Stock Assessment A brief review of
this request was conducted, but no decisions were made. Gordon Koshinsky presented
a status report on the Harvest Study, including a number of items identified
by the Steering Committee which required input or confirmation from
the Board. In the absence of contrary indications from the Board, the
Steering Committee assumes concurrence with the material presented
in the minutes of its first meeting. It was noted that there is confusion
about the start date of the Study and that this should be clarified
by writing to the Nunavut Implementation Panel. 8.B.9.
Igalirtuuq National Wildlife Area No new information
provided. 8.B.10.
Western Hudson Bay Research Report Ian Sterling’s (CWS)
interim report on polar bear research in Western Hudson Bay was provided
for Board review. This item had missed previous agendas
and had been returned for Board information only. No action required. 8.B.11.
Migratory Bird Legislation Amendments An ITC report on the
Migratory Bird Legislation was discussed. It was noted that Canada
had requested some amendments. Considerable discussion followed on
various sections of the Act. Malachi Arreak volunteered to participate
in a conference call with ITC regarding this issue on the last afternoon
of the Board’s meeting. 9.A.
Nunavut Transition Teams Orientation Workshop Ben Kovic and Andy
Theriault provided a report on the workshop they attended in Cambridge
Bay January 7-11. It was noted that the transition teams have no legislated
power until they become permanent boards. The main purpose of the transition
teams is to plan for the permanent boards. 9.B.
Request From Pond Inlet to Allow a Greenlander to Instruct in Narwhal Hunting
by Kayak Board members reviewed
this request from Pond Inlet. It was noted that DFO had reviewed this
request, noted no regulation problems, and felt it could be approved
if Pond Inlet HTA approval was received. It was also noted that if
hunters would harpoon the whales before shooting them, there would
be less whales lost. No final decision was made on this item. 9.C
Chairman’s Update on NWMB Operations 9.C.1.
Staffing of Director of Wildlife and Other Positions Ben
Kovic advised the Board that if any more staff are hired, the Board
will need to expand the current office facility. This discussion brought
up the topic of a permanent home for the Board. It was noted that the
Board had originally invited interested communities to provide options
for permanent facilities for the Board. Pond Inlet, Pangnirtung, Igloolik
and Arviat have offered to locate the Board office in their communities,
but none has provided complete proposals. It was decided to notify
communities that the Board will be staying in Iqaluit for the next
few years, but that a permanent location was still not decided. The
Board approved expansion of the present office facility. (Motion
95-088) The
Board reviewed and accepted the job description for the Director of
Wildlife position and agreed that the hiring process should be initiated. (Motion
95-089) The Board also discussed
the position of Director of Finance and Administration and agreed that
a draft job description should be presented to the Board’s accountants
for review and comments. (Motion
95-090) The Board reviewed
the Chairman’s list of upcoming meeting invitations and appointed members
and staff to attend selected meetings. 9.C.3.
Transfer of HTO Funding to RWOs The Board reviewed
the transfer of HTO funding to the RWOs for the 1994-95 fiscal year.
It was decided that funds would be transferred to HTOs, however any
funds for HTOs not registered, will be held in trust by the respective
RWOs until they are officially registered. (Motion
95-091) 10.1.
Arviat Hunters and Trappers Association - Bridges and Culverts George Kuksuk, Chairman
of the Arviat Hunters and Trappers Association attended the meeting
and explained the project to the Board. The Board thanked George for
his presentation and advised him that he would be notified of a decision. 10.2.
Arviat Hunters and Trappers Association - Outpost Camp Program George
also reviewed the Outpost Camp proposal with the Board. It was decided
that this request would be further discussed by the Board and the HTA
would be notified of the decision. 10.3.
Aqiggiak Hunters and Trappers Association - Building Purchase 10.4.
Pauktuutit - Fashion Show / Donation 10.5.
Spence Bay - Request for Funding - Office Renovations All three items were
deferred to a later conference call meeting, Feb 13/95. 10.6.
Keewatin/Kitikmeot - Request for Training Funds The requirement
for NTI funds was explained by the Executive Director. It was noted
that there would have to be further negotiations with NTI to resolve
use of these funds for training purposes. It was agreed that the Executive
Director resolve this matter with NTI. 10.7.
Ikajutit Narwhal Study Proposal This
project was discussed at considerable length. Board members felt that
the project was too costly and that it required re-working. Derek Melton
offered to have someone review this project for the Board. It was agreed
that after further review, this project would be reconsidered during
a future conference call. IN
CAMERA SESSION During
the meeting an in camera session was held to discuss various issues. Motions
arising from the in camera session were: 1. Discussion
and approval of the 1995-96 budget proposal. (Motion
95-093) 2. Payment
of honoraria for all Board and Committee meetings to be withheld until
the last or third day of all meetings. (Motion
95-094) 3. Board
to request change of honoraria rates from the current rate of $ 200.00 to
$ 300.00 per day, and per diems to follow current Federal Government rates;
any costs over and above this rate will need to be reimbursed with appropriate
receipts. (Motion
95-095) 4. The
Board discussed the requirements for appointment of Trustees for
the Nunavut
Wildlife Research Trust and approved the following members (pending
their concurrence): David Aglukark, Gordon Koshinsky and Malachi Arreak. (Motion
95-096) 11.
Member’s Regional Presentations/Concerns 11.1 There
was discussion on how the Polar Bear Pass Conservation Area is managed.
Kevin McCormick advised that there is a committee that meets on demand
to review concerns. 11.2 David
Igutsaq noted that the Kitikmeot HTO would like to receive copies
of the approved Board minutes. He also noted that the logo contest
winners were asking about their prizes and that this task must be
completed. 11.3 David
Igutsaq noted that there are some questions regarding the use of
male and female polar bear tags in the Kitikmeot. He requested that
the GNWT Polar Bear Biologist be requested to attend the next meeting
of the Board as a resource person. 12.
Date and Place of Next Meeting It
was agreed that the next meeting will be held April 24-28, 1995 in
Coppermine. It was also agreed
that there will be a conference call on February 13, 1995 to discuss
requests for funding. 13.
Meeting Adjourned (Motion
95-097) Minutes
Approved By: Chairperson Date: |
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