 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 Download
PDF (74K) Printer Friendly |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
NUNAVUT WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT BOARD
MINUTES - REGULAR MEETING No.8
01- 03 AUGUST, 1995 POND INLET , NT
Agenda Call To Order And Opening Prayer Greetings From Community Representatives
Date and Place of Next Meeting
01 August 1995
1. Call To Order And Opening Prayer
The Chairman convened the meeting at 9:10 A.M. David Aglukark led the opening prayer. The Chairman welcomed the Board members and guests to the eighth meeting of the Board. The Chairman acknowledged Henry Alayko from Makivik and noted that Jackie Koneak of Makivik would also be arriving later in the meeting.
2. Greetings From Community Representatives
His Worship, Paniloo Sangoyak, Mayor of Pond Inlet welcomed the Board to Pond Inlet. The Mayor was pleased that the Board had chosen Pond Inlet for their meeting. He noted that the people still depend on wildlife as a major source of sustenance. He wished all participants a pleasant stay in Pond Inlet and introduced Jayko Alooloo, Chairman of the Pond Inlet Hunters and Trappers Association. Jayko also welcomed the Board to the community and noted that a community feast was planned for Thursday evening (weather permitting harvesting of food for the feast). He noted the store hours for the community and mentioned that the HTA store had country food for sale.
The agenda was approved with the following amendments:
Members Concern David Igutsaq expressed concern about the need for the Minister of Renewable Resources to communicate with communities, e.g. about returning confiscated polar bear meat to the communities. David wanted the Chairman to write to the Minister regarding this matter. The Chairman called (not wrote) the Superintendent of Renewable Resources in Iqaluit, who committed to solving the polar bear issue at Taloyoak. David Igutsaq noted a concern that item 13 (Members Regional Presentations/Concerns) is always late in the agenda and members are not given enough time to report. He also felt that a communications plan should be developed to assist members in reporting back to their regions/organizations. Malachi Arreak agreed and noted the necessity to keep appointing agencies informed of Board activities/decisions. It was suggested that the Executive Director could assist with this communication. The Chairman also suggested that this item be moved to earlier in the agenda for future meetings.
4.1. Minutes of April 25 - 27, 1995 - Coppermine , were approved with noted corrections. (Motion 96-029)
4.2 Minutes of May 3, 1995 - Conference Call, were approved with noted corrections. (Motion 96-030)
4.3 Minutes of June 21, 1995 - Conference Call were approved with noted corrections. Several members had concerns with approval of funding to ITC for the CNE ”Spirit of the Arctic Exhibition.” The Chairman explained that ITC had promised to recognize organizations for donations. He noted that this would be a chance for the Minguq Sewing Group to show their products and the success of the Tannery/Sewing Project in Broughton Island . The Chairman advised that he had been invited to attend the opening of the Exhibition on behalf of the Board. (Motion 96-031)
5.1 March 31, 1995 - Audited Financial Report
The 1994-95 audited financial report was presented to the Board. There was a question regarding why the Research Fund was recorded in three different amounts for the same date. Kevin McCormick suggested the Board recognize the efforts of the Executive Director in achieving a good bottom line/report.
5.2 June 30, 1995 Financial Report (First Quarter Report)
The first quarter financial report for 1995/96 was presented. Gordon Koshinsky requested that quarterly budgets be incorporated in future, to provide a basis for comparing quarterly expenditures. Malachi Arreak noted that eventually the Board will have to take into account escalating (constant) dollars. It was also noted that the “Spirit of the Arctic ” donation should be transferred from the contribution coding to education budget coding. (Motion 96-033)
Further to the financial reports, the Executive Director outlined concerns regarding receipt of accounting documentation from RWOs and HTOs. It was suggested that the Board is ultimately responsible to ensure appropriate accounting at those levels. Malachi Arreak noted that the only reference in the Agreement is 5.7.13 and this section is virtually silent on the matter. The Board’s operating procedures are more definitive and the Implementation Contract may speak to it. Gordon Koshinsky anticipates that this will be a major preoccupation of the Director of Finance and Administration. Ben Kovic advised that he had discussed this issue with Jose Kusugak. Jose had emphasized training as a key issue. David Aglukark felt that the Associations know they have to follow their bylaws and the Board should not have to worry about this. Gordon Koshinsky noted that the Board may need guidelines regarding RWO/HTO accounting.
5.3 TAL Investment - Status Report - 30 June 1995
The June 30, 1995 TAL Investment report was presented to the Board. Gordon Koshinsky noted that in very simplistic terms, the Board is paying TAL approximately $30,000. for which they are doing a lot of buying and selling to optimize (at the present time) between 7% and 8% returns. If they get everything “correct,” they can make the Board approximately 1% of 12 million or $120,000 via their investment decisions.
5.4 Wildlife Research Trust Update
Malachi Arreak reviewed Michael d’Eca’s analysis of the trust deed. Malachi continued to advocate that not all Board members need or should be trustees, as all members are not interested or trained. Kevin McCormick noted that the complicated investment aspects are contracted out to professional managers and this is not a real problem for trustees. Malachi noted that TAL is required(at present) to come back to the NWMB (Finance Committee) for transactions over a certain amount. Marius Tungilik suggested that everyone can/should learn these investment reports. Gordon Koshinsky questioned whether there could be an integration with the Nunavut Trust. Malachi responded that the Nunavut Trust is 100% Inuit dollars and integration could create false “perceptions.” Michael d’Eca’s questions regarding the Trust were reviewed and answered. The Executive Director was directed to forward the Board’s responses to Mr. d’Eca for redrafting of the Trust Deed.
5.5 South Hudson Bay Polar Bear Research Project - Funding
Kevin McCormick noted that the Board had approved $52,700 last fiscal year. He advised that the same amount will not be needed for 1995/96, and that the project can get by with $40,000. The Executive Director noted that the financial report provided by Ian Sterling was not well prepared. Kevin McCormick requested that explicit instructions be provided to the Departments.
Concern was raised by the Executive Director that the Board’s translator cannot keep up with the growing workload. Possibilities of hiring a second translator or translating less material were considered. Kevin McCormick questioned whether the Board could rely more on translated mail logs, with translation of the actual material on an as-requested basis only. The Chairman noted that translating everything is just not practical, nor is the material used by the members. Marius Tungilik felt it was inappropriate to have to justify use, and wondered what the situation would be like if reversed. Joannie Ikkidluak suggested that matters pertaining to daily operations do not need to be translated. He deferred such items to the judgment of the Chairman. Malachi Arreak noted government material is to arrive translated, or at least arrive in lots of time for translation. He noted that the Board is not a “translation service.”
6. Incoming / Outgoing Mail Cont’d
The Executive Director noted that while DRR translates (and summarizes) everything it submits, DFO is not translating any documents. It was also noted that DRR has access to translation services which other government agencies lack. Gordon Koshinsky suggested that mail which is an agenda item must be translated. For mail of less importance, the onus should be on members to decide if they want/need it translated. Ideally, members would receive translated mail logs monthly, then check off what they want/need for rapid turn around from the office. Marius Tungilik made a motion that extra translators be hired to provide more translation capability. Kevin McCormick asked if agencies were following translation procedures, would the Board require more capacity? Gordon Koshinsky would prefer to devote incremental effort to rationalizing the process rather than to just mindlessly translating everything and noted that if the Board translates everything it becomes a “bottomless pit.” Also simply translating is not always the final answer; it does need to be good translating. He noted that he would rather see overflow translations done by contract translators, preferably outside of Iqaluit. Marius Tungilik suggested that translations could be done for agencies for a fee. David Aglukark felt that agencies should meet their translation obligations. The proposed motion was dropped for the present. Marius Tungilik withdrew his motion noting that wildlife management issues are one of the fundamental aspects of the NFA and that communication to the beneficiaries is vital.
7.A.1 RWO Workshop - Rankin Inlet
Ben Kovic reported that a RWO workshop had been conducted in Rankin Inlet in the spring. John Hickes and Bill Logan had provided an overview of NITC, reviewed DIO designations/applications and training. The workshop went well and Ben was confident that the RWOs are comfortably underway to be designated (by NTI). HTO secretary/managers require training. NITC is not mandated to fund any individual community or organization, rather it is looking at Nunavut wide training opportunities. NITC may fund training of Harvest Study workers. Michael d’Eca has been assigned to help with drafting DIO designation documents.
7.A.2 Keewatin Wildlife Federation AGM - Baker Lake
The Chairman noted that HTO Presidents had brought their secretary/managers with them to the meeting, but their participation was not very useful. He stressed their need for policy and procedures and a code of conduct. The Chairman also updated the RWO on the Bowhead Knowledge Study, HTO Special Funding, Bill C-68 and work being done on the Basic Needs Level for Beluga, Narwhal and Walrus. Carol Churchward did very well at the meeting. She spent several hours going over the Harvest Study helping them understand the program.
7.A.3 Gun Legislation\Bill C-68 Meeting - Ottawa June 27, 1995
Ben Kovic advised that he attended a gun legislation meeting with senior officials and two senators. The two senators (Adams and Day) were/are opposed to the legislation. Ben attended a Senate hearing on the matter at which the Minister of Justice, Allan Roch made a presentation. The debate is still going on, and there is some chance the Bill may be defeated or modified. The third reading of the Bill is scheduled for September.
7.A.4 Beluga, Narwhal and Walrus Basic Needs Level - Status Report
The Chairman reported that the contract with Sandy Lewis is well underway. The (new) deadline for completion of the whole exercise is January 24, 1996 . Michael d’Eca has previously advised that the Board cannot set BNLs until after the Harvest Study is completed. He has since changed his mind on this matter.
7.A.5 European Parliament (Fur Issues)
Ben Kovic reported on his trip to Europe to meet with the European Parliament. He came to realize how small the Arctic influence is (in the world). He met some supportive parliamentarians during his stay. This was acknowledged to be the most effective Canadian delegation yet: all Inuit, no politicians. The leg-hold battle is lost, no exemption for aboriginals, or for anyone is expected. Marius Tungilik noted at the ICC conference in Nome , a resolution was passed to file a UN human rights complaint against Europe on this issue. He urged the Board to enunciate its position. Ben Kovic noted that the Spanish parliamentarians support the bull-fight tradition but refuse to recognize Inuit traditions. Malachi Arreak noted that the Inuit will never stop this fight, it is reminiscent of the struggle on land claims. David Igutsaq mentioned that the newer-type traps are not necessarily better and can be dangerous.
7.B Executive Director’s Report
7.B.1 Update\Office Space\Renovations
The Executive Director advised that extra office space has been leased from Webster Company Limited. The Director of Wildlife Management, Harvest Study Biologist and Bowhead Knowledge Study Biologist are now accommodated. Construction has commenced on the 521 Project and the Board’s Legal Advisor is reviewing a “Promise to Lease” agreement for the Board.
Dan Pike has been hired on a secondment from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to take on the position of Director of Wildlife Management for the Board. The job advertisement for position of Director of Finance and Administration has been posted with a closing date of July 31. The next goal will be to resolve the job descriptions for the positions of Regional Resource Officers. There was some discussion of sharing these positions with the RWOs as Regional Harvest Study Coordinators. Gordon Koshinsky suggested that it might be better to combine these positions initially, allowing the hiring of three positions rather than six. Ben Kovic noted that NTI(James Eetoolook) intends to hire a Wildlife Coordinator based in Cambridge Bay . There was concern that this could be a duplication of some NWMB roles.
The Executive Director advised that the letter to the Implementation Panel to increase rates has not (yet) gone forward. The DIAND Implementation Branch has asked for confirmation (sent) that the present honorarium is $200.00 per day. They are also opposed to the Board haveing a permanent chairperson. (Other Boards have apparently followed our lead in this area.)
7.B.4 Finance Committee Membership
Malachi Arreak noted that Andy Theriault has retired and that the Chairman is ex-officio to the committee, leaving himself the only real member. Kevin McCormick questioned whether these committees are necessary indefinitely. Gordon Koshinsky nominated Marius Tungilik to replace Andy Theriault, this arrangement to be interim until a Director of Finance and Administration is on staff. The Finance Committee is to rationalize the function in the meantime. It is probably logical to have a permanent Board contact for financial operations. Marius Tungilik accepted this appointment/arrangement.
7.B.5 Guidelines For NWMB Donations
The Executive Director referred to Motion 96-026, which entailed the requirement for a set of Donation Guidelines for the Board. The Chairman noted that several agencies have approached the Board for non-research funding proposals and that other requests will surely follow. Kevin McCormick suggested that the Finance Committee draft a policy for the next meeting.
02 August 1995
Ben Kovic welcomed the second Makivik member, Mr. Jackie Koneak, to the meeting. He also welcomed Dan Pike, Keith Hay , Carol Churchward, Jerry Ell and Bruce Ashley. Jerry Ell was invited to update the Board on the Atlantic fishery and Bruce Ashley was attending as the new Fisheries Management Analyst for the Department of Renewable Resources in the Baffin .
8.A Canadian Wildlife Service(DOE)
8.A.1. Wildlife Trade Act Regulations
This Act was passed in1992; however regulations have not yet been drafted and the Act has not been proclaimed. The Act consolidates all previous legislation dealing with the trade in endangered species, and the introduction of non-native species. Kevin McCormick reviewed the briefing note provided to the Board. David Aglukark asked how this legislation relates to the fur problem with Europe . Kevin suggested that it does not relate to the fur issue but rather to endangered or “dangerous” species. Malachi Arreak noted concern about potential implications for trade in walrus and narwhal products, if these species are uplisted under CITES.
8.A.2 Cape Dorset Bird Sanctuary - Delisting
Kevin McCormick provided additional handouts to the Board. The original purpose of this sanctuary was not so much to protect eiders, but rather to make provisions for an industry based on eiders. Ben Kovic asked if there is anything that can be done to bring back the eiders. Gordon Koshinsky noted that it was not very gratifying to delist the sanctuary just to “clean the books” for an acknowledged failure. He proposed that some compensatory/replacement measures be considered for concurrent adoption. A motion was passed to support the delisting of the sancturary. (Motion 96- 034)
Kevin McCormick advised that no translated material was available for the meeting. Minister of Environment, Sheila Copps has announced her intention to ban lead shot. This will commence with National Wildlife Areas in 1996 and extend across Canada in 1997. It was noted that alternate ammunition is available’ albeit at higher prices. Four provinces have already agreed to the legislation. Gordon Koshinsky urged that lobbying be for prohibition at the retail level, so people can use up their inventories.
8.B. Department of Fisheries and Oceans
8.B.1 Atlantic Fishery Regulations On Licensing
Roger Peet noted this item was to be discussed at the DFO/NWMB June workshop (meeting deferred). Roger is requesting reaction and input to the briefing document. Marius Tungilik questioned whether the views of Inuit fishermen would be considered. Will DFO consult in the most affected communities (Pangnirtung, Broughton Island )? Roger Peet advised that these two communities were sent untranslated documents and that there were no plans to actually visit these communities. Roger advised that he had met with Ben Kovic, Jerry Ell and Jim Noble regarding the policy. Jackie Koneak felt that the proposed measures won’t work in the Arctic . Makivik has written a letter relaying this message. Roger Peet advised that a sub-committee has been formed to focus on aboriginal interests. Malachi Arreak stated that under the land claim(s), Inuit should be allowed to hunt/fish with less bureaucracy. Fishermen should be allowed to get licenses for more than one year. Roger suggested that in the actual claim area, all these regulations will not necessarily apply. The policy is directed more to the offshore Atlantic fishery.
8.B.2 Northern Quebec Beluga Management Plan
There was discussion on whether this was an information item, or for negotiation at this meeting. Jackie Koneak noted that DFO and Nunavik are still locked in debate about the plan. Material on the plan was tabled by Roger Peet. David Aglukark suggested that this topic was not a concern of the Board, because there is no issue of overlap. Ben Kovic suggested it was a concern because Sanikiluaq is involved. Malachi Arreak noted that until Makivik finalized their offshore agreement, NWMB has management authority “up to Quebec shores.”
8.B.3 Implementation Fund Activities and Project Updates
Roger Peet reviewed the handout provided by DFO, item by item. Roger identified item 9525 as the Iqaluit office budget. Ben Kovic suggested that some of these funds could be used for translation of communications to the Board.
8.B.4. Update On DOE’s Proposed Endangered Species Act
Roger Peet noted that a meeting was held to discuss this legislation. He suggested that this item be transferred to agenda item 8.D.3.
8.B.5a Igloolik Pilot Walrus Sport Hunt Project
Roger Peet advised that DFO will be issuing a licence under Section 4 of the current Marine Mammal Regulations. A Fisheries Officer will go to Igloolik to issue the licence and monitor the hunt. Roger Peet distributed a draft Communications Plan.
8.B.5b Walrus Management Plan/BNL Assignment
Ben Kovic read a letter from Timut Qamukaq, “assigning” 2 of his 4 allocation of walrus. Ben thinks this man is the guide for the hunt. Gordon Koshinsky proposed (drafted) amendments to replace 3.1 and 3.2 of the Fishing Plan. A motion was made to have the Chairman sign the Fishing (Hunt) Plan. Gordon Koshinsky requested that the plan be discussed with Igloolik HTA prior to finalization. The Chairman authorized Roger Peet to instruct his officer to proceed with the hunt. It was decided to waive trophy fees, on this pilot project only. (Motion 96-035)
8.B.5c Northern Quebec Request For Walrus Sport Hunt
Jackie Koneak referred to the letter from Willie Keatainak requesting walrus sport hunts. He advised that a letter had gone to Mr Keatainak explaining that Nunavik does not have full jurisdiction in this area. More information had been requested but not yet received. Mr Keatainak has approached various agencies for support, none of which have actual jurisdiction either. Mr. Keatainak has however received numerous letters of support regarding his proposal. Willie Keatainak is Mayor of Salluit and is trying to do things the “right way.” Jackie Koneak supports this initiative.The meat would be turned over to the (three) communities. Henry Aylako indicated that this was a very serious issue for the NWMB. Jackie Koneak advised that the hunters wish to use their new boats for this hunt. Ben Kovic advised that the Board will respond to the letter with a copy to Makivik. He also noted that the Board will be looking to the Igloolik Pilot Project for guidance in developing further hunts. Malachi Arreak noted that Makivik could be designated a DIO under the NFA.
8.B.6 Amendments To Marine Mammal Regulations
A motion was passed to amend the Marine Mammal Regulations to permit the use of full metal-jacket bullets. (Motion 96-036)
8.B.7 Update On Northern Turbot Fishery
Roger Peet noted that a briefing note had been provided on how the 1995 fishing quota was allocated. MOAs were completed and licenses are being issued. 285 mt were harvested in the Cumberland Sound winter fishery. Broughton Island HTA had requested 300 mt of the 1,000 mt Inuit quota for use in a summer fishery. Clarification was provided on the Inuit quota of 1,000 mt.
8.B.8 Update On DFO/DRR Sealing Project
Roger Peet advised that the Minister of DFO would not pay for a seal subsidy, but would pay for developmental work. Work on this program is proceeding.
This is a longstanding issue. The (previous) NWMAB was to write to the Minister of Renewable Resources requesting that licenses be issued but at no cost to Inuit. These derbies typically culminate in a community fish feast which is a traditional/domestic use. Roger Peet noted that in the Inuvialuit Settlement Area, no fee is charged to beneficiaries (but they require a permit.) Malachi referenced section 5.6.1 of the NFA which guarantees rights to harvest up to the full level of social and cultural needs. It was agreed that the Board’s legal advisor be requested to provide a legal opinion for the next meeting.
8.B.10 Reduced Support From PCSP Resolute Bay
Roger Peet noted that significant cuts are being experienced by the Polar Continental Shelf Program and this will be affecting research in Nunavut . It was agreed that Gordon Koshinsky would draft a letter of protest on behalf of the Board.
8.B.11 Trade/Export Of Country Food
Roger Peet suggested that this issue needs clarification and direction from the Board. Malachi Arreak noted that Inuit are promoting “freer trade,” even among circumpolar countries.
8.B.12 Dartmouth Symposium On Role Of Marine Mammals In The Ecosystem -
Notice of meeting Sept. 6-8, organized by NAFO/ICES. Dan Pike to attend.
8.C. Department of Renewable Resources
8.C.1 Department Of Renewable Resources - Program Transfers
Marius Tungilik advised of the approval by Cabinet to transfer the polar bear program to Nunavut . Plans are to transfer two full-time positions along with relevant operating funds. He also noted that funding cutbacks will make it difficult or impossible to complete the Baffin Bay fall polar bear program without outside assistance.
8.C.2 Polar Bear Management Agreements
Ron Graf advised that the two-tag system was not working in some communities. He advised that the Department was proposing to revert to a one-tag system of “flexible quotas,” with adjustments in succeeding years, for any overharvest (especially of females) in the current year. Ron noted that inadequate time, opportunity and funds will not allow for consultation with every community. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has refused to accept some management areas as being under sustainable yield. Such acceptance is necessary for exporting trophies to the U.S. It was noted that the U.S.- based sport hunt cannot be permitted tocontrol our polar bear management entirely, as 85% of polar bears are still taken for subsistence. Coral Harbour and Repulse Bay have agreed to the flexible quota system. Ben Kovic voiced concern regarding this system as it could lead to 0 quota over time. David Igutsaq voiced concern that nuisance bears must also be considered as they are becoming more of a problem. David Aglukark suggested that the controversy continues because the HTAs/hunters are not being listened to, even though they are the ones that know best. David has problems deferring to American concerns. Ron Graf noted that the male/female ratio target is not far from what is actually happening. Ben Kovic suggested that the Board may wish to have an independent consultant look at the matter. Glenn Williams noted that male selective harvesting is meant to maximize overall harvest(s). He also thinks the consultant approach might be useful. Kevin McCormick questioned why it would not be possible to review harvests (and take action) every five years rather than annually?” Ron Graf noted that in the Yukon the grizzly bear point system works on a three-year horizon. Gordon Koshinsky suggested that the Board should accentuate the positive more. The Board should not be surprised to be called on to manage, as a management board. He noted that the knowledge base for polar bear is probably stronger than for any other species, and that management has in fact been quite successful.
03 August 1995
Ron Graf tabled a briefing paper (prepared overnight) on the proposed return to a one-tag system, with following-year adjustments for any over-harvest. David Aglukark suggested that hunters won’t like being penalized in the following year. Protection of the public (from bears) is also a mounting concern. David Igutsaq disagreed with the proposal. He would like to see all the communities visited prior to regulatory changes. He also anticipates problems with control of nuisance bears. Gordon Koshinsky felt that if quotas are reasonable, it is surely reasonable that quotas be adjustable if matters (i.e. sustainable supply of bears) happen to change. He also suggested that the management regime need not be always completely the same for all regions/communities. Ben Kovic noted that only the Kitikmeot Region is cited as supporting a return to a one-tag system. Joannie Ikkidluak has heard no concerns in the Baffin Region. David Aglukark noted that the Keewatin Region was not fully consulted. Ben Kovic suggested that the Board leave the matter pending further consultation by Renewable Resources at a regional level. There is also the possibility of an August conference call. Ben also noted that he proposes to get a third-party (consultant) involved.
8.C.3. Protection Of Indigenous Wildlife/Plant Gene Pools
Marius Tungilik advised that species such as falcons, fish and muskox should be considered for gene pool protection. Ron Graf went on to elaborate on the example of the charr stocks at the Rockwood hatchery. The disposition of eggs/brood stock has become a matter of concern that needs direction.
8.C.4. Wildlife Areas of Special Interest
Ron Graf noted that translated copies of this report are now available, and copies have been sent to out to RWOs and HTOs. He further advised that a meeting is planned for Yellowknife to discuss methods of protecting critical areas such as caribou calving grounds. Ron asked the Board if they would participate in this meeting.
8.D.1. Canada/Greenland Joint Commission Scientific Working Group
Gordon Koshinsky advised that he had attended this meeting on behalf of the Board. He noted that seventeen scientific papers had been presented at the meeting. A concern of this group was to get walrus added to the Commission’s mandate. Of particular interest was a contaminants study that indicated that there may be more than one stock of beluga in the High Arctic. Roger Peet noted that there were plans to conduct a satellite telemetry program with funding assistance from Greenland .
8.D.2 Kitikmeot HTA Annual General Meeting - June 19-23
Carol Churchward advised that she had attended this meeting and presented plans for the Harvest Study to the KHTA. Carol noted that the DIO designation process is underway. Concern was expressed at this meeting that the Field Workers proposed salaries are too low. There was also concern that non-native harvests will not be included in the Harvest Study. David Igutsaq noted that there is a considerable amount of non-native harvest, which should be included in the study. Ben Kovic suggested that the caribou tag system does not indicate what the hunter actually kills. Joannie Ikkidluak felt that this information is available from other sources. Gordon Koshinsky agreed with David Igutsaq to the extent that if, data are not forthcoming, the Board should request the appropriate agencies to develop those data. The Board will certainly need this information eventually. The Harvest Study is constrained by mandate and dollars, and cannot do everything. It was agreed to approach the various agencies to ascertain the extent to which they sucessfully document harvests by non-Inuit.
8.D.3. COSEWIC - Endangered Species Legislation Meeting - May 09
Kevin McCormick provided a general overview of the meeting held in Yellowknife . The Minister has committed to prepare a plain-language version of the legislation. He noted that material will be presented to the Board for consultation at the workshop. Carol Churchward stressed (at workshop) the need for aboriginal consultation and the inclusion of traditional knowledge.
8.D.4. Understanding Harvest Assessment In The North - Alaska Meeting
Carol Churchward advised that she had attended this meeting in Alaska at the end of April. The meeting included panel presentations and posters explaining programs. Carol presented a poster at the meeting. She noted that the Eastern Arctic is much further advanced in this field than are most other areas.
8.D.5. Migratory Bird Convention Act Amendments
David Aglukark gave a short report on his attendance at a meeting held in Duncan , B.C. Both Canadian and Alaskan Inuit argued strongly for the needs of the people. Negotiations were successful and amendments will be forthcoming, which will legalize year-round native harvests of birds and their eggs.
8.D.6. Atlantic Fisheries Meetings - Report
Jerry Ell reported that he has been representing the Board at various Atlantic Fisheries meetings. Jerry provided a general overview the Atlantic Fishery as related to Nunavut . In 1994, six applications were directed to the Development Quota, however none were successful. This year, only Broughton Island was successful in its application for a quota. Calls for Proposals typically allow only 2-3 weeks for proposal development and there is never enough time. He noted that it would be much better if Inuit had a “permanent” allocation. This would allow time for planning and accessing the necessary funding to undertake the fishery, and could create employment similar to the current shrimp fishing industry. Jerry noted that dealing with two DFO Regions is awkward and perhaps this could be discussed at the planned workshop. Jerry noted that NAFO is considering several issues that could affect Nunavut fisheries. They are considering a minimum allowable size for turbot and want to encourage use of more selective gear for this species. Also, they want to increase the observer coverage in this fishery. Jerry felt that this was an opportunity for Inuit, and that Arctic College might consider a training program for Fishery Observers. Jerry noted that the best argument for greater access to the fishery is adjacency. DFO Science consider all are “adjacent” to Newfoundland ! It can be equally argued that all are adjacent to Nunavut .
Jerry recommended that the Board should have the following priorities:
8.D.7. Thelon Game Sanctuary Extension
David Aglukark advised had no information beyond the tabled document. Development of a new management plan is to be coordinated by GNWT and a DIO (probably KIA). There is a deadline of July 1995 for resolution of inclusion of some land parcel in the sanctuary, but an extension of the deadline has been requested.
8.E. Department of Indian and Northern Affairs
8.E.1 Northwest Territories Reindeer Regulations
No representative was present to address the Board meeting. Consultations are underway and the Board awaits results.
Note: Henry Alayco was sworn in at this point as a member of the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board.
Kevin McCormick noted that Sections 1-4 were approved at the Coppermine Meeting. Malachi Arreak’s concerns were not addressed as Kevin had not received his letter. Motion 96-009 indicates that Sections 1-4 are approved.
9.A.2. Bowhead Knowledge Study
Keith Hay presented the Board with a progress report on the Study. Keith noted that a few problems were encountered as planning was too rushed. He would prefer to use fewer interviewers, participate more in interviews himself and perhaps do group interviews. Malachi Arreak offered the possibility that Arctic College Lands Trainees could assist with mapping. Malachi Arreak was appointed to the Bowhead committee to replace Andy Theriault. David Aglukark noted that it will not be possible to harvest a bowhead during the summer of 1995. Gordon Koshinsky suggested that DFO and possibly the Board’s legal advisor be requested to develop a road-map of steps yet to be taken to facilitate a bowhead whale hunt.
Gordon Koshinsky noted that due to the importance and size of this study it may require more attention by the Board. Carol Churchward followed with a brief status report. It was noted that the Board’s legal advisor was working hard to get the required documentation for DIO designation to NTI (for all three regions) by late August.
Budget Shortfalls: Carol Churchward suggested that the piece-work rates planned for Field Workers might be changed to a salary format. Malachi Arreak mentioned that the $6,000.000 allotment is calculated in constant dollars, and some portion of the shortfall will be covered by this increase. The Executive Director was requested to provide a calculation of the increments which stem from constant dollars. Discussion followed on the status of the study, shortfalls in budget and impediments to the study. There was discussion on the possibility of using the Board’s surplus dollars to assist with the shortfall. Members requested that they be provided the information on the constant dollars before they would discuss using the surplus funds. The Chairman suggested there may be a need for a Harvest Study Committee for the Board.
9.A.4 Southeast Baffin Beluga Committee
Joannie Ikkidluak advised that he had been provided names of delegates from three communities. A meeting has not been planned to date. The Chairman suggested that the committee will need a budget to operate. Joannie and Dan Pike are to draft an appropriate budget and submit to the Board. It was noted that the SEBBC has been well recognized for the work it completed and this effort should not be abandoned.
The Executive Director advised that the planned June meeting had been canceled. The meeting has been rescheduled for October 3, 1995 in Ottawa . Members were requested to review the Sandy Lewis report for this meeting.
11. Research Funding Applications
Dan Pike reviewed the evaluating procedure he had developed for the applications. Dan noted that Carol Churchward had evaluated those DFO proposals that Dan had prepared while a DFO employee. It was noted that the Board had about $500,000 to disburse of which $196,000 had already been committed. Dan noted that the DRR Polar Bear Survey Proposal had arrived after the deadline and wondered if it would be considered. Ron Graf noted that approximately one million dollars has already been invested in this research. This request for funding arises, in part, because of the commitment to move the polar bear project to Nunavut . ($52K Shortfall). There was a suggestion to fund the research portion of the shortfall only. A motion was made to support the polar bear project for $112,000 out of the Board’s research funds rather than the Research Trust Fund. A motion was passed to approve this application for funding. (Motion 96-037)
Discussion moved to the Grizzly Bear Project. Malachi Arreak noted that he would only support this project if the research was carried out in the Nunavut area. Ron Graf explained that any contribution would be appreciated, but that Renewable Resources would continue the project in any event. Joannie Ikkidluak requested that Dan Pike review all the research applications and make recommendations to the Board during a conference call.
12. Requests For Funding - Other
An application from Pauktuutit Inuit Women’s Association was discussed by the Board. This request was for funding assistance to conduct a workshop in Iqaluit to discuss assignment of rights, and women’s hunting rights. This request also included a request for the Board’s legal advisor to attend this workshop. Members discussed the Board’s role in this workshop. It was agreed by several members of the Board, that a partial contribution of $15,000 should be made to Pauktuutit to assist with the workshop. The Chairman and Executive Director will discuss the workshop with Martha Flaherty to find out what the Board’s scope for action/assistance really is.
13. Date and Place of Next Meeting
It was agreed that the next meeting of the Board, after the Ottawa workshop, would be the week of November 13th in Chesterfield Inlet.
Moved to adjourn the meeting. (Motion 96-038)
Minutes Approved By: Chairperson
Date:
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||
|
|
|
|
| GUESTBOOK SITE MAP CAREERS COPYRIGHT MEMBERS |