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NUNAVUT WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT BOARD
MINUTES: MEETING NO. 20 5 - 6 DECEMBER 1998 YELLOWKNIFE, NT Agenda Call to Order and Opening Preliminaries Financial and Administrative Business
Chairman, Staff, and Member Reports
Completion of Assignments and Resolutions from Last Meeting Environment Canada (CWS) Issues/Decisions
Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI) Wildlife Division
Executive Committee Report and Recommendations Meetings, Workshops and Other Pertinent Events Date and Location of Next Meeting
Saturday, 5 December 1998
1. Call to Order and Opening Preliminaries
The Chairperson Ben Kovic convened the meeting at 9:20 a.m. in the Garnet Room of the Yellowknife Inn. Joan Scottie led the opening prayer. Ben welcomed the NWMB Members to this the 20 th regular meeting of the Board. He congratulated the Members for the key role of the Board in resolving the impasse regarding activation of a Nunavut Marine Council in the course of the joint meeting with the other Institutions of Public Government the previous day. He noted that the NWMB has accumulated a long and impressive history of accomplishments. Ben referred to the heavy agenda facing the Board, and indicated that there were about seventeen decisions to be made.
Ben called on the Members, staff and guests in attendance to introduce themselves. Bert Dean noted NTI’s intention that RWOs and HTOs be more consistently represented and participate more actively at NWMB meetings.
Members reviewed the agenda for the meeting. Gordon Koshinsky stated that some discussion and clarification was needed with respect to the Special Meeting conducted on December 4 th , and suggested that this be addressed in- camera . Gordon also suggested that agenda items 9D and 10C be amalgamated. Kevin McCormick requested the addition of an agenda item on behalf of CWS (Item 7B) regarding a regulatory proposal for the hunting of migratory birds. The agenda was accepted with the suggested amendments. (Resolution 99-089)
The Minutes for Regular Meeting No. 19, held on 25 - 27 August 1998, were adopted with minor adjustments. (Resolution 99-090)
The Minutes for Conference Call No. 41, conducted on 02 November 1998, were adopted with minor adjustments to the wording regarding the projected slight budget overrun and notification to DIAND. (Resolution 99-091)
4. Financial and Administrative Business
4.A Financial/Variance Report for November 1998
Jim Noble provided an overview of the NWMB financial situation to 30 November, including a detailed variance report. Jim noted that the projected negative variance to year-end has increased by about $28,000 over the past month, to an estimate of $83,147 at the present time. This is still considered to be a manageable amount. Kevin McCormick asked why the actual and projected expenditures for donations were so much higher than the original budget of $5,000. Jim attributed this in large part to the designation of several projects as donations when in fact they constituted research. Harry Flaherty urged that a cap be established for donations. Harry also expressed concern about the progress of the Inuit Bowhead Knowledge Study and the projected cost overrun. Ben Kovic marked this as an item for discussion in-camera . Meeka Mike asked why funds were still being identified for future transfer to HTOs. Jim explained that the Whale Cove HTA has not yet submitted the required financial documentation for 1997/98, but that steps are being taken to assist the HTA in this matter.
Gordon Koshinsky suggested that the projected compliance with the overall budget was satisfactory in the context of the total budget. The financial report as at 30 November 1998 was accepted as presented. (Resolution 99-092)
4.B Funding Arrangement with DIAND: Update
Jim Noble advised that there has been no response to the NWMB letter of September 8 to the DIAND Minister regarding development of a revised funding arrangement. With year-end now approaching, the Board must decide whether to pursue this issue further. Gordon Koshinsky noted that DIAND officials have contended in the past that this matter is being considered by the Treasury Board, but have never provided any hard evidence that the matter was in fact put forward. Kevin McCormick suggested that since the Board is not having any impact with DIAND in resolving this matter, that the Board should change its approach. He suggested that the Board request someone else to intervene, possibly NTI or the MP for Nunatsiaq. The Board resolved to bring the matter to the attention of NTI and the MP for Nunatsiaq, with a copy to the DIAND Minister. (Resolution 99-093)
4.C Nunavut Wildlife Research Trust: Update
Jim Noble tabled TAL’s accounting report for the Trust Fund as at the end of October. The Fund survived the recent market volatility quite well. The Fund has a current (October 31) market value of $16,086,753 with a year-to-date return of 7.48%.
5. Chairman, Staff, and Member Reports
Ben Kovic advised that he has started to participate in the RWO program of monthly conference calls with the HTOs. Ben suggested that it would be appropriate for the NWMB to contribute to paying the cost of these calls, perhaps on a one-in-four basis.
Ben urged that agencies with agenda items be more attentive about providing briefing materials to the Board in advance of meetings. Ben also urged Board Members to re-double their efforts to come to Board meetings in a high state of preparedness to discuss the agenda items.
5.B Executive Director's Report
Jim Noble advised that a new Director of Wildlife Management had been hired for the NWMB. Dr. Michelle Wheatley, who has been working for the Sahtu Renewable Resources Board, will be starting with the NWMB the second week of January. The position she will be occupying is full-time indeterminate, and she will be on a one-year probation. Dr. Wheatley recently spent a weekend in Iqaluit going over the duties of the position with Dan Pike. She was also able to find housing accommodation during that visit.
Jim noted that the NWMB Annual Report for 1997/98 was received from the printer and is ready for distribution. Ben Kovic suggested that the Board consider expanding the Annual Report in future to include a page for each of the co-management partners. Michael d’Eça suggested that the participation of NWMB co-management partners in this context not be restricted to government agencies. Gordon Koshinsky suggested that sharing the content of its Annual Report with its co-management partners would be appropriate to the NWMB’s position as a leader in the development of the fish and wildlife co-management process in Canada. Harry Flaherty suggested that the co-management partners should be encouraged to pay the incremental costs of any such shared participation.
5.C Director of Wildlife Management Report
Dan Pike explained that in view of his imminent departure from the Board, he has focussed his recent attention on solidifying policy matters. He also noted that all of the substantive items in his quarterly activity report have specific places on the present meeting agenda.
5.D Director of Finance and Administration Report
In the absence of Gordon Tomlinson, Jim Noble referred to the quarterly activity report of the Director of Finance and Administration contained in the information binder. Jim noted that Gordon is currently away for a brief period of training towards completion of his CMA. Isabel Simpson has returned from maternity leave.
Michael d’Eça referred to his briefing report of November 12 contained in the information binder. Michael noted that the activity items that have taken most of his recent attention also appear separately on the meeting agenda.
5.F Fisheries Advisor's Report
In the absence of Ray Andrews, Dan Pike reviewed Mr. Andrews’ activity report as contained in his memorandum of November 16. Mr. Andrews noted the concurrence of the Fisheries Resource Conservation Council with the NWMB contentions pertaining to turbot; notably that there is a great need for:
5.G Members’ Reports and Concerns
Harry Flaherty advised that Grise Fiord hunters recently lost four of their snow machines and are unable to pursue their hunting activities without them. Harry requested the support of the NWMB in getting these machines replaced. The Board Members indicated that the NWMB would draft a letter in support of the Grise Fiord hunters’ request for compensation.
David Tagoona anticipated serious problems with implementing the new firearms control legislation. He urged that the Federal Government hire co-ordinators to circulate among communities to facilitate registrations. Bert Dean noted that NTI is pushing the Federal Government to provide such assistance.
Joan Scottie reported attending the AGM of the Kivalliq Inuit Association in Rankin Inlet in October, this on behalf of David Tagoona who was ill. She was questioned about the funding arrangements for the 1998 bowhead hunt, and heard complaints that the Keewatin Region did not obtain a reasonable share of the hunt products. Joan also reported attending her third meeting as the NWMB representative to the Beverly-Qamanirjuaq Caribou Management Board in Fort Smith in November. The Board decided that Joan should continue in the role of NWMB representative to B/Q Board meetings.
Joan Scottie questioned the design and administration of the NWMB’s Harvest Study. She noted that a large number of hunters in her community, herself included, are never interviewed. She suggested that a system of incentives may be useful, both for Field Workers and for hunter participants. Janet Akat explained the registration and selection process that was/is employed to determine which hunters will be interviewed in any particular community. Hunters who were designated at the outset as “occasional” are interviewed only about one-third of the time. Janet acknowledged that Baker Lake has posed some unique problems for the Study, related mainly to a high turnover of Field Workers. She undertook specifically to look into the concerns expressed by Joan.
Makabe Nartok reported attending the AGM of the Kitikmeot Inuit Association in October. He encountered some language (dialect) difficulties in making and following up on his presentation at the meeting, and suggested that this should be a consideration in deciding who to send to such meetings. Ben Kovic noted that the RIAs have expressed displeasure in the past if their NWMB appointee did not attend their AGM. The Board decided to write to the RIAs suggesting that they provide their questions, especially in regard to administrative or financial matters, to the NWMB in advance of their meetings.
Meeka Mike noted that she is the only member of the Inuit Bowhead Knowledge Study Committee who is still in an active role with the NWMB, and asked whether the Board had any inclination to change this situation. The Board noted that the original members have expressed no desire to be replaced, and concluded that it was desirable to maintain this element of continuity in view of the difficulties being encountered in completing the Study.
6. Completion of Assignments and Resolutions from Last Meeting
Jim Noble reported that he had tried to incorporate NWMB Resolutions into the Task List along with the other items. He then gave a status report on each item, with emphasis on the items that had not been completed. Gordon Koshinsky suggested that a process was needed for considering the removal of task items from the list if they remained uncompleted for a long time. It was decided that in such cases the particular assignees should be prepared to recommend to the Board in that regard. In regard to specific outstanding task items not on the present meeting agenda, the Board decided as follows:
7. Environment Canada (CWS) Issues/Decisions
7.A The Canada Endangered Species Protection Act (CESPA): Update
Kevin McCormick reported that Environment Canada hosted a meeting with northern interests on December 2 in Yellowknife to provide a forum for consultation on the proposed legislation. The meeting was attended by representatives from the four Arctic wildlife co-management boards, the Dene Nation, Lutsel Ke, Ecology North, RWED, DFO and DIAND. DOE stressed that as it is now envisaged the new legislation will:
Discussion at the meeting focussed on:
Specific concerns raised by northern participants at the meeting, and which departmental representatives undertook to ensure would receive due consideration, included:
7.B Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations for Nunavut
Kevin McCormick advised that the annual review of the Migratory Bird Regulations would need to include an amendment to extend the current (1998) hunting seasons and bag limits to the Nunavut Territory for 1999. Kevin stressed that although the Nunavut Department of Sustainable Development had been advised of this matter, there had not been time to obtain a formal response. The Board noted that no changes were contemplated, and on this basis approved the extension of the 1998 Migratory Bird Regulations to apply in Nunavut for the 1999 season. (Resolution 99-094)
7.C Special Snow Goose Hunting Regulations
Kevin McCormick indicated that in view of burgeoning snow goose populations, CWS is preparing a special proposal to create a spring hunting season, for snow geese only, for the benefit of non-aboriginal hunters in Quebec, Manitoba, and perhaps also the Northwest and Nunavut Territories. The proposal might include provision to legalize, in some jurisdictions, the use of electronic goose calls. Any such regulatory changes would be subject to consultation and approval by the appropriate authorities.
8. Fisheries and Oceans (DFO): Issues/Decisions
8.A DFO Staffing Pertinent to Nunavut
Gary Weber advised of recent recruiting and staffing actions by DFO Fisheries Management for their Iqaluit office. Patrice Simon has been hired as the new Fisheries Management Biologist, and a second Fisheries Management Technician is being recruited. Joanne Rose will be the new Administrative Clerk/Office Manager. Winston Fillatre was recently hired as the new Field Supervisor for Conservation and Protection. Blaine Rawles and David Qirqqut have been hired as Fishery Officer Trainees. Gary noted that DFO Science Division based out of Winnipeg is also looking to increase its presence in Nunavut. In addition, the newly-formed DFO Oceans Sector anticipates obtaining authorization shortly for some regional staffing.
8.B Request for Quota Increase: Naqsaarluq Lake Arctic Char
Dan Pike reminded Members of the Board’s consideration of this matter at the previous meeting. The Renewable Resource Officer at Clyde River is of the opinion that the present commercial quota is too small to encourage fishery participation. The aspirations of the HTO, however, have not been conveyed to the NWMB in this matter. Dan also reiterated his long-standing contention that the char management system is in need of serious revision in the context of the NLCA. The concept of commercial quotas does not necessarily fit the provisions of the Agreement, but any major revision would need to be pursued in a systematic manner.
The Board decided to defer consideration of an increase in the commercial quota for arctic char at Naqsaarluq Lake pending confirmation of the request by the Clyde River Hunters and Trappers Association. In the interim, the quota should remain unchanged at 2300 kg, and DFO should be asked to provide the missing commercial harvest data for 1997/98. (Resolution 99-095)
Gary Weber announced that the long-anticipated document has now been drafted, albeit without ever having benefit of any input from Makivik. It will be sent to NWMB imminently, with feedback invited.
8.D Walrus Sport Hunting: Update
Gary Weber advised that eight walrus were harvested at Igloolik and one at Coral Harbour in the course of the 1998 sport hunt. The communities of Salluit, Hall Beach and Cape Dorset did not conduct walrus sport hunts in 1998 although the NWMB had provided quotas. Makabe Nartok asked if the sex composition of the walrus sport harvest was known; Gary replied that it was not. Gordon Koshinsky suggested that communities be required to formally re-apply for walrus sport-hunting quotas if they wished to pursue such ventures next year, rather than simply referring to their previous applications.
8.E Narwhal Management: Proposed New System
Dan Pike noted that the DFO Minister had accepted the NWMB decision to revise the narwhal management system, on a three-year trial basis. It will be a major task to get the new system implemented, with all the incremental reporting and local regulatory requirements that are entailed.
8.F Southeast Baffin Beluga Management Proposal
Dan Pike noted that the DFO Minister had accepted the NWMB decision to approve the recommendations of the Board’s Southeast Baffin Beluga Management Committee regarding management of the stocks of beluga whales hunted by the communities of Pangnirtung, Iqaluit and Kimmirut. Dan also advised that the Southeast Baffin Beluga Management Committee met last week in Winnipeg and drafted some further recommendations pertaining to beluga research and publicity under the new management regime. The Board deferred consideration of these recommendations.
8.G Information Requirements for Management of Bowhead Whales
Dan Pike reported that DFO has advised that they would not be able to provide the requested status report on the stock of bowhead whales inhabiting Foxe Basin and Northern Hudson Bay on a formal basis prior to August 1999. In view of this, along with the fact that the Inuit Bowhead Knowledge Study has not yet been completed, the Board reiterated its earlier decision not to set a TAH in respect to bowhead whales for 1999. The Board also decided to seek assurance from DFO that their commitment to provide a bowhead stock status report by August is firm.
Michael d’Eça advised that NTI has withdrawn the second of its applications for Judicial Review of the DFO Minister’s turbot allocation decisions, this on the premise that all the remaining concerns are embodied in the third application. The initial documentation for the third Judicial Review has now been submitted, and the cross-examinations are about to begin. It is expected that Ray Andrews will be asked to provide written answers to written questions, and Henry Copestake will likely be required to appear. No date has yet been set for the actual Review; hopefully it will be completed prior to the 1999 fishery.
Dan Pike gave a report on a meeting that was conducted in Iqaluit on October 16-17 to discuss the turbot fishery. It was noted at the meeting that the exploratory fishery in Division 0A has been providing good information on stock trends, and also that DFO is considering a Research Survey in Subarea O in 1999. Such a survey could be expected to cost in the neighbourhood of a half a million dollars. It seems probable that the NWMB would be invited to share substantially in the costs of such a survey.
The Board decided ( Resolution 99-096 ) to convey to the Minister of DFO the following recommendations for studies pertaining to turbot in Baffin Bay in 1999:
The Chairperson, Ben Kovic, re-convened the meeting at 8:05 a.m. Pauloosie Keyootak led the opening prayer.
9. GNWT Wildlife (RWED): Issues/Decisions
9.A Study of Handling Effects on Polar Bears
Joe Tigullaraq advised that this study is expected to be completed in January.
9.B Protection of Caribou Calving Grounds
Joe Tigullaraq reported that a meeting was held on November 23 to plan a workshop on this subject. The workshop will be sponsored by NTI and will be held later this winter in Inuvik.
9.C Thelon Wildlife Sanctuary Management Plan: Update
Joe Tigullaraq stated that RWED is anxious to get this Management Plan completed. KIA will be taking the latest draft to Baker Lake for the consideration of the community before agreeing to it. Dan Pike noted that the key local concern has centred on the concept of contiguous areas as was proposed. There is concern about alienating additional lands, and a feeling that provisions under the NLCA are adequate to enable any further land protection that may eventually be identified. The consensus seems to be to identify these contiguous areas as important, but to identify their immediate designation as only one option for their protection. Under this arrangement, there would be no changes to any of the boundaries of the Sanctuary.
9.D Wildlife Resource Centre/Library: Update
See Agenda item 10.C (amalgamated).
9.E Polar Bear Management Issues
Joe Tigullaraq reminded the Board that the Clyde River polar bear quota (Baffin Bay population) was reduced from 21 to 8 for 1998/99. This reduction was consistent with the MOU, and related to an excessive harvest of females. Evidently the over-harvest of females stemmed mainly from defence kills at outpost camps. The HTO invited RWED to their AGM, and announced their intention to harvest no polar bears this year. They would also like some changes made to the MOU under which their polar bear harvest is managed.
The Coral Harbour HTO requested RWED to meet with them to explain their polar bear quota reduction (from 39 to 34) for 1998/99. The HTO expressed an interest in working to meet the requirements under US legislation that would permit the importation of polar bear trophies from Coral Harbour. It was noted that people from north-western Nunavik have also expressed a desire to sport-hunt the Foxe Basin polar bear population, and have suggested that the Foxe Basin polar bear management zone be split to accommodate them. They have been advised by RWED that the splitting of management zones is not feasible, and that they in any event could not expect to conduct a polar bear sport-hunting venture because they do not have the necessary management system and regulations in place. Makabe Nartok stated that it would be useful for communities to be better informed as to which polar bear populations are permitted for importation into the USA along with the reasons for this. Michael d’Eça enquired about the status of discussions regarding polar bears out on the sea ice. Joe was unable to provide any details at this time.
Joan Scottie advised that the Baker Lake HTO is dissatisfied with their small quota of two polar bears. Joe reported that it was explained at the KWF AGM that unless there is an observed change in population abundance or productivity, the only way the Baker Lake quota could be increased would be if some other communities hunting the same population agreed to have their quotas decreased. Gordon Koshinsky counseled that co-management partners must take care not to undermine wildlife management decisions once they are taken, while at the same time staying constantly alert to possible ways of building upon and improving those management decisions.
9.F Population Status of Arctic Wolves: Update
Joe Tigullaraq noted that the concern of COSEWIC on this subject, and their proposal to designate Arctic wolves as “threatened”, stemmed from the decline of High Arctic caribou and the anticipated impact of this on the wolf population. Joan Scottie noted that a changed abundance of wolves in a particular location often means that a wolf pack or packs has shifted territory rather than changed in numbers. Joe stated that RWED officials have suspected the existence of more than one Arctic wolf population, and wanted to assess the matter more explicitly. COSEWIC has agreed to await the results of this additional work.
The magnitude of the wolf harvest will be an important consideration for COSEWIC in making its final determination. The following Nunavut regional harvests were identified over a recent three-year period:
The above figures were derived from fur auction records, wildlife export permits, Renewable Resource Officer reports, and the NWMB Harvest Study. They do not include the harvest by sport hunting nor the harvest destined for local consumption. RWED is currently conducting surveys in the Nunavut communities to obtain information that will include domestic uses. It already seems apparent that the High Arctic wolf population is distinct from that in the Baffin region per se.
9.G Peary Caribou Research and Management: Update
Joe Tigullaraq advised that RWED is still planning to conduct a 3- or 4-year research project on Peary caribou. Planning consultations still need to be done at Grise Fiord and Resolute, and it is expected to have the research plan completed by February. The 1998 caribou survey of the Queen Elizabeth Islands that was contemplated earlier did not in fact get done. Harry Flaherty noted that there are relationships between caribou and muskoxen, and suggested that this be taken into account in designing the study. Joe acknowledged that this idea merited consideration.
Joe Tigullaraq advised that the Department currently has two legislative reviews underway, in order to put in place legislation pertinent to the new incoming Nunavut Government. These initiatives are specifically in respect to:
Michael d’Eça reiterated the long-standing contention of the Board based on previous experience that all interests are best served if close communication with the NWMB is maintained throughout any legislative initiatives pertinent to wildlife and habitat management in the NSA. Bert Dean stressed the importance of making funding available for community consultations pertaining to legislative changes.
9.I Shared Conservation-Education Position (RWED/NWMB)
Joe Tigullaraq stated that staffing efforts are ongoing. Jim Noble clarified that the staffing action is being pursued under the auspices of the NWMB in order to streamline the hiring process. Gordon Koshinsky urged that the framework of reporting relationships, assignment flows, evaluation procedures, and related administrative matters be made explicit prior to completion of the staffing action. The Board asked Jim Noble to clarify these matters and to document them by way of a letter of understanding between the two agencies.
9.J Traditional Polar Bear Hunt Proposal: Update
Joe Tigullaraq noted that the RWED Minister had decided to refer the NWMB’s final decision in this matter to the new (incoming) Government of Nunavut. This was conveyed to the Board by way of letter dated 25 November 1998.
Dan Pike noted that the Board made its decisions with great care and attention, and suggested that this matter goes to the heart of the NWMB’s mandated role. Dan also noted that the Minister disallowed the NWMB’s decision in the first instance on the basis of safety concerns, in respect to and with reference to which the Board made its final decision. Dan questioned the validity of the Minister’s most recent action (or deferral of action), taken without written reference to those original concerns. Dan suggested that the lack of prescribed time-lines for Ministerial action following a final decision of the NWMB seems to constitute a significant oversight in the NLCA as it is written.
Joe stated that the Department and the Minister are indeed concerned about the public-safety aspects of the proposed hunt, even though this is not made explicit in the most recent letter from the Minister. Ben Kovic expressed the opinion that the traditional polar bear hunt as proposed would not be inherently more dangerous than some other kinds of hunting activities in which Inuit hunters participate.
Joe stated that, in the view of his Department, implementation of the NWMB final decision would have required a statutory amendment. Kevin McCormick suggested that if such is the case, it would be prudent to include such provision in the new wildlife management legislation for Nunavut that is now under consideration. Michael d’Eça noted that the NWMB, in its initial decision, had conveyed to the Department that the Board believed this hunt could be authorized through a simple regulatory change only. Michael also expressed concern that the Minister, in his recent letter, referred in one instance to the “recommendation” from the Board, when the subject of reference was in fact a Board decision.
Meeka Mike suggested that it would be useful to invite the RWED Minister to the next regular meeting of the NWMB in order to pursue this matter further. The Board agreed to issue such an invitation.
10. NWMB Internal Items: Issues / Decisions
Dan Pike advised that the Harvest Study database is now considered complete for the period June 1996 through December 1997, and for some communities it is operational through October 1998. It is now for the first time possible to process files as they are received. The number of external requests for data is steadily growing. Negotiations are continuing with a prospective contractor to conduct a technical review to evaluate the data collection, as well as the processing and validation procedures. Gordon Koshinsky noted that when the time arrives for applying the Harvest Study results, the Board will be required under the terms of the NLCA to work from data that have been gathered over a five-year period. Gordon requested that a community-by-community tally be prepared to demonstrate the month-by-month Harvest Study coverage that has been achieved to date. Dan confirmed that it is already evident that the Study deadline will need to be extended for at least two of the communities. Dan advised that the Harvest Study Coordinator recently enrolled in a university correspondence program and is studying on his own time, to enhance his credentials.
10.B Inuit Bowhead Knowledge Study: Update
Dan Pike advised that the contract with Keith Hay to complete the Study was formally terminated. Virtually all the Study materials have been translated into English, and the Board should give serious consideration to contracting a different party to complete the write-up. Dan suggested that it would be very useful to maintain some involvement by Dr. Hay, at least to the extent of providing some general insights and direction. Ben Kovic stated that David Aglukark has expressed concern about the recent lack of communication with the Committee regarding the Study.
Dan mentioned that he knew of at least two prospective candidates who might be contracted to complete the write-up. The Board directed the Executive Director to work with the incoming Director of Wildlife Management to try to arrange such a contract.
10.C Nunavut Wildlife Resource Centre: Update
Dan Pike reminded the Board that the purpose of this initiative is to catalogue fish and wildlife library materials held at each of the Nunavut locations represented by the “Coalition” (NWMB, DFO, RWED, and NRI), and to make this database accessible on the Internet through the NWMB website. Cataloguing of the NWMB and DFO collections was completed in September. The combined catalogue to date consists of 3064 records: primarily government documents, consultant reports, and journal articles. The database is already being accessed to a considerable extent, mainly by school and college students. The NRI collection is scheduled to be catalogued next.
Dan advised that work on the Stock Database project remains on hold, pending recruitment by RWED of a replacement for the staff member who had been identified to lead the initiation of this work. The Board reiterated its enthusiasm for this initiative, and looked forward to its early resumption.
10.D NWMB Public Hearing Process: Update
Michael d’Eça confirmed that he is finishing a draft of the Guidelines that will incorporate the Board’s directives that were formulated subsequent to the previous draft. He suggested that the recent Decision of the Federal Court in the matter of Qikiqtani Inuit Association v. Canada in regard to a water licencing issue provides some object lessons for the conduct of public hearings. The new draft Guidelines will be available for the next Board Meeting.
10.E Establishing Qualifications for Big-Game Hunting Guides
Jim Noble introduced Glenn Williams of Tukturjuk Outfitting. Mr. Williams gave a summary overview of the report that was prepared by him and Marc Stevenson titled An Assessment of Big Game Hunting Guide Qualifications for Nunavut , dated July 1998. He noted that there are basically two categories of guides in the NSA: those who work with high-paying sport hunters, and those who accompany novices out on the land. He concluded by elaborating the three options for the consideration of the NWMB that are contained in the report.
Discussion focussed initially on the respective roles and expectations of communities (as represented by HTOs), and of booking agents and outfitters, in the selection and deployment of guides. Mr. Williams noted that the role of booking agents in the NWT tends to be quite different from their role in other Canadian jurisdictions. Joan Scottie observed that an HTO will naturally tend to favour using lowest-cost guides in order to maximize the net returns to the HTO. Meeka Mike, in her capacity as a booking agent and outfitter, declared that local HTOs try to interfere too much in how someone like herself and her partner conduct polar bear sport hunts, including in the selection of guides.
Mr. Williams noted that guides who were interviewed invariably linked the concept of certification with the needs and opportunities for training. This view was consistent among experienced, novice, and even prospective guides, although the expressed priorities for training content varied considerably. If a system of qualifications were established for guides, this could be a catalyst for training. The Federal Government at the present time seems to interpret guide training as a make-work endeavour rather than as preparation for a viable occupation. In this model, candidates for training tend to get selected on the basis of their employment status rather than on their aptitude or aspirations for an actual career in guiding. Pauloosie Keyootak stated that in his community, the biggest problem in this area is that guide’s helpers are not adequately trained. These are the people who cook the meals, take care of the equipment, etc., and have much of the actual interaction with the sportsman. Pauloosie also noted that sport hunters are usually surprised if/when they learn how small a percentage of their cash outlay goes to the guides and outfitters.
Harry Flaherty spoke in favour of establishing at least minimum qualifications for big-game hunting guides. He pointed to the tragic boating accident at Clyde River in 1995 as an indication of the need for standards in the tourism industry. Michael d’Eça counseled that in respect to big-game hunting guides, NLCA 5.6.41 identifies licencing (by government), approval (by HTOs), and establishment of qualifications (by the NWMB) as parts of an overall equation. Michael indicated that liability concerns for the NWMB do exist, but are not central. Gordon Koshinsky suggested that the moment an agency (such as the NWMB) establishes guidelines or qualifications (such as for guides), that agency can expect to be held accountable for those guidelines. Gordon indicated preference for a course of action that involved the least possible NWMB intervention in the actual process, but that maximized the role of local and/or regional groups and agencies. Jim Noble suggested that the matter would benefit from consultation, both locally and with others, especially in the context of any new and pertinent legislation that is being developed.
The Board decided to accept the report by G. Williams and M. Stevenson pertaining to the establishment of qualifications for big-game hunting guides, and directed staff to prepare a discussion paper pertaining to its implementation (or not) for the next Board Meeting.
10.F Implementation of NWMB Strategic Plan: Update
Jim Noble referred the Members to the summary of progress on implementing the Strategic Plan contained in the briefing binder. Jim noted that several of the outstanding items in the Plan also constitute particular items in the current meeting agenda, and he predicted that this material would be relevant to the forthcoming NWMB mid-term review.
Specific discussion ensued on Critical Objective 2.1 of the Strategic Plan, the development of a policy paper on the relationship between NWMB and the RWOs/HTOs as co-management partners. Several recent and ongoing initiatives by the Board that should constitute input for this item were identified. These include efforts to clarify the role of Board Members vis-a-vis other agencies, efforts to establish a schedule for personal contacts, preparations for developing local regulations to govern harvesting practices, and consideration about the meaning of “adequate funding” as prescribed in NLCA 5.7.13.
The Board reached no new conclusions about the schedule of priorities for implementing the Strategic Plan. The Board decided to charge the Executive Committee with the task of developing a coherent proposal for consideration.
10.G NWMB Training Policy Proposal: Update
Jim Noble reminded the Board that this item has been under consideration for some time. On a related matter, the Executive Committee recently instructed staff to begin preparations for a contract to assess NWMB staff compensation and benefits in relation to other agencies. Jim noted that he has come to the realization that while compensation must be linked to job descriptions, it is work requirements that must dictate the content of job descriptions, and training needs are intimately linked to work requirements. He interpreted that it would be most logical and cost-effective to let a contract for an integrated assessment of all these areas of NWMB personnel management. Jim estimated that this task could be contracted for approximately $30,000.
Some Board Members expressed the opinion that any examination that focussed on compensation and benefits should not be confined to NWMB staff, but should also encompass Board Members. Harry Flaherty expressed surprise about the contention that NWMB compensation practices in particular could benefit from a contracted review.
Kevin McCormick made a motion, seconded by Gordon Koshinsky, that the NWMB negotiate a contract to provide an integrated assessment of work requirements, job descriptions, compensation, benefits, and training needs pertaining to NWMB staff; and that this assessment also address rates of honouraria and expense allowances for NWMB Board Members. The Motion was defeated.
10.H Policy for Wildlife Research Trust: Revision
Consideration of this item was deferred.
10.I Policy for Establishing Research Priorities
Consideration of this item was deferred.
10.J Policy for Allocating Shrimp and Groundfish: Revision
Consideration of this item was deferred.
In-Camera Session
The Board decided to go in-camera to consider some matters of a confidential nature. No decisions were made in-camera that required subsequent referral to the open Board Meeting.
Resolutions were passed in connection with this in-camera session as follows:
11. Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI) Wildlife Division
11.A Compensation for Polar Bear Defence Kills
Bert Dean referred the Board to the MOUs governing polar bear management. These MOUs contain provisions for paying compensation to HTOs for polar bears that are killed as objects of research or in the course of self defence. The MOUs are not consistent in their wording on this matter. The most common wording is to the effect that compensation is to be paid at the prevailing market value of a 10-foot bear hide or $1500, whichever is greater. These MOU provisions really apply only to incidents involving RWED personnel. Environment Canada has recently made individual compensation settlements on a different and more costly formula. Bert also noted that Parks Canada appears to have negotiated a provision in the yet-uncompleted Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreement for Wager Bay for the purchase of advance credits to cover such contingencies. The aim will be to purchase a total of twelve such credits from the communities of Repulse Bay, Chesterfield Inlet, and Coral Harbour, at a cost of $5,000 per credit.
Jim Noble expressed concern about the piecemeal manner in which compensation for polar bear defence kills is being addressed in the NSA. Michael d’Eça recalled that the Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreement that was recently negotiated between the Government of Canada and QIA does incorporate the same basis ($5,000 for each tag reduction) for providing compensation as appears inherent in the system described by Bert for Wager Bay. Bert noted that the powers of the Surface Rights Tribunal established under the NLCA may also be pertinent to this subject. Kevin McCormick noted that RWED had at one time agreed to lead the preparation of a discussion paper on this matter. The Board agreed that it was important that there be a consistent approach for authorizing and calculating compensation.
11.B RWO Development and Implementation Responsibilities
Bert Dean briefed the Board on the recent (November 5-8) workshop in Iqaluit on this subject. The workshop was facilitated by Consilium, who have produced an Action Plan and Summary Report. Everyone who participated was pleased and encouraged by this initiative. A strong realization is emerging in NTI that wildlife matters warrant greater attention and priority. Plans are underway to staff two more positions in this area by April 1. The RWOs will be working to develop a budget that will be referenced to the Action Plan developed at the workshop, for submission to the NWMB. Regardless of the immediate funding outcome, the exercise will provide useful input to the next phase of implementation planning and contract development under the NLCA.
Mr. Dean introduced Mary Pameolik, Executive Director of the Keewatin Wildlife Federation, to brief the Board on funding and other administrative matters that were covered at the workshop. Ms. Pameolik outlined work that is planned or underway to develop project descriptions, standardized job classifications, equipment inventories, etc.
Mr. Dean introduced Ida Ayalik-McWilliam, Executive Director of the Kitikmeot Hunters and Trappers Association, to brief the Board on communications issues that were examined at the workshop. Ms. Ayalik-McWilliam reported on a number of matters that are under consideration, and in particular on matters that are expected to have an impact in empowering and upgrading the work of the HTOs. These items include obtaining speakerphones for HTO offices, implementing conference calls, introducing e-mail, and training the HTO secretary-managers in the use of these systems. It is also proposed to implement a system of regular conference calls involving the RWOs and NTI.
Mr. Dean reported that the KWF transmitted a resolution to NTI, requesting to be designated as the DIO that appoints the Keewatin regional Board Member to the NWMB. A similar resolution is expected from the KtHTA, and probably also from the QWB. NTI appears to be receptive to this concept. The RWOs are also considering requesting the transfer to them of some other responsibilities under the NLCA. Also under consideration is a proposal to change the term of HTO Directors to four years.
Bert Dean advised that it is the intention of NTI that the RWOs participate more actively in the affairs of the NWMB, including the adoption of a more active profile at NWMB meetings.
11.C.1 Kitikmeot Hunters and Trappers Association
Ida Ayalik-McWilliam provided an overview of current issues and priorities at each of the Kitikmeot HTOs. All HTO accounting systems are now in order, and all core funding for the present fiscal year has been received. The Kurtairojuark HTA at Pelly Bay is attempting to be innovative in its administration of the Hunter Support Program. By requiring recipients to have a sizeable equity of their own, they are able to assist more harvesters. A continuing communication problem pertains to Bathurst Inlet and Bay Chimo, which have only intermittent telephone service.
11.C.2 Keewatin Wildlife Federation
Mary Pameolik reviewed recent staffing and other developments in the RWO office, as well as administrative highlights for the HTOs in the Keewatin region. These HTOs are considering the adoption of a centralized accounting system. Ms. Pameolik also tabled a summary of capital construction and research projects undertaken or planned under the KWF Resource Development Program in 1998/99.
11.C.3 Qikiqtaaluk Wildlife Board
Joanasie Akumalik briefed the Board on a number of items, including:
Mr. Akumalik also noted that:
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