Three Mi’kmaq have become the NS Department of Natural Resources’ first full-time aboriginal conservation, enforcement, and liaison officers.
The positions were established to further promote positive working relationships with the Mi’kmaq community in Nova Scotia and to encourage better co-operation in the management of the province’s natural resources.
“I am proud to be the Minister who announces this initiative,” Natural Resources’ Minister David Morse said during a news conference in Eskasoni with Mi’kmaq leaders. “The province is committed to working collaboratively with Mi’kmaq, to sharing our concern for, and interest in, the natural resources this province offers.”
Eskasoni Chief Charlie Joe Dennis, speaking on behalf of the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq Chiefs, said it was an historic day for Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq. “Early on, in developing a management plan for the Unama’ki moose herd, we identified enforcement as an important part of the picture,” he said. “Having First Nations conservation officers in the field across the province is a step forward for us to take responsibility ourselves for the management and enforcement of our people’s rights.”
The conservation officers are in Whycocomagh, Shubenacadie, and Milton.