Archived - James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement and The Northeastern Quebec Agreement 1998-1999 Annual Report - 1999-2000 Annual Report

As the Minister responsible for the co-ordination of all activities related to the fulfilment of the federal obligations established by the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA) and the Northeastern Quebec Agreement (NEQA), I am pleased to present the annual reports for 1998-1999 and 1999-2000 on the implementation of these agreements. The reports also account for activities and expenditures made on behalf of the Cree, Inuit and Naskapi of Quebec under other federal programs.

In March 1999, the Crees of Waskaganish, the Grand Council of the Crees (of Quebec), Quebec, and Canada concluded an agreement worth $45 million for the construction of an access road to Waskaganish. Canada's financial contribution to this project amounted to $24 million. In accordance with intentions established at the Cree-Canada Round Table in June 1998, progress was made at sectoral tables for environment, justice, and policing. In 1999-2000, one particularly important table, chaired by Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC), was established to reach a comprehensive agreement on the delivery of regular HRDC programs as well as special training programs required to meet obligations under Section 28 of the JBNQA. Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) provided $2.6 million, in 1999-2000, to purchase fire protection equipment for Cree communities. Negotiations continued towards multi-year agreements to fund the Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association, and the Cree Native Arts and CRAfts Association, while a one-year agreement was reached to fund the Cree Trappers Association.

With respect to the Inuit, major progress was made concerning housing in Nunavik. In March 1999, a $10-million interim agreement was signed between Quebec, Canada and the Makivik Corporation to construct and maintain 43 new prefabricated houses, with Canada contributing $5 million. During 1999-2000, the parties undertook intensive research leading to negotiations, with the expectation that a long-term agreement on housing in Nunavik would be signed shortly.

In the summer of 1999, the first project under the $30-million 10-year Marine Infrastructure agreement between Makivik and Canada was completed in Kangiqsualujjuaq. Later in 1999-2000, through INAC, an additional $4.9 million was provided to finance the purchase of equipment to accelerate the Marine Infrastructure work. Minister's Foreword In November 1999, Canada, Quebec and the Makivik Corporation signed a Political Agreement to establish a Nunavik Commission, whose purpose would be to propose a form of government for Nunavik. Since the start of Commission proceedings, INAC has closely collaborated with commissioners in preparing and holding the first public hearings in Nunavik.

With respect to the Naskapi and the NEQA, a new five-year agreement on funding for capital assets of their community was concluded in July 1999. This agreement provides for building a free-standing fire station, building a new residential sector, constructing a warehouse, and expanding the band office. Negotiations continued concerning the operation of power facilities in Schefferville and the acquisition of hydraulic rights from Newfoundland.

As described in this Report as a whole, the two years under review have seen steady progress in implementing aspects of the JBNQA. The existence of Implementation Agreements with the Inuit and Naskapi has proved beneficial in ongoing relations and in facilitating problem resolution.

The Cree-Canada Round Table process launched a number of initiatives which will bring important benefits to Cree communities. However, the process of arriving at agreements through negotiation can be difficult and frustratingly slow, to both observers and participants. Both parties are intent on progress, but different understandings, priorities and expectations still affect our ability to advance.

Federal departments and organizations have worked together to make permanent contributions to strengthening Cree, Inuit and Naskapi communities as contemplated in the JBNQA and NEQA. The Government of Canada will continue to build on that progress.

The Honourable Robert Nault, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development

The James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA) was signed on November 11, 1975 by the Cree and Inuit peoples of Quebec, the governments of Canada and Quebec, the James Bay Development Corporation, the James Bay Energy Corporation and Hydro Quebec. Three years later, on January 31, 1978, the Naskapi of Schefferville signed a similar agreement, the Northeastern Quebec Agreement (NEQA).

The JBNQA and NEQA are the first comprehensive land claim agreements signed in modern times by Canada and Aboriginal people. The agreements include self-government components and lay the foundations for a new relationship between the Cree, the Inuit and the Naskapi and the Government of Canada.

The territory covered by the JBNQA and NEQA is comprised of more than 1,000,000 square kilometres of land in Quebec between the 48th and 62nd parallels. It was once part of a larger federal territory known as Rupert's Land.

A century ago, the Parliament of Canada transferred two vast stretches of Rupert's Land to Quebec, with Quebec's consent. The first transfer took place in 1898 and Quebec's borders were extended northward to the 52nd parallel. The second transfer occurred in 1912 and Quebec's borders were extended northward again as far as Hudson Strait and the 62nd parallel and eastward as far as Labrador. The 1912 Quebec Boundaries Extension Act carried certain obligations for the Quebec government, including the obligation to reach an agreement on landrelated issues with the Aboriginal inhabitants. However, discussions regarding these matters would not begin until more than 60 years later.

The inhabitants of these northern lands, which are barren but incredibly diverse in terms of climate and resources, are Indian and Inuit peoples with significantly different cultures, methods of social organization and languages. The Cree, the Inuit and the Naskapi follow a traditional way of life in which they harvest a large number of wildlife and marine resources. Many continue to earn their living by hunting, fishing and trapping. When the Quebec government launched its hydroelectric power development activities in Northern Quebec, the land claims and other claims of the Aboriginal people living on these lands had not yet been settled. In 1972, the Quebec Cree and Inuit went to court in order to halt the hydroelectric work.

In November 1973, Judge Albert Malouf of the Quebec Superior Court ordered that all work be stopped immediately, in particular because Quebec had not yet fulfilled its obligation under the 1912 Act. In 1974, the Quebec Court of Appeal reversed Judge Malouf's decision, but in late 1973, the parties had already begun negotiations to reach a final agreement. These negotiations culminated in the signing of the JBNQA in 1975.

Subsequently, in 1978, the Naskapi Band of Schefferville signed the Northeastern Quebec Agreement with the Government of Quebec and certain crown corporations, the Government of Canada, the Grand Council of the Crees (of Quebec) and the Northern Quebec Inuit Association, establishing similar rights to those acquired by the Cree under the JBNQA.

Under the terms of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement and the Northeastern Quebec Agreement, Aboriginal communities of the region have exchanged their rights and territorial interests for other rights and benefits, as specified in the agreements.

The JBNQA and NEQA define the land regime applicable to the Cree, the Inuit and the Naskapi, as well as their rights in many areas, such as resource management, economic development, policing and administration of justice, health and social services and environmental protection.

In terms of compensation, the Cree received $133,815,678 (including $19,447,615 from the Government of Canada) and the Inuit received $91,184,322 (including $13,272,384 from the Government of Canada) for a total of $225 million under the JBNQA. The Naskapi received $9 million (including $1,310,010 from the Government of Canada) under the NEQA.

In addition, a sum of $ 2,809,773 (including $1,226,943 from the Government of Canada) was provided to the Cree under Section 25.1.15 of the JBNQA and a sum of $525,428 was provided by the Government of Canada to the Inuit under Sections 25.1.16 and 3 of the Complementary Agreement No. 2 (JBNQA).

The Cree, Inuit and Naskapi are also entitled to a range of services and programs to which the federal and provincial governments contribute annually. The following additional lump-sum payments have been provided as a result of the signing of specific agreements, many of which are associated with complementary agreements to the JBNQA:

Funds provided by Canada

Funds provided by Quebec

Lands

Under the JBNQA and NEQA, a land regime was instituted in the territory covered by the agreements. It divides the territory into three categories of lands (I, II and III) and specifies the total land area in each: over 14,000 square kilometres of territory are category I lands, 150,000 square kilometres are category II lands and 1,000,000 square kilometres are category III lands. It also specifies the rights pertaining to each category.

Category I lands, where the villages are located, are set aside exclusively for the Aboriginal communities that are signatories to the two agreements. Cree and Naskapi Category I lands are further subdivided into categories IA and IB: "A" for lands under the jurisdiction of Canada, and "B" for those under that of Quebec. Category IA and IA-N lands (N standing for Naskapi lands) falling under federal jurisdiction are governed by local Aboriginal administrations, as defined in the Cree-Naskapi (of Quebec) Act. Category IB and IB-N lands under Quebec jurisdiction are governed by corporations composed exclusively of Aboriginals. Inuit lands fall under provincial jurisdiction and are governed by public corporations composed mainly of Inuit.

Category II lands, usually located around the villages, come under provincial jurisdiction. However, the Aboriginal people participate in the management of hunting, fishing and trapping and the development of outfitting operations. They also have exclusive hunting, fishing and trapping rights on these lands.

Category III lands are Quebec public lands where Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples may hunt and fish. However, Aboriginal people exercise certain rights on these lands under the agreements. They have exclusive rights to the harvesting of certain aquatic species and fur-bearing animals; they participate in the administration and development of the territory; and enjoy, until the year 2015, a right of refusal in the event of applications to set up or transfer new outfitting operations. The Aboriginal people must, however, relinquish this right for 30 percent of transfers or new outfitting operations proposed by non- Aboriginal people.

* Following acceptance by the Government of Canada from the Government of Quebec, in 1999, of the final transfer of Category IA lands, the Cree IA lands cover 3,299.6 km².

Federal lands Sources: Government of Canada, Natural Resources Canada, Legal Surveys, Division, Quebec Client Liaison Unit.

Provincial lands Sources: Gouvernement du Québec, Ministère des Ressources naturelle, Direction de l'enregistrement et du morcellement. ** Ministère du Conseil exécutif, Secrétariat aux affaires autochtones.

Category III lands as defined in Section 1, Annex 1 of the Complementary Agreement No. 1, JBNQA.

Environmental and Social Protection

The JBNQA and the NEQA provide for consultative bodies to advise governments on policies and regulations that may have an impact on the environment and the social conditions of Aboriginal communities.

For this purpose, two committees have been set up: the James Bay Advisory Committee on the Environment (JBACE) for the area south of the 55th parallel and the Kativik Environmental Advisory Committee (KEAC) for the area north of that parallel. Each committee includes representatives from Aboriginal communities in the territory and from the two levels of government. The JBACE Annual Report is available from the Secretariat of the James Bay Advisory Committee on the Environment, Environmental Assessment Division, Marie-Guyart Building, 6th Floor, 675, René-Lévesque Boulevard East, Québec City (Quebec) Canada G1R 5V7. The KEAC Annual Report is available from the Secretariat of the Kativik Environmental Advisory Committee, P.O. Box 1093, Station Terminus, Québec City (Quebec) Canada G1K 7B5.

The JBNQA also establishes evaluation procedures for development proposals. The Cree participate in the evaluation of projects affecting lands below the 55th parallel, whereas to the north of the 55th parallel it is the Inuit who participate in these evaluations. The federal administrator - appointed by the Governor in Council - is responsible for the evaluation process for projects under federal government jurisdiction. For matters under provincial jurisdiction, a provincial administrator is appointed by the Quebec government. Projects in Category I Cree lands come under the authority of the local Cree administrator.

The NEQA includes similar provisions assuring the Naskapi of participation in the environmental and social protection of the territory covered by that agreement. Economic Development Compensation funds paid under the agreements by the governments of Quebec and Canada and by Hydro-Québec are administered by three organizations. The Cree Board of Compensation, the Makivik Corporation and the Naskapi Development Corporation handle the funding of projects for the economic development of their respective communities in Northern Quebec.

In addition, under the agreements, the Cree, Inuit and Naskapi continue to benefit, in the same way as other Aboriginal peoples, from the economic development programs offered by the two governments.

Education

The JBNQA provided for the establishment of the Cree School Board and the Kativik School Board. Both of these boards, which operate under Quebec's jurisdiction, possess special powers and ensure that educational programs are culturally relevant to the communities.

Under the NEQA, educational services for the Naskapi are provided for by a school created to fulfill the needs of the Naskapi community. The Eastern Quebec Regional School Board is responsible for its general administration. In addition, the Naskapi Education Committee was set up to perform the same advisory functions as those assigned to school committees under the Education Act at the time, and now known as the Education Act for the Cree, Inuit and Naskapi Native Persons.

The JBNQA and the NEQA established that Canada and Quebec would contribute to the funding of these institutions on the basis of annual operating and capital budgets approved by each. The proportion to be contributed by Canada was set at 75 percent of the approved budgets of the Cree School Board and the Naskapi school, and 25 percent of the approved budgets of the Kativik School Board.

Hunting, Fishing and Trapping

The Hunting, Fishing and Trapping Co-ordinating Committee (HFTCC) was created under the JBNQA and is comprised of government and Aboriginal experts. Federal representatives are from INAC, Environment Canada and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). The Committee's role is to study, manage and, in certain cases, monitor and regulate the hunting, fishing and trapping regime. In most matters, the Co-ordinating Committee plays an advisory role to the Quebec and Canadian governments. It must also make recommendations to the two levels of government. It holds annual meetings in the northern communities to explain its activities and consult with local people about its mandate and broad objectives. Sub-committees, also made up of Aboriginal and government representatives, have been formed to deal with specific issues such as big game, parks, fishing, outfitting operations, marketing of caribou meat and land use. More information on the HFTCC and its activities is available on the HFTCC Web site : http://www.cccpp-HFTCC.com/indexe.html or from the Secretariat of the Hunting, Fishing and Trapping Co-ordinating Committee, 393, St-Jacques Street, Room 369, Montréal (Quebec) Canada H2Y 1N9.

Local and Regional Administrations

With the passage of Cree-Naskapi (of Quebec) Act in 1984, the Cree communities and the Naskapi community became incorporated. They have local administrations with the power to adopt by-laws concerning public order, environmental protection, taxation for local purposes, roads and transportation, local business and the use of lands and resources. Two additional bodies - the Cree Board of Compensation and the Cree Regional Authority (CRA) - were set up under Quebec legislation.

The Inuit communities of Nunavik, located above the 55th parallel, are incorporated as municipalities under Quebec legislation. The Kativik Regional Government is their regional structure, and the Makivik Corporation was set up to protect the interests of the Inuit with regard to the implementation of the JBNQA. Both organizations were established under Quebec legislation.

Cree-Naskapi (of Quebec) Act

In 1984, the Parliament of Canada passed the Cree- Naskapi (of Quebec) Act to implement JBNQA and NEQA provisions regarding local government for the communities. This Act supersedes the Indian Act, except for matters pertaining to Indian status. It institutes a form of self-government and establishes the land management system for Category IA (Cree) and IA-N lands (Naskapi).

Cree-Naskapi Land Registry

The setting up and operation of a registry of rights and interests pertaining to Category IA and IA-N lands and buildings on those lands is provided for under the Cree-Naskapi (of Quebec) Act. The Land Registry System, which reports to INAC, includes the Central Land Registry Office and the Cree and Naskapi local offices.

Cree-Naskapi Commission

The Cree-Naskapi (of Quebec) Act also provided for the establishment of the Cree-Naskapi Commission (CNC), whose role is to investigate any representation submitted to it relating to implementation of the Act. It must also produce biennial reports on the application of the Act, following hearings. These reports are submitted to the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development to be tabled in Parliament. The Cree-Naskapi Commission is made up of no more than three commissioners appointed by the Governor in Council, on the recommendation of the Cree Regional Authority and the Naskapi community.

The process of implementing the JBNQA and the NEQA has taken longer and has become more complex than anticipated.

In 1981, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Indian Affairs and Northern Development urged the federal government to address outstanding issues related to the JBNQA. After a departmental report, the Tait Report, was submitted in 1982, the federal government introduced a series of measures to address JBNQA implementation-related problems.

In June 1986, the federal Cabinet approved a process for fulfilling government obligations under the JBNQA and the NEQA. A federal negotiator, Mr. Andrew Croll, was appointed in order to direct this process.

In September 1990, the federal government signed the JBNQA Implementation Agreement with the Inuit and the NEQA Implementation Agreement with the Naskapi Band of Quebec. These agreements released the federal government from certain obligations under the JBNQA and NEQA. In return, the federal government paid a one-time grant of $22.8 million to the Inuit and $1.7 million to the Naskapi. The government made other commitments to these communities. Many activities have been launched within the framework of the agreements. Various working groups and procedures have been established, including procedures for settling disputes and the establishment of a JBNQA Implementation Forum with the Inuit. In 1990, the Department established the James Bay Implementation Office.

Discussions between the federal government and the James Bay Cree Nation regarding JBNQA implementation continued. In May 1992, the federal government signed an agreement providing for the building of a village for the Oujé-Bougoumou Cree and the setting up of a fund for the community's economic and social development. Having agreed that the Cree-Canada relationship was in need of rejuvenation and reform, the Government of Canada and the Cree Nation entered into a set of discussions and negotiations to renew and define this relationship and pursue the process of meeting their respective responsibilities under the JBNQA, the Constitution and the laws of Canada. To facilitate discussions between the federal ministers and the leaders of the James Bay Cree Nation in the context of these shared objectives, the parties agreed to establish a Round Table, bringing together the federal ministers concerned and the leaders of the James Bay Cree Nation. The Cree-Canada Round Table came into existence in 1998. Chief negotiator for the Crees was then Dr. Ted Moses. In 1999-2000, Dr. Moses was elected Grand Chief of the Grand Council of the Crees (of Quebec), and his former responsibilities as chief negotiator were assumed by Bill Namagoose.

Since the signing of the JBNQA and the NEQA, several federal departments and agencies have undertaken to meet the federal government's obligations under the agreements. Most of them also provide, within their respective mandates, funding for government programs to which the beneficiaries have continued access.

The signing of the agreements has brought about many changes in the role and jurisdiction of the federal government and the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development with respect to the Cree, Inuit and Naskapi.

In 1982, the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development was given overall responsibility for co-ordinating all federal government activities related to implementation of both the JBNQA and the NEQA. To ensure that the federal government's obligations were met, the Department established the Quebec Claims Secretariat in February 1984. This organization later became known as the Northern Quebec Claims Implementation Secretariat. In 1986, the Department's Negotiations and Implementation Directorate at Headquarters assumed the responsibilities of the Northern Quebec Claims Implementation Secretariat, a situation which continued until the early 1990s. The James Bay Implementation Office then assumed these responsibilities.

Since the signing of the JBNQA and NEQA and the passing of legislation which established the Cree and Naskapi local administrations and regional government for Inuit communities, INAC's role has evolved from that of being a direct service provider to that of negotiator of financial agreements such that these communities could deliver their own programs. The Department still provides technical expertise in many areas and participates in the land and environmental management regimes covered by the agreements.

James Bay Implementation Office

The James Bay Implementation Office (JBIO) was created in November 1990 after the federal government signed implementation agreements with the Inuit and the Naskapi Band of Quebec. The JBIO is part of the Implementation Branch (Claims and Indian Government) of INAC and is located in Hull, Quebec.

Mandate

The JBIO's responsibilities include:

• managing the implementation of the JBNQA and the NEQA, including their respective implementation agreements;
• maintaining relations between the Government of Canada and the signatories of the agreements such that negotiations are conducted in a positive and open atmosphere;
• co-ordinating and monitoring all federal government activities in regards to the implementation of the JBNQA and NEQA;
• ensuring that beneficiaries have access to all federal government initiatives and programs;
• implementing the Cree-Naskapi (of Quebec)Act; and
• preparing and submitting for tabling in Parliament an annual report regarding the implementation of the JBNQA and NEQA.

Activities and Expenditures of Federal Departments and Agencies, 1998-1999

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada

In 1998-1999, the total funding from Indian and Northern Affairs Canada allocated to Cree, Inuit, and Naskapi communities under the JBNQA and the NEQA, and as part of federal programs, reached $142,549,472. This figure excludes $23.6 million paid to the Quebec Government as part of a federal contribution towards funding the construction of the access road to Waskaganish. It also excludes $2.5 million distributed through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation to the Société d'habitation du Québec under a special initiative on housing for the Inuit of Nunavik.

Population

As of June 30, 1998, there were 21,418 beneficiaries of the agreements, including 12,389 Cree in nine communities, 8,318 Inuit in 14 northern municipalities and 711 Naskapi in a single community.

Education

Education expenditures totalled $71,466,854, including the following:

• Education services and school infrastructure provided to the Cree School Board, the Kativik School Board, and the Central Québec School Board which serves the Naskapi, through the Quebec Department of Education, and expenditures for post-secondary provided directly from INAC.

* Figures for 1998-1999 school year include pre-school to secondary students, and are supplied by the Quebec Department of Education

• A contribution towards the operations of the Avataq Cultural Institute to the amount of $222,137 for the Inuit, and $194,376 to the First Nation Confederacy of Cultural Education Centres/National Association of Cultural Education Centres for the James Bay Cree Cultural Centre; and
• $1,190,864 to cover expenditures under INAC programs for Inuit and First Nations young people, established under the Youth Employment Strategy of the federal government. For each program, funding breaks down as follows:

Capital, operations and maintenance

During 1998-1999, $57,954,807 was allocated to capital, operations and maintenance and to infrastructure projects in Cree, Inuit, and Naskapi communities, $10,915,583 in capital and $41,450,574 for operations and maintenance, and $5,588,650 for infrastructure projects. The breakdown of these expenditures by beneficiary group is as follows:

Electricity

Discussions on the provision of electricity supply at Waskaganish resumed at the end of 1998, when a preliminary tripartite meeting between the Waskaganish community, Hydro Quebec and INAC was held. The three parties then agreed to conduct rounds of bilateral discussions among themselves during 1999. The next tripartite meeting concerning the electricity transfer was put off until summer. However, the intensive negotiations that led to the signing of the agreement to build the road to Waskaganish ruled out holding other discussions regarding electricity among the parties prior to the end of 1998-1999.

During 1998-1999, the Department allocated $2,428,376 for electricity expenditures in Waskaganish.

Social Development

The Quebec Government provides social assistance services for most of the communities in the territory covered by the agreements. INAC delivers these services in the communities of Mistissini, Waswanipi and Kawawachikamach. During 1998-1999, it spent $2,971,670 - of which $28,418 was used to evacuate the population of Eastmain during a forest fire. This amount is distributed as follows:

The Federal Government also participates in community social development by funding initiatives promoting health and better quality of life through the National Strategy for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities (SIPD) and the Federal Family Violence Initiative (IFV). The following amounts were provided in 1998-1999:

Economic Development

INAC participates in Aboriginal economic development by directly funding Community Economic Development Organizations (CEDOs) as well as other sectoral organizations. CEDOs offer technical and financial support required to complete projects in key sectors of economic development such as tourism and outfitting operations. These organizations may become important springboards for creating businesses to strengthen local economies and increase economic opportunities and jobs in communities.

In 1998-1999, the Department provided:

The amount provided to the Cree includes $196,080 to cover the operating costs of the Cree Trappers' Association, with $35,600 being paid to the Cree Regional Authority for Cree Arts and CRAfts activities.

Environment

During 1998-1999, the Cree Regional Authority received $595,969 from the Department to continue work on investigation and restoration of contaminated sites, as part of the Environmental Issues Inventory and Remediation Plan in Cree communities.

Two sites, one in Wemindji and the other in Nemaska, were part of a detailed investigation; one site in Waskaganish was part of a preliminary investigation under a project aimed at adding Category IA lands to the community; and six sites contaminated by petroleum products were restored in Eastmain and in Waswanipi. Detailed investigation work was completed for Transport Canada, at the Nitchequon Camp Site, located some 250 kilometres north of Mistissini.

In 1998-1999, as during the previous year, groundwater quality monitoring was carried out on several waste disposal sites and on other contaminated sites.

Resource Access Negotiations

The Resource Access Negotiations Program (RAN) supports natural resources development by First Nations and Inuit by helping communities and their organizations set up business partnerships and stimulate investments in the natural resources sector.

In 1998-1999, the Department allocated $45,050 to the Mistissini community under RAN. This funding was aimed at covering expenditures related to sub-contract negotiation in the mining sector.

Indian Registration

INAC and the Cree and Naskapi communities are responsible for Indian registration. During 1998-1999, the Department provided $94,407 to the Cree and $4,698 to the Naskapi for their participation in maintaining the registry. The Cree also received $7,200 and the Naskapi $3,150 towards the purchase of computer material providing Read Access to INAC's Indian Registration.

Cree-Naskapi Land Registry

During 1998-1999, the Department's Central Land Registrar coordinated the activities of local Cree and Naskapi community registry offices. Comparing to previous years, the number of transactions registered by the service increased appreciably this year.

Upon the request of the Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations, minor changes were made to the Cree-Naskapi Land Registry Regulations, in collaboration with all partners concerned. The Central Land Registrar also visited, on an ad hoc basis, communities that had expressed a need to provide local registrars with training and to meet with Band Councils. Mapmaking and colour mosaics were produced in 1998-1999 for Chisasibi, Eastmain, Waskaganish, and Wemindji communities.

During this period, the registration of mortgages in Cree and Naskapi territory clearly progressed.

Initiatives under "Gathering Strength: Canada's Aboriginal Action Plan"

During 1998-1999, INAC provided funds to carrying out the following projects in Cree, Inuit, and Naskapi communities, as part of initiatives under "Gathering Strength: Canada's Aboriginal Action Plan":

• Education Reform
  
  $296,296 to the Cree School Board and $154,975 to the Kativik School Board for supporting projects to improve governance and instructional effectiveness, to support community and parental involvement, and make the transition between school and work easier.
  
  
• Water and Sewer Initiative
  
  $1,180,000 to repair municipal infrastructures and $300,000 to extend the drinking water supply in Mistissini, and $230, 000 for wastewater treatment work at Nemaska.
  
  
• Innovative Housing Initiative
  
  $500,000 allocated to the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach to implement a five-year plan on the community's Housing Stock management.

Other Financial Assistance

The Cree Regional Authority was allocated $700,000 from INAC to cover negotiations regarding implementation of the JBNQA. The CRA was allocated $18,500 to conduct an assessment of Cree community fire protection needs and to prepare an appropriate action plan. $5,000 was also allocated to the CRA to develop a promotional document designed for youth.

Funding of $25,000 was allocated to the Waskaganish community to carry out a study examining the various needs of the Cree people living outside their affiliated communities. In addition, the Department allocated $46,817 to Mistissini towards funding a computerization project for the Land Registry System Service. Ouje-Bougoumou received $50,000 to undertake the preparation of a capital plan.

The Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach was allocated financial aid to the amount of $73,000 to cover the costs of negotiation of the five-year agreement for Capital funding, and of the translation of the JBNQA into Naskapi.

The Makivik Corporation received a INAC grant of $282,500 towards the cost of implementing the JBNQA. The Kativik Regional Government received $5,000 to develop promotional material on programs aimed at improving job market employability and integration of Nunavik Youth.

Cree-Naskapi Commission

During 1998-1999, the Cree- Naskapi Commission was allocated $646,855 for its activities.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), in co-operation with INAC, is directly involved in the Cree and Naskapi communities through its housing program funded under section 95 of the National Housing Act.

The Housing Program for the Inuit is administered by the Société d'habitation du Québec, under Federal- Provincial cost-sharing agreements.

In 1999, 43 new subsidized housing units were added to the housing stock in Nunavik, under a one-year $10 million agreement between the Governments of Canada and Quebec.

In 1999, as part of the Youth Employment Strategy, three young Cree and six young Inuit received a grant from the CMHC to gain experience in housing matters in their community.

Human Resources Development Canada

In early 1999, agreements were renewed with the Kativik Regional Government for the Inuit, with the Cree Regional Authority for the Cree communities, and with the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador for the Naskapi. These agreements reflect the new Aboriginal Human Services Development Strategy.

Solicitor General of Canada

During 1998-1999, the Aboriginal Policing Directorate of the Department of the Solicitor General of Canada followed up on the implementation of the three tripartite agreements on police services, one with the Cree Regional Authority, one with the Naskapi, and one with the Kativik Regional Government, each involving the Quebec Government.

Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) pursued its strategy of developing and delivering programs specially tailored to Aboriginal people. CSC continued to provide liaison officer services in each institution through Native Paralegal Services of Quebec which is responsible for counselling Aboriginal offenders in federal penitentiaries and providing correctional planning to facilitate the safe re-entry of Aboriginal offenders into society.

In addition, funds were allocated to various treatment programs in the areas of substance abuse, sexual violence, literacy training. CSC also provided funding for the accommodation, supervision and treatment in halfway houses during parole.

* These amounts do not include the direct costs of incarceration.

Health Canada

During 1998-1999, Health Canada's Medical Services Branch, Quebec Region, provided $6,370,798 for various health care programs in the Cree, Inuit and Naskapi communities.

The Department primarily funded projects in the areas of: AIDS prevention, diabetes, tuberculosis, mental health, alcohol, drugs and solvent abuse. In addition, they contributed to funding of the Brighter Future program for child development, and financially participated in the Prenatal Nutrition Program (including development) and in the new Head Start Initiative, so as to help communities improve the physical and mental wellbeing of children and their families.

Health Canada is also encouraging students in these communities to work in the healthcare sector through the Indian and Inuit Health Careers Program. No request was made regarding this program for this year. The Department also paid for Non-Insured Health Benefits for beneficiaries living outside their affiliated communities.

Transport Canada

Transport Canada pursued its initiatives among the Cree, Inuit, and Naskapi communities, investing a total of $3,314,833 during 1998-1999.

Under the contribution agreement respecting the transfer of management of the Kuujjuaq Airport, Transport Canada paid $1,001,000 to the Kativik Regional Government. Investments totalling $1,024,800 were also made in Kuujjuaq for the aggregate required for the foundation and paving of the main landing strip. The Kuujjuaq airport improvements undertaken this year will be completed in 2001-2002.

In 1998-1999, the Schefferville Naskapi and the Innu nation of Matimekush-Lac-John (Schefferville) received $217,733, the Eastmain Cree $178,700, the Waskaganish Cree $175,100, and the Wemindji Cree $165, 700 under their contracts to operate and maintain their respective airports.

At the Schefferville Airport, outdoor renovations totalled $273,500 and repairs on the landing strip, $167,6000. An electric fence costing $33,200 was also installed to improve security.

Transport Canada negotiated with the Naskapi and the Innu nation of Matimekush-Lac-John (Schefferville) for the purpose of founding a joint non-profit organization charged with the complete transfer of management of the Schefferville Airport. An agreement is expected to be signed in April 1999.

Transport Canada allocated $1 million through INAC to Makivik Corporation under the Northern Quebec Marine Infrastructure Agreement.

Under a memorandum of understanding between Transport Canada and the Kativik Regional Government, the Northern Quebec Region now has a Marine Inspector, at a cost of $77,500 in 1998-1999.

* The amount of $1 million provided through INAC is not included in the table.

National Defence

Land Forces Quebec Area (LFQA) is responsible for two activities: the Canadian Ranger and Junior Ranger Programs. During 1998-1999, the Department of National Defence allocated $1,938,000 for these programs.

The Canadian Rangers are volunteers between the age of 18 and 65 who provide support, if needed, for members of the Canadian Forces in remote and isolated areas. The LFQA currently supports 14 Canadian Rangers patrols comprised within the 2nd Canadian Rangers' Patrol Group (2 CRPG) on the territory covered by the agreements, with some 450 members, mainly Inuit, participating in this program. On January 1st, 1999, the avalanche at Kangiqsualujjuaq (George River) killed nine and injured several others. The Patrol Rangers from this community took the lead in attempts to save lives and free the bodies that had been buried in the snow; they went into action in the middle of the night, in almost total darkness. In the following hours, the Kuujjuaq Patrol Rangers took over, bringing support and first aid to the townspeople, who were in a state of shock.

In March 1999, the 2nd CRPG Canadian Rangers were awarded the Chief of the Defence Staff Commendation for their courage and outstanding intervention during this disaster.

The Department also offers a free activity program (Junior Rangers) for Youth between the age of 12 and 18 based on traditional Native culture and disciplines, and on modern living habits. More than 350 young girls and boys from the JBNQA and NEQA areas participated in this program.

In 1998, the Department of National Defence cosigned an agreement with Environment Canada, the Kativik Regional Government and the Quebec government for environmental clean-up and restoration at 42 Mid-Canada Line sites.

Canadian Heritage

The Citizens' Participation Directorate of the Department of Canadian Heritage supports a wide range of activities in Northern Quebec, particularly Aboriginal communication networks, friendship centres, protection of Aboriginal languages and cultures, support for Aboriginal organizations, and initiatives to improve the situation of Aboriginal women. During 1998-1999, Canadian Heritage provided support amounting to $1,834,424 to Aboriginal communities in Northern Quebec, as follows:

Canadian Heritage Expenditures ($), 1998-1999

* The services Provided by these Native friendship centers are not offered exclusively to the agreements beneficiaries.

Industry Canada

Industry Canada, through Aboriginal Business Canada, expended $774,576 during 1998-1999 on 20 projects, including the establishment of Aboriginal businesses, and the development of a variety of business and marketing plans.

Natural Resources Canada

The Department of Natural Resource Canada (NRCan) is active on the territory covered by the JBNQA and NEQA through the Canadian Forest Service and Geomatics Canada.

Canadian Forest Service

In 1998-1999, the Canadian Forest Service proceeded with the implementation of the First Nations Forestry Program (FNFP). Jointly funded by INAC and the Department of Natural Resource Canada, the objective of this program is to increase the forest development capabilities of Aboriginal communities. In addition to a forestry component, the program offers components focussing on the economic development of Aboriginal Forestry-that is, the development of Aboriginal businesses, cooperation between communities, and partnerships with the forest industry.

In 1998-1999, projects and activities covered by the FNFP were completed in the Cree communities of Waswanipi, Mistissini, and Ouje-Bougoumou.

The A-Pit-See-Win Cooperative of Waswanipi received $68,700 to carry out checkerboard clear-cutting and regeneration cutting, site preparation work and reforesting over an area of 575 hectares, for a total of 480,000 trees planted. Over 60 kilometres of road construction and renovation were also completed.

In addition to the FNFP contribution, Waswanipi received $532,900 from the Canada Model Forests Program to implement the Cree Model Forest of Waswanipi.

The Eenatuk Forestry Corporation of Mistissini received a contribution of $60,883 and carried out checkerboard clear-cutting, release cutting, site preparation work, and precommercial thinning over a total area of 575 hectares. In addition, a total of 200,000 trees were planted, and 11 kilometres of forest roads were built.

In Ouje-Bougoumou, a $13,600 contribution was used to organize a geomatics training activity related to forestry. Two community members were thus able to perfect their knowledge in this field.

Geomatics Canada

Geomatics Canada, a branch of the Department of Natural Resource Canada, is active in the territory covered by the agreements through the Quebec Client Liaison Unit of its local representative, the Eastern Regional Operations Centre, Legal Survey Division.

In the region's Aboriginal communities, the Quebec Client Liaison Unit is mainly involved in managing survey contracts, aerial photography, map verification, and mapping. In 1998-1999, it performed these activities to produce colour mosaics for the communities of Chisasibi, Eastmain, Waskaganish, and Wemindji.

The Quebec Client Liaison Unit also produces descriptions of the extent and location of property interests that must be registered on Cree and Naskapi lands. It regularly provides professional advice and opinions on land management and the land tenure system; implementation of the land information system (LIS); and questions originating in geomatics-related disciplines.

Environment Canada and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

Environment Canada and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (CEAA) work jointly with INAC and Fisheries and Oceans Canada on implementing the environmental protection and social environment regimes provided under sections 22 and 23 of the JBNQA, and the hunting, fishing, and trapping regime provided under section 24.

Environment Canada

In 1998-1999, Environment Canada, through their representatives on the James Bay Advisory Committee on the Environment, the Kativik Environmental Advisory Committee, and the Hunting, Fishing, and Trapping Co-ordinating Committee, continued to assist in the implementation of the environmental protection and social environment regimes, as well as the hunting, fishing, and trapping regime. This year, an Environment Canada representative chaired the James Bay Advisory Committee on the Environment. For 1998-1999, Environment Canada's expenditures related to these activities totalled $40,000.

The Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) maintained its efforts to preserve the migratory bird populations found on the territory covered by the conventions. The CWS's expenditures of $100,000 were devoted to preparing American Black Duck and Canada Goose inventories, studying and conducting band work on the Canada Goose, and preparing the dispersal study of the Harlequin Duck. Funding of Native participation in the winter meeting of the Atlantic Flyway Council's Technical Committee was also maintained.

Environment Canada's participation in the tripartite agreement concluded with the Department of National Defence and the Kativik Regional Government required expenditures of $60,000 in 1998-1999. The agreement covers the investigation, restoration, dismantling and renovation of 42 Mid-Canada Line sites along the 55th parallel in Quebec.

Environment Canada operated 18 meteorological stations of the Atmospheric Environment Program on the territory covered by the agreements, including three upper-air stations. In 1998-1999, the Department also established three lighTNIng stations, located in La Grande-4, in Wemindji, and in Kuujjuarapik.

Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

Under sections 22 and 23 of the JBNQA, the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency supports the federal administrator and provides advice and administrative support to the various committees established under the JBNQA. CEAA's expenditures in 1998-1999 were $201,024. This includes the $95,000 Federal contribution towards the maintenance and the joint funding, with the Quebec Government, of the James Bay Advisory Committee on the Environment, and of the Kativik Environmental Advisory Committee. The operating expenditures of the Evaluating Committee are also included in these contributions, as well as the costs linked to the activities of the federal review panels (COFEX - North and COFEX - South). Throughout the year, CEAA was responsible for providing the executive secretariats of both these evaluating committees.

In 1999, CEAA contributed to the environmental evaluation of an access road project in Waskaganish, through COFEX-South, and to a marine infrastructures project in Kangiqsualujjuaq, in which COFEXNorth participated. During the environmental evaluation of these two projects, CEAA acted to facilitate and synchronize as much as possible the various phases of the environmental evaluating processes, in accordance with the JBNQA and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act.

Finally, the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency opened a new regional office in Sainte-Foy, Quebec which is responsible for managing CEAA activities related to sections 22 and 23 of the JBNQA.

Environment Canada and CEAA Expenditures ($), 1998-1999

Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Fisheries and Oceans Canada administers several research and development projects in Northern Quebec through its Laurentian region.

Through the Laurentian Region Science Branch, the Department participates with INAC, Environment Canada and the CEAA in implementing the social and environmental protection regimes, as stipulated in sections 22 and 23 of the JBNQA. Through the Laurentian Fisheries Management Branch, it participates in the hunting, fishing, and trapping regime, as stipulated in section 24.

In 1998-1999, DFO allocated $1 million through INAC to Makivik Corporation under the Northern Quebec Marine Infrastructure Agreement.

North Shore and Northern Quebec Sector - Fisheries management

In 1998-1999, the Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy (AFS) and the five-year (1996-2000) Northern Quebec beluga management plan continued. As in the past, activities were carried out jointly by the 14 Nunavik municipal corporations, the Hunting, Fishing and Trapping Association of Nunavik, the Makivik Corporation, the Kativik Regional Government, and DFO.

For the last quarter of 1999, the Department provided funding to assign a community officer, on a seasonal basis, to the municipal corporation of each of the 14 Nunavik communities. This officer's duties included statistical monitoring of the beluga and walrus hunt, beluga sample gathering and relaying of weekly harvest data. DFO also provided funds under the contribution agreement between DFO and the Makivik Corporation to provide expertise, tools and necessary equipment to analyse the harvested samples. For the fourth year in a row, funding was allocated under an agreement with the Kativik Regional Government to coordinate the work and observation patrols of six Aboriginal fishery guardians and to plan patrols by a DFO-hired multidisciplinary officer in Inukjuak.

In the course of aerial patrols carried out each year in Nunavik, the Fisheries Management Branch representatives visited all of the territory communities to meet with their Inuit partners.

Science Branch

The Maurice Lamontagne Institute conducted several research projects in Northern Canada, including numerous oceanographic missions. However, budget cuts forced many initiatives to be postponed. Management has maintained a critical number of research projects, some of which in collaboration with the Arctic and Central Regions, from Inuit organizations and universities, such as:

• Development of a precautionary approach for the Hudson Bay beluga ;
• Sample of Hudson Bay beluga ;
• Marine mammal diseases.

Oceans Directorate

A research project in the field of human health has been initiated in 1998. Among the compounds studied, PCB generally represents one of the most threatening organic contaminant groups for human health.

* The amount of $1 million provided through INAC is not included in the table.

Canada Economic Development

Canada Economic Development (CED) was formerly known as the Federal Office of Regional Development (Quebec). Its priorities for 1998-1999 included technological development aimed at strengthening small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs), developing markets, fostering entrepreneurship and a sound businesses climate, spurring local economic development, and enhancing the capacity of regions to adapt. These priorities are aimed, on the one hand, to enable all regions of Québec to achieve their potential, and, on the other, to more specifically aid certain target clienteles-in particular, youth, Aboriginals and rural populations-to become a part of an entrepreneurial dynamic. CED allocated funding to Inuit communities under the IDEA-SME Program which provides services and funds activities in the following areas: innovation, research and development, and design; development of market and export trade; and, entrepreneurship and business climate development.

Under the Community Futures Program, the Community Futures Development Corporation (CFDC) made available to Cree communities an investment fund of over $1 million to support strategic projects proposed by businesspeople. It also provides business start-up and management consulting services. During 1998-1999, the CFDC received $240,000 for its operations.

Justice Canada

The Department of Justice, through the Aboriginal Justice Directorate, in partnership with Aboriginal communities and the provinces, develops long-term community based programming that facilitates the transfer of responsibilities for the administration of justice to Aboriginal people and encourages a reduction in crime and incarceration rates.

In 1998-1999, a number of discussions took place with the Cree, Inuit and the Naskapi of Quebec to pave the way to developing and implementing new communitybased programs under the Aboriginal Justice Strategy.

The Aboriginal Justice Directorate, through the Native Courtworker Program also made the following contribution during 1998-1999: Cree $98,643; Inuit $84,069; and Naskapi $20,191, for a total of $202,903.

Canadian Food Inspection Agency

In 1999, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) inspected the meat produced at a commercial caribou slaughter in Northern Quebec. A team of two inspectors and a veterinarian travelled to Lake Mollet in order to supervise the slaughter of caribou in temporary facilities managed by Nunavik Arctic Foods. The Agency also certified the meat for sale in interprovincial and international markets. The CFIA inspectors and veterinarian stayed four weeks at Lake Mollet, during which time they inspected nearly 4000 caribou carcasses. The CFIA and the Kawawachikamach Naskapi Band of Quebec also signed a Caribou Inspection Service Agreement. However, inspections were cancelled at the request of the Naskapi because the 1998 migration route of the caribou did not allow for profitable harvesting of this resource.

Highlights

During 1999-2000, the following activities highlight the implementation of the JBNQA and NEQA:

Respecting the Cree

• In 1999-2000, the Cree Operations and Maintenance Agreement was renewed for one year, until March 31, 2001.
• Construction of the access road to Waskaganish began in summer 1999, overseen by an advisory committee and a technical committee. The first proceeded to hire a manager for the project. The second performed a layout of the 102-kilometre-long road. By the end of 1999-2000, two of the three project phases had been completed, for a total of 82 kilometres of road.
• In July 1999, the JBIO set up a sectoral table on the environment made up of representatives of Environment Canada, the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency and INAC; the table met on a monthly basis, focusing primarily on identifying problems related to the physical and social environment and identifying the best options for defining the territorial development regime.
• In July 1999, the first meeting of the sectoral table on human resources took place under the lead of Human Resources Development Canada. Subsequent negotiations covered the delivery structure for special programs and services in human resources, training and employment.
• Regarding policing services, meetings took place on an intensive basis throughout 1999, pursuant to the five-year tripartite agreement on policing services in Cree communities, agreed to between Canada, Quebec and the Cree on December 8, 1998. The parties produced a draft joint report including recommendations to implement section 1 of chapter 19 of the JBNQA (Cree units of the Sûreté du Québec).
• An INAC-Cree task force identified projects related to water, wastewater treatment and the environment in Cree communities. As well, various projects stemming from "Gathering Strength" designed to improve health and public safety in communities were either negotiated or implemented.
• Tripartite negotiations continued regarding funding for the Cree Trappers Association (CTA). A oneyear two-party agreement was concluded between INAC and the Cree in March 2000, which provided $200,000 for CTA operations and $100,000 for program management.
• The first payment ($2,969,000) of the negotiated funding for the purchase of fire protection equipment in Cree communities was allocated.
•  JBIO provided funding for a feasibility study towards the setting up of the Cree Arts and CRAfts Association and discussions took place towards implementation of the Cree Arts and CRAft Association as well as the Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association.
•  JBIO also provided funding for Cree participation in regional native firefighters competitions, which took place in August 1999, and for a seminar on the use of software designed for local Cree and Naskapi registrars, which was held in Mistissini during September 1999.
• The Department concluded negotiations over funding for training sessions in fire protection and marine search and rescue.
• In May 1999, the Government of Canada accepted from the Government of Quebec final transfer of category IA (Cree) lands.

Respecting the Inuit

• Work related to phase 1 of the Northern Quebec Marine Infrastructure Program was begun in Kangiqsualujjuaq in 1999. Two breakwater structures and an access ramp were built. Following the success of the first phase, INAC allocated supplementary funding in 1999-2000 to accelerate completion of work through the purchase of a second set of heavy equipment. Makivik Corporation succeeded in obtaining an exemption from the GST and QST in relation to its project. Furthermore, a pilot project was started with a view to harmonizing the federal environmental assessment processes applicable to these projects.
• On November 5, 1999, Nunavik, Canada and Quebec signed the Political Agreement to establish the Nunavik Commission, which has been mandated to develop recommendations concerning the new form of government for Nunavik. INAC collaborated in preparing a work plan for the Commission and organizing and holding the first public hearings in Inuit communities.
• The Makivik Corporation, the Kativik Regional Government, the Kativik municipal housing office, the CMHC and the JBIO took part in a series of meetings concerning housing questions in Nunavik, within the framework of the dispute resolution process. This was the first time that this mechanism, prescribed in the 1990 Implementation Agreement, had been used. Quebec also took part in the meetings in the role of an active observer. The Makivik Corporation and JBIO agreed on a common chronology of the events in this file. Intensive negotiations followed thereafter, aimed at producing a five-year housing agreement.
• The Inuit, Quebec and the JBIO agreed to fund a feasibility study concerning the optimal means of construction of new social housing units in Nunavik, and using this construction activity to generate training and employment.
• The Inuit Forum, also established under the 1990 Implementation Agreement, met on three occasions during the year. A number of subjects of importance for Nunavik were discussed, in particular: taxation, eligibility for JBNQA benefits, transportation and airports, funding of the Nunavik Investment Corporation, Inuit employment, market priorities, the possibility of reactivating the Justice - Solicitor General Working Group, telecommunications and the training and manpower agreement between the KRG and HRDC.
• During 1999-2000, a task force was established with the mandate of revising Schedule F of the 1990 Agreement, dealing with Nunavik economic development. This task force was made up of representatives of Economic Development Canada, Industry Canada, INAC, the Makivik Corporation and the Kativik Regional Government. The first meeting took place in Kuujjuaq, and the terms of reference were drawn up for conducting a financial analysis of Nunavik funding organizations.
• Funding was provided for "Gathering Strength" initiatives dealing with educational reform, governance, administration and accountability.

Respecting the Naskapi

• In conjunction with the Naskapi of Kawawachikamach, the JBIO began and concluded negotiations related to the Naskapi Operations and Maintenance Agreement for a five year period (1999-2004).
• In July 1999, a five-year Naskapi Capital Funding Agreement was signed.
• A first meeting took place in 1999-2000 between the Governments of Quebec and Canada and the representatives of the Naskapi over funding for the Kawawachikamach police station.
• Negotiations between the Naskapi and INAC concerning operation of the Menihek power station and the acquisition of hydraulic rights from the province of Newfoundland continued throughout the year.
• Within the framework of "Gathering Strength," funding was provided for a project designed to improve Naskapi management skills.

2000-2001 Preliminary Report on Implementation Activities

• Discussions were launched towards renewal of the Operations and Maintenance and the Cree Capital Funding Agreement.
• A two-year $20 million agreement to provide essential sanitation services in Cree communities was concluded.
• All but phase 3 of the Waskaganish Road was completed though a connection was made over the unfinished phase 3. Discussions continued regarding formal completion of the road.
• Within the framework of "Gathering Strength," phase 2 of a wastewater treatment project in Nemaska was completed.
• Tripartite discussions towards a multi-year agreement to fund the Cree Trappers Association did not succeed and $300,000 was provided in March 2001.
• Further negotiations proceeded towards an agreement on implementation of the Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association but in spite of progress remained unsigned in 2000-2001; $95,000 was provided in March 2001.
• Fire protection training sessions and, for the Chisasibi community, specialized training sessions in air safety were funded and carry out.
• Funding was provided to upgrade the fleet of Cree firefighting vehicles, and to recondition various related components.
• With respect to JBNQA implementation activities, discussions began with the Treasury Board of Canada and the Department of Public Works and Government Services of Canada concerning Cree access to federal contracts on the JBNQA territory.
• Negotiations were pursued towards concluding a two-party agreement on training and employment between the HRDC and the Cree.
• Construction of Marine Infrastructure projects was completed in Quaqtaq and Umiujaq.
• A Nunavik five-year $100 million housing agreement was concluded with the Inuit and Quebec.
• Research and discussions were pursued concerning revision of Schedule F (Economic Development) of the 1990 Makivik Implementation Agreement with the Inuit.
• Commenced review of a proposal by Makivik Corporation to amend the provisions of the JBNQA related to the enrollment of Inuit beneficiaries and to eligibility criteria.
• Assisted in funding the Katutjiniq Economic Summit, held in April 2000.
• Provided financial and administrative support to the commissioners of the Nunavik Commission in their research and consultation activities. The final report of the commissioners was filed on April 5, 2001.
• Signed a renewed five-year Naskapi Operations and Maintenance Agreement.
• Provided Canada's share of funding towards the Naskapi police station in Kawawachikamach.
• Pursued discussions and funded negotiations aimed at an agreement under which the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach and the Innu nation of Matimekush-Lac-John (Schefferville) may acquire and operate the Menihek power station and acquire the hydraulic rights from the province of Newfoundland.
• Contributed funding to defray the costs of emergency measures to clean up sites located near the Naskapi pumping station which were contaminated as a result of oil spills.

Summary of Federal Government expenditures [Note 10]. ($), 1995-2000

1. These figures are supplied by the departments.(return to source paragraph)
2. Excluding $100,300,000 paid by INAC to settle a claim filed by the Quebec Department of Education and including $300,000 from HRDC's financial participation under the job creation strategy for the Naskapi.(return to source paragraph)
3. Including $1 million from Transport Canada and $1 million from Fisheries and Oceans Canada for the Northern Quebec Marine Infrastructure Program, $15,000 from Environment Canada for an environmental project and $655,000 to fund the Cree-Naskapi Commission (for the 1993-1994, 1994-1995, 1995-1996 and 1996-1997 fiscal years, CNC received respectively, $655,000, $480,000, $655,000 and $480,000 for a total of $2,270,000. These expenditures are not included in the total amounts stated in this table; financial data prior to 1993 are available at INAC).(return to source paragraph)
4. Excluding $2.5 million distributed through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation to the Société d'habitation du Québec under a special initiative on housing for the Inuit of Nunavik and $23.6 million paid to the Quebec Government as part of a federal contribution towards funding the construction of the access road to Waskaganish.(return to source paragraph)
5. Calendar year.(return to source paragraph)
6. Increase as the result of the agreements concluded in 1994 with the Cree and the Naskapi and the one concluded in 1995 with the Kativik Regional Government.(return to source paragraph)
7. Decrease as a result of a national moratorium placed on Aboriginal Business Canada for the fiscal year 1995-1996.(return to source paragraph)
8. Including expenditures of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency.(return to source paragraph)
9. Decrease as a result of the termination of activities related to the environmental review of the Great Whale project shelved following a decision by the Quebec government.(return to source paragraph)
10. These figures are supplied by the departments.(return to source paragraph)
11. Excluding $100,300,000 paid by INAC to settle a claim filed by the Quebec Department of Education and including $300,000 from HRDC's financial participation under the job creation strategy for the Naskapi.(return to source paragraph)
12. Including $1 million from Transport Canada and $1 million from Fisheries and Oceans Canada for the Northern Quebec Marine Infrastructure Program, $15,000 from Environment Canada for an environmental project and $655,000 to fund the Cree-Naskapi Commission (for the 1993-1994, 1994-1995, 1995-1996 and 1996-1997 fiscal years, CNC received respectively, $655,000, $480,000, $655,000 and $480,000 for a total of $2,270,000. These expenditures are not included in the total amounts stated in this table; financial data prior to 1993 are available at INAC).(return to source paragraph)
13. Excluding $2.5 million distributed through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation to the Société d'habitation du Québec under a special initiative on housing for the Inuit of Nunavik and $23.6 million paid to the Quebec Government as part of a federal contribution towards funding the construction of the access road to Waskaganish.(return to source paragraph)
14. Excluding the last payment of $ 400 000 to the government of Quebec as federal contribution to funding of the construction of an access road in Waskaganish.(return to source paragraph)
15. Calendar year.(return to source paragraph)
16. Increases as the result of the agreements concluded in 1994 with the Cree and the Naskapi and the one concluded in 1995 with the Kativik Regional Government.(return to source paragraph)
17. Decrease as a result of a national moratorium placed on Aboriginal Business Canada for the fiscal year 1995-1996.(return to source paragraph)
18. Including expenditures of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency.(return to source paragraph)
19. Decrease as a result of the termination of activities related to the environmental review of the Great Whale project shelved following a decision by the Quebec government.(return to source paragraph)