Submitted by Kellie Clark Communications Officer, Qalipu First Nation

CORNER BROOK, NL, July 17, 2024 – Qalipu First Nation (QFN) is disappointed with the announcement regarding the recent decision made by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) on the Commercial Northern Cod Fishery.

In a letter addressed to Fisheries Minister Diane Lebouthillier, Chief Brake highlights that QFN are in support of comments made recently by Premier Furey in a CBC Statement released on July 4.

“At no point prior to making the announcement were the Indigenous people of this province of Newfoundland and Labrador consulted. If consultation had taken place, we would have advocated strongly for an allocation to be shared appropriately between the Indigenous and non-Indigenous people of Newfoundland and Labrador”.

Chief Brake stated further that the residents of the province continue to be disappointed in announcements made by the Federal Government regarding our fisheries. Much of the resources are going to offshore fleets which in turn provides little to no benefit to the local economy.

“Many Mi’kmaq people of our province were forced to leave their communities to obtain employment which in turn impacted their traditional way of life. Therefore, many of our brothers and sisters encountered great difficulty to establish the necessary ties to community to become a member of Qalipu First Nation. Canada has a legal fiduciary responsibility to consult with us on matters that may impact our rights. This app ...

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