mikmaq – site

MANDATES

The Board of Directors of the Mi'kmaq Confederacy of PEI (the Confederacy) has granted the organization the following mandates:

Tribal Council:

The Confederacy is a tribal council that provides advisory services to member First Nations Councils in five key areas: band governance; community planning; financial; economic development; and technical services.

Provincial Territorial Organization (PTO):

The Confederacy serves as a provincial forum for the Lennox Island and Abegweit First Nations on political and policy issues.

Shared Programs and Services:

The Confederacy delivers shared programs and services on behalf of the Lennox Island and Abegweit First Nations, as well as programs and services to the broader Indigenous community on PEI.

Programs and Services

Aboriginal Sports Circle
Child and Family Services
Economic Development
Education
Employment Services
Health
Indigenous Justice Program
Integrated Resource Management
Parks Canada-Mi'kmaq Confederacy Strategic Initiatives

Aboriginal Sports Circle

The PEI Aboriginal Sports Circle supports grassroots participation in sport for Aboriginals in PEI. We recognize that active engagement in sport opportunities helps build healthier communities and individuals. The Aboriginal Sports Circle includes representatives from Lennox Island and Abegweit First Nations, and the PEI Native Council, and helps young Aboriginal Islanders participate in local, regional and national sporting events, such as sports camps and training, tournaments and coaching.

To learn more, contact: Aboriginal Sports Circle Manager, Lynn Anne Hogan at lahogan@mcpei.ca or 902-438-2108

Program team: Contact information

PEI Aboriginal Sports Circle Michael Thomas Race Day

Mi’kmaq Confederacy Charity Golf Tournament
Child and Family Services
The Child and Family Services Program consists of two components: the Mi’kmaq Family PRIDE Program and the Designated Band Representative. The Mi’kmaq Family PRIDE Program is a family support and prevention program offered to children, youth and families who live on reserve. The Designated Band Representative is a role defined within the PEI Child Protection Act and supported by a Joint Working Protocol between the PEI Department of Child and Family Services and the Confederacy. Our vision is to provide a holistic and culturally sensitive approach to individual, family and community wellness, and risk reduction through prevention services and protection support.

To learn more, contact: Human Resource Manager, Tabatha Bernard at tbernard@mcpei.ca or (902) 315-0076.

Program team: Contact information
Economic Development

The Confederacy provides advisory support to the Lennox Island and Abegweit First Nations and their economic development programs.
Education

The Education Program supports the Lennox Island and Abegweit First Nations and students under their care. Support is provided to address identified needs; providing advice and/or advocacy; and developing partnerships with educational stakeholders to ensure Mi’kmaq learners receive quality education and support services where needed. The Director of Education is responsible for overseeing all education programs of the Confederacy and advancing partnerships and initiatives between it and educational stakeholders. An Early Childhood initiative implements programs and oversees recommended services for pre-school aged children to prepare them for elementary school. Our Transitions Coordinator supports successful transitions of Mi’kmaq learners.The First Nation Student Success Program supports students and staff of First Nation schools through assessments of Mi’kmaq learners to support academic needs; development of School Success Plans; and providing support to Band operated school staff and students in literacy, numeracy and administration.

To learn more, contact: Director of Education, Allan Gillis at agillis@mcpei.ca or call (902) 438-2107.

Program team: Contact information
Employment Services

The Employment Services program provides and administers employment-based programs and services to all Aboriginal people living on PEI including Status and non-Status First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples living on and off reserve across the entire province. As a client-focused program, emphasis is on providing the supports clients need to return to work, and or training. We partner with key players including: valuable employers, training institutions and government departments, to develop and roll out meaningful initiatives that are interesting, age related and support hands-on career exploration experiences, job opportunities, education and training choices. Services are delivered in both urban and rural locations. Service sites are on Lennox Island and Abegweit First Nations, Charlottetown, and Summerside.

To learn more, contact: Director of Employment Services, Sherri Barrett at sbarrett@mcpei.ca, or (902) 626-3209

Program team: Contact Information

Facebook: MCPEI Employment Services Twitter: MCPEI Skills Partnership Fund
Health

The Health program manages a wide range of programs and services designed to support the health and wellbeing of Lennox Island and Abegweit First Nation members living on-reserve, including: Health Policy; Jordan’s Principle program; Indian Residential School program; and Health Promotion. The Health program manages a wide range of programs and services designed to support the health and wellbeing of Lennox Island and Abegweit First Nation members living on-reserve, including: Health Policy; Jordan’s Principle program; Indian Residential School program; and Health Promotion. To assure our work focuses on the true needs of PEI First Nation communities, we work closely with them to identify common health issues, concerns and priorities and the best ways to address them. Over the years, we have successfully helped them access more health services and supports; increase rights awareness; increase capacity to better manage their own unique health and safety concerns; and improve the overall members’ health. We also advocate for First Nation communities to ensure their voices are heard at the provincial, regional and national level.

To learn more, contact: Director of Health, Roseanne Sark at rsark@mcpei.ca or (902) 438-2117.

Program team: Contact information

Jordan’s Principle Facebook page.
Indigenous Justice Program

The Indigenous Justice Program works to create an environment that allows Aboriginal people to self-administer justice by building a traditional justice system based on holistic community values.

To learn more, contact: Director of Indigenous Justice, Lori St. Onge at lstonge@mcpei.ca, (902) 367-3681

Program team: Contact information

MCPEI Indigenous Justice Program.
Integrated Resource Management

The Integrated Resource Management (IRM) division is responsible for providing technical advice and assistance for all aspects of resources and resource management including environmental issues. This is reflected by the world view of the Mi’kmaq that views Mother Earth holistically, and that all things are interconnected. Accordingly, the scope of work includes: Marine Fisheries; Food Social and Ceremonial Fisheries (FSC); Watershed Management; Species at Risk; Aquaculture; Hunting; Trapping; Forestry; Non Timber Forest Products (NTFP); Crafts; Culturally Important Wildlife; Fresh Water Fishing; Agriculture; Land Management; Land Use; Duty to Consult (DTC); Drinking Water; Wastewater Management; Wind and Solar Energy; Oil and Gas exploration; Climate Change; and other Environmental Issues as they arise.

To learn more, contact: Director of Integrated Resource Management, Randy Angus at rangus@mcpei.ca, (902) 367-3660

Program team: Contact Information

@MCPEIIRM
Parks Canada-Mi'kmaq Confederacy Strategic Initiatives

The Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI and Parks Canada regularly work together toward the accomplishment of their mutual goals. Among those goals are the active engagement of PEI First Nations in the management of the Prince Edward Island National Park and National Historic Sites; and the presentation of Mi’kmaq history and culture – at Parks Canada sites and beyond. Since 2005, the Mi’kmaq Confederacy and Parks Canada have co-funded and cooperatively managed a position dedicated to the accomplishment of their common objectives: the Manager, Strategic Initiatives, Mi’kmaq Confederacy – Parks Canada. The Manager plays an active role in all aspects of the Confederacy – Parks Canada relationship including promoting effective communication on consultation or engagement issues and developing and managing, for the partners, projects which aim to achieve their mutual goals in a variety of areas.

To learn more, contact: Manager, Strategic Initiatives, Mi’kmaq Confederacy-Parks Canada, Jesse Francis at jfrancis@mcpei.ca or (902) 438-2105.

Mi'kmaq Confederacy of PEI VISION STATEMENT

PEI Mi’kmaq are self-determined and self-sufficient; and the Mi’kmaq community is understood, prosperous, safe and culturally vibrant.

People

Chief Darlene Bernard
Board of Directors Co-Chair

Chief Darlene Bernard
Board of Directors Co-Chair

Chief Darlene Bernard was elected Chief of the Lennox Island First Nation on 08 June 2019.

Email: dbernard@mcpei.ca
Chief Junior Gould
Board of Directors Co-Chair

Chief Junior Gould
Board of Directors Co-Chair

Chief Junior Gould was elected Chief of the Abegweit First Nation on 14 June 2019.
Councillor Sheri Bernard
Board of Directors

Councillor Sheri Bernard
Board of Directors
Councillor Chris Jadis
Board of Directors

Councillor Chris Jadis
Board of Directors
Councillor Jacob Jadis
Board of Directors

Councillor Jacob Jadis
Board of Directors
Councillor Madlene Sark
Board of Directors

Councillor Madlene Sark
Board of Directors
Off-Reserve Councillor Wendell Labobe
Board of Directors

Off-Reserve Councillor Wendell Labobe
Board of Directors
Councillor Richard Guimond
Board of Directors

Councillor Richard Guimond
Board of Directors
Tabatha Bernard
Human Resource Manager

Tabatha Bernard
Human Resource Manager

Born and raised in Lennox Island PEI, Tabatha has experienced the change in First Nations’ communities that has brought opportunity as well as responsibility for program administration and management.

Tabatha brings to the MCPEI an understanding of First Nations’ programs. She has over seven years experience in administration of First Nations’ employment and training programs for Lennox Island. Prior to joining the MCPEI, Tabatha worked as the Employment Director for the Lennox Island Band. While working for the Band, Tabatha was elected to the Lennox Island Band Council in 2001.

Tabatha is a proud mother of four, grandmother of three beautiful grandchildren, and a dedicated professional. She has embraced the opportunity to work for all PEI Mi’kmaq as a Human Resource Advisor, Executive Assistant, and now as the Human Resource Manager.

Phone: 902-438-2102
Email: tbernard@mcpei.ca
Allan Gillis
Director of Education

Allan Gillis
Director of Education

Allan Gillis joined the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI in 2009 as the organization’s Director of Education. Allan is a graduate of the University of Prince Edward Island and completed a Masters Degree in Curriculum and Teaching at Fordham University, New York City.

Allan has considerable experience in the field of education. He taught for six years in New York City and upon his return to PEI, was employed as the Director of Education with the Lennox Island First Nation for fourteen years where he administered all areas of education within the First Nation.

As the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of Prince Edward Island Director of Education, Allan works closely with the Abegweit and Lennox Island First Nation to address identified needs or in a capacity of providing advice and/or advocacy. As well, the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI Education Program is mandated to develop partnerships with the PEI Department of Education, Early Learning and Culture, the PEI Department of Workforce and Advanced Learning, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, as well as other educational stakeholders to ensure Mi’kmaq learners receive a quality education and support services where needed.

Allan has been a champion for Aboriginal education within Prince Edward Island and may be contacted at the Summerside office of the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI.

Phone: 902-438-2107
Email: agillis@mcpei.ca
Sherri Barrett
Director of Employment Services

Sherri Barrett
Director of Employment Services

Sherri has degrees in Psychology, Human Resources and Human Services, training in Reality Therapy, and has many years of group and family facilitation. Sherri is a certified trainer in Life Skills Training, a facilitator for Developing Capable People with experience in cross cultural training. and TRE provider

Sherri has spent much of her professional and personal life assisting individuals overcome barriers and to realize their full potential.

Her strong belief in life-long learning has been developed through over 25 years in the field of human services/social development. She has worked with many individuals from varied backgrounds and life experiences including individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities.

Sherri joined the Mi’kmaq Confederacy in 2005 and is the Director of Employment Services.

Using a holistic and motivational approach Sherri promotes building self esteem, inspiration, encouragement and the celebration of accomplishment.

Phone: 902-626-3209
Email: sbarrett@mcpei.ca
Tracy Reitsma
Senior Finance Officer

Tracy Reitsma
Senior Finance Officer

Tracy Reitsma is Senior Finance Manager for Epekwitk Assembly of Councils. She has recently joined the MCPEI team and provides financial support activities for their programs and services. Tracy is a Chartered Professional Accountant with 25+ years experience in successful business ownership as well as property and business management and accounting. She currently resides in Charlottetown with her husband and 2 children.

Phone: (902) 388-4850
Email: treitsma@mcpei.ca
Roseanne Sark
Director of Health

Roseanne Sark
Director of Health

Roseanne Sark, positioned as Director of Health at Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI, serves in areas of policy, program development and health promotion. She is also a Certified First Nation Health Manager from the National First Nations Health Managers Association(FNHMA). Roseanne has a Bachelor’s degree from Carleton University, and is certified in Reality Therapy and Conflict Resolution, and is an Indigenous Justice Circle Keeper. In her capacity, she gladly serves the interest of PEI First Nations as co-chair of the Health Policy Planning Forum, which is the Health Tripartite here in PEI.

Phone: 902-438-2117
Email: rsark@mcpei.ca
Lori St. Onge
Director of Indigenous Justice

Lori St. Onge
Director of Indigenous Justice

Lori St. Onge has been the Director of Indigenous Justice for the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI since 2007. She graduated from the University of PEI with a Masters in Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts and a Diploma in Public Administration. She also holds a certificate in Human Resource Management, Conflict Resolution and Circle Keeping. Lori is also a trained Gladue writer.

Lori is an advocate for restorative justice. A process which focuses on the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community. She is a proud Mi’kmaq woman and a member of the Lennox Island First Nation Band.

Lori sits on numerous committees and boards including the RCMP Commissioner National Aboriginal Advisory Committee. She has been a mentor for the In.Business Program, a mentorship program for Indigenous youth, since 2015. She was appointed to the PEI Human Rights Commission in 2017. Lori was the recipient of the Joan Taavon Award, an international award for her commitment to missing and exploited children.

Phone: 902-367-3681
Email: lstonge@mcpei.ca
Randy Angus
Director of Integrated Resource Management

Randy Angus
Director of Integrated Resource Management

Randy has over 40 years experience in the Maritimes fishery and aquaculture industry. He has extensive experience in working with both the public and private sectors in resource management, and has a diverse background that covers a variety of species and organizations. He has worked in the administration of research and hatchery facilities, and has over 6 years of experience in Community development, 7 years climate change research, and sustainable development projects.

He has experience in planning, negotiating, and financing multi-partner projects. He also has experience in regional development projects, and negotiations with all levels of government.

A firm believer in life long learning, Randy looks forward to new opportunities and activities. He enjoys contributing to the Confederacy team in the protection, enhancement and strengthening of the Mi’kmaq Nation in Prince Edward Island.

Phone: 902-367-3660
Email: rangus@mcpei.ca
Jesse Francis
Manager, Strategic Initiatives, Mi'kmaq Confederacy-Parks Canada

Jesse Francis
Manager, Strategic Initiatives, Mi'kmaq Confederacy-Parks Canada

Jesse Francis began working for Parks Canada in 1994. In 2001, he started what would become a five-year secondment with Lennox Island First Nation, working for the community in the development of cultural and eco-tourism.

Since 2005, Jesse has worked in a role which is a partnership between the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI and Parks Canada- one of the key ways by which the groups work together toward the accomplishment of their shared goals.

Jesse works in many aspects of the PEI First Nations – Parks Canada relationship and has managed a wide variety of culture and heritage projects. He led the development of the travelling exhibition called Ni’n na L’nu: The Mi’kmaq of Prince Edward Island, and co-authored, along with John Johnston, the award-winning book of the same name. Since 2017, he has been part of work by both the Mi’kmaq Confederacy and Parks Canada to revitalize the presentation of history, especially Mi’kmaq history, at Skmaqn – Port-la-Joye – Fort Amherst.

Jesse lives in Wellington, Prince Edward Island with his wife Moira and their three children.

Phone: 902-438-2105
Email: jfrancis@mcpei.ca