ST. JOHN’S, N.L. – More than 20,000 people within Newfoundland and Labrador have been recognized by the Canadian government with standing under the Indian Act.
They are members of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band.
The announcement was made Monday in a joint news release from federal Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development John Duncan, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs Peter Penashue and interim Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band Chief Brendan Sheppard.
The federal government had reached an agreement in principle for granting status on June 23, 2008.
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Sheppard says his people have worked hard since that time to solidify membership and make official status a reality, by way of an Order in Council.
Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band members are scattered across the island, with some tighter pockets in western and central Newfoundland.
Read the Agreement in Principle for Recognition of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band
Agreement in Principle for Recognition of the Qalipu Mi’Kmaq First Nation Band
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