Act to protect integrity of Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation
The Harper Government welcomes Royal Assent of Bill C-25, Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Act, received.
The Act ensures that all applicants are treated equitably and fairly and confirms that only eligible individuals are granted membership in the First Nation. In this way, the Act protects the integrity of Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation, while reflecting the original intention of the Federation of Newfoundland Indians and Canada with respect to the creation of a Founding Members list. Specifically, the Act will enable the Governor in Council to amend the Schedule to the Order legally recognizing the First Nation, which lists the founding members of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation.
The Act supports the implementation of the 2008 Agreement for the Recognition of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq Band and the 2013 Supplemental Agreement reached between Canada and the Federation of Newfoundland Indians.
“Our Government is committed to working with the Federation of Newfoundland Indians to ensure that all applicants for membership in the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation are treated fairly and equitably. The passage of this Act provides for the implementation of the agreements reached between Canada and the Federation of Newfoundland Indians, while protecting the integrity of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation.” – Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development.
