Events throughout Saskatchewan for Indigenous Storytelling Month – Global News

February 1, 2023

Throughout the month of February, Indigenous stories will be told in various forms across the country.

The Library Services for Saskatchewan Aboriginal Peoples, Inc. (LSSAP) has been hosting Aboriginal Storytelling for going on 20 years. The project aims to support and promote First Nations, Métis and Inuit oral storytelling traditions in Saskatchewan and to celebrate the history, language and culture.

“For Indigenous people, storytelling is both a gift and a very old custom, sanctioned by the people,” stated Jessica Generoux, LSSAP SAS project co-ordinator.

“Storytelling is fundamental to the teachings, ceremonies, and way of life of Indigenous people…. They have a rich connection to who we are since they are an important component of Indigenous identity.”

Rush continue to honour Indigenous tradition with new ceremony this season – TSN

Lacrosse and Indigenous peoples. A blanket ceremony and land acknowledgement. Respect and reconciliation.

These star-crossed connections can be found at every Saskatchewan Rush home game this season.

“Being part of an organization like the Rush that shows respect and a move towards reconciliation with First Nations and Indigenous peoples is great,” says Rush forward Marshall Powless who is from Oshweken, a Six Nations community in southern Ontario.

It started with Saskatchewan’s past Indigenous players and the NLL team’s initial involvement with local First Nations in 2016 when the franchise moved to Saskatoon from Edmonton.

It continued last season when the Rush introduced a pregame land acknowledgment of Treaty 6 territory and the league launched its first Every Child Matters campaign as part of the NLL Unites initiative.

“I love that they acknowledge the land that we are fortunate enough to play the game of lacrosse on and to hopefully educate at least one person in the stands who may not have known prior to attending a game,” Powless says.

Saskatchewan Significantly Expanding Opportunities For Health Care Training

Saskatchewan is dramatically increasing educational opportunities for Saskatchewan students and young adults interested in health careers. An immediate initial investment of more than $5.5 million will help create over 550 new post-secondary training seats across 18 health care training programs.

Expanding health training programs is one of four pillars in the province’s Health Human Resources Action Plan. This commitment will increase training capacity at the province’s post-secondary institutions and reserve additional training seats for Saskatchewan students in highly specialized programs in other provinces.

“This initiative will open up exciting new health career options for many more Saskatchewan students by giving them greater access to training for their career of choice,” Advanced Education Minister Gordon Wyant said. “The scale of this unprecedented expansion of Saskatchewan’s health training capacity demonstrates our government’s commitment to strengthening our health care workforce. We are grateful for the support of our partners across the post-secondary education and health sectors.”

Training programs that will expand beginning in fall 2023 include Medical Laboratory Assistant, Continuing Care Assistant, Primary Care Paramedic, Licensed Practical Nurse, Pharmacy Technician, Clinical Psychologist, Physical Therapist and Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor.

Post-secondary institutions across the province – technical schools, regional colleges, Indigenous institutions and universities – will support the expansion so that students can study and work closer to home. This latest expansion builds on a previous investment in 2022-23 to add 150 nursing seats in Saskatchewan’s registered nursing, registered psychiatric nursing, and nurse practitioner programs.

The province will also purchase more seats for Saskatchewan students at institutions outside the province for specialized programs not available in Saskatchewan. More seats will be available in programs including Respiratory Therapy, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Occupational Therapy, Electro-Neurophysiology, and Cardiovascular Perfusion. For the first time, seats will also be reserved for Saskatchewan students in Speech Language Pathology and Environmental Public Health.

“We are taking multiple actions under our ambitious HHR Action Plan to stabilize and steadily grow our health-care workforce,” Health Minister Paul Merriman said. “This includes training more health-care professionals here at home, and recruiting from within the province, across Canada and abroad. This training seat expansion significantly increases educational opportunities for Saskatchewan students across multiple health disciplines and will generate increased interest in training and working in health care here in our great province.”

A new public awareness campaign will help make Saskatchewan students and young adults aware of the expanded training programs, financial support and job opportunities available to them. Among the young adults featured in the campaign is Kelsey Klewchuk, a recently graduated Primary Care Paramedic from Regina.

“No two days are the same,” Klewchuk said. “I’m always learning something new, taking something meaningful away from my day and I really appreciate that about my job. I would say to someone considering going into my field of work – or health care in general – that this job allows you to critically think, work as a team, and overall, it can be a very rewarding job when you do get the chance to help someone and make a difference on one of the most serious days or events in their life.”

Saskatchewan students can access a variety of financial aid options to help support their educational journeys, including loans, grants, bursaries and scholarships. The Graduate Retention Program also provides up to $20,000 in tax credits for those who stay in the province after graduation.

The Health Human Resources Action Plan announced in September is based on four pillars: recruit, train, incentivize and retain. These priorities align with Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan and will invest over $60 million and add more than 1,000 health professionals to the health system over the next few years. The $5.5 million investment during this fiscal year will help post-secondary institutions prepare to hire faculty, purchase equipment and recruit qualified students so that program expansion can begin this fall. Ongoing investments will be required in future years and will be determined as part of the annual budget process.

To learn more about Saskatchewan’s multi-faceted approach to supporting health human resources and to find information on health care opportunities, visit Saskatchewan.ca/HHR.

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For more information, contact:

Briana Bolduc
Advanced Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0253
Email: briana.bolduc@gov.sk.ca

Media Relations
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4085

NT5

Wahpeton Dakota Developments & Threeosix Industrial – Vegetation Management, Mulching, and Utility Line Clearing

SASKATOON, SK, Feb. 2, 2023 – Wahpeton Dakota Developments (Prince Albert, SK) and Threeosix Industrial Services Inc. (or “Threeosix”) have been working together to develop their relationship, and collective business interests over the past two years, after having engaged in a Joint Venture (“JV”) to form Mato Industrial Construction in 2021.

In Q2 of 2022, the group furthered their collective business interests by investing time, resources, and equipment in the development of a Utility Line Clearing, Mulching, and Vegetation Management Division. This newly formed business unit is aimed at supporting Vegetation Management operations for SaskPower and other clients across Saskatchewan, and other regions of Canada as opportunity and capacity allow.

“This is a very exciting opportunity for our organization,” says Robert Fincati, CEO of Wahpeton Dakota Developments. “There is tremendous opportunity in this area. The JV will provide opportunities for Wahpeton Dakota Nation citizens to develop skills and create a business culture. In addition, it will help us create wealth sovereignty for the Nation. The Threeosix team is a dedicated group, with a proven track-record of building capacity and implementing systems, and we’ve been working closely for some time.”

The team currently operates a fleet of various specialty equipment, and has fielded eight full-time personnel, in addition to front office and management support.

Line clearing requires a dedicated and well-coordinated team to carry out the work involved. To remove vegetation that may cause contact or challenges to powerlines, tree trimming, mulching, and cutting are required. This is a very unique program that must be executed with the utmost care and efficiency, by embracing the Safety and Operations processes in-place with SaskPower. It also requires competent, and certified personnel. By mulching vegetation to appropriate widths for both distribution and transmission lines, Mato Industrial ensures SaskPower structures function and stay safe.

“We’re excited to have formalized our relationship with Wahpeton Dakota Nation and we’re looking forward to working together for a long time,” says Scott Longmuir, CEO of Threeosix Industrial. “The goal of this relationship is to participate as one team in all aspects of the project. It is important for us incorporate the values and culture of the Nation in everything we do. Every aspect of our JV is committed to enriching the lives of Wahpeton Dakota Nation citizens. In order to do that, the decisions we make as a business need to take a long-term view in order to see lasting success.”

“Taking care of the land is a key value in our traditions and our culture,” says Chief John Waditaka. “Economic development is also important to our community, and we are pleased to support this initiative that will bring benefits to our community, such as training and employment opportunities.”

Threeosix Industrial is a professional and progressive multi-discipline industrial solutions provider based in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, serving the resources and infrastructure sectors. The company has a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion and hiring from the communities within which they work. The goal of the Threeosix team is to provide a professionally managed and safety-conscious approach to construction, maintenance, fabrication, and mining that is easily recognized as the new standard. www.threeosix.ca

Wahpeton Dakota Nation was established and recognized as a reserve in 1894. Present day WDN is located 15km northwest of Prince Albert, SK and includes 1,547 ha of land. WDN is the smallest band within the Prince Albert Grand Council and has the highest employment rate per capita. The First Nation has about 550 citizens, with roughly half living on-reserve.

Wahpeton Dakota Developments LP was formed in 2010 to act as the business arm of Wahpeton Dakota Nation. In order to create enhanced business and employment opportunities for its members, the company promotes socio-economic growth and development. Wahpeton Dakota Developments have full ownership in an on-reserve office-complex, and partial ownership in IMI/TIPI Insurance Brokerage, One Tribe Global, One Tribe Indigenous Carbon, Sterling Concrete & Hauling, Prince Albert Development Corporation and One Sky Forest Products. http://www.wahpetondakotadev.com/

For further information: Please contact: Robert Fincati, CEO, Wahpeton Dakota Developments, robertfincati@sasktel.net, 306-764-5400; Scott Longmuir, CEO, Threeosix Industrial, slongmuir@threeosix.ca,306-384-9306

NT5

Saskatoon pharmacy disciplined for overbilling Indigenous Services Canada – northeastNOW

Feb 1, 2023

After the pharmacy manager blew the whistle, SRx Pharma Inc. — which runs a pharmacy in Saskatoon — has been found guilty of misconduct.

According to the discipline documents from the Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy Professionals, in 2017 and 2018, the pharmacy overbilled the non-insured health benefits program (NIHB) to the tune of thousands of dollars for hepatitis C medication.

The NIHB is a program under Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), which provides eligible First Nations and Inuit people with coverage for a range of things including prescription medication.

The pharmacy was accused of not only submitting billing for the medication higher than was paid, but also for having the drug wholesaler change invoices to match the inflated billing.

RSM To Celebrate Indigenous Storytelling Month With Second Video Series Featuring Elder Hazel Dixon

February 1, 2023

The Royal Saskatchewan Museum is launching a second video series to celebrate February as Indigenous Storytelling Month. The series was developed in partnership with the Saskatchewan Teacher’s Federation and features Elder Hazel Dixon, who has recorded several new Indigenous stories to share with the people of Saskatchewan through the Museum’s social media and YouTube channels.

“Back by popular demand, these stories by Elder Hazel Dixon provide a unique perspective on the world around us by exploring our relationships with one another and the plants and animals that inhabit our planet,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Laura Ross said. “These videos help the Museum to share Indigenous culture through oral history and imaginative stories with a larger audience.”

Elder Hazel Dixon is an Elder in Residence with the Regina Public and Catholic school divisions. The Royal Saskatchewan Museum videos have been used by area schools in their programming, in addition to being used by educators in other provinces.

Traditionally, storytelling was an important source of education and entertainment during the long winter months. Elders pass down the knowledge, traditions, and morals of their people to the next generation.

“Thanks to this video series, students and teachers can enjoy Elder Hazel’s incredible storytelling no matter where they live,” Saskatchewan Teacher’s Federation President Samantha Becotte said. “We are very proud to support this celebration of Indigenous stories. The Traditional Knowledge Keepers Program and the Royal Saskatchewan Museum do such impactful work for our province, and we are grateful for their partnership.”

Traditional Knowledge Keepers Workshop Series

After Indigenous Story Telling month concludes, the Royal Saskatchewan Museum will begin hosting Traditional Knowledge Keepers Workshop Series, sponsored by Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation. Watch for workshop topics, such as quillwork and rug hooking, in March, April and May. Each workshop includes a unique opportunity to view pieces in the museum’s Indigenous History Collection.

February Fun

In addition to these series, there are several activities taking place at the Museum in February to enjoy.

Scotty’s Sweethearts Scavenger Hunt runs from February 14 to 26. Find the hidden hearts throughout the galleries to get a special Valentine’s message from Scotty the T.rex!

I Heart It! – Learn how hearts work in different kinds of animals in the SaskTel Be Kind Online Learning Lab from February 21 to 24.

About the Royal Saskatchewan Museum

To learn more about the Royal Saskatchewan Museum’s programming and world class research, visit https://royalsaskmuseum.ca/.

The Museum, located at 2445 Albert Street, is open daily from 9:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Visit. Donate. Discover.

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For more information, contact:

Jamie Gibson
Parks, Culture and Sport
Regina
Phone: 306-527-8152
Email: jamie.gibson2@gov.sk.ca

NT5

GDI: Call for Board Member

Jan 31, 2023

Posted in: Board of Directors, GDI

The Gabriel Dumont Institute of Native Studies and Applied Research invites applications for the following:

MEMBER, GDI BOARD OF GOVERNORS

WESTERN REGION I (Meadow lake, Cochin, Leoville, Pierceland, Glaslyn, Chitek Lake, Livelong, Rush Lake, Brightsand, Spriritwood, Midnight Lake, Dorintosh, Paradise Hill)

Overview: The GDI Board of Governors has representation from the (12) Regions of the Organization, who are ratified by the Provincial Métis Council (PMC) of the Métis Nation—Saskatchewan (MN—S). The PMC Member who is assigned the Education portfolio sits as the Chairperson of the Board of Governors. All persons selected to the Board of Governors will be for a period of three years. A member who is an employee/staff person/manager of an affiliated organization of the MN—S shall not be permitted to sit on the Board of Governors of the Institute.

Responsibilities: The Board of Governors oversees the Gabriel Dumont Institute and is responsible for its operation and governance in all matters, including: to adopt policies for the effective operation of GDI; to formulate a strategic plan and to oversee its implementation; to approve annual budgets, audits and programs; to function as ambassadors for GDI and to encourage students and potential students in their study and career plans; to represent GDI to all levels of government, persons of Métis ancestry and to the public generally; and to appoint a Chief Executive Officer to be directly responsible for implementation of policy and the day-to-day management and operations of GDI.

Qualifications: All appointments to the Board must be of Métis ancestry with knowledge of the cultural, historical and social circumstances of Saskatchewan Métis. Ideally the collective skills on the board will represent a number of different disciplines and perspectives. Some of the preferred skill and training areas include education or post-secondary education; finance and administration; business; human resources (personnel); law; and communications. Individuals with extensive Métis culture and language experience are encouraged to apply. This will ensure a wide range of skills and perspectives are available when decisions are considered. A criminal record vulnerable sector check must be completed and accompany the resume submitted.

Process: Candidates can apply directly to the MN—S region or the Institute, who in turn will forward the application to the appropriate MN—S region for consideration. The MN—S region then submits the name of their selected representative forwarded from a duly called and administered regional council meeting. The name of the new board member is then sent to the PMC for ratification. Finally, the name is forwarded to the Minister of Advanced Education.

Starting Date: 2023 (Once process is complete – 3-year appointment with the possibility of renewal)

Deadline for receipt of applications: March 15^th, 2023

Please submit resume to one of:

Loretta King Rhonda Pilon

Western Region I, Regional Director Executive Assistant

Métis Nation – Saskatchewan Gabriel Dumont Institute

Box 134 917 – 22nd Street West

Dorintosh, SK S0M 0T0 Saskatoon, SK S7M 0R9

Phone: (306)236-7544 Phone: (306) 242-6070

Email : reddaking11@gmail.com Email: rhonda.pilon@gdins.org

The Gabriel Dumont Institute has permission from the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission to hire affirmatively.

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NT5

Saskatchewan Significantly Expanding Opportunities For Health Care Training

January 31, 2023