Only 18,000 eligible for Newfoundland first nation band: ‘It’s discriminatory’
ST. JOHN’S, N.L. — The creation of a unique Newfoundland aboriginal band meant to help rectify historical injustices against Mi’kmaq has prompted anger and confusion, as tens of thousands of people receive notice they have been rejected as founding members.
More than 100,000 people applied to be founding members of the Qalipu First Nation Band, but the Department of Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada announced Tuesday that only 18,044 are eligible.
In some cases, people who were already accepted as members will see their Indian status revoked. In others, family members of successful applicants were themselves rejected.
Qalipu Chief Brendan Mitchell said these sorts of “anomalies” are perplexing the community. He said it raises questions about the enrolment process.