Lane Closures of JC Van Horne Bridge

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Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) wishes to advise motorists that there will be lane closures on the JC Van Horne Bridge for inspections during the following period:

  • Thursday, August 8, 2019, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

During this period, a single lane will be closed with alternating traffic directed by flagpersons. Motorists should expect short delays.

These closures will not impact cyclists or pedestrians. The schedule may change depending on weather conditions.

PSPC encourages users to exercise caution when travelling on the bridge and thanks them for their patience.

Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) Photo App FAQs

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FAQs regarding the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) Photo App –

For distribution to all Regional Offices and IRAs

Updated July 2019

Question Answer
1. What is the SCIS Photo App?

 

 The SCIS Photo App is a digital application created by the Government of Canada that allows applicants to take a photo with a smartphone and submit it online as part of their Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) application. Available to download for free on both Apple and Android smartphones, the SCIS Photo App eliminates the cost of photos and offers a convenient way to provide the photo required to apply for the secure status card for the first time or for a renewal or a replacement.

 
2. What is the benefit of using the App? You no longer have to pay or travel to have passport-style photos taken for your Secure Certificate of Indian Status application. The App is an accessible, cost-free and secure way to take and submit your photo and guarantor’s name, email address and signature as part of the application process for a secure status card.

 
3. How does the App work? The SCIS Photo App can be downloaded for free on your smartphone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

 

The App is easy to use and provides step-by-step instructions to take and submit your photo and provide your guarantor’s name, email address and signature. This information will be securely transmitted to Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) through the App and stored in a protected database. Once the information is submitted, the data will no longer exist on the smartphone.

 

To complete your application for the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS), you must submit a complete application (Form 83-169E), a Guarantor Declaration (Form 83-170E) and supporting documentation. To find out how to apply, visit canada.ca/indian-status.

 

The information you submitted through the App will be automatically linked with your complete application and supporting documentation. You do not need to contact Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) to inform us that you submitted your photo through the App.

 
4. How can I get the App? You can download the SCIS Photo App for free on your smartphone by simply searching “SCIS Photo App” in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

 

 
5. When did the App become available?

 

 The App was publicly launched in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in July 2019.

 

Prior to the launch, the SCIS Photo App was piloted across Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) Regional Offices from November 2018 to June 2019.

 
6. Does it cost money to use the App? No, the SCIS Photo App is free to download and it is free to submit your photos using the App. You will need a smartphone and internet access.

 

To complete your application for the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS), you must submit a complete application (Form 83-169E), a Guarantor Declaration (Form 83-170E) and supporting documentation. The Government of Canada does not charge applicants any fees to apply for a secure status card; however, there may be a cost associated with providing supporting documentation as part of their application. To learn more, visit canada.ca/indian-status.

 
7. I’ve already paid for “passport- style” photos for my application. Can I be reimbursed? No, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) does not provide reimbursement for the cost of obtaining “passport-style” photos or supporting documentation as part of an application for the secure status card.

 

We understand the process of getting your photos may have been difficult. The SCIS Photo App has been designed to allow applicants to take their own photo, eliminating the cost of a photographer and making the application process more accessible and convenient.

 
8. What do I need to use the App?

 

 Before you submit your photo through the SCIS Photo App, ensure you have the following:

 

·         Smartphone (Apple or Android mobile device) to download the App

·         Access to the internet or a public/private Wi-Fi network

·         Registration number

·         Valid email address

·         Guarantor present with a valid email address

To complete your application for the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS), you must submit a complete application (Form 83-169E), a Guarantor Declaration (Form 83-170E) and supporting documentation. To find out how to apply, visit canada.ca/indian-status.
9. What type of smartphone do I need to use the App? The App is compatible with the following operating systems:

 

·         Apple smartphones with iOS 11 or higher

·         Android smartphones with Nougat 7.0 or higher

 
10. Can I still use the App if I don’t have a smartphone? No, you need a smartphone to use the SCIS Photo App.

 

If you do not have a smart phone, you can use the SCIS Photo App on a family member or friend’s smartphone. Once the information is submitted, the data will no longer exist on the smartphone.

 
11. Can I still use the App if I don’t have internet access? No, you need internet access to use the SCIS Photo App.

 

If you do not have your own internet access, you may use the SCIS Photo App by connecting to any public or private Wi-Fi network.

 

You can also use the App on a family member or friend’s smartphone with internet access. Once the information is submitted, the data will no longer exist on the smartphone.

 
12. Do I still need to send an application? Yes. To complete your application for the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS), you must submit a complete application (Form 83-169E), a Guarantor Declaration (Form 83-170E) and supporting documentation. Once received, the information submitted through the Photo App will be automatically linked with your complete application and supporting documentation. To find out how to apply, visit canada.ca/indian-status.

 
13. Can I use the App to apply for registration/Indian status?

 

 No. You must already be registered as a Status Indian under the Indian Act to use the SCIS Photo App. If you are not registered, you must provide a complete application (Form 83-168E) and supporting documentation. To find out how to apply, visit canada.ca/indian-status.

 

Unfortunately, you cannot use the SCIS Photo App to submit photos for an application for registration and a secure status card at the same time. However, once you are registered for Indian status, you will be able to use the SCIS Photo App to apply for your first secure status card separately or to renew or replace your secure status card.

 

If you have any questions regarding registration for Indian status or status cards, please visit canada.ca/indian-status or contact the Public Enquiries Contact Centre:

 

Public Enquiries Contact Centre

Indigenous Services Canada

10, rue Wellington

Gatineau QC  K1A 0H4

 

Email: aadnc.infopubs.aandc@canada.ca

Phone (toll-free): 1-800-567-9604

Fax: 1-866-817-3977

TTY (toll-free): 1-866-553-0554

 
14. Can I use the App to apply for a Certificate of Indian Status (CIS)? No, the SCIS Photo App cannot be used to submit photos to apply for the Certificate of Indian Status (CIS). The App is only compatible with the system used to issue the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS).

 

Some band offices continue to issue the Certificate of Indian Status (CIS). Contact your First Nation or band office for more information about this version of the status card.

 

The Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) is a more secure form of identification to confirm Indian status. To find out how to apply for the secure status card, visit canada.ca/indian-status.

 
15. Can I use the App to apply on behalf of my child/dependent adult? Yes, the SCIS Photo App can be used to submit photos to apply for the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) on behalf of a child/dependent adult. To complete an application for the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) on behalf of a child or dependent adult, you must submit a complete application (Form 83-169E), a Guarantor Declaration (Form 83-170E) and supporting documentation.

 

A parent or legal guardian must have the authority to act for the child or dependent adult in legal or financial matters to apply on their behalf. The most recent legal documents (divorce order, separation agreement, custody or guardianship order) proving custody or guardianship of the child to the applying parent or guardian must be provided with the application form and supporting documentation, if applicable.

 
16. Do I need a guarantor to use the App? Yes. You must find a person who can act as your guarantor and they must be present while you’re using the SCIS Photo App.

 

The guarantor will be prompted to provide their name, email address and digital signature. The same guarantor must also complete a Guarantor Declaration (Form 83-170E). The Guarantor Declaration (Form 83-170E) should be sent with the completed application (Form 83-169E) and supporting documentation.

 

For more information on who can be a guarantor, visit “About guarantors” under “Most requested” at canada.ca/indian-status.

 

Note: If submitting your application in-person and having your photo taken at a regional office, you may not need a guarantor. If submitting your application in-person at a band office and using the SCIS Photo App, an Indian Registration Administrator (IRA) can act as your guarantor if they have known you personally for 2 years.

 
17. Does Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) share my photos or personal information submitted through the App?

 

 No, all information provided through the SCIS Photo App is secure and protected under the Privacy Act. The information is encrypted while being sent to Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and stored in a secure database exclusively for SCIS applications. Once the information is submitted, the data will no longer exist on the smartphone.

 

The information you provide through the App is used to process your application for a secure status card. The collection and use of personal information submitted through the App is in accordance with the Privacy Act.

 
18. I used the App and I’m being asked to resubmit my photos. Can you help me? We apologize for the inconvenience and we appreciate your patience as we work to improve the SCIS Photo App.

 

To resubmit your photo, open the App and follow the step-by-step instructions. Only the last photo submitted will be used to process your secure status card application.

 

Acceptable photos must be:

 

·         Clear, sharp and in focus

·         Taken with a neutral facial expression (eyes open and clearly visible, mouth closed)

·         Taken straight on with face and shoulders centered and squared to the camera

·         Taken in front of a plain white or a lightly coloured background, with a clear difference between the face and background

 

To find out more about photo requirements, visit canada.ca/indian-status.

 
19. Can I resubmit my photo? Yes. To resubmit your photo, open the App and follow the step-by-step instructions. Only the last photo submitted will be used to process your secure status card application.

 

Once your application for secure status card has been processed, you cannot resubmit your photo until you apply for a renewal or a replacement.

 
20. What happens if I leave the App in the middle of submitting my photo and/or information (e.g. to take a call, answer a text, use another app)? If you leave the SCIS Photo App for any reason, the information is retained in the background of the App until your photo is submitted or the App is closed. The information that was retained in the background is protected and cannot be read by an outside party. Once the information is submitted, the data will no longer exist on the smartphone.

 
21. What happens if I made a mistake while using the App (e.g. entered the wrong registration number or information)? Please confirm your information and registration number before submitting your photo through the SCIS Photo App. If you entered any incorrect information, this may lead to delays in processing your secure status card application. If you think you entered incorrect information while using the App, please notify the Public Enquiries Contact Centre as soon as possible:

 

 

 

Public Enquiries Contact Centre

Indigenous Services Canada

10, rue Wellington

Gatineau QC  K1A 0H4

 

Email: aadnc.infopubs.aandc@canada.ca

Phone (toll-free): 1-800-567-9604

Fax: 1-866-817-3977

TTY (toll-free): 1-866-553-0554

 
22. I am having technical difficulties using the App. Who can I contact? If you are having technical difficulties using the SCIS Photo App, please email aadnc.supportphotocssi-scisphotosupport.aandc@canada.ca.

 

You can also contact the Public Enquiries Contact Centre:

 

Public Enquiries Contact Centre

Indigenous Services Canada

10, rue Wellington

Gatineau QC  K1A 0H4

 

Email: aadnc.infopubs.aandc@canada.ca

Phone (toll-free): 1-800-567-9604

Fax: 1-866-817-3977

TTY (toll-free): 1-866-553-0554

 

 

Lane Closure on JC Van Horne Bridge

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Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) wishes to advise motorists that there will be lane closures on the JC Van Horne Bridge for inspection during the following periods:

• Thursday, August 1st, 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

During this period, a single lane will be closed with alternating traffic directed by flagpersons. Motorists should expect short delays. Sidewalks will remain open. The schedule may change depending on weather conditions.

PSPC encourages users to exercise caution when travelling on the bridge and thanks them for their patience.

For more information, please contact:

Real Property Services
Public Services and Procurement Canada
tpsgc.biensimmobiliers-realproperty.pwgsc@tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca

Join the Indigenous Cultural Heritage Advisory Council

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Parks Canada is launching a process to recruit members for a new Indigenous Cultural Heritage Advisory Council. The purpose of the Council is to support Parks Canada to adapt its cultural heritage processes and policies to be more inclusive of Indigenous peoples and their perspectives. This work stems from the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the two Indigenous cultural heritage gatherings which Parks Canada hosted last fall.

Through the Council, First Nations, Inuit and Métis people will share perspectives and provide advice to Parks Canada on cultural heritage-related projects or initiatives. The Council will be composed of 6-8 Indigenous people who have significant knowledge or expertise in the area of cultural heritage.

The application deadline is Friday, August 23rd, 2019. Send your resume and letter of interest to dena.rozon@canada.ca or by fax to 613-937-1309.

More details about the role of the Council, the recruitment process and next steps can be found on their website at: www.pc.gc.ca/en/culture/autochtones-indigenous/conseil-council.

Check out the recruitment poster here.

Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government Partners with 6th Annual RIG Race

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The Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government is partnering with the 6th Annual RIG Race – a unique adventure and orientation race to be held from September 12 – 15, 2019.  In teams of two, athletes must race over 150 km or 300 km in 3 days, alternating several sports such as running, mountain biking, canoeing, swimming and rope challenges.

There will also be a 20km race specifically for the youth!

Athletes will race through Listuguj Mi’gmaq territory on the first day of the race on Friday, September 13, 2019.  They will make their way through various parts of our territory using only a compass and map.  The aim is to find check points located in areas that highlight our beautiful natural scenery such as the river, lakes and Gespe’gewa’gi trails.

We hope to cheer on a team from Listuguj!  If you’re interested in racing, the deadline to register is August 15, 2019.  Register now!

If you are interested in being a part of a volunteer committee or have any ideas to help make this a successful and fun event for everyone, you can contact Paige Isaac at paige.isaac@listuguj.ca or 418-788-2136. The Economic Development Unit will be the liaison between the RIG Race and Listuguj.

Click here for a video of the 2017 race to give you an idea of what it entails.

For even more information, visit their website.

Canada Post Awards for Indigenous Students

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What are the Canada Post Awards for Indigenous Students?

The Canada Post Awards for Indigenous Students celebrate the hard work and determination of Indigenous peoples who have embraced a renewed pursuit of learning. The awards are open to all First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples who have been out of school for at least one year, who have since decided to return to an educational system, and who have been back at school for at least one full year.

The Canada Post Awards for Indigenous Students are granted annually to select applicants from across the country, and recipients are awarded $2,000 in recognition for their efforts. These awards are just one way Canada Post celebrates diversity and proudly shows its commitment to making a difference in our communities.

 

Are You Eligible?

You meet the eligibility criteria if…

  1. You are Canadian and a member of a First Nation, Métis, or Inuit community.
  2. You have been out of school for one year or more.
  3. You returned to school and completed one full year of studies between January 2018 and August 2019.
  4. You have never received this award in the past (previous award recipients are not eligible).

 

How To Apply

1. Write an essay which details your efforts to get an education.

Be sure to include any challenges you have faced in order to pursue your education, why you were out of school for one year (or more), and what life was like during that time. Your essay should also include the reason(s) you decided to return to school, any extraordinary challenges you might now be facing, and how you’re dealing with those challenges. Tell us how your life has changed since you’ve returned to school and what your next steps will be. Your essay should be typed, double-spaced on letter-sized stationery, and no more than five pages long.

 

2. Complete an application form and return it by August 31, 2019. Be sure to include:

  • Your essay,
  • School transcripts or a school letter confirming you have completed one year of studies between January 2018 and August 2019 (photocopy acceptable), and
  • A clear photocopy of your membership card or an official letter from a community member confirming that you are First Nation, Métis or Inuk.

 

Click here to download the application form.

Complete application packages are to be received by August 31, 2019.

Lane Closures on JC Van Horne Bridge – July 15 to 19, 2019

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There will be lane closures on the JC Van Horne Bridge this week for annual maintenance.  Here is the schedule:

  • Monday July 15th to Thursday July 18th, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm – 10:00 pm to 6:00 am
  • Friday July 19th, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

During this period, a single lane will be closed with alternating traffic directed by flag persons. Motorists should expect short delays.  Sidewalks will remain open. Cyclists or pedestrians may be affected for sweeping operations and may need to use the alternate sidewalk of the bridge.

The schedule may change depending on weather conditions.

nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up

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A Downstream Documentary Productions and National Film Board of Canada

co-production in association with CBC Docs

A film by Tasha Hubbard
2019 | 98 minutes

Screening in Campbellton, NB from July 12th to 17th!

North Shore Cinema
52 Roseberry Street
Campbellton, New Brunswick

July 12th to July 17th
6:55pm and 8:50pm nightly

See theatre website for details.

On August 9, 2016, a young Cree man named Colten Boushie died from a gunshot to the back of his head after entering Gerald Stanley’s rural property with his friends. The jury’s subsequent acquittal of Stanley captured international attention, raising questions about racism embedded within Canada’s legal system and propelling Colten’s family to national and international stages in their pursuit of justice. Sensitively directed by  Tasha Hubbard, nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up weaves a profound  narrative encompassing the filmmaker’s own adoption, the stark history of colonialism on the Prairies, and a vision of a future where Indigenous children can live safely on their homelands.

 

Watch the trailer here.

Tatamagouche Centre 2019 Peace and Friendship Youth Alliance Gathering

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The Tatamagouche Centre in Nova Scotia is pleased to announce their 2019 Peace and Friendship Youth Alliance Gathering! This gathering is focused on widening the circle of indigenous and settler youth engagement in indigenous rights and in living as treaty people.

This gathering will be an empowering opportunity to envision and build sovereignty and self-determination among the youth of the Wabanaki nations.

Youth (aged 18-39) can apply to participate in this program. Indigenous youth will be prioritized, and they will ensure that the majority of participants are Indigenous.

If costs are a barrier, please note that the Office of Chief and Council also accepts sponsorship requests. For sponsorship application information, please contact Jill Martin at 418-788-2136.

You can apply in any of these ways:

  • by completing the on-line application form
  • call them at 902-657-2231 to set up a phone call to discuss your participation
  • text them at 902-977-0477. Let them know your name and your interest in being part of the gathering, and they will get back to you.