Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat

About us

The APC Fisheries and Integrated Resources Department is responsible for research, analysis, and development of policy alternatives and programs for all aspects of fisheries for our member communities. We support and work cooperatively with First Nation Leadership, Treaty Tables, Tribal Councils, AAROMs, Fisheries Directors, Academia, NGOs and Federal/Provincial Departments. Our work includes supporting the commercial communal fisheries operations of member communities and fostering long-term collaboration and management with communities and First Nation organizations on fisheries issues.

Highlight Project

AAROM: Aboriginal Aquatic Resource & Oceans Management: APC’s current role is to provide support services for the AAROM on regional issues with impacts beyond specific watersheds. APC coordinates meetings and workshops including quarterly AAROM Directors meetings, quarterly Commercial Fisheries Liaison Coordinator (CFLCs) meetings and an Annual Atlantic Research Symposium to faciliate collaboration between regions and network on activities and important issues. Key themes include aquatic research, awareness, research opportunities and ocean management. APC in collaboration with the Canadian Coast Guard, has also developed a Canadian Coast Guard Working Group (CCGWG) consisting of representatives from Atlantic First Nations Organizations to discuss and advance recruitment of Mi’kmaq, Maliseet, Passamaquoddy and Innu in the Atlantic region.

Climate Change: Atlantic Policy Congress recognizes the severe impacts climate change is having on Atlantic First Nation communities and we will be working with the communities to identify priorities on climate change and adaptation in the region. APC will liaise and support the AAROM organizations and Atlantic First Nation communities on climate change, renewables, energy efficency, mitigation and adaptation.

AICFI: The Atlantic Integrated Commercial Fisheries Initiative (AICFI) supports Mi’kmaq and Maliseet First Nations in developing commercial fisheries enterprise governance and business management skills, building capacity in commercial fisheries operations, and playing a more effective role in fisheries co-management. The AICFI serves eligible communities located in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and the Gaspé region in Québec. APC hosts the Annual Fisheries Conference & Awards Banquet under AICFI which provides an opportunity for the most influential First Nations commercial fisheries leaders to come together to share experiences and strategize for the future. APC also takes this opportunity to acknowledge and award individuals in the Atlantic First Nations communities that are involved in the fishing industry for their contribution to the communities