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The Chiefs of Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) renewed their commitment to developing and operating successful First Nation owned and managed broadband networks at the Annual Keewaywin Conference that took place in Aroland First Nation on August 14, 15 & 16, 2007.

The resolution calls for government programs and services as well as all organizations doing business in NAN First Nations to contribute to the ongoing operation of these networks, the same way they pay for these services for their own operation centres.

The following is the text of the resolution that was passed by the NAN chiefs.

SUBJECT: SUPPORT FOR THE ONGOING DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY OF FIRST NATION OWNED BROADBAND REGIONAL AND LOCAL NETWORKS

MOVED BY: Chief Arthur Moore, Constance Lake First Nation

SECONDED BY: Chief Pardamus Anishinabie, Sandy Lake First Nation

DECISION: Passed without revisions

WHEREAS the Chiefs of Nishnawbe Aski Nation demonstrated their support for the development of community-based broadband networks that work with NAN and other First Nation regional networks in resolution 03/49; and

WHEREAS universal access to, and quality of broadband services are, integral to renewed economic, health, education, social and cultural benefits and opportunities for NAN First Nations and an improved quality of life for its citizens; and

WHEREAS broadband community networks and information and communication technologies (ICTs) are a key tool in Nation building and supporting healthy communities. Involving all First Nations, tribal councils and regional organizations of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation in the development and maintenance of a sustainable and shared broadband communications infrastructure for the Nishnawbe Aski people is key; and

WHEREAS broadband infrastructure and ICT hardware and software continues to evolve requiring continuous upgrades, maintenance and management; and

WHEREAS organizations and institutions delivering online services are pressuring First Nations to provide facilities, staffing, equipment and support for their programs and services without paying for these local services; and

WHEREAS ongoing operational funds to support community-owned broadband networks, support services, facilities, staffing, equipment, etc requires contributions by every organization, institution and government program to ensure the sustainability of these local resources and services

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED
we, the Nishnawbe Aski Nation Chiefs in Assembly, support the development of local First Nation community networks and regional First Nation broadband networks urging all levels of government to support these networks by identifying strategies for developing and delivering innovative services and delivery models that utilize the broadband networks; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED
the Executive Council ensure all federal and provincial government programs and services as well as any institution and corporation doing business in NAN First Nations and the region are encouraged to work cooperatively with and employ the existing regional and community broadband networks to ensure their sustainability; and

FINALLY BE IT RESOLVED
the federal and provincial governments must develop equitable and affordable broadband infrastructure in all First Nations across the Nishnawbe Aski Nation that is capable of supporting video, voice and data traffic through the provisions of funding for the further development of these community and regional networks and infrastructure.