LIIDLII KUE/FORT SIMPSON - On Nov. 14 Chief Jim Antoine wants to see the Fort Simpson recreation centre filled with members of the Liidlii Kue First Nation.

Chief Jim Antoine of the Liidlii Kue First Nation looks at the summary document that was produced during the first stage of the band's strategic planning process. - Roxanna Thompson/NNSL photo

The band is continuing its process of strategic planning on Saturday. Following their election in June, chief and council developed the idea of holding planning sessions to assess where the First Nation is at and identify areas where work can be done during this term and decide the band's position on key issues.

The first session was held from Aug. 19 to 20.

"It was a good cross section of people who attended it," said Antoine.

The first session, however, was held mid-week and many band members who have full time jobs were unable to attend. This session was scheduled for a Saturday to make it more convenient, said Antoine.

"I wanted to include everybody," he said.

The upcoming session is expected to pick up where the first left off. Members brought up all of their different concerns in August, said Antoine.

These included economic development and infrastructure, culture, education and training, governance and communications. Saturday's session is expected to review the most pressing concerns and prioritize them.

The end goal is to create a plan of what can be done in three years and what can be done in five years, he said.

"(We're) developing a pretty solid foundation to stand on with the plan," said Antoine.

In addition to the general sessions, the band held an economic planning session from Sept. 2 to 3. Approximately 20 people made broad recommendations on plans for economic development.

"We see it as the key for us to get involved in business," said Antoine.

One suggestion that came out of the session was for the band to develop their lots in the village, possibly by building housing units on them. Members also said that the band needs to be a major player in any developments that take place in the area, including the Mackenzie Gas Pipeline and the Prairie Creek Mine, Antoine said.

Along with economic possibilities, Saturday's session will also involve working on a mission statement for the band. A draft statement has been developed to convey the purpose of the organization.

"You'd be amazed how much debate went into it," said Antoine.

The draft statement reads: "We the Liidlii Kue got'ine', guided by Dene principles and values, will be educated, proud, strong, unified, self-sufficient and self-governing people who respect our culture, language, youth, elders and each others' voices and spirituality as we are the keepers of our traditional lands and peoples' health forever."

The council wants to adopt the statement if members approve, said Antoine.

The planning session will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be a fire feeding ceremony at 9 a.m. and a potluck dinner and a drum dance will follow the session.