Mowi’s and Ian Roberts and Diane Morrison were honoured by the Kitasoo Xai’xais First Nation during a ceremony and dinner in the coastal village of Klemtu, celebrating the partnership between the salmon producer and the Nation.
The blanketing ceremony, a symbol of respect in First Nation culture, acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions to the community. The honoured guests are draped with special blankets in front of witnesses.
Communications Director Ian Roberts, who announced his departure from the salmon producer earlier this year, was part of the company’s delegation that negotiated a groundbreaking agreement in the mid-1990s, and served as the first Production Manager in the Territory from 1998-2008. The Nation wished to honour his contribution ahead of his departure in August.
“It was an honour of a lifetime to be invited back into the community and be honoured in this way. Hearing ‘welcome home’ from friends made over 25 years ago absolutely warms my heart,” said Roberts.
Diane Morrison, who first arrived in Kitasoo Xai’xais Territory in 2000 as a veterinarian with Mowi (then Marine Harvest), is now Managing Director. The Nation honoured her dedication and commitment to the People of Klemtu in her leadership role.
Katie Maximick from the Coalition of First Nations for Finfish Stewardship and Susan Smith from Bluesky Strategy Group were also blanketed for their support in helping the Nation engage with the Canadian Government amid challenging political conditions.
“Klemtu and the Kitasoo/Xai’xais Nation community hold a very special place in my heart. I was extremely proud and honoured to be blanketed by the Nation,” said Diane Morrison, Mowi Canada West Managing Director.
Isaiah Robinson, CEO of Kitasoo Development Corporation, commented on the partnership’s significance: “As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, it’s clear that the salmon farming sector remains a vital catalyst for our Nation’s success. The blanketing ceremony reflects the hard work of colleagues at all levels, ensuring our voices are heard and we are well represented.”
The celebration at the Big House included a community dinner featuring traditional Bannock and salmon, traditional dancing around the open fire, and speeches from community members and leaders thanking Mowi staff for their commitment to community values.
From its beginnings in the late 1980s, the partnership between the Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation and Mowi now yields 10,000 tons of salmon annually from six farm sites in the Territory. They produce Klemtu Spirit Smoked Salmon, available at leading retailers across Canada.
