Brian Francis hopes to use his resounding nod to a second term as chief of the Abegweit First Nation to help further grow the band’s economy.
Francis, first elected as chief in 2007, received 85 votes last Thursday to place well ahead of challengers Deana Beaton (10 votes) and Reg Bernard (six votes).
Darren Knockwood ousted councillor and former chief Francis Jadis. Danny Levi was re-elected councillor, defeating four other candidates.
Francis says he is “really thankful’’ to the community for their overwhelming support.
His priority as chief is to work towards continued economic development due to insufficient federal funding to the Abegweit First Nation — a community comprised of Scotchfort, Rocky Point and Morell.
Francis, 53, wants to expand on the commercial fishery that is the band’s primary source of income.
Red Stone Fisheries started under his leadership in 2009 as a buyer of lobster, herring, mackerel and other fish on eight wharves, selling the product to processors.
A major expansion to the Abegweit Gas Bar and Convenience Centre in Scotchfort was completed in June. The business is a strong economic driver for the band.
Francis is also looking to place continued emphasis in increasing the recent post-secondary success enjoyed among the community of more than 450 residents.
Bringing the GED program directly to the reserve has proven a tremendous success, he notes.
“If you are going to have a thriving community, you have to have an educated community,’’ said Francis.
Francis was born and raised on the Lennox Island reserve.
A Red Seal licensed carpenter, he has 20 years work experience with the federal government. He has taken long-term leave from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to serve as chief.
He lives in Rocky Point with his wife, Georgina. The couple has three children.
