0:00:00 > 0:00:00- 888
0:00:00 > 0:00:02- 888- - 888
0:00:04 > 0:00:09- I'm Iolo Williams and I'm travelling - across North America...
0:00:09 > 0:00:15- ..visiting Native American tribes, - from the Navajo to the Cherokee...
0:00:16 > 0:00:19- ..from the wild west - to the mountains of the north.
0:00:19 > 0:00:24- These were the inhabitants - of this incredible continent.
0:00:24 > 0:00:28- I'm here to learn about the people, - their culture, language...
0:00:29 > 0:00:32- ..spiritual beliefs - and harmony with nature.
0:00:34 > 0:00:38- I want to know what we can learn - from this unique way of life.
0:00:38 > 0:00:41- Join me on a journey of discovery...
0:00:42 > 0:00:45- ..across one of the world's - most striking continents.
0:00:55 > 0:00:59- I've travelled all the way - to eastern Canada...
0:01:00 > 0:01:03- ..and Nova Scotia's Atlantic coast.
0:01:03 > 0:01:06- The Native American tribe - that lives here...
0:01:07 > 0:01:09- ..has mastered both land and sea.
0:01:09 > 0:01:12- Welcome to the land of the Mi'kmaq.
0:01:13 > 0:01:18- This is the story of one of eastern - Canada's most prominent tribes...
0:01:18 > 0:01:22- ..as they cross the threshold - into the industrial world.
0:01:23 > 0:01:27- They are experienced hunters - and fishermen.
0:01:27 > 0:01:30- Their expertise at sea - has seen them develop...
0:01:31 > 0:01:34- ..from small-time fishermen - to big businesses.
0:01:34 > 0:01:38- But how does a nation, - self-sufficient for centuries...
0:01:38 > 0:01:42- ..deal with the financial allure - of the commercial world?
0:01:42 > 0:01:45- They're murderers.
0:01:45 > 0:01:49- I'm on a journey that will make me - question my belief in humans...
0:01:50 > 0:01:52- ..and their treatment of nature.
0:01:53 > 0:01:55- I'll meet believers and defenders...
0:01:55 > 0:01:57- It's a trap, Tim!
0:01:58 > 0:02:00- ..hunters and fishermen...
0:02:00 > 0:02:02- No, no, no!
0:02:02 > 0:02:07- ..as I try to understand these people - and their future.
0:02:07 > 0:02:11- This is the story - of the little fish in the big pond.
0:02:12 > 0:02:14- This is the story of the Mi'kmaq.
0:02:18 > 0:02:21- My journey begins in Cape Breton, - Nova Scotia...
0:02:22 > 0:02:25- ..on the outskirts - of Bras d'Or Lake...
0:02:25 > 0:02:30- ..in the native town of Eskasoni, - the centre of Mi'kmaq territory.
0:02:30 > 0:02:36- It's a vast and picturesque area, - dotted with lakes and woodland.
0:02:36 > 0:02:40- The town is home - to the largest Mi'kmaq community.
0:02:41 > 0:02:45- The Mi'kmaq have always had - an affinity with water...
0:02:45 > 0:02:49- ..coexisting with the marine world - surrounding them.
0:02:49 > 0:02:54- These supreme canoeists and anglers - lived in seasonal camps.
0:02:55 > 0:02:57- But during the 1940s...
0:02:57 > 0:03:01- ..following centuries of fighting - for their territory...
0:03:01 > 0:03:05- ..the tribe was forced to move - from their vast camps...
0:03:05 > 0:03:08- ..to small towns such as Eskasoni.
0:03:08 > 0:03:11- The migration proved problematic.
0:03:11 > 0:03:15- Houses and jobs were scarce - in these new communities.
0:03:15 > 0:03:19- Nowadays, the people - control their own affairs...
0:03:19 > 0:03:23- ..and the atmosphere - is far more positive here.
0:03:24 > 0:03:27- I'm driving around Eskasoni...
0:03:27 > 0:03:32- ..and it seems to be - a fairly wealthy area.
0:03:32 > 0:03:37- The other towns I've visited - in Native American territory...
0:03:38 > 0:03:42- ..have been very run-down, - but this place is well looked after.
0:03:42 > 0:03:45- I wonder where the money comes from?
0:03:53 > 0:03:55- I'm passing through the town...
0:03:55 > 0:03:59- ..on my way to meet Lawrence Paul - and his family.
0:03:59 > 0:04:01- I don't know much about him...
0:04:01 > 0:04:06- ..but if I want to know more - about hunting and fishing...
0:04:06 > 0:04:08- ..apparently he's the man.
0:04:08 > 0:04:11- He's supposed to be - an expert fisherman.
0:04:11 > 0:04:14- I want to see - how they live here now...
0:04:14 > 0:04:16- ..and how they fish and so on.
0:04:16 > 0:04:19- He has invited me - to stay with him tonight.
0:04:19 > 0:04:23- He's going to take me - to his lakeside hunting camp.
0:04:24 > 0:04:26- Lawrence is a commercial fisherman.
0:04:27 > 0:04:30- He spends most of the year - fishing in the Atlantic Ocean.
0:04:31 > 0:04:36- He's one of many who have transformed - sustainable fishing...
0:04:36 > 0:04:38- ..into a very lucrative living.
0:04:39 > 0:04:41- Hello, nice to meet you.
0:04:41 > 0:04:43- It's a pleasure. Welcome to Canada.
0:04:43 > 0:04:45- It's a pleasure. Welcome to Canada.- - Thank you very much indeed.
0:04:45 > 0:04:51- Judging by the expensive machines, - fishing clearly pays well.
0:04:52 > 0:04:55- It's obvious you're doing well...
0:04:55 > 0:04:58- ..judging by the boat, - the Harley and skidoos.
0:04:59 > 0:05:02- I take it that fishing - has paid for all this?
0:05:03 > 0:05:09- Yes, it has paid for my house, - my boat and everything you see.
0:05:10 > 0:05:13- Can we go and have a look around?
0:05:13 > 0:05:17- Yes, come and see - where all the work goes on.
0:05:17 > 0:05:19- Let's go in.
0:05:21 > 0:05:26- As I step into his hunting - and fishing workshop...
0:05:26 > 0:05:29- ..the first thing I see - is a bear in the freezer.
0:05:29 > 0:05:31- This is a bear I hunted recently.
0:05:32 > 0:05:37- Bear and moose are our main sources - of food. We keep the meat frozen.
0:05:37 > 0:05:42- Long ago, the Mi'kmaq would have - dried the meat in their camps...
0:05:42 > 0:05:48- ..but modern technology now controls - the lives of people such as Lawrence.
0:05:49 > 0:05:52- This is a huge tuna that I caught.
0:05:52 > 0:05:55- It weighed 660 pounds.
0:05:56 > 0:06:00- It took two and a half hours - to haul it onto the boat.
0:06:00 > 0:06:06- This is me on our crab boat.
0:06:06 > 0:06:10- I caught so many crabs - that the boat was full.
0:06:11 > 0:06:13- Lawrence also explains...
0:06:13 > 0:06:17- ..that he enjoys hunting - for animal fur...
0:06:17 > 0:06:19- ..and how important it is...
0:06:19 > 0:06:23- ..for his children - to learn traditional skills.
0:06:23 > 0:06:28- This is what I do for a living - and I love it.
0:06:28 > 0:06:30- He's quite a character.
0:06:31 > 0:06:34- I've really warmed to him.
0:06:34 > 0:06:37- He's very candid - and honest about things.
0:06:38 > 0:06:43- He's a bit of a bad boy - who has mended his ways.
0:06:43 > 0:06:46- That gives him character.
0:06:46 > 0:06:49- He's a little - on the mischievous side...
0:06:49 > 0:06:52- ..but he's nice enough.
0:06:53 > 0:06:55- He's a very likeable chap.
0:06:56 > 0:07:02- It's time for us - to go to the fishing camp...
0:07:02 > 0:07:06- ..where we'll show you - the Mi'kmaq way of life.
0:07:06 > 0:07:10- Thank you very much. - That would be lovely.
0:07:13 > 0:07:16- I arrange to meet Lawrence - at the camp...
0:07:16 > 0:07:19- ..so that I can take in - the Mi'kmaq's landscape.
0:07:20 > 0:07:24- Driving out of town, - I appreciate the wooded landscape.
0:07:24 > 0:07:26- It will be interesting...
0:07:26 > 0:07:30- ..to find out - about the native fisherman's craft...
0:07:31 > 0:07:36- ..and whether the spiritual and - sustainable traditions still exist.
0:07:42 > 0:07:44- After an hour's drive - from Eskasoni...
0:07:45 > 0:07:48- ..I reach the camp - and step into a different world.
0:07:48 > 0:07:53- The sweet sound of birdsong - has replaced the drone of the town.
0:07:53 > 0:07:57- Here, the front lawn is a huge lake.
0:07:59 > 0:08:05- This is an incredible place, - I must say.
0:08:05 > 0:08:08- How did you come to own - this plot of land?
0:08:09 > 0:08:13- We're legally entitled - to choose our own land now.
0:08:13 > 0:08:20- Specific boundaries have been set...
0:08:20 > 0:08:27- ..but within them, we're free - to hunt and fish as we please.
0:08:28 > 0:08:35- The white man is not allowed - to hunt or fish on this land...
0:08:35 > 0:08:38- ..unless he has been invited by me.
0:08:39 > 0:08:41- Thank you for inviting me.
0:08:41 > 0:08:44- It's a unique place - and I'm looking forward...
0:08:44 > 0:08:49- ..to going hunting and fishing - with you later.
0:08:50 > 0:08:55- Sooner than expected, Lawrence shows - the traditional fishing methods.
0:08:55 > 0:08:59- They're going to concentrate - on a small inlet...
0:09:00 > 0:09:04- ..a small area of the lake, - but just look at the boat.
0:09:04 > 0:09:09- This man has plenty of money - but you'd never think it.
0:09:09 > 0:09:13- He's an ordinary bloke - with an ordinary boat.
0:09:14 > 0:09:16- Fair play to him.
0:09:16 > 0:09:20- I hope he doesn't ask me to row. - I haven't rowed in years.
0:09:20 > 0:09:23- I was no good then. - I'm probably worse now.
0:09:28 > 0:09:32- I'm a little uncomfortable - as we leave the bank.
0:09:34 > 0:09:38- I start to notice water - flowing into the boat.
0:09:46 > 0:09:50- The situation - goes from bad to worse.
0:09:53 > 0:09:55- This doesn't bode well.
0:09:56 > 0:09:58- Take it down to there. South.
0:10:00 > 0:10:05- Lawrence works me hard as I try - to steer the boat to the right spot.
0:10:09 > 0:10:11- At last, the nets are set.
0:10:12 > 0:10:16- For my sake, I hope - that it has all been worthwhile.
0:10:25 > 0:10:27- It was a simple process.
0:10:27 > 0:10:30- You obviously have to know - your fish.
0:10:31 > 0:10:36- My family have been fishing - in this area for centuries...
0:10:36 > 0:10:41- ..so we understand the nature - of the fish and the water.
0:10:41 > 0:10:46- The tradition belief is to leave - enough fish for tomorrow...
0:10:46 > 0:10:49- ..in order to secure the future.
0:10:50 > 0:10:54- What's the principle - behind commercial fishing?
0:10:54 > 0:10:57- Is it to catch as much as you can...
0:10:58 > 0:11:00- ..or is it something else?
0:11:00 > 0:11:08- If there are plenty of fish - in the water...
0:11:08 > 0:11:14- ..and the quotas the government - have given us correspond to that...
0:11:15 > 0:11:20- ..then I'll catch as many as I can.
0:11:20 > 0:11:23- Lawrence's belief makes sense.
0:11:23 > 0:11:28- They have the right to take as much - as they want from the land as food.
0:11:28 > 0:11:31- But how does this work - in the modern world?
0:11:32 > 0:11:37- Is it naive to believe this when the - fishing industry is worth millions?
0:11:37 > 0:11:41- It's difficult to marry - these two characters.
0:11:41 > 0:11:44- The man who is considerate - to nature...
0:11:44 > 0:11:48- ..who only takes what he needs - for his family...
0:11:48 > 0:11:51- ..and the man who goes out - onto the open sea...
0:11:51 > 0:11:55- ..and makes a fortune - from his yield.
0:11:55 > 0:11:58- I don't fully understand it yet.
0:11:59 > 0:12:04- I might come to understand it, - but I don't at the moment.
0:12:07 > 0:12:07- .
0:12:13 > 0:12:13- 888
0:12:13 > 0:12:15- 888- - 888
0:12:18 > 0:12:21- I'm in Nova Scotia, - on Canada's Atlantic coast.
0:12:22 > 0:12:24- It's home to the Mi'kmaq tribe.
0:12:24 > 0:12:28- Commercial fishing - is the main industry here.
0:12:28 > 0:12:34- I've come to discover whether - the traditional mindset still exists.
0:12:35 > 0:12:38- Lawrence Paul - is a commercial fisherman.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42- I've been invited - to his fishing camp.
0:12:43 > 0:12:46- I've got up in time - for a traditional breakfast.
0:12:46 > 0:12:49- The boys have been out - catching wild oysters.
0:12:52 > 0:12:54- I'm going to try one.
0:13:03 > 0:13:09- Be careful, - you'll get quite a kick from it!
0:13:09 > 0:13:11- That was nice.
0:13:12 > 0:13:15- It didn't taste of much, - to be honest.
0:13:15 > 0:13:20- It's said that they're good for you. - They're meant to be an aphrodisiac.
0:13:20 > 0:13:23- That's why I got so many children.
0:13:25 > 0:13:28- He said that's the reason - he has so many children.
0:13:35 > 0:13:37- From one tradition to another.
0:13:37 > 0:13:40- We go back to the lake - to pull up the nets.
0:13:40 > 0:13:44- Lawrence hasn't held - any kind of spiritual ceremony...
0:13:45 > 0:13:47- ..nor has he mentioned it.
0:13:50 > 0:13:54- Normally, before you go hunting - or fishing...
0:13:54 > 0:13:57- ..do you conduct - any kind of ceremony?
0:13:57 > 0:14:03- As a Mi'kmaq, I'm meant to thank - the creator for giving me this food.
0:14:03 > 0:14:09- The next fishing trip - will then be even more successful.
0:14:09 > 0:14:14- It shows respect for Mother Nature.
0:14:14 > 0:14:17- As we pull the nets - towards the boat...
0:14:17 > 0:14:20- ..our hopes are completely dashed.
0:14:21 > 0:14:24- We've only netted - one small fish today.
0:14:24 > 0:14:26- Now I will do my offering.
0:14:27 > 0:14:30- The traditional way - of offering as Mi'kmaq.
0:14:30 > 0:14:34- The way my ancestors have taught me.
0:14:34 > 0:14:37- I'm asking the creator - for a gift of food...
0:14:37 > 0:14:40- ..and to be generous to my family...
0:14:41 > 0:14:49- ..so that next time I go - to the net, there'll be more fish.
0:14:50 > 0:14:55- Lawrence sprinkles tobacco on the - water as an offering to the creator.
0:14:55 > 0:15:00- The belief is that tobacco unites - the people with the creator...
0:15:00 > 0:15:03- ..and enables them - to commune with his spirit.
0:15:03 > 0:15:09- I doubt whether the same ceremony - is conducted on the open sea.
0:15:12 > 0:15:16- I've got off to a good start - with the native fisherman.
0:15:16 > 0:15:21- But is Lawrence a modern fisherman - remembering old traditions...
0:15:21 > 0:15:27- ..rather than one believing - in his ancestors' spiritual beliefs?
0:15:27 > 0:15:29- It has been an interesting morning.
0:15:30 > 0:15:32- I'm a bit disappointed...
0:15:33 > 0:15:35- ..that we only caught one fish.
0:15:35 > 0:15:38- He has invited me - to join him and his crew...
0:15:38 > 0:15:43- ..when they go industrial fishing - at sea for tons of fish.
0:15:43 > 0:15:49- To me, that doesn't fit in - with the Mi'kmaq way of life.
0:15:49 > 0:15:52- I'm looking forward - to spending time with him...
0:15:53 > 0:15:56- ..and getting the chance - to talk to him properly.
0:16:03 > 0:16:09- Fishing has always been - an integral part of Mi'kmaq life.
0:16:09 > 0:16:13- A nomadic tribe, they lived - in camps alongside the water...
0:16:13 > 0:16:17- ..fishing and hunting - in rhythm with the seasons.
0:16:18 > 0:16:21- But when European settlers arrived...
0:16:21 > 0:16:24- ..their traditional way of life - was threatened.
0:16:25 > 0:16:29- An agreement was drawn up between - the Mi'kmaq and the Europeans...
0:16:29 > 0:16:33- ..that guaranteed the tribe's right - to fish commercially.
0:16:34 > 0:16:37- But as the white man - became more powerful...
0:16:37 > 0:16:41- ..the agreement was ignored - and the tribe betrayed.
0:16:41 > 0:16:46- They were forced to move into towns - and lost their fishing rights.
0:16:46 > 0:16:48- In 1999, everything changed.
0:16:48 > 0:16:53- Native fisherman Donald Marshall Jr - won a crucial court case.
0:16:53 > 0:16:58- It gave the Mi'kmaq the right to fish - commercially without a licence.
0:16:59 > 0:17:05- But is the power of their new wealth - leading them to abuse that freedom?
0:17:07 > 0:17:11- After leaving Lawrence, - I'm given a day's work experience...
0:17:12 > 0:17:14- ..with Phil Prosper and Tim Cremo.
0:17:14 > 0:17:19- They are fishery officers employed - by Canada's federal government.
0:17:21 > 0:17:24- They patrol Mi'kmaq waters...
0:17:24 > 0:17:28- ..and maintain amicable relations - between the tribe and the government.
0:17:29 > 0:17:32- Man, I wouldn't argue with you. - Look at the size of you.
0:17:33 > 0:17:35- Or you, because you've got a gun.
0:17:35 > 0:17:39- I wanted to come along - because they patrol the sea.
0:17:39 > 0:17:44- It's obvious that this treaty - is very important to the Mi'kmaq.
0:17:45 > 0:17:49- I want to know how it works - and its effect on the fishermen.
0:17:49 > 0:17:53- I hope these lads - have the answers for me. Off we go.
0:17:53 > 0:17:55- Jump on board, is it, guys?
0:17:56 > 0:17:58- Yeah, we're ready.
0:18:07 > 0:18:10- The men patrol a vast expanse - of water on Cape Breton.
0:18:11 > 0:18:15- Bras d'Or Lake - is Nova Scotia's largest lake.
0:18:15 > 0:18:18- It's home to a wide variety - of marine life.
0:18:24 > 0:18:27- Only when you're out on a boat...
0:18:27 > 0:18:31- ..do you realize - how vast this stretch of water is.
0:18:31 > 0:18:37- There is big money to be made - from lobster and crab fishing.
0:18:37 > 0:18:42- You can see how difficult it is - to patrol an area this size...
0:18:42 > 0:18:46- ..and how easy it would be - for poachers to come out here...
0:18:47 > 0:18:51- ..and make thousands of pounds - every year.
0:18:55 > 0:18:57- There's a trap, Tim.
0:18:58 > 0:19:02- The lads have spotted some traps - up ahead.
0:19:02 > 0:19:04- They're going to check them.
0:19:04 > 0:19:07- I'm not sure - whether they're illegal traps.
0:19:08 > 0:19:10- We'll soon see.
0:19:14 > 0:19:17- Oh, Tim, - I think these are spat collectors.
0:19:17 > 0:19:21- Yeah, spat collectors. - It's for mussels. Oysters?
0:19:21 > 0:19:24- So this is not a trap.
0:19:25 > 0:19:27- It wasn't a trap after all.
0:19:27 > 0:19:30- They grow small oysters in them.
0:19:30 > 0:19:33- They have to check everything, - of course.
0:19:33 > 0:19:36- Illegal traps - dotted here and there...
0:19:36 > 0:19:38- ..catch hundreds of crabs.
0:19:40 > 0:19:44- Tim spots something else - further along.
0:19:44 > 0:19:47- There are two traps here.
0:19:50 > 0:19:52- Bring it right aboard.
0:19:55 > 0:20:00- I'm not sure whether these traps - are legal or illegal.
0:20:00 > 0:20:04- They think this might be legal - because there are tags on it.
0:20:04 > 0:20:08- Is this one legal or illegal, Phil?
0:20:08 > 0:20:10- This trap is fine.
0:20:11 > 0:20:15- It belongs to a local - commercial fishing company.
0:20:15 > 0:20:20- This could catch - up to 15 lobsters in a day.
0:20:21 > 0:20:25- How much money could they make - in a year?
0:20:25 > 0:20:30- One man could make hundreds - of thousands a year from this.
0:20:30 > 0:20:33- That's a lot of money.
0:20:33 > 0:20:38- Phil goes on to explain - that poaching is relatively easy...
0:20:38 > 0:20:40- ..in a vast area like this.
0:20:40 > 0:20:45- That makes me wonder - about the seas beyond.
0:20:45 > 0:20:48- Do you think the seas are suffering?
0:20:49 > 0:20:52- The small, native fishermen - aren't damaging the seas.
0:20:53 > 0:20:58- They only catch 0.1% of the lobsters - that the big companies catch.
0:20:58 > 0:21:02- Commercial fishing - is the problem, in my opinion.
0:21:12 > 0:21:16- I'm starting to see - the bigger picture now.
0:21:16 > 0:21:21- I'm understanding how things work - on land and at sea.
0:21:23 > 0:21:29- It's becoming clear that whatever - the Mi'kmaq do locally...
0:21:30 > 0:21:35- ..has no bearing - on the animals or the fish.
0:21:35 > 0:21:42- The problem is commercial fishing - out on the open sea.
0:21:42 > 0:21:46- It'll be interesting accompanying - Lawrence on his huge boat...
0:21:47 > 0:21:53- ..to see how much fish they catch - and how much damage they're doing.
0:21:53 > 0:21:59- That's what goes against - the Mi'kmaq's traditional beliefs.
0:22:00 > 0:22:03- That's the thing that causes - the most damage.
0:22:03 > 0:22:07- Damage on a global scale - in terms of the fish.
0:22:11 > 0:22:11- .
0:22:13 > 0:22:13- 888
0:22:13 > 0:22:15- 888- - 888
0:22:20 > 0:22:24- It's 5.00am and I've been invited - to accompany a group of hunters.
0:22:25 > 0:22:30- They're a group that hunt - in the traditional Mi'kmaq way.
0:22:30 > 0:22:33- They're hunting moose this morning.
0:22:33 > 0:22:36- I'm meeting them here, - outside the restaurant.
0:22:36 > 0:22:41- There's no sign of them yet, - but I hope they won't be too long.
0:22:43 > 0:22:45- Here they are.
0:22:47 > 0:22:51- After a five-minute wait, - the men arrive and are half asleep.
0:22:51 > 0:22:54- Danny? Iolo. Nice to meet you.
0:22:55 > 0:22:57- Hiya, boys. Nice to meet you.
0:22:57 > 0:23:01- There's Ron, Joe, Cliffy.
0:23:01 > 0:23:03- How are you? Good to see you.
0:23:04 > 0:23:06- Bright and early. Ready to go?
0:23:06 > 0:23:08- Yes, sir.
0:23:09 > 0:23:12- Do you need all that coffee?
0:23:13 > 0:23:17- Hunters in this area do nothing - without having a coffee first.
0:23:19 > 0:23:24- I ignore everything I was taught - as a child and follow strangers...
0:23:25 > 0:23:27- ..into the darkness.
0:23:32 > 0:23:36- We have to cross the water - to get to the forest.
0:23:36 > 0:23:39- In days gone by, - hunters would have crossed by canoe.
0:23:40 > 0:23:45- Nowadays, the ferry and the car - have made things easier.
0:23:49 > 0:23:52- Before we reach the forest, - the hunters pull over.
0:23:54 > 0:23:56- This is rather strange.
0:23:57 > 0:24:01- Usually, hunters wear dark clothing.
0:24:01 > 0:24:06- But there are many, many hunters - across Canada and America.
0:24:06 > 0:24:11- They accidentally shoot each other - and thousands die each year.
0:24:11 > 0:24:14- Everybody now wears one of these.
0:24:14 > 0:24:17- It's very bright - to let other hunters know...
0:24:18 > 0:24:20- ..that it's a person.
0:24:20 > 0:24:23- There are far fewer accidents - as a result.
0:24:25 > 0:24:28- The hunt is led - by a man called Danny Paul.
0:24:28 > 0:24:33- He's a builder by trade, but in his - spare time, he teaches young men...
0:24:33 > 0:24:38- ..about the spiritual traditions - associated with hunting.
0:24:44 > 0:24:46- Before I have time - to talk to Danny...
0:24:47 > 0:24:49- ..a ceremony begins.
0:25:00 > 0:25:03- I watch as Danny fans smoke - over the hunters.
0:25:04 > 0:25:06- My turn approaches.
0:25:09 > 0:25:11- It's like being at an altar.
0:25:11 > 0:25:13- That's the intention.
0:25:13 > 0:25:16- This is an offering to the gods.
0:25:16 > 0:25:19- Food, drink and tobacco.
0:25:25 > 0:25:27- He's burning sage here.
0:25:27 > 0:25:33- He's using a golden eagle feather - to fan the smoke over us all.
0:25:39 > 0:25:41- What went on back there?
0:25:41 > 0:25:48- We offered food to the creator - and cleaned it with sage smoke.
0:25:48 > 0:25:53- I then cleansed every hunter, - so we're ready for the hunt now.
0:25:53 > 0:25:56- Does everybody do this - before going hunting?
0:25:58 > 0:26:02- Danny explains that they - are the only Mi'kmaq hunters...
0:26:02 > 0:26:05- ..to conduct - the traditional ceremonies.
0:26:05 > 0:26:09- Why doesn't everybody do it nowadays?
0:26:10 > 0:26:15- I don't know. - They've forgotten, lost their way.
0:26:17 > 0:26:19- It's sad to hear...
0:26:19 > 0:26:24- ..that these are the only hunters - who do it in this entire area.
0:26:25 > 0:26:29- Of the thousands of hunters, - these are the only ones who do it.
0:26:29 > 0:26:33- He didn't know why others didn't. - They just go out and shoot.
0:26:33 > 0:26:36- They've forgotten - the old traditions.
0:26:36 > 0:26:38- But they live on in these people.
0:26:39 > 0:26:43- It's great that young people - are learning from him too.
0:26:43 > 0:26:45- On we go. It's getting light.
0:26:53 > 0:26:58- Within minutes, one of the hunters - spots a moose in the trees.
0:27:00 > 0:27:03- It's looking right at me.
0:27:05 > 0:27:08- HE FIRES GUN
0:27:09 > 0:27:11- It's all happened at once.
0:27:11 > 0:27:14- There was a young male moose here.
0:27:14 > 0:27:19- It has run that way - and one of the lads has chased it.
0:27:20 > 0:27:24- We're going to cut through here - to head it off.
0:27:38 > 0:27:39- GUNSHOT
0:27:43 > 0:27:45- He's here!
0:27:50 > 0:27:52- GUNSHOT
0:27:53 > 0:27:55- He was lying here.
0:27:56 > 0:27:59- It's still warm where he was lying.
0:28:09 > 0:28:11- GUNSHOT
0:28:14 > 0:28:16- GUNSHOT
0:28:17 > 0:28:19- Got it!
0:28:19 > 0:28:21- They've got it.
0:28:21 > 0:28:24- As I realize - that the moose has been shot...
0:28:24 > 0:28:27- ..a sense of sadness washes over me.
0:28:46 > 0:28:48- OK, he's done.
0:28:50 > 0:28:53- This is a two-year-old bull.
0:28:53 > 0:28:55- He's already a big animal.
0:28:56 > 0:28:59- I have mixed feelings - about things like this.
0:28:59 > 0:29:03- Fair play to them, - they're traditional hunters...
0:29:03 > 0:29:05- ..despite using guns.
0:29:05 > 0:29:09- But these are very dignified animals.
0:29:09 > 0:29:13- And unique - there are no animals - like them in the world.
0:29:13 > 0:29:16- He's ready to conduct - another ceremony now.
0:29:23 > 0:29:28- I remember going on a trip once - to South Georgia, near Antarctica.
0:29:29 > 0:29:34- An American on the same trip - was about to shoot a caribou.
0:29:35 > 0:29:38- He shot the animal, - and I had nothing against that...
0:29:39 > 0:29:41- ..because he was going - to eat the meat.
0:29:41 > 0:29:46- But the disrespect he showed - for the animal has stayed with me.
0:29:46 > 0:29:48- He was laughing - and taking photographs.
0:29:49 > 0:29:53- The contrast between that - and the respect shown here...
0:29:54 > 0:29:56- ..is very striking.
0:29:59 > 0:30:02- What's the significance - of the smoke?
0:30:03 > 0:30:06- The ceremonial smoke - helps the moose's spirit to depart.
0:30:06 > 0:30:10- It's time for it to return now.
0:30:11 > 0:30:14- As the hunters - finish the ceremony...
0:30:15 > 0:30:18- ..I say goodbye to the moose - in my own way.
0:30:18 > 0:30:21- Are you at all saddened...
0:30:21 > 0:30:25- ..by the fact - that you've taken a life like this?
0:30:26 > 0:30:29- Yes, that's why - I perform the ceremony.
0:30:29 > 0:30:35- I'm asking forgiveness - for taking the animal's life.
0:30:35 > 0:30:40- There is regret - but also happiness...
0:30:40 > 0:30:47- ..because we have food - and hides for our drums.
0:30:49 > 0:30:53- As the body is dragged away, - the moose stops being an animal...
0:30:53 > 0:30:57- ..and becomes sustenance - for the community...
0:30:57 > 0:31:01- ..especially for those - who have no men to hunt for them.
0:31:02 > 0:31:06- Evan, the young man, - is called on to gut the animal.
0:31:07 > 0:31:10- This is the first time - that he has been given the honour.
0:31:11 > 0:31:14- It's a vital step - in his spiritual education.
0:31:14 > 0:31:18- It's the first time you've gutted - a moose. How do you feel?
0:31:18 > 0:31:22- I'm gonna feel pretty tired after, - but I still feel good though.
0:31:23 > 0:31:25- It's a big animal - for your first one too.
0:31:26 > 0:31:27- Oh, yeah.
0:31:27 > 0:31:28- Oh, yeah.- - Good lad.
0:31:28 > 0:31:30- Do you want me to hold the leg?
0:31:31 > 0:31:33- You gotta skin it open.
0:31:33 > 0:31:36- Evan begins the process...
0:31:36 > 0:31:38- ..while the others help.
0:31:38 > 0:31:40- It's the same procedure...
0:31:41 > 0:31:44- ..as his ancestors - carried out centuries ago.
0:31:44 > 0:31:46- Starting from the neck...
0:31:47 > 0:31:50- ..he'll open it up and skin it...
0:31:50 > 0:31:53- ..before gutting it.
0:31:54 > 0:31:57- It's an unforgettable experience - for Evan.
0:31:58 > 0:32:00- Danny guides him - every step of the way.
0:32:00 > 0:32:03- I ask him about his own experiences.
0:32:03 > 0:32:06- Who taught you to do this?
0:32:07 > 0:32:12- My father taught me - to dissect the animal in this way.
0:32:13 > 0:32:17- Danny recalls doing the same thing - to a deer.
0:32:17 > 0:32:21- He said that it was - a very important day for him.
0:32:22 > 0:32:26- Today, he is happy to enrich - Evan's life with his expertise.
0:32:29 > 0:32:33- It's good to see that you - use every part of the animal.
0:32:34 > 0:32:36- But what do the other hunters do?
0:32:36 > 0:32:41- White hunters take the trophy head - and leave the animal.
0:32:42 > 0:32:44- But the Indians, we take everything.
0:32:45 > 0:32:47- The guts will be to feed the eagles.
0:32:47 > 0:32:50- Every part of this animal - will be used.
0:32:51 > 0:32:55- How does that make you feel - when people shoot the animal...
0:32:55 > 0:32:59- ..take the head - and leave all the meat?
0:33:00 > 0:33:05- I feel sorry for the animal - that's been left there like that.
0:33:05 > 0:33:08- Makes me sad.
0:33:08 > 0:33:12- Them ones, they're not - the providers or the hunters.
0:33:18 > 0:33:20- They're committing murder.
0:33:23 > 0:33:27- I understand now that the future - of traditional hunting...
0:33:28 > 0:33:30- ..lies in the hands of these men.
0:33:30 > 0:33:33- These are the last ones - to kill an animal...
0:33:33 > 0:33:37- ..not for a trophy - or financial reward...
0:33:37 > 0:33:40- ..but for the sake of the community.
0:33:43 > 0:33:46- I never like to see - wild animals killed...
0:33:46 > 0:33:48- ..but there is a purpose to this.
0:33:49 > 0:33:55- They're going to use the meat - and distribute it.
0:33:55 > 0:34:00- It's great to see the old traditions - being practised.
0:34:00 > 0:34:03- From the beginning, - with the ceremony...
0:34:03 > 0:34:06- ..right through to the end.
0:34:06 > 0:34:12- It's great that the young lads - are learning from Danny.
0:34:12 > 0:34:15- He's passing on his knowledge - to them...
0:34:16 > 0:34:19- ..so that they too - can pass it on in time.
0:34:19 > 0:34:25- It has been a real eye-opener - and a very interesting morning.
0:34:27 > 0:34:27- .
0:34:34 > 0:34:34- 888
0:34:34 > 0:34:36- 888- - 888
0:34:39 > 0:34:43- I'm in Mi'kmaq territory - in Canada's Nova Scotia...
0:34:44 > 0:34:47- ..to learn more - about their affinity with nature.
0:34:47 > 0:34:51- The Mi'kmaq are masters - of the lakes and seas.
0:34:51 > 0:34:54- Many have used their skills...
0:34:55 > 0:34:59- ..to create a powerful - commercial fishing industry.
0:34:59 > 0:35:04- But I worry that there may be storm - clouds on the horizon for the tribe.
0:35:06 > 0:35:08- This is the port of Pubnico.
0:35:08 > 0:35:13- It's the busiest fishing port - in eastern Canada.
0:35:13 > 0:35:17- As you can see, - the boats are all moored here.
0:35:17 > 0:35:19- They'll be setting off shortly.
0:35:19 > 0:35:23- I've been invited to go fishing - with Lawrence.
0:35:23 > 0:35:28- Between all of these vessels, - catching fish, crab and lobster...
0:35:29 > 0:35:36- ..they bring 40 million - worth of seafood into the country.
0:35:36 > 0:35:41- It's a very important place, - and I'm going on that ship there.
0:35:42 > 0:35:44- It's one of the biggest here.
0:35:44 > 0:35:47- I don't usually get seasick - but wait and see.
0:35:50 > 0:35:52- Lawrence. Hello.
0:35:52 > 0:35:53- How are you doing?
0:35:53 > 0:35:55- How are you doing?- - Very good. How are you, alright?
0:35:55 > 0:35:57- Very good, myself.
0:35:58 > 0:35:59- Looking forward?
0:35:59 > 0:36:01- Looking forward?- - Yes, looking forward to going out...
0:36:01 > 0:36:04- ..and going trawling, yes.
0:36:04 > 0:36:08- Lawrence is one - of the tribe's fishing crew.
0:36:08 > 0:36:11- Since regaining - their fishing rights...
0:36:11 > 0:36:15- ..they have worked closely - with other fishermen...
0:36:15 > 0:36:18- ..to learn how to use - the modern technology.
0:36:19 > 0:36:21- The lads are getting ready.
0:36:21 > 0:36:26- This ship is heading to one of the - most dangerous places in the world.
0:36:26 > 0:36:28- Out to sea, - where there are major storms.
0:36:29 > 0:36:33- They have forecast fine weather, - but things can change.
0:36:33 > 0:36:37- Everybody knows - exactly what their role is...
0:36:37 > 0:36:40- ..so it's best - I stay out of the way.
0:36:40 > 0:36:43- The crew fish for crabs - throughout summer...
0:36:44 > 0:36:48- ..but since the season has ended, - they now fish for haddock.
0:36:49 > 0:36:52- As we wait for the rest of the crew - to arrive...
0:36:53 > 0:36:58- ..I'm lucky enough to get invited - to the ship's most important spot.
0:36:59 > 0:37:01- Is this where the captain is?
0:37:02 > 0:37:04- This is where he takes care - of the helm.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11- It looks like a spaceship.
0:37:11 > 0:37:13- Yes.
0:37:13 > 0:37:17- Lawrence shows me the different - screens and modern software...
0:37:18 > 0:37:22- ..that are essential on a ship - that fishes in open waters.
0:37:27 > 0:37:31- The rest of the crew - finally arrives...
0:37:31 > 0:37:35- ..and everybody is eager - to begin the journey out to sea.
0:37:40 > 0:37:45- This is the last time - that I'll see land for three days.
0:37:46 > 0:37:49- It'll be exciting when they start - reeling in the net.
0:37:50 > 0:37:53- I've never been on a fishing boat - such as this one...
0:37:53 > 0:37:56- ..out at sea for a long time, - so I'm looking forward to it.
0:38:33 > 0:38:36- As we sail off into the night...
0:38:36 > 0:38:40- ..I'm aware of the autumn moon - lighting the way for us.
0:38:41 > 0:38:44- It's a sign of plentiful fish, - according to Lawrence.
0:38:45 > 0:38:47- As a man who has spent his life - on the water...
0:38:48 > 0:38:51- ..I wonder how he feels about it.
0:38:51 > 0:38:54- How do you feel - when you first board the ship...
0:38:55 > 0:38:57- ..and sail off into the open sea?
0:38:57 > 0:39:04- When I'm on the ship, I look around - and see myself surrounded by water.
0:39:04 > 0:39:10- It's an incredible feeling. For - a moment, I'm at one with the sea.
0:39:10 > 0:39:13- Though I'm caught up - in the excitement...
0:39:13 > 0:39:15- ..it's time to go to bed.
0:39:16 > 0:39:17- We'd better go to sleep.
0:39:18 > 0:39:21- Yes, get plenty of sleep tonight.
0:39:21 > 0:39:23- There's a lot to do tomorrow.
0:39:23 > 0:39:25- For safety reasons...
0:39:25 > 0:39:30- ..the camera crew and I must sleep - aboard the support boat...
0:39:30 > 0:39:34- ..and rejoin the ship - in the morning.
0:39:45 > 0:39:48- Twelve hours and 100 miles later...
0:39:48 > 0:39:51- ..I wake up in the middle - of the choppy Atlantic.
0:39:56 > 0:40:01- The weather has changed and crossing - from the support boat is impossible.
0:40:07 > 0:40:12- Both crews are trying their best - to bring the two boats level...
0:40:12 > 0:40:15- ..as the waves knock us about.
0:40:15 > 0:40:18- Suddenly, I spot a chance - and go for it.
0:40:19 > 0:40:21- Wait! No, no, no, no!
0:40:21 > 0:40:23- No, no, no!
0:40:23 > 0:40:26- I realize - that it's far too dangerous.
0:40:34 > 0:40:38- These aren't rough seas - for the fishermen...
0:40:38 > 0:40:40- ..despite being rough for us.
0:40:40 > 0:40:44- It just shows you - how dangerous this job can be.
0:40:44 > 0:40:48- Two or three ships - are lost every year.
0:40:49 > 0:40:54- Dozens of trawlermen have drowned - while doing their job.
0:40:56 > 0:40:58- I take my hat off to them.
0:40:59 > 0:41:00- They're very brave.
0:41:01 > 0:41:04- But time is money - in this business...
0:41:04 > 0:41:07- ..and the big ship - with Lawrence on board...
0:41:07 > 0:41:12- ..drops its nets - and starts trawling for haddock.
0:41:13 > 0:41:15- The ship is kitted out - with software...
0:41:16 > 0:41:18- ..that guides it to shoals of fish.
0:41:19 > 0:41:24- The ship trawls for four hours - until the nets are hopefully full.
0:41:25 > 0:41:29- Lawrence told me that when the net - is fully extended...
0:41:29 > 0:41:32- ..you could fit a football pitch - inside it.
0:41:33 > 0:41:35- That's how big it is.
0:41:35 > 0:41:38- The nets are reeled back in...
0:41:38 > 0:41:41- ..and I see how many fish - they have caught.
0:41:41 > 0:41:47- The crew works quickly to haul - 4,500 worth of fish on board.
0:41:50 > 0:41:55- It makes you wonder - about the Mi'kmaq's way of life.
0:41:55 > 0:42:00- They've gone from just taking - what they needed from the land...
0:42:00 > 0:42:03- ..whether it was deer, - moose or fish...
0:42:03 > 0:42:07- ..to commercial fishing, - where they clean out the sea.
0:42:09 > 0:42:13- If the Mi'kmaq of times past - were to come back now...
0:42:13 > 0:42:16- ..I'm sure - that they wouldn't be happy.
0:42:16 > 0:42:21- In a way, - they're disrespecting the sea.
0:42:21 > 0:42:25- In recent years, the global - commercial fishing industry...
0:42:26 > 0:42:29- ..has produced 100m tons of fish - every year...
0:42:29 > 0:42:31- ..to feed the world's population.
0:42:31 > 0:42:35- That fact alone is very sobering.
0:42:35 > 0:42:39- It's hard to see - how it can continue at that level.
0:42:40 > 0:42:44- As the crew begins - its second trawl...
0:42:44 > 0:42:48- ..thick fog descends - and nature shows them who's boss.
0:42:52 > 0:42:54- Things are going from bad to worse.
0:42:54 > 0:42:58- Though the seas have calmed, - there's a storm brewing.
0:42:59 > 0:43:03- The fog is so thick - that you can barely see the trawler.
0:43:03 > 0:43:09- We're going to try - to get Lawrence off that ship...
0:43:09 > 0:43:11- ..and onto here with me.
0:43:11 > 0:43:15- They'll carry on fishing - while we head back to shore.
0:43:15 > 0:43:18- Conditions are far from perfect.
0:43:19 > 0:43:21- As another net is reeled in...
0:43:22 > 0:43:26- ..I ponder over what's happening - in front of my eyes...
0:43:26 > 0:43:28- ..and across the world.
0:43:28 > 0:43:32- I know that the government - and the scientists say...
0:43:32 > 0:43:37- ..that as long as you stay - within the quotas, it'll be fine.
0:43:37 > 0:43:41- But it wouldn't surprise me to hear - in a decade that there are no fish.
0:43:42 > 0:43:46- They'd be forced to give up - or move on to somewhere else.
0:43:47 > 0:43:49- But that's humans for you.
0:43:50 > 0:43:55- We're no good at preserving - the environment and food supplies.
0:43:55 > 0:44:00- It's all about making money - and getting as much as we can.
0:44:01 > 0:44:04- It seems that the Mi'kmaq - have gone down the same road.
0:44:09 > 0:44:11- That net is packed with fish.
0:44:12 > 0:44:15- The captain will be happy with that.
0:44:15 > 0:44:19- The net has caught - about 10,000 pounds of haddock.
0:44:19 > 0:44:23- The two yields - have made a sum total of 9,000.
0:44:23 > 0:44:28- It has been a profitable morning - for Lawrence and the crew.
0:44:28 > 0:44:31- But as the weather worsens, - my time is up.
0:44:31 > 0:44:36- Lawrence decides to leave the ship - to come and see me.
0:44:39 > 0:44:42- As Lawrence climbs aboard...
0:44:42 > 0:44:46- ..I realize just how much - I've enjoyed my time with him.
0:44:47 > 0:44:48- Welcome back.
0:44:49 > 0:44:54- It's time to ask Lawrence to explain - his feelings about his work.
0:44:54 > 0:45:00- How does commercial fishing fit in - with the old ways of thinking...
0:45:01 > 0:45:06- ..of just hunting for what you need - and leaving the rest?
0:45:07 > 0:45:14- At home, I fish for food. - At sea, it's about making money.
0:45:14 > 0:45:21- What we make from fishing - goes into our government's coffers.
0:45:22 > 0:45:29- It goes towards our people's - housing and education.
0:45:30 > 0:45:35- I'm happy to see you back - in one piece and nobody's injured.
0:45:35 > 0:45:41- I'm glad I could show you our way - of life and share my story with you.
0:45:41 > 0:45:45- Lawrence's words make me think - of the Mi'kmaq's story...
0:45:45 > 0:45:49- ..and their reasons - for fishing commercially.
0:45:49 > 0:45:53- The money is ploughed back into - the tribe to help the community.
0:45:53 > 0:45:59- In that respect, you could say - it's like the old, traditional way.
0:45:59 > 0:46:03- They took what they needed - and provided for everybody.
0:46:03 > 0:46:06- You could argue - that they're taking too much...
0:46:06 > 0:46:11- ..but that money goes towards - helping thousands of people...
0:46:11 > 0:46:13- ..some of whom are very poor.
0:46:13 > 0:46:16- It's very difficult to argue - that point.
0:46:18 > 0:46:21- We sail back - to the calm of the harbour.
0:46:21 > 0:46:26- My journey into the Mi'kmaq world - has been unforgettable.
0:46:26 > 0:46:28- A real eye-opener.
0:46:28 > 0:46:33- It has made me ponder the complexity - of the situation here...
0:46:33 > 0:46:37- ..and the future of the people - who walk these shores...
0:46:37 > 0:46:42- ..and tread anxiously - into the modern world.
0:46:42 > 0:46:46- My time with the Mi'kmaq - has come to an end.
0:46:46 > 0:46:48- It has been quite an experience.
0:46:48 > 0:46:52- I knew nothing of the tribe - before coming here.
0:46:52 > 0:46:54- The people are very friendly...
0:46:54 > 0:46:59- ..and it was refreshing to hear - the language spoken in the home...
0:46:59 > 0:47:01- ..at school and on the street.
0:47:01 > 0:47:06- Locally, this tribe is doing better - than the white man, which is unique.
0:47:07 > 0:47:11- They have always been - traditional hunters and fishermen.
0:47:12 > 0:47:17- They only took what they needed - from the land and sea and no more.
0:47:18 > 0:47:22- But I feel as though - they have moved on from there.
0:47:23 > 0:47:27- In terms of their commercial fishing, - they have joined the modern era.
0:47:30 > 0:47:34- I worry that they have lost - some of the connection...
0:47:34 > 0:47:37- ..with their traditional ways.
0:47:56 > 0:47:59- S4C Subtitles by Eirlys A Jones