Appearance before the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs: 2019-20 Supplementary Estimates (B) 2020-21 Main Estimates Crown Indigenous Relations
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown Indigenous Relations
March 12, 2020
Table of contents
- Overview
- 2019-20 Supplementary estimates (B) investments
- Deck
- Extract
- Comprehensive Land Claim Negotiation Loans Forgiveness
- Implementing Recommendations of the Qikiqtani Truth Commission's Report
- Out-of-Court Settlements
- Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement
- Indigenous Peoples Space at 100 Wellington Street
- Comprehensive Land Claims and Self-Government Agreements
- Departmental Transfers Between CIRNAC and ISC
- 2020-21 Main estimates
- Hot issues
- Wet'suwet'en
- Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
- United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
- Proposed Treaty Commissioner
- Inuit Nunangat Policy
- Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action
- Akwesasne Dundee Specific Claim
- Departmental Transformation
- Departmental Plan (if tabled)
- BC Treaty Policy
- Biographies
Overview
Scenario note
Logistics
Date: Thursday, March 12, 2020
Time: 11 a.m. to Noon
Location: TBC
Subject: 2019-20 Supplementary Estimates (B) & 2020-21 Main Estimates
Notes: It is recommended that witnesses arrive at the committee meeting room at least 15 minutes before they are scheduled to appear.
Witnesses
- The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations
- The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs
- Daniel Watson, Deputy Minister
- Diane Lafleur, Associate Deputy Minister
- Serge Beaudoin, Assistant Deputy Minister, Northern Affairs
- Annie Boudreau, Chief Finances, Results & Delivery Officer
Context
The Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs (INAN) is composed of 12 members: six Liberal, four Conservative, one BQ and one NDP. This composition can present challenges for the Government Members, as the opposition parties can work together to vote down Liberals motions.
The first INAN meeting occurred on February 25, 2020 on Departmental Activities and Priorities. DM Watson received questions on the Nunavut Devolution Final Agreement (MP Bob Zimmer, CPC), economic development (MP Jamie Schmale, CPC), discussion tables (MP Arnold Vierson, CPC), and the market for seal skin (MP Mumilaaq Qaqqaq, NDP). MP Qaqqaq also asked questions on whether the Government had policies and programs that were more geared towards Inuit and Métis. MP Qaqqaq expressed concerns that a variety of programs only seem to be applied to First Nations people.
In terms of other studies, the Committee began a study on food security on February 27, 2020. MP Viersen asked how the Nutrition North Canada program has kept up with changing technologies since its creation in 2011. MP Zimmer asked about the effectiveness of the Harvesters Support Grant. MP Sylvie Bérubé asked about the factors that contribute to food insecurity in the North. MP Schmale asked if there was anything else that could be done to put more control on local communities to help them solve their own problems faster.
In terms of future studies, the Committee also passed motions to study Treaty Commissioners and Economic Development in Indigenous communities.
Meeting proceedings
- It should be noted that Minister Marc Miller and supporting officials are appearing from noon to 1 p.m. at INAN.
- For Minister Bennett's and Minister Vandal's appearance, they each have up to 5 minutes to deliver their remarks.
- Committee members will pose their questions in the following order:
- First round (6 minutes for each Party)
- Conservative Party of Canada
- Liberal Party of Canada
- Bloc Quebecois
- New Democratic Party of Canada
- Second round (5 minutes for each Party)
- Conservative Party of Canada
- Liberal Party of Canada
- Conservative Party of Canada
- Liberal Party of Canada
- 2.5 minutes for the Bloc Quebecois and the New Democratic Party.
- First round (6 minutes for each Party)
Opening remarks
Speaking notes for The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
As we gather here today, I would like to begin by acknowledging that we come together on the traditional unceded territory of the Algonquin people.
Today, I will present on the 2019-20 Supplementary Estimates (B) and the 2020-21 Main Estimates for Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada or - CIRNAC.
I will present on portions related to my work as Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations.
I am joined by Daniel Watson, Deputy Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, and Annie Boudreau, Chief Finance, Results and Delivery Officer.
CIRNAC is focused on renewing the nation-to-nation, Inuit-Crown, government-to-government relationships between Canada and First Nations, Inuit and Métis.
At the core of my mandate is to redress historical wrongs and support the acceleration of First Nations, Inuit and Metis visions of self-determination.
Supplementary Estimates (B)
The department's 2019-20 Supplementary Estimates (B) present initiatives totaling approximately one billion dollars. This brings total appropriations for the department to 7.1 billion dollars.
Almost all of this funding—919 million dollars—is dedicated to the forgiveness of Indigenous groups' outstanding comprehensive land claim negotiation loan debt.
Eliminating this loan debt removes a long-standing barrier to concluding comprehensive land claim agreements.
This also signals Canada's commitment to furthering a rights recognition approach, and to concluding these processes in good faith.
In fact, Indigenous groups who go on to conclude comprehensive land claim agreements will benefit from increased settlement amounts, as these loans would no longer be deducted from the final settlement.
Forgiveness of this debt will also provide additional funds, which can be invested in community priorities, such as closing socio-economic gaps or supporting economic development initiatives.
These Supplementary Estimates also access 17.5 million dollars to implement the recommendations of the Qikiqtani [kick-ik-tan-ee] Truth Commission's report.
This funding will support the design, initiation and long-term viability of programming by the Qikiqtani Inuit Association to implement the Qikiqtani Truth Commission's Final Report recommendations.
Main Estimates 2020-2021
Moving to the Main Estimates, CIRNAC's estimates for 2020-21 will be approximately 4.9 billion dollars.
I do want highlight that the main estimates, as I think most of you know, are the total of all funding that's already been approved by Treasury Board.
These are not an estimate of the total spending for the year; it's just what has already been approved by Treasury Board. For instance, we have yet to see the spending that will be outlined in Budget 2020.
The Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Act, came into effect on July 15, 2019, establishing CIRNAC.
Fiscal year 2020-21 will be the first Main Estimates for the new department.
The former Department's 2019-20 Main Estimates was $7.0 billion, while CIRNAC's total Main Estimates budget for 2020–21 is $4.9 billion.
The apparent net decrease of $2.1 billion reflects anticipated changes in spending, primarily related to the following:
- The change in the approved funding level for the implementation of the Federal Indian Day Schools (McLean) settlement agreement (-$1.2 billion). This reflects the reduction to the anticipated settlement payments, from 2019-20 to 2020-21;
- $750 million for the Sixties Scoop settlement as the settlement is anticipated to be completed in 2019-20; This initiative did not receive funding for 2020-21 as funding was only provided for two years (2018-19 and 2019-20) based on when payments were expected to be made;
- A transfer of $483.6 million to Indigenous Services Canada, primarily for Individual Affairs and Lands and Economic Development programs, as well as some internal services;
- $98.2 million to fund land claim negotiation loans and reform of the Negotiation Support Funding Program), which will start in 2020-21 and continue for five years; and
- $100.1 million for the Renewal of 25 Self-Governing Indigenous Government Fiscal Transfer Arrangements Incorporating Canada's Collaborative Self-Government Fiscal Policy. The funding to support this initiative is ongoing.
You will see from our main estimates that for 2020-21, we are putting a strong focus on and increased spending for negotiation, settlement and implementation of comprehensive claims and self-government agreements.
I am now happy to take your questions.
2019-20 Supplementary estimates (B) investments
Deck
Supplementary estimates
- Supplementary Estimates presents information to Parliament on Government of Canada spending requirements not sufficiently developed in time for inclusion in the Main Estimates. Supplementary Estimates (B) is the last Estimates for 2019-20.
- Eligible items are:
- Requirements that are expected to be approved by Treasury Board in or before January 2020;
- Transfers between Votes within the organization and between organizations;
- Increases to existing grants that are to be funded within the Vote; and
- Increases to vote-netted revenues.
2019-20 Supplementary estimates (B)
These Supplementary Estimates | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Budgetary Voted | Authorities to Date | Transfers (dollars) |
Adjustments (dollars) |
Total | Proposed Authorities To Date |
1b Operating expenditures | 3,210,046,883 | (54,061) | 21,694,940 | 21,640,879 | 3,231,687,762 |
5b Capital expenditures | 7,842,095 | (600,000) | 1,793,936 | 1,193,936 | 9,036,031 |
10b Grants and contributions | 2,819,004,549 | 28,486,674 | 32,472,841 | 60,959,515 | 2,879,964,064 |
25 Advancing Reconciliation by Settling Specific Claims | |||||
30 Enhancing Indigenous Consultation and Capacity Support | 1,500,000 | 1,500,000 | |||
35 Honouring Missing Residential School Children | 7,758,176 | 7,758,176 | |||
40 Indigenous Youth and Reconciliation | |||||
45 More Connectivity = More Affordable Electricity | 6,000,000 | 6,000,000 | |||
50 Supporting Indigenous Business Development | 25,777,783 | 25,777,783 | |||
55 Strong Arctic and Northern Communities | 5,000,000 | 5,000,000 | |||
60b Debt Forgiveness | 919,028,970 | 919,028,970 | 919,028,970 | ||
Total Voted | 6,082,929,486 | 27,832,613 | 974,990,687 | 1,002,823,300 | 7,085,752,786 |
Total Statutory | 30,032 | 4,253 | 4,253 | 34,285 | |
Total Budgetary | 6,082,959,518 | 27,832,613 | 974,994,940 | 1,002,827,553 | 7,085,787,071 |
Data in the Total column has not been published. |
These Supplementary Estimates | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Non-Budgetary Voted | Authorities to Date | Transfers (dollars) |
Adjustments (dollars) |
Total | Proposed Authorities To Date |
L15 Loans to Indigenous claimants | 24,960,346 | 24,960,346 | |||
L20 Loans to First Nations in British Columbia | 30,400,000 | 30,400,000 | |||
Total Non-Budgetary | 55,360,346 | 55,360,346 | |||
Data in the Total column has not been published. |
- The 2019-20 Supplementary Estimates (B) reflects a net increase of $1,002.8 million, which include $919.0 million to forgive comprehensive land claim negotiation loans, $56.0 million in new funding and $27.8 million in net transfers with other government departments.
- The total budgetary authorities for 2019-20 will be $7.1 billion.
Explanation of Requirements 2019-20 - By Vote and Key Initiatives
The net increase of $1,002.8 million is comprised of:
- $21.6 million in Vote 1 Operating expenditures (largely for out-of-court settlements totaling $13.7 million, and for the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement totaling $5.2 million);
- $1.2 million in Vote 5 Capital expenditures (largely for the Indigenous peoples space totaling $1.8 million, less a reallocation to Vote 1 operating of $0.6 million);
- $61.0 million in Vote 10 Grants and Contributions (largely for net transfers totaling $28.5 million, for the implementation of the Qikiqtani Truth Commission's report totaling $17.5 million, and for Nutrition North Canada totaling $12.5 million);
- $919.0 million in a new Vote 60 entitled Debt Forgiveness to forgive comprehensive land claim negotiation loans; and
- $4.3K in Statutory funding for employee benefit plans.
Key Initiatives (in dollars) | Vote 1b Operating |
Vote 5b Capital |
Vote 10b Grants and Contributions |
Vote 60b Debt Forgiveness |
Voted Total | Statutory - EBP | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Voted Appropriations | |||||||
Funding to forgive comprehensive land claim negotiation loans | 919,028,970 | 919,028,970 | 919,028,970 | ||||
Funding to implement recommendations of the Qikiqtani Truth Commission's report | 17,500,000 | 17,500,000 | 17,500,000 | ||||
Funding for out-of-court settlements | 13,734,483 | 13,734,483 | 13,734,483 | ||||
Funding for the Nutrition North Canada Program and to introduce a Harvesters Support Grant | 12,500,000 | 12,500,000 | 12,500,000 | ||||
Funding for the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement | 5,186,461 | 300,000 | 5,486,461 | 5,486,461 | |||
Funding for Indigenous Peoples space at 100 Wellington Street | 2,773,996 | 1,793,936 | 690,888 | 5,258,820 | 4,253 | 5,263,073 | |
Funding for comprehensive land claims and self-government agreements | 1,481,953 | 1,481,953 | 1,481,953 | ||||
Total Voted Appropriations | 21,694,940 | 1,793,936 | 32,472,841 | 919,028,970 | 974,990,687 | 4,253 | 974,994,940 |
Net Transfers (see Annex A) | (54,061) | (600,000) | 28,486,674 | 27,832,613 | 27,832,613 | ||
Total | 21,640,879 | 1,193,936 | 60,959,515 | 919,028,970 | 1,002,823,300 | 4,253 | 1,002,827,553 |
Funding for the Nutrition North Canada Program and to introduce a Harvesters Support Grant: This item is for Northern Affairs | |||||||
Note: A listing of the net transfers can be found in Annex A. |
Funding to forgive comprehensive land claim negotiation loans ($919.0 million)
Objective
- To forgive outstanding comprehensive land claim negotiation loan debt held by Indigenous groups.
Outcome
- This initiative will signal Canada's commitment to furthering a rights recognition approach in its relationship with Indigenous groups by removing loan funding and debt as the longstanding barrier to concluding comprehensive land claim agreements. Indigenous peoples would benefit from increased settlement amounts through the removal of loans which would result in additional funding for these communities to invest in priorities, such as closing socio-economic gaps or investing in economic development initiatives.
Status
- Budget 2018 announced that the Government of Canada would replace loan funding with time- limited non-repayable contribution funding to support Indigenous participation in the negotiation of modern treaties.
- Budget 2019 proposed to forgive all outstanding comprehensive claim negotiation loans and to reimburse Indigenous governments that had already repaid these loans. It also proposed ongoing non-repayable contribution funding to continue supporting Indigenous participation in modern treaty negotiations.
- The 2019-20 Supplementary Estimates (B) includes $919.0 million to forgive the total amount of outstanding negotiation loan debt held by Indigenous groups.
- Through future Estimates, the department will be accessing additional funding of $490.9 million from 2020-21 to 2024-25 to reimburse the negotiation loan debt repaid by signatories to comprehensive land claims, and $43.4 million annually to continue the non-repayable Negotiation Support Funding that supports Indigenous participation in comprehensive land claim negotiations.
Funding to implement recommendations of the Qikiqtani Truth Commission's report ($17.5 million)
Objective
- Funding to support the design, initiation and long-term viability of programming by the Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA) to implement the Qikiqtani Truth Commission's Final Report recommendations across four theme areas: acknowledging and healing past wrongs; strengthening Inuit governance; strengthening Inuit culture; and creating healthy communities.
Outcome
- CIRNAC will provide funding to QIA for the development and initial delivery of four programs specifically designed to support individual and collective closure, healing and reconciliation. This approach responds directly to the wishes of the Qikiqtani Inuit.
- Ongoing programming will be supported through a federal investment in QIA's Saimaqatigiingniq Fund, which will enable ongoing, sustained delivery of programming by QIA to address the Qikiqtani Truth Commission's recommendations.
Status
- On August 14, 2019, the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations delivered an apology to Qikiqtani Inuit regarding the findings of the Commission's Final Report and signed a Memorandum of Understanding with QIA to signal a continued partnership towards implementation of the recommendations in the Final Report.
- Following the delivery of the apology and Memorandum of Understanding signing, QIA announced the funding identified as part of the federal response to the Commission's Final Report, specifically: $5.0 million over two years, starting in 2019-20 to develop new and additional programming that promote closure and healing for community members, and an investment of $15.0 million in 2019-20 to establish the Saimaqatigiingniq Fund.
- The intention of the Saimaqatigiiniq Fund is to support healing and reconciliation efforts with Qikiqtani Inuit, to build awareness of their lived experience, and to educate Canadians about the legacy of the Qikiqtani Truth Commission.
Funding for out-of-court settlements ($13.7 million)
Objective
- Funding for various out-of-court settlements.
Outcome
- Advance Canada's overall commitment to reconciliation by paving the way for a more respectful and constructive relationship with Indigenous people.
- Consistent with the "Directive on Civil Litigation Involving Indigenous Peoples", pursue an approach to litigation that promotes resolution and settlement, and seeks opportunities to avoid litigation.
- Support the settlement of several litigations, which underscores how the resolution of past grievances outside the courts is instrumental to advance the Crown- Indigenous relationship and allows the Department to fulfill its commitments at the negotiation tables.
- In executing out of court settlements, CIRNAC takes into account the court process as well as the potential impacts of their decisions on Indigenous litigation more broadly.
Status
- Settlement Agreements have been signed by relevant authorities and will need to be executed by end of fiscal year.
- CIRNAC continues to report out of court settlement payments on the Public Accounts of Canada, however, a few of them cannot be disclosed because of confidentiality clauses.
Funding for the Nutrition North Canada Program and to introduce a Harvesters Support Grant ($12.5 million)
Objective
- Funding supports expansion of the Nutrition North Canada Subsidy Program by introducing a surface transportation subsidy for non-perishable items transported by winter road and sea lift, as well as introducing an increased subsidy for 24 isolated (fly-in) communities that have high needs.
- Funding also supports the creation of a Harvesters Support Grant (HSG) to support the local harvesting of country foods through traditional activities such as hunting, fishing and gathering of local wild plants and fruits for distribution in 108 isolated (fly-in) communities.
Outcome
- Making healthy, nutritious food more accessible and more affordable to all isolated communities, who do not have year-round road or rail access.
- The HSG will assist traditional harvesters to collect nutrient-rich country foods that form a large part of the diet within these communities.
Status
- The Fall Economic Statement 2018 provided additional funding of $62.6 million over five years starting in 2019-20, with $10.4 million ongoing. The 2019-20 Supplementary Estimates (B) is accessing the first year of this funding of $12.5 million, and the remaining funding will be accessed via future Estimates.
- Specifically, the funding in 2019-20 will be used towards:
- $2.5 million to address the implementation of a surface transportation subsidy for non- perishable goods;
- $2.0 million to increase subsidies for 24 communities with high needs; and,
- $8.0 million for the Harvesters Support Grant, which is being delivered through Indigenous organizations mandated to deliver other complimentary federal programs in eligible communities, such as health programming or skills and employment programming.
Funding for the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement ($5.5 million)
Objective
- Funding to continue to fulfill Canada's obligations under the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement.
Outcome
- CIRNAC has an overall responsibility to ensure Canada's legal obligations under the Settlement Agreement are met, the completion of which contributes to achieving a fair, comprehensive, and lasting resolution to the legacy of Indian residential schools.
Status
- The reprofiled funding requested through the 2019-20 Supplementary Estimates (B) will be used to undertake operational activities under the Settlement Agreement until its completion, which is anticipated by March 31, 2021.
Funding for Indigenous Peoples space at 100 Wellington Street ($5.3 million)
Objective
- Funding to support the exhibit fit-up and operations and maintenance for the short-term use of the Indigenous Peoples' Space at 100 Wellington Street in Ottawa.
Outcome
- Establish an Indigenous-presence at 100 Wellington Street and set the stage for the longer-term design and use through broad engagement with Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians and the creation of an Indigenous-led governance structure to manage and govern the Indigenous Peoples' Space.
Status
- The additional funding requested through the 2019-20 Supplementary Estimates (B) is to transform a space to accommodate the specific requirements of a tenant.
Funding for comprehensive land claims and self-government agreements ($1.5 million)
Objective
- Funding to meet fiscal financing agreement adjustor obligations with modern treaty holders.
Outcome
- Canada's statutory obligations for self-government and land claim agreements are funded as outlined in the individual Self-Government and Comprehensive Land Claim Agreements.
Status
- Agreements are annually adjusted through the application of Canada's Final Domestic Demand Implicit Price Index (FDDIPI), as published by Statistics Canada and in certain instances for population rate adjustments.
- The additional funding requested through the 2019-20 Supplementary Estimates (B) will allow CIRNAC to address the gap between existing departmental funding levels and annual agreement obligations, resulting from the application of annual escalators.
Annex A: Explanation of Requirements 2019-20 – Transfers
Transfers (in dollars) | Vote 1b Operating |
Vote 5b Capital |
Vote 10b Grants and Contributions |
Vote 60b Debt Forgiveness |
Voted Total | Statutory - EBP | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Transfers from Other Organizations | |||||||
From the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and the Department of Indigenous Services to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for self-government agreements in British Columbia | 15,696,185 | 15,696,185 | 15,696,185 | ||||
From the Department of Indigenous Services to the Department of Crown- Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs to support Indigenous representative organizations | 5,158,996 | 5,158,996 | 5,158,996 | ||||
From the Department of Indigenous Services to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for health programs for modern treaty groups and self-governing First Nations | 3,599,298 | 3,599,298 | 3,599,298 | ||||
From the Department of Indigenous Services to the Department of Crown- Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs to support the First Nations Financial Management Board | 2,991,859 | 2,991,859 | 2,991,859 | ||||
From the Department of Indigenous Services to the Department of Crown- Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for the Métis National Council and each of its governing members to develop capacity in the area of Métis health | 400,000 | 400,000 | 400,000 | ||||
From the Department of National Defence to the Department of Crown- Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for the Kettle and Stony Point First Nation | 250,000 | 250,000 | 250,000 | ||||
From the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to the Department of Crown- Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for the Conservation Officer Program for fisheries in the Labrador Inuit Settlement Area | 230,000 | 230,000 | 230,000 | ||||
From the Department of National Defence to the Department of Crown- Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs to review an access agreement to the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range | 100,000 | 100,000 | 100,000 | ||||
From the Department of Employment and Social Development to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for self-governing Yukon First Nations | 60,000 | 60,000 | 60,000 | ||||
From the Department of Public Works and Government Services to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for the Timiskaming Dam-Bridge of Quebec Replacement Project | 20,000 | 20,000 | 20,000 | ||||
Internal Transfers | |||||||
Internal reallocation of resources from capital to operating for obligations under the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement | 600,000 | 600,000 | |||||
Internal reallocation of resources from contributions ($9,903) to the grant to support the Giant Mine Oversight Board and research for arsenic trioxide | |||||||
Internal reallocation of resources from operating expenditures to grants to settle specific and special claims | (8,436) | 8,436 | |||||
Transfers to Other Organizations | |||||||
From the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans due to the deferral of the Yale First Nation Final Agreement | (28,100) | (28,100) | (28,100) | ||||
From the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs to the Department of Canadian Heritage to promote community participation in National Aboriginal Day activities | (310,000) | (310,000) | (310,000) | ||||
From the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs to the Department of Indigenous Services to manage Indigenous litigation | (335,625) | (335,625) | (335,625) | ||||
Total Transfers | (54,061) | (600,000) | 28,486,674 | 27,832,613 | 27,832,613 |
Extract
These Supplementary Estimates | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Budgetary Voted | Authorities to Date | Transfers (dollars) |
Adjustments (dollars) |
Proposed Authorities To Date |
1b Operating expenditures | 3,210,046,883 | (54,061) | 21,694,940 | 3,231,687,762 |
5b Capital expenditures | 7,842,095 | (600,000) | 1,793,936 | 9,036,031 |
10b Grants and contributions | 2,819,004,549 | 28,486,674 | 32,472,841 | 2,879,964,064 |
30 Enhancing Indigenous Consultation and Capacity Support | 1,500,000 | 1,500,000 | ||
35 Honouring Missing Residential School Children | 7,758,176 | 7,758,176 | ||
45 More Connectivity = More Affordable Electricity | 6,000,000 | 6,000,000 | ||
50 Supporting Indigenous Business Development | 25,777,783 | 25,777,783 | ||
55 Strong Arctic and Northern Communities | 5,000,000 | 5,000,000 | ||
60b Debt Forgiveness | 919,028,970 | 919,028,970 | ||
Total Voted | 6,082,929,486 | 27,832,613 | 974,990,687 | 7,085,752,786 |
Total Statutory | 30,032 | 4,253 | 34,285 | |
Total Budgetary | 6,082,959,518 | 27,832,613 | 974,994,940 | 7,085,787,071 |
These Supplementary Estimates | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Non-Budgetary Voted | Authorities to Date | Transfers (dollars) |
Adjustments (dollars) |
Proposed Authorities To Date |
L15 Loans to Indigenous claimants | 24,960,346 | 24,960,346 | ||
L20 Loans to First Nations in British Columbia | 30,400,000 | 30,400,000 | ||
Total Non-Budgetary | 55,360,346 | 55,360,346 | ||
Note: Additional details by organization are available on the Treasury Board Secretariat website. |
Budgetary Voted Appropriations | Vote No. | Amount ($) |
---|---|---|
Funding to forgive comprehensive land claim negotiation loans | Vote 60b | 919,028,970 |
Funding to implement recommendations of the Qikiqtani Truth Commission's report | Vote 10b | 17,500,000 |
Funding for out-of-court settlements | Vote 1b | 13,734,483 |
Funding for the Nutrition North Canada Program and to introduce a Harvesters Support Grant | Vote 10b | 12,500,000 |
Funding for the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement | Vote 1b | 5,186,461 |
Vote 10b | 300,000 | |
Total | 5,486,461 | |
Funding for Indigenous Peoples space at 100 Wellington Street | Vote 1b | 2,773,996 |
Vote 5b | 1,793,936 | |
Vote 10b | 690,888 | |
Total | 5,258,820 | |
Funding for comprehensive land claims and self-government agreements | Vote 10b | 1,481,953 |
Total Voted Appropriations | 974,990,687 | |
Total Statutory Appropriations | 4,253 |
Transfers | Vote No. | Amount ($) |
---|---|---|
Transfers from Other Organizations | ||
From the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and the Department of Indigenous Services to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for self-government agreements in British Columbia | Vote 10b | 15,696,185 |
From the Department of Indigenous Services to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs to support Indigenous representative organizations | Vote 10b | 5,158,996 |
From the Department of Indigenous Services to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for health programs for modern treaty groups and self-governing First Nations | Vote 10b | 3,599,298 |
From the Department of Indigenous Services to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs to support the First Nations Financial Management Board | Vote 10b | 2,991,859 |
From the Department of Indigenous Services to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for the Métis National Council and each of its Governing Members to develop capacity in the area of Métis health | Vote 10b | 400,000 |
From the Department of National Defence to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for the Kettle and Stony Point First Nation | Vote 10b | 250,000 |
From the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for the Conservation Officer Program for fisheries in the Labrador Inuit Settlement Area | Vote 10b | 230,000 |
From the Department of National Defence to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs to review an access agreement to the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range | Vote 10b | 100,000 |
From the Department of Employment and Social Development to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for self-governing Yukon First Nations | Vote 10b | 60,000 |
From the Department of Public Works and Government Services to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for the Timiskaming Dam-Bridge of Quebec Replacement Project | Vote 10b | 20,000 |
Internal Transfers | ||
From the Department of Public Works and Government Services to the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs for the Timiskaming Dam-Bridge of Quebec Replacement Project | Vote 1b | 600,000 |
Vote 5b | (600,000) | |
Total | ||
Internal reallocation of resources from contributions ($9,903) to the grant to support the Giant Mine Oversight Board and research for arsenic trioxide | Vote 10b | |
Internal reallocation of resources from operating expenditures to grants to settle specific and special claims | Vote 1b | (8,436) |
Vote 10b | 8,436 | |
Total | ||
Transfers to Other Organizations | ||
From the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans due to the deferral of the Yale First Nation Final Agreement | Vote 10b | (28,100) |
From the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs to the Department of Canadian Heritage to promote community participation in National Aboriginal Day activities | Vote 1b | (310,000) |
From the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs to the Department of Indigenous Services to manage Indigenous litigation | Vote 1b | (335,625) |
Total Transfers | 27,832,613 | |
Total Budgetary | 1,002,827,553 |
Grants | Estimates to Date | These Supplementary Estimates (dollars) | Revised Estimates |
---|---|---|---|
Grants to implement comprehensive land claims and self-government agreements and other agreements to address Section 35 Rights | 145,212,323 | 19,557,383 | 164,769,706 |
Grant to the Qikiqtani Inuit Association to establish the Saimaqatigiingniq Fund | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | |
Grants to land claim organizations, self-government agreement holders and First Nations organizations to support harvesting of country foods | 8,000,000 | 8,000,000 | |
Grant to support the Giant Mine Oversight Board and research for arsenic trioxide | 9,903 | 9,903 | |
Grants to First Nations to settle specific claims negotiated by Canada and/or awarded by the Specific Claims Tribunal, and to Indigenous groups to settle special claims | 8,736,057 | 8,436 | 8,744,493 |
Contributions | Estimates to Date | These Supplementary Estimates (dollars) | Revised Estimates |
---|---|---|---|
Contributions for the purpose of consultation and policy development | 4,623,787 | 4,623,787 | |
Contributions to support access to healthy foods in isolated northern communities | 4,500,000 | 4,500,000 | |
Contributions to support the basic organizational capacity of Indigenous representative organizations | 3,600,000 | 3,600,000 | |
Contributions to supply public services in Indian Government Support and to build strong governance, administrative and accountability systems | 2,991,859 | 2,991,859 | |
Contributions to support the negotiation and implementation of Treaties, Claims and self-government agreements or initiatives | 5,350,317 | 1,731,953 | 7,082,270 |
Federal Interlocutorʼs Contribution Program | 646,097 | 646,097 | |
Contributions for Groups of Indian Residential School survivors who wish to resolve their claim as a group under the Independent Assessment Process | 300,000 | 300,000 |
Budgetary | Estimates to Date | These Supplementary Estimates (dollars) | Revised Estimates |
---|---|---|---|
Contributions to employee benefit plans | 30,032 | 4,253 | 34,285 |
Vote No. | Items | Amount ($) | Total ($) |
---|---|---|---|
Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs | |||
1b |
|
21,694,940 | |
5b |
|
1,793,936 | |
10b |
|
32,472,841 | |
60b |
|
919,028,970 | |
Total | 974,990,687 |
Comprehensive Land Claim Negotiation Loans Forgiveness
Vote 60: $919 million
Key messages
- Indigenous peoples should never have to choose between exercising their rights and their financial security.
- In 2019, our government committed to forgive all outstanding comprehensive land claim negotiation loans.
- This important initiative amounts to $919 million to forgive the outstanding book value of loans issued by Canada to Indigenous groups to support their participation in comprehensive land claim negotiations. This will benefit 153 Indigenous communities.
- We are anticipating that loans will be officially forgiven by March 31, 2020.
- Reimbursement is scheduled to occur over a five-year period with the first payment being issued in Spring 2020.
Background:
- Budget 2019 committed funding of up to $1.4 billion to forgive all outstanding comprehensive land claim negotiation loans and to reimburse Indigenous governments that have already repaid these loans. This includes:
- Up to $938 million (one-time accounting transaction) to forgive the outstanding book value of loans issued by Canada to Indigenous groups to support their participation in comprehensive land claim negotiations.
- Up to $491 million ($98.2 million annually over five years starting in 2020-21) to reimburse the loan amounts repaid by modern treaty holders to Canada.
- Work to advance the Budget commitment is nearing completion. Once all authorities for forgiveness have been secured, Indigenous groups will be notified that their loans have been forgiven effective March 31, 2020.
- It should be noted that following the Budget announcement, at the Treasury Board stage, the amount was reduced from $938 million to $919 million to account for less accrued interest and a smaller contingency fund that was included to deal with any errors that may be found.
- Subject to annual appropriation of funds, reimbursement is scheduled to occur over a five-year period with the first payment being issued Spring 2020.
Implementing Recommendations of the Qikiqtani Truth Commission's Report
Vote 10: $17.5 million
Key Message:
- On August 14, 2019, Minister Bennett, on behalf of the Government of Canada, formally acknowledged the findings of the Qikiqtani Truth Commission and apologized to Qikiqtani Inuit for past wrongs.
- A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed by Minister Bennett and the President of the Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA), committing to continued collaboration to implement the Commission's recommendations.
- The Qikiqtani Inuit Association is implementing a forward-looking approach to address the Commission's recommendations, with a view to addressing the needs of Qikiqtani Inuit through programming that promotes cultural continuity, healing and reconciliation.
- This approach is aligned with the Government's vision and interest in working together with Indigenous partners to address historical wrongs through pro-active, self-determined measures.
- $17.5M provided through Supplementary Estimates B in 2019-20 would be delivered to the Association to fulfill these commitments - $15M invested in the Association's Saimaqatigiingniq Fund, and $2.5M for the design of programming.
If pressed on current status
- Crown Indigenous Relations and Association officials have recently begun discussion. We expect to get clarity soon from the Association on its expectations regarding Canada's overall response to the Commission.
Background:
- $20 million total funding is committed by the Government of Canada to Qikiqtani Inuit Association to advance QTC recommendations. The $20 million includes $5 million in immediate program funding over two years (2019-2021), and a $15-million grant that will go into QIA's Saimaqatigiingniq Fund, for use by QIA for sustained delivery of QTC programming.
- Action on the Qikiqtani Truth Commission has been an action item under the Reconciliation Measures priority area of the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee.
- Two components of the federal response have already been completed. In August 2019, the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations delivered an apology to Qikiqtani Inuit, which was followed by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with QIA.
- Out of the 25 recommendations of the QTC final report, published in 2011, 11 apply to the federal government. Some of the recommendations have already been implemented, including recommendation 6 through the Nanilavut Initiative, recommendation 14 with the endorsement of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), recommendation 23 through the Inuit Nunangat Housing Strategy, and recommendation 20 with the August 14, 2019 apology delivered by the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations.
Out-of-Court Settlements
Vote 1: $13.7 million dollars
Key Messages:
- The 2019-20 Supplementary Estimates (B) includes $13.7 million for various out-of-court settlements.
- This funding supports the settlement of several litigation claims, which underscores how the resolution of past grievances outside the courts is instrumental in advancing the Crown-Indigenous relationship and pursues an approach to litigation that promotes resolution and settlement.
- Settling litigation with Indigenous peoples outside the court system, in a fair compassionate and respectful manner, demonstrates how the Government of Canada is working with Indigenous peoples towards accelerating a renewed, nation-to-nation relationship based on the recognition of rights, respect, co-operation and partnership.
Background:
The out-of-court settlements aim to resolve litigation claims, including:
- Allegations that Canada and Ontario breached their legal obligations relating to the initial survey of a reserve and the alienation of reserve lands.
- Allegations of assaults at a day school at Nelson House First Nation during the 1950s and 1960s.
- Alleged negligence, breach of fiduciary duty and vicarious liability against Canada for sexual and psychological abuse by a teacher while attending the Wabaseemoong Indian Day School.
Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement
Vote 1: $5.2 million dollars (reprofile)
Vote 10: $300,000 thousand (reprofile)
Key Messages:
- The Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement acknowledges a dark chapter of Canada's history with Indigenous peoples – one that should never be forgotten.
- As the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement comes to its natural end, Canada remains committed to addressing the legacy of the Indian Residential Schools.
- While implementation of the Agreement is well advanced, significant work remains that needs to be addressed.
- This work will responsibly demonstrate to the Courts, survivors and Canadians that proper and due diligence has been taken to meet the obligations under the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement.
- This is why we have requested funds be re-profiled to this fiscal year in order to meet our legal obligations under the Settlement Agreement.
- This would include, for example, the resolution of the remaining claims for compensation under the Agreement – including those related to Kivalliq Hall, which is a residential school that was added under the agreement in April of 2019.
- While it was originally anticipated that the addition of Kivalliq Hall to the Settlement Agreement would be finalized in late 2018-19, delays in securing Implementation Orders from the Courts have resulted in activities and associated costs in 2018-19 being carried forward.
- The reprofiled funding will also assist in addressing a number of obligations related to the completion of the implementation phase of the Settlement Agreement, demonstrating to the Courts that Canada has fulfilled its legal obligations, allowing for the Settlement Agreement to be closed in a fair and transparent manner.
Background:
- For over 100 years, Canada placed Indian children in residential schools until the last federally-operated school was closed in 1996. Over 150,000 children attended these residential schools. The Government of Canada received the first litigation claim for damages in 1990. By 2004, more than 14,000 individual claims and several class actions had been filed and numbers were still increasing. Following negotiations led by former Supreme Court of Canada Justice Frank Lacobucci, in 2006 the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement (IRSSA) was signed by Canada, church entities, the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Representatives, and legal counsel representing former students of Indian Residential Schools. The IRSSA resolved the largest class action in Canadian history. The goal of the IRSSA is the resolution of the legacy of Indian Residential Schools. It was approved by the Courts in nine jurisdictions across Canada as a "fair and reasonable settlement" for class members.
Five main components of the IRSSA
- Common Experience Payment (includes Personal Credits);
- Truth and Reconciliation Commission (includes Document Disclosure);
- Commemoration;
- Health Supports; and
- Independent Assessment Process (IAP)
Since the implementation of the IRSSA
- Almost 80,000 former students have received a Common Experience Payment, totalling $1.62 billion dollars as of June 30, 2019;
- Over 21,000 former students and their families were provided more than $57 million dollars to support educational opportunities;
- Over 99.9% of the 38,000 Independent Assessment Process (IAP) claims have been resolved
- To date, approximately $3 billion in compensation has been paid to survivors
- $20 million dollars in funding was set aside to fund 144 commemoration projects.
- Due to the sun-setting nature of the Settlement Agreement, approved funding will end as of fiscal year end 2020-2021. While it is true that the program is sun-setting, further funding is required for the next two fiscal years (this year and next) in order to adequately support staff who are impacted. This includes things like training, career counselling and relocation.
- The Department received a reprofile of $53,220,900 earlier this fiscal year from the Settlement Allotment Fund for settlement payments. This second reprofile is from a separate source of funds to cover operating and salary dollars.
Indigenous Peoples Space at 100 Wellington Street
Vote 1: $2.8 million
Vote 5: $1.8 million
Vote 10: $690 888
Statutory: $4 253
Total: $5.3 million in 2019-20
Key Messages:
- In June 2017, the Prime Minister announced that the former United States Embassy at 100 Wellington Street in Ottawa, on the traditional territory of the Algonquin Peoples, would be transformed into a national Indigenous Peoples' Space.
- The spirit and intention of the Indigenous Peoples' Space has always been a space led by First Nations, Inuit and Métis led.
- This work is being under taken in the true spirit of reconciliation – all decisions around the space have been taken as a group between partners, and we look forward to continuing the work together on this historic project.
- The funding of $5.3 million in these Supplementary Estimates B is to complete the exhibit fit-up (e.g., display materials and content, art reproductions) for exhibits on First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures as part of the short-term use for the Indigenous Peoples' Space at 100 Wellington Street. It has also supported ongoing operations and maintenance (e.g., security, heating).
If pressed on current status
- Together, we are working on the short-term use plan of the Indigenous Peoples' Space while the longer-term design is completed.
- As 100 Wellington Street is located on Algonquin traditional territory, the Government of Canada supports the participation of the Algonquin Nation in the Indigenous Peoples' Space initiative.
- The Government is working with partners to reach an agreement on respective roles and responsibilities, and on the short and long term visions of this initiative.
Background:
- The Indigenous Peoples' Space at 100 Wellington Street in Ottawa is intended as a place to educate and raise awareness of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples' contributions to Canada's past, present, and future. It is intended to be distinctions-based and reflect each of the three unique Indigenous groups in Canada – First Nations, Inuit and Métis – and the diversity within those groups. It will also provide a space for Indigenous governments to conduct intergovernmental relations and official business.
- The short-term use of the Indigenous Peoples' Space will be led by Indigenous partners, will provide an opportunity for Indigenous peoples to engage on the future design of the space, and allow Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples to experience the Space. The short-term use is anticipated to last until spring 2022, when the design and use of the building for the long-term will be finalized.
- The Indigenous Peoples' Space is in the Parliamentary Precinct area, which is on the traditional territory of the Algonquin peoples. As a local Algonquin group, the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation Tribal Council has been engaged on the development of the space into an Indigenous Peoples' Space at the location. The Government continues to support its participation.
- To seek resolution to a peaceful strike and hunger strike, all partners agreed that a dedicated Algonquin-space would be designed and developed by Algonquins for the long-term use. Agreement has not yet been reached on how to manage the short-term use of 100 Wellington Street, and it will remain closed until a resolution can be found amongst partners.
- The Government of Canada and Indigenous partners will continue to work in full partnership on the next phase of this initiative to ensure the space becomes a world-class Indigenous Peoples' Space in the longer-term.
Comprehensive Land Claims and Self-Government Agreements
Vote 10: $1.5 million
Key Messages:
- The Government of Canada provides ongoing funding to Indigenous groups to support modern treaties, self-governments or land claim agreements. The complex history defining these agreements has led to statutory funding obligations defined within the context of each negotiation. The factors determining funding increases vary by agreement and they can change depending on the outcomes of renewal negotiations.
- The gap in reference levels to be able to meet financial obligations contained in fiscal financing agreements for fiscal year 2019-20 is $1.5 million dollars, which we are seeking through these Supplementary Estimates B.
- Generally, the amounts provided to Indigenous groups are inflated by Statistics Canada's Final Domestic Demand Implicit Price Index (FDDIPI). If agreements include program funding for activities that are impacted by population levels (Education, Health and Social programs) the annual escalators are increased by FDDIPI as well as the percentage change in population.
- This funding will support Canada's ability to fulfill its legal obligations as negotiated and agreed to within Comprehensive Land Claims and Self-Government Agreements.
- The overall risk level of this submission is moderate, should funding not be provided.
Background:
- Section 35 of the Constitution Act (1982) recognizes and affirms Indigenous peoples' inherent right to self-government and treaty rights that are typically codified and agreed upon in the context of land claims agreements (modern treaties) and self-government agreements. Canada is obligated to fund implementation of activities outlined in these agreements.
- Self-governing First Nations have assumed responsibility for the delivery of programs and services to their citizens in relation to land and resource management, heritage and culture, social services, health, capital and community infrastructure, economic development and education.
- Under Fiscal Financing Agreements, Canada provides funding to Indigenous governments to enable them to implement their comprehensive land claim and/or self-government agreements, deliver programs and services to their citizens, and remain accountable to their citizens.
- Prior to 2018-19, the department was using 2% for the most part to request annual increases in the ARLU process. There were a few that were done based on average of FDDIPI and population.
- In 2018-19, Treasury Board Secretariat directed to use a new approach wherein the department was to calculate the adjustors using the Q3 of the most recent FDDIPI data to prepare for the ARLU for the upcoming fiscal year.
- The new approach resulted in the department having to return annually through ARLU to seek the gap through Supplementary Estimates as per the agreed approach with Treasury Board.
Departmental Transfers Between CIRNAC and ISC
Key Messages:
- In 2017, profound measures were initiated to affect a shift in the way the Government delivers services to Indigenous Peoples and advances self-determination and self-government of Indigenous Peoples.
- The dissolution of Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) and the creation of two new departments, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) and Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), was announced.
- In 2019, further changes to the structures of CIRNAC and ISC were announced as part of the continuation of the transformation.
- The Individual Affairs Branch and the Lands and Economic Development Sector under CIRNAC were transferred to ISC. Additionally, ISC and CIRNAC have chosen to establish a robust internal service structure with a large number of shared services functions located in one or the other department.
- These changes support the goal of bringing Indigenous service delivery and programming together while working in full partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.
2020-21 Main estimates
Deck
Highlights
- CIRNAC 2020-21 Main Estimates will be approximately $4,911.3 million.
- The Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Act established the new department effective July 15, 2019. Note that 2020-21 will be the first Main Estimates for the new department. No information will be published in relation to the 2019-20 Main Estimates for comparison.
- The information displayed in the 'Estimates to Date' column is the funding CIRNAC received in Supplementary Estimates (A) and (B), both of which occurred after the creation of the department on July 15, 2019.
- For information, a comparison to the 2019-20 Main Estimates of the former Department Indian Affairs and Northern Development is provided in Annex A.
Budgetary Voted | 2018-19 Expenditures | 2019-20 Main Estimates (dollars) | 2019-20 Estimates to Date (dollars) | 2020-21 Main Estimates |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 - Operating expenditures | 109,146,777 | 1,528,290,836 | ||
5 - Capital expenditures | 2,032,646 | 268,287 | ||
10 - Grants and contributions | 246,748,908 | 3,309,017,994 | ||
60 - Debt Forgiveness | 919,028,970 | |||
Total voted | 1,276,957,301 | 4,837,577,117 | ||
Total Statutory | 34,285 | 47,846,390 | ||
Total Budgetary | 1,276,991,586 | 4,885,423,507 |
Non-Budgetary Voted | 2018-19 Expenditures | 2019-20 Main Estimates (dollars) | 2019-20 Estimates to Date (dollars) | 2020-21 Main Estimates |
---|---|---|---|---|
L15 - Loans to Indigenous claimants | 25,903,000 | |||
Total voted | 25,903,000 | |||
Total Non-Budgetary | 25,903,000 |
2020-21 Main Estimates - $4,911.3 million
- CIRNAC resources are comprised of 31% in Operating expenditures, 68% in Transfer Payments and 1% in Loans.
- Of the 31% in Operating expenditures:
- 25% represents direct programming resources to remediate Northern Contaminated Sites as well as settle various claims, including the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, Federal Indian Day School and Sixties Scoop;
- 4% of the budget will be used for program management and delivery including litigation management / support and delivery funding related to the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, negotiation costs, and program supports; and
- 2% for administrative overhead.
![](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/transparency_briefing-docs_appearance_inan_na_supplementary_estimates-b_and_main-estimates_fig1_1594148706983_eng.jpg)
Text alternative for the chart Expenditures by Category
This pie chart shows the breakdown of expenditures by category.
- 68% ($3,328.7 million) represents expenditures in transfer payments;
- 31% represent the Operating expenditures, comprised of:
- 25% ($1,228.7 million) represents direct programming resources to remediate Northern Contaminated Sites as well as settle various claims, including the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, Federal Indian Day School and Sixties Scoop;
- 4% ($220.5 million) of the budget will be used for program management and delivery including litigation management / support and delivery funding related to the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, negotiation costs, and program supports; and
- 2% ($107.2 million) for administrative overhead.
- 1% loans ($25.9 million) and
- 0% (less than 1%) capital ($0.3 million).
The table shows the following:
The Operating total of $1,556.4 million is comprised of $1,528.3 million Vote 1 Operating expenditures, $26.1 million for the employee benefit plans (statutory); $1.8 million (statutory) in resource royalties and $0.2 million for miscellaneous items (statutory).
The transfer payment total of $3,328.7 million is comprised of $3,309.0 million Vote 10 grants and contributions, $19.7 million Comprehensive Land Claim Settlements (statutory).
These amounts are reconciled to the 2020-21 Main Estimates page II-83.
2020-21 Main Estimates - $4,911.3 million
These tables show the breakdown of expenditures by Departmental Results Framework: Crown-Indigenous Relations, Northern Affairs and Internal services, as well as the breakdown by program inventory
Crown-Indigenous Relations | millions of dollars |
---|---|
Total | 4,231.4 |
Negotiations of Claims and Self-Government Agreements (TAG) | 289.5 |
Specific Claims (TAG) * | 1,457.0 |
Management and Implementation of Agreements and Treaties (Implementation Sector) | 1,120.3 |
Consultation and Accommodation (Implementation Sector) | 6.1 |
Consultation and Policy Development (PSD) | 83.8 |
Federal Interlocutor's Contribution Program (PSD) | 93.2 |
Basic Organizational Capacity (PSD) | 25.3 |
Other Claims (PSD) | 1,070.0 |
First Nation Jurisdiction over Land and Fiscal Management (RIA) | 26.7 |
Residential Schools Resolution (RIA) | 59.5 |
* Loans are included in this program Inventory |
Northern Affairs | millions of dollars |
---|---|
Total | 529.9 |
Northern and Arctic Governance and Partnerships (NAO) | 96.6 |
Climate Change Adaptation and Clean Energy (NAO) | 36.8 |
Northern Strategic and Science Policy (NAO) | 0.8 |
Northern Regulatory and Legislative Frameworks (NAO) | 18.4 |
Northern and Arctic Environmental Sustainability (NAO) | 15.3 |
Northern Contaminated Sites (NAO) | 253.5 |
Nutrition North (NAO) | 108.5 |
Canadian High Arctic Research Station (NAO) | 0.0 |
Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs | millions of dollars |
---|---|
Internal Services | 150.0 |
Expenditure Trend - Crown-Indigenous Relations
- The variation observed between the 2019-20 forecasted spending and 2020-21 is mainly due to:
- Anticipated spending related to the implementation of the Federal Indian Day School settlement claims;
- One-time funding in 2019-20 to forgive comprehensive land claim negotiation loans;
- Anticipated settlements of specific claims;
- Anticipated spending related to the Sixties Scoop settlements, which are expected to be completed in 2019-20.
![](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/transparency_briefing-docs_appearance_inan_na_supplementary_estimates-b_and_main-estimates_fig2_1594148726511_eng.jpg)
Text alternative for the chart Expenditure Trend - Crown-Indigenous Relations
This chart shows the trend of expenditures for Crown-Indigenous Relations from 2014-15 to 2020-21 in million of dollars as follow:
2014-15 | 2015-16 | 2016-17 | 2017-18 | 2018-19 | 2019-20 | 2020-21 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1,464.4 | 1,600.1 | 1,699.6 | 2,861.6 | 3,177.2 | 7,096.2 | 4,231.4 |
The variation observed between the 2019-20 forecasted spending and 2020-21 is mainly due to:
- Anticipated spending related to the implementation of the Federal Indian Day School settlement claims;
- One-time funding in 2019-20 to forgive comprehensive land claim negotiation loans;
- Anticipated settlements of specific claims;
- Anticipated spending related to the Sixties Scoop settlements, which are expected to be completed in 2019-20.
Source: 2014-15 to 2017-18 based on restatement of expenditures reported in Public Accounts for the following programs: Rights and Interests of Indigenous Peoples, Management and Implementation of Agreements and Treaties, Other Claims, and Residential Schools Resolution. 2018-19 based on restatement of expenditures reported in Public Accounts for Rights and Self- Determination. 2019-20 based on the restatement of forecast spending for Rights and Self-Determination. 2020-21 based on Main Estimates. These restatements are done to provide a comparable trend to current structure of the department.
Expenditure Trend - Northern Affairs
- The variation in the expenditures trend mainly reflects:
- Changes in approved funding levels for the Northern Contaminated Sites including the new Northern Abandoned Mined Reclamation Program; and
- Increased funding levels for the Nutrition North Program.
![](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/transparency_briefing-docs_appearance_inan_na_supplementary_estimates-b_and_main-estimates_fig3_1594148739803_eng.jpg)
Text alternative for the chart Expenditure Trend - Northern Affairs
This chart shows the expenditures trend for Northern Affairs from 2014-15 to 2020-21.
2014-15 | 2015-16 | 2016-17 | 2017-18 | 2018-19 | 2019-20 | 2020-21 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
399.7 | 392.5 | 381.4 | 431.6 | 498.8 | 521.8 | 529.9 |
The variation in the expenditures trend mainly reflects:
- Changes in approved funding levels for the Northern Contaminated Sites including the new Northern Abandoned Mined Reclamation Program; and
- Increased funding levels for the Nutrition North Program.
Source: 2014-15 to 2017-18 based on restatement of expenditures reported in Public Accounts for the following programs: Northern Governance and People, Northern Science and Technology, and Northern Land, Resources and Environmental Management. 2018-19 based on restatement of expenditures reported in Public Accounts for Community and Regional Development. 2019- 20 based on the restatement of forecast spending for Community and Regional Development. 2020-21 based on Main Estimates. These restatements are done to provide a comparable trend to current structure of the department.
Annex A – Comparison to the 2019-20 Main Estimates of the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development
In comparison to the former Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Developments' 2019- 20 Main Estimates of $7,034.2 million. This decrease in funding is primarily attributable to:
- a decrease in funding for the Federal Indian Day School settlement;
- a decrease in funding for the Sixties Scoop settlement;
- net decrease in funding related to the transfer to the Department of Indigenous Services primarily for Individual Affairs and Lands and Economic Development programs as well as internal services as per Order in Council P.C. 2019-1109; and
- net increase in funding for negotiation, settlement and implementation of comprehensive claims and self-government agreements.
Budgetary Voted | 2018-19 Expenditures | 2019-20 Main Estimates (DIAND) (dollars) | 2019-20 Estimates to Date (dollars) | 2020-21 Main Estimates | Main Estimates 2020-21 vs. 2019-20 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 - Operating expenditures | 3,316,984,242 | 109,146,777 | 1,528,290,836 | (1,788,693,406) | |
5 - Capital expenditures | 5,491,717 | 2,032,646 | 268,287 | (5,223,430) | |
10 - Grants and contributions | 2,625,384,706 | 246,748,908 | 3,309,017,994 | 683,633,288 | |
25 - Advancing Reconciliation by Settling Specific Claims | 883,000,000 | (883,000,000) | |||
30 - Enhancing Indigenous Consultation and Capacity Support | 1,500,000 | (1,500,000) | |||
35 - Honouring Missing Residential School Children | 7,758,176 | (7,758,176) | |||
40 - Indigenous Youth and Reconciliation | 4,874,600 | (4,874,600) | |||
45 - More Connectivity = More Affordable Electricity | 6,000,000 | (6,000,000) | |||
50 - Supporting Indigenous Business Development | 25,777,783 | (25,777,783) | |||
55 - Strong Arctic and Northern Communities | 5,000,000 | (5,000,000) | |||
60 - Debt Forgiveness | 919,028,970 | ||||
Total voted | 6,881,771,224 | 1,276,957,301 | 4,837,577,117 | (2,044,194,107) | |
Total Statutory | 96,104,385 | 34,285 | 47,846,390 | (48,257,995) | |
Total Budgetary | 6,977,875,609 | 1,276,991,586 | 4,885,423,507 | (2,092,452,102) | |
Note: 2019-20 Main Estimates and Main Estimates 2020-21 vs. 2019-20 were not published |
Non-Budgetary Voted | 2018-19 Expenditures | 2019-20 Main Estimates (DIAND) (dollars) | 2019-20 Estimates to Date (dollars) | 2020-21 Main Estimates | Main Estimates 2020-21 vs. 2019-20 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
L15 - Loans to Indigenous claimants | 25,903,000 | 25,903,000 | |||
L20 - Loans to First Nations in British Columbia | 30,400,000 | (30,400,000) | |||
Total voted | 56,303,000 | 25,903,000 | |||
Total Non-Budgetary | 56,303,000 | 25,903,000 | (30,400,000) | ||
Note: 2019-20 Main Estimates and Main Estimates 2020-21 vs. 2019-20 were not published |
Extract
Raison d'être
Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) continues to renew the nation-to-nation, Inuit-Crown, government-to-government relationship between Canada and First Nations, Inuit and Métis; modernize Government of Canada structures to enable Indigenous peoples to build capacity and support their vision of self-determination; and lead the Government of Canada's work in the North.
The Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and the Minister of Northern Affairs are responsible for this organization.
Additional information can be found in the Organization's Departmental Plan.
Budgetary Voted | 2018-19 Expenditures | 2019-20 Main Estimates (dollars) | 2019-20 Estimates to Date (dollars) | 2020-21 Main Estimates |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 - Operating expenditures | 109,146,777 | 1,528,290,836 | ||
5 - Capital expenditures | 2,032,646 | 268,287 | ||
10 - Grants and contributions | 246,748,908 | 3,309,017,994 | ||
Items voted in prior Estimates | 919,028,970 | |||
Total voted | 1,276,957,301 | 4,837,577,117 | ||
Total Statutory | 34,285 | 47,846,390 | ||
Total Budgetary | 1,276,991,586 | 4,885,423,507 |
Non-Budgetary Voted | 2018-19 Expenditures | 2019-20 Main Estimates (dollars) | 2019-20 Estimates to Date (dollars) | 2020-21 Main Estimates |
---|---|---|---|---|
L15 - Loans to Indigenous claimants | 25,903,000 | |||
Total voted | 25,903,000 | |||
Total Non-Budgetary | 25,903,000 |
Budgetary | Operating | Capital | Transfer Payments (dollars) | Revenues and other reductions | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Crown-Indigenous Relations | 1,228,571,194 | 2,976,909,731 | 4,205,480,925 | ||
Northern Affairs | 178,167,057 | 351,796,030 | 529,963,087 | ||
Internal Services | 182,777,909 | 268,287 | (33,066,701) | 149,979,495 | |
Total | 1,589,516,160 | 268,287 | 3,328,705,761 | (33,066,701) | 4,885,423,507 |
Non-Budgetary | Total |
---|---|
Crown-Indigenous Relations | 25,903,000 |
Total | 25,903,000 |
Grants | 2018–19 Expenditures (dollars) | 2019–20 Main Estimates (dollars) | 2020–21 Main Estimates (dollars) |
---|---|---|---|
Grants to First Nations to settle specific claims negotiated by Canada and/or awarded by the Specific Claims Tribunal, and to Indigenous groups to settle special claims | 1,394,351,059 | ||
Grants to implement comprehensive land claims and self-government agreements and other agreements to address Section 35 Rights | 779,131,975 | ||
Grants to reimburse treaty negotiation loans to Indigenous groups who have settled a comprehensive land claim | 98,173,878 | ||
Grants to the Government of the Northwest Territories and the Government of Nunavut for health care of Indians and Inuit | 58,848,000 | ||
Grants for the Political Evolution of the Territories, particularly as it pertains to Devolution | 21,200,036 | ||
Grants to land claim organizations, self-government agreement holders and First Nations organizations to support harvesting of country foods | 8,000,000 | ||
Grant to support the Giant Mine Oversight Board and research for arsenic trioxide | 985,784 | ||
Grants to participating First Nations and the First Nation Education Authority pursuant to the First Nations Jurisdiction over Education in British Columbia Act | 600,000 | ||
Grant to the First Nations Finance Authority pursuant to the First Nations Fiscal and Statistical Management Act | 500,000 | ||
Total Statutory | 19,687,767 |
Contributions | 2018–19 Expenditures (dollars) | 2019–20 Main Estimates (dollars) | 2020–21 Main Estimates (dollars) |
---|---|---|---|
Contributions to support the negotiation and implementation of Treaties, Claims and self-government agreements or initiatives | 430,679,961 | ||
Contributions for promoting the safe use, development, conservation and protection of the North's natural resources, and promoting scientific development for Indigenous Peoples and the North | 147,192,914 | ||
Contributions to support access to healthy foods in isolated northern communities | 97,158,558 | ||
Contributions to support the construction and maintenance of community infrastructure | 54,419,000 | ||
Contributions to support Métis housing | 51,250,000 | ||
Contributions for the purpose of consultation and policy development | 39,517,703 | ||
Federal Interlocutor's Contribution Program | 39,149,830 | ||
Contributions to supply public services in Indian Government Support and to build strong governance, administrative and accountability systems | 32,082,842 | ||
Contributions to support the basic organizational capacity of Indigenous representative organizations | 24,777,716 | ||
Contributions to support the Indigenous Nation Rebuilding Initiative | 20,000,000 | ||
Contributions to promote social and political development in the North and for Northerners | 6,401,053 | ||
Transfer payments to the Government of Yukon for the care and maintenance, remediation and management of the closure of contaminated sites in Yukon | 4,527,685 | ||
Transfer payments to the Government of Yukon for the remediation of the Marwell Tar Pit Site to support the Contaminated Sites Program | 70,000 |
Budgetary | 2018–19 Expenditures (dollars) | 2019–20 Main Estimates (dollars) | 2020–21 Main Estimates (dollars) |
---|---|---|---|
Contributions to employee benefit plans | 34,285 | 26,099,305 | |
Grants to Aboriginal organizations designated to receive claim settlement payments pursuant to Comprehensive Land Claim Settlement Acts | 19,687,767 | ||
Payments to comprehensive claim beneficiaries in compensation for resource royalties (Comprehensive Land Claim Settlement Acts) | 1,865,718 | ||
Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations – Salary and motor car allowance (Salaries Act and Parliament of Canada Act) | 89,300 | ||
Minister of Northern Affairs – Salary and motor car allowance (Salaries Act and Parliament of Canada Act) | 89,300 | ||
Grassy Narrows and Islington Bands Mercury Disability Board (Grassy Narrows and Islington Indian Bands Mercury Pollution Claims Settlement Act) | 15,000 |
2020-21 Main Estimates Overview
Key Messages:
- The Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Act which came into effect on July 15, 2019, establishes the department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC).
- Fiscal year 2020-21 will be the first Main Estimates for the new department, and as such, there is no information available to be published with respect to the department's previous years' Main Estimates for comparison purposes.
- The Department of CIRNAC 2020-21 Main Estimates will be approximately $4,911.3 million.
- With this funding, CIRNAC will continue to support activities that advance reconciliation and accelerate the renewal of the Crown's relationship with Indigenous peoples based on the affirmation of rights, respect, co-operation and partnership. In addition, the Department will continue to lead the Government's work in the North in cooperation with territorial, provincial and Indigenous partners.
Background:
The former Department of Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada 2019-20 Main Estimates budget is $7,034.2 million, while CIRNAC's total Main Estimates budget for 2020–21 is $4,911.3 million which reflects a net decrease of $2,122.9 million.
This decrease in funding is primarily attributable with:
- The Federal Indian Day Schools (McLean) settlement agreement (-$1,003.2 million) based on anticipated spending;
- The Sixties Scoop settlement (-$750.0 million), as the settlement is anticipated to be completed in 2019-20;
- The transfer to the Department of Indigenous Services, primarily for Individual Affairs and Lands and Economic Development programs, as well as internal services, as per Order in Council P.C. 2019-1109 (-$483.6 million);
- The funding for the reimbursement of comprehensive land claim negotiation loans and reform of the Negotiation Support Funding Program (+$98.2 million); and
- The funding for the Renewal of 25 Self-Governing Indigenous Government Fiscal Transfer Arrangements Incorporating Canada's Collaborative Self-Government Fiscal Policy and associated Costing Methodologies (+$100.1 million).
Loan Forgiveness
Vote 10: $491 million from 2020-21 to 2024-25 ($98.2 million annually)
Key Message:
- Indigenous peoples should never have to choose between exercising their rights and their financial security.
- The Government initiated a number of reforms to how Indigenous groups are funded to participate in comprehensive land claim negotiations.
- This started by replacing comprehensive land claim negotiation loans with contribution funding in 2018 and, in 2019, by forgiving outstanding comprehensive land claim loans.
- The final stage of these loan reforms will see Indigenous groups that have repaid their loans reimbursed $491 million over five years. This will reimburse the loan amounts repaid by modern treaty holders to Canada starting in the Spring 2020.
- This reimbursement will benefit 93 Indigenous communities.
Background:
- Budget 2019 committed funding of up to $491 million ($98.2 million annually over five years starting in 2020-21) to reimburse the loan amounts repaid by modern treaty holders to Canada.
- Loans were repaid by 27 Indigenous groups representing 93 communities and covering 24 modern treaties.
- Work to advance the Budget commitment is nearing completion. A total of $919 million to support forgiveness was included as part of the tabling of Supplementary Estimates B. Indigenous groups will be notified that their loans have been forgiven effective March 31, 2020.
- Subject to annual appropriation of funds, reimbursement is scheduled to occur over a five-year period with the first payment being issued in Spring 2020.
- As a reminder, in 2018 the department also eliminated loan funding and secured $43.4 million annually in contribution funding to support Indigenous participation in comprehensive land claim negotiations.
Mclean Settlement
Key Message:
- The mistreatment of Indigenous children is a tragic and shameful part of Canada's history.
- The Court has approved the settlement agreement and the process has begun to compensate survivors.
- Thousands of Indigenous people who suffered harm at federally-run Indian Day Schools will have until July 13, 2022 to apply for long-awaited compensation.
- As per the terms of the settlement, Canada has paid $1.27B for Level 1 harms, $200M for the establishment of the Legacy Corporation, $62M in legal fees and taxes and $7M in ongoing legal support for class members.
- Canada will also provide compensation for Level 2-5 harms as claims are validated on an ongoing basis.
- As the implementation of the settlement was delayed due to appeal, funding for Level 2-5 compensation and administration fees will be reprofiled to future years.
Background:
McLean is a certified national class action on behalf of Indigenous peoples (and their families) who attended a Federal Indian Day School, as defined by the Indian Act, between 1920 and ending on the date of closure of any particular Indian Day School, or the date on which management was effectively transferred from Canada.
An Agreement-in-Principle was reached on November 30, 2018. On March 12, 2019, Minister Bennett, along with representative plaintiffs, announced that a proposed settlement agreement had been reached.
On August 19, 2019 the Federal court approved the settlement.
On October 31, 2019 a Motion for Leave to Appeal the Federal Indian Day Schools Settlement Agreement was filed with the Federal Court of Appeal by David Schultz on behalf of Chief Paul Émile Ottawa of the Atikamekw of Manawan. The appeal raises a number of issues including: deficiencies in the evidences filed by the parties to support the settlement agreement, that the claims period is too short, that the agreement lacks appropriate health supports and that class members have no right to specific legal counsel. Mr. Schultz's appeal was filed after the October 30, 2019 appeal deadline. On December 11, 2019, the Federal Court of Appeal dismissed the motion.
The settlement implementation began on January 13, 2020 and class members will have 2.5 years to apply for compensation.
Out-of-Court Settlements
Vote 1: $52 million
Key Message:
- The 2020 Main Estimates includes funding to negotiate various out-of-court settlements.
- The request for funding supports the settlement of several litigation claims. This underscores how the resolution of past grievances outside the courts is instrumental in advancing the Crown-Indigenous relationship and pursues an approach to litigation that promotes resolution and settlement.
- Settling litigation with Indigenous peoples outside the court system, in a fair, compassionate and respectful manner, demonstrates how the Government of Canada is working with Indigenous peoples towards accelerating a renewed, nation-to-nation relationship based on the recognition of rights, respect, co-operation and partnership.
Background:
- Settling litigation with Indigenous peoples outside the court system, in a fair, compassionate and respectful manner, demonstrates how the Government of Canada is working with Indigenous peoples towards accelerating a renewed, nation-to-nation relationship based on the recognition of rights, respect, co-operation and partnership.
- The 2019 Mandate letter for the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations stated the importance of continuing to improve the relationship between Canada and Indigenous peoples, as well as continued work to implement the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action.
- These Calls to Action are supported by one of the core themes in the Attorney General of Canada's Directive on Civil Litigation Involving Indigenous Peoples, which states that Canada should "advance an approach to litigation that promotes resolution and settlement, and seeks opportunities to narrow or avoid potential litigation."
- This approach has resulted in significant progress towards resolving litigation claims outside of the courts and has been successful in reducing Canada's contingent liability, as settlements have been based on risk and avoid unpredictable and / or undesirable court outcomes. This is demonstrated through the settlement of a number of class actions, as well as individual and multi-plaintiff actions.
Hot issues
Wet'suwet'en
Key message:
- We recognize this is a challenging time for all Canadians, Indigenous and non-Indigenous.
- We all want a peaceful and rapid resolution that brings down the blockades and advances dialogue with the Wet'suwet'en.
- Canada's longstanding working relationship with the Wet'suwet'en Hereditary Chiefs came first through the British Columbia treaty process, and is now through a rights discussion table.
- Last week, Canada and British Columbia met with the Wet'suwet'en Hereditary Chiefs to discuss the recognition of Wet'suwet'en rights and title and issues arising out of the Coastal GasLink project.
- The discussions resulted in a proposed arrangement that sets a path forward for recognizing Wet'suwet'en rights and title.
- Wet'suwet'en members are now reviewing the draft arrangement through Wet'suwet'en protocols for approval.
- If approved by the Wet'suwet'en Nation, I and BC's Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation Scott Fraser, will return to Wet'suwet'en territory to sign the document.
- Once signed by the parties, the parties will begin negotiating the implementation of Wet'suwet'en rights and title through a number of legally binding agreements.
If pressed on whether elected leadership and members will be reviewing the draft arrangement:
- The arrangement is now with the Wet'suwet'en for their consideration and review.
- The Government of Canada expects that the Wet'suwet'en people, including the elected leadership of the Wet'suwet'en Indian Act Bands, will participate in this internal Wet'suwet'en process to decide whether to approve the arrangement.
If pressed on what the government will do if the draft arrangement is not approved by the Wet'suwet'en:
- Should the arrangement not be approved, we will continue to work with the Wet'suwet'en to find a solution that balances the interests of all Canadians
- The government remains committed to find lasting solutions through respect and dialogue.
If pressed on how the arrangement may impact private land owners in Wet'suwet'en territory
- If the arrangement is approved, negotiations will begin on reconciling Crown and Wet'suwet'en interest regarding land title and jurisdiction.
- We will take the interests of private landowners into account throughout these negotiations.
If pressed regarding protest actions:
- I am pleased that we are now seeing the removal of barricades across the country.
- Reconciliation is not a simple task. In these cases we have to work collaboratively to find solutions that make sense for all Canadians.
- We believe that our recent discussions with the Wet'suwet'en, and the draft arrangement we have reached, creates the space needed to sit down and work towards a constructive solution.
If pressed on Next Steps / Ratification Process:
- Canada is committed to working with the Wet'suwet'en Nation to implement their rights and title.
- The tentative Arrangement with the Wet'suwet'en Hereditary Chiefs and the Province of BC recognizes their rights and title up-front and commits all three parties to work through these issues.
- Our shared goal is an agreement with Constitutional protection like other treaties in place, such as the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement.
- The Wet'suwet'en Nation would need to first ratify any eventual agreement.
- Like other treaties, it would then come through the House of Commons and Senate, in the form of a proposed law.
Background:
Wet'suwet'en members, with the support of Wet'suwet'en Hereditary Chiefs, had been occupying provincial Crown land within Wet'suwet'en traditional territory to prevent Coastal Gaslink from accessing a work site.
On December 14, 2018, the British Columbia Supreme Court issued an injunction temporarily ordering that workers be permitted access. On January 8, 2019, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police began to enforce the court injunction, resulting in a number of arrests.
Other Indigenous groups across Canada then took action in support of the Wet'suwet'en Hereditary Chiefs, including erecting blockades of railways.
CIRNAC has a longstanding relationship with the Wet'suwet'en Hereditary Chiefs, beginning under the British Columbia treaty process in 1994. The Wet'suwet'en were in Stage 4 of the process (negotiation of an Agreement-in-Principle) when, in May 2015, they ceased participating out of concern that their self-government rights and title interests would not be met. In March 2017, the Wet'suwet'en Hereditary Chiefs wrote to the Department seeking reconciliation discussions, and in July 2017, the Department initiated Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination discussions with the Wet'suwet'en, with an exclusive focus on child and family services. At these discussions, the Wet'suwet'en Nation is represented by the Wet'suwet'en Hereditary Chiefs and the elected Chiefs from both Hagwilget Village Council and Witset First Nation. On October 11, 2018, Canada, British Columbia and the Wet'suwet'en signed a Memorandum of Understanding, committing the parties to work together on child and family service transformation, and to explore a transfer of jurisdiction over child and family services back to the Wet'suwet'en.
From February 27-29, 2020, the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, the provincial Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, as well as representatives from CIRNAC and BC met with the Wet'suwet'en Hereditary Chiefs to discuss the recognition of Wet'suwet'en rights and title and the issues arising out of the Coastal GasLink project. The topics were discussed separately.
The result of these discussions was a proposed arrangement that includes a commitment to an expedited process to negotiate the implementation of Wet'suwet'en rights and title throughout Wet'suwet'en's Yintah (territory). This arrangement will be reviewed by Wet'suwet'en clan members through Wet'suwet'en governance protocols for ratification. If approved, the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation will return to Wet'suwet'en territory to sign.
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
Key message:
- The Government is committed to ending the ongoing national tragedy of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and this is why an independent national inquiry was launched.
- The Government took concrete action in response to the commission's interim report, including increased supports for families and survivors, support for an RCMP special unit, and a review of police practices. We have also invested in women's shelters, housing, education, child welfare reform, and safety on the Highway of Tears.
- In response to the Final Report's 231 Calls for Justice, we are developing a national action plan in partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis governments and organizations, family members, and survivors, to implement the report's Calls to Justice.
Working With Provinces and Territories
- The Final Report invites the federal, provincial and territorial governments to respond to the Calls to Justice.
- To date, 4 provinces and 2 territories have formally indicated their interest in working with the Government of Canada to address the Inquiry's final report.
- The government will continue to promote cooperation and collaboration with provinces and territories to drive transformative change to end systemic racism and violence against Indigenous women and girls.
Background:
On December 8, 2015, the Government of Canada announced the launch of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (National Inquiry). The Government of Canada dedicated $53.8 million to the independent National Inquiry, and provided terms of reference and a timeline of two years to complete its important work, which began on September 1, 2016. Our response to the interim report was substantive, and included an allocation of $50 million. Action has been taken to strengthen the justice system, improve safety and security, improve oversight and awareness, prevent violence, provide support to victims, families and communities, and to ensure that Indigenous women's voices are heard. Investments in women's shelters, housing, education and reform of child and family services have also been made.
In June 2018, the Commission was granted a six-month extension, giving the Inquiry until June 30, 2019 to complete its work, with the final report due on April 30, 2019. The Government of Canada has provided $38M in additional funding to support the Inquiry during its extension. The Commission has used these funds to assist with operational needs and provide short term aftercare to families and survivors who testify. This brought the total funding for the Inquiry to $92M.
The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls presented its final report to the federal, provincial and territorial governments at a public closing ceremony in Gatineau, Quebec on June 3, 2019. During the closing ceremony, the Government of Canada welcomed the release of the final report and reiterated its commitment to ending the ongoing national tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, and to help prevent and eliminate violence against Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ and Two-Spirit People in future generations.
During the closing ceremony, the Prime Minister promised to develop and implement a National Action Plan to address violence against Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ and two-spirit people. The Government of Canada is working with Indigenous partners and provincial and territorial governments to develop and implement a National Action Plan to respond to the Calls for Justice and expects to launch the National Action Plan in Summer 2020.
United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
Key Message:
- As the Truth and Reconciliation Commission said – the Declaration charts a path "for reconciliation to flourish in 21st century Canada."
- The Government is committed to implementing the Declaration and I have indicated I will support Minister Lametti in introducing co-developed legislation by the end of 2020. The Government remains committed to implementing the Declaration in close partnership with Indigenous peoples.
- We will ensure government legislation fully respects the intent of the UN Declaration, and establishes Bill C-262 as the foundation on which to build.
Free, Prior and Informed Consent:
- The Government of Canada recognizes that meaningful engagement with Indigenous peoples aims to secure their free, prior, and informed consent.
- The Declaration must be read as a whole. Its principles are meant to re-balance the relationship between States and Indigenous peoples.
Background:
Adopted in 2007, the Declaration consists of 24 preambular provisions and 46 Articles that describe the individual and collective rights of Indigenous peoples around the world.
The Government of Canada committed to implementing the Declaration in 2016, which includes the concept of free, prior, and informed consent, in partnership with Indigenous peoples. The Declaration establishes a universal framework of minimum standards for the survival, dignity, well-being and rights of the world's Indigenous peoples. In Canada, implementation will be in accordance with the Canadian constitution. Section 35 of Canada's Constitution Act, 1982, provides for the constitutional protection of Aboriginal and treaty rights.
The Liberal platform commitment proposes to introduce co-developed legislation to implement the Declaration as government legislation by the end of 2020. The commitment seeks to ensure that this legislation fully respects the intent of the Declaration and establishes Bill C-262 as the 'floor' rather than the ceiling when it comes to drafting this new legislation.
Free, prior and informed consent is not defined in the Declaration, nor is there a domestically or internationally agreed upon definition or universal approach to implementing it. It is not a freestanding article in its own right, but serves as a qualifier on government action to protect Indigenous interests in specific circumstances (e.g., forceful removal or relocation, dangerous materials on Indigenous lands, military activities, cultural property, etc.). The goal of the principle is to ensure a balancing of interests and that consultation processes are aimed at building consensus.
Proposed Treaty Commissioner
Key Message:
- Our Government is committed to co-developing a process for the ongoing review, maintenance and enforcement of treaty obligations between the Crown and Indigenous communities.
- This process will include discussions on a National Treaty Commissioner's Office.
- Advancing this commitment will involve meaningful engagement with First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners.
If pressed on Engagement
- Indigenous perspectives are diverse in terms of how to best advance this work.
- For instance there are varying views of what a co-development process should look like as well as the functions of a National Treaty Commissioner's Office.
- It will be critical to understand these differing perspectives as we advance this commitment.
Background:
Treaties establish and define specific rights, benefits and obligations of treaty signatories, which serve to solidify relations, address issues related to land title and usage and / or address outstanding legal rights and title over unsurrendered lands.
Treaty rights, as well as Aboriginal rights, are recognized and affirmed by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. Today, the courts have indicated that the purpose of section 35(1) "is to reconcile the prior presence of Aboriginal peoples in North America with the assertion of Crown sovereignty." The recognition and implementation of section 35, Constitution Act, 1982 rights is central to Canada's relationship with First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples.
The Government committed to "take new steps to ensure the Government is living up to the spirit and intent of treaties, agreements, and other constructive arrangements made with Indigenous Peoples" in the Speech from the Throne. The Minister of Crown-Indigenous relations is also mandated to co-develop with Indigenous Peoples a new distinctions-based process for the ongoing review, maintenance and enforcement of Canada's treaty obligations between the Crown and Indigenous communities. This work will be supported by a new National Treaty Commissioner's Office that will be designed and established with Indigenous partners.
Inuit Nunangat Policy
Key Message:
- The Government of Canada is committed to continuing our partnership with Inuit to create a renewed relationship based on respect and self-determination.
- This government is now strengthening that commitment by co-developing an Inuit Nunangat Policy.
- Our goal is to create a policy to articulate the government's relationship with Inuit Nunangat.
- Over the next year and a half, as a whole of government, we will engage Inuit to create an inclusive policy that respects the diverse perspectives of Inuit across the country.
Background:
- Inuit representative organizations and governments have articulated a vision for an Inuit Nunangat policy space at various venues and tables. This is based on the notion of seeing Inuit Nunangat as a "distinct geographic, cultural, and political region" within Canada based on the full implementation of land claims. Inuit have pursued this vision through various fora including the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework, the Inuit Crown Partnership Committee and their document on ITK Priorities for Election 2019.
- In seeing Inuit Nunangat as a distinct political space, Inuit wish to ensure that all four regions of Inuit Nunangat are equally eligible under federal policies and funding. They also seek to ensure that federal funding for programs impacting Inuit are allocated directly to Inuit organizations. Currently, some federal programs are specific to particular jurisdictions where some Inuit regions are eligible and others are not, or funding might flow through provinces or territories where Inuit communities would have to apply to them in order to access funding.
- It is imperative to define an Inuit Nunangat policy in terms of its scope of applicability. The four regions within Inuit Nunangat are located in territories and provinces; and three of the four regions include First Nations. Several Inuit organizations are signatory to modern treaties and one is also self-governing (Nunatsiavut Government in Newfoundland and Labrador). Therefore, it is necessary to determine what will fall within the jurisdiction of an Inuit Nunangat policy.
- The implementation of an Inuit Nunangat policy will require a whole of government approach and significant engagement with Territorial and Provincial governments. It will touch upon existing departmental mandates, provincial/territorial roles, legislation (including the Constitution), and land claims agreements.
Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action
Truth and Reconciliation Commission Implementation:
- The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action provide all Canadians a path forward for Canada's journey of healing and reconciliation.
- To date, close to 80 per cent of the Calls to Action under the responsibility of the federal government alone or shared responsibility with provincial/territorial governments and other key partners, are completed or well underway.
- The Government fully understands the importance of the Calls to Action and will continue to work with our partners to accelerate progress.
- This work will require sustained and consistent action to continually make progress on the journey of reconciliation.
If Pressed on the Implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples – Call to Action #43:
- The Government's relationship with Indigenous Peoples is one based on the recognition of Indigenous rights and rooted in respect, co-operation, and partnership.
- Canada remains committed to implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
- Important work is ongoing on key legislative initiatives that support the implementation of the Declaration, including the protection of Indigenous languages, child and family services, and impact assessment regimes.
- We remain committed to its ongoing implementation in partnership with Indigenous Peoples.
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls – Call to Action #41:
- The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls presented its final report at a public closing ceremony in Gatineau, Quebec on June 3, 2019.
- The Government is working with Indigenous partners and provincial and territorial governments to co-develop a National Action Plan to respond to the Final Report's Calls for Justice.
- The Government is committed to ending the ongoing national tragedy and to help prevent and eliminate violence against Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ2.
Establishing a National Council for Reconciliation – Call to Action #53:
- The Government of Canada remains committed to establishing a National Council for Reconciliation and will take into consideration the advice and recommendations provided in the Interim Board's final report.
- Through Budget 2019, $126.5 million, beginning in 2020-21, was announced to establish the Council and fund its initial operations.
- Once established, the Council is expected to monitor, evaluate, and report to all Canadians on progress towards reconciliation across all levels and sectors of Canadian society.
Oath of Canadian Citizenship – Call to Action #94:
- The Government is committed to responding to the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
- That is why on February 18, 2020, the Government introduced amendments to the Oath of Citizenship to recognize the treaty rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples – Call to Action #94.
- These changes are important in advancing our broader agenda for reconciliation and strengthening the country's valued relationship with Indigenous peoples in Canada, which is also a commitment of this Government.
Background:
As part of its closing events on June 2, 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission released a summary of its final report, which included 94 recommendations, or Calls to Action (CTAs), directed to a wide range of institutions, including the Government of Canada, provincial/territorial governments, churches, corporations and schools. The CTAs focus primarily on social, cultural and rights-related issues, touch upon a range of policy areas, implicate a number of federal departments and agencies and would require a variety of mechanisms to implement (such as legislation, program or policy change, reports or gestures).
As part of Budget 2019, over $200 million was invested to address specific Calls to Action, which include:
- $9.1 million over three years, to support the construction of an Indigenous Legal Lodge at the University of Victoria, as per Call to Action 50;
- $126.5 million to establish a National Council for Reconciliation and endow it with initial operating capital, as per Call to Action 53-54;
- $15.2 million over three years for an Indigenous youth pilot program delivered by Canadian Roots Exchange, as per Call to Action 66 (three year contribution agreement is currently in place and the pilot project was launched in July 2019);
- $33.8 million over three years to develop and maintain the National Residential School Student Death Register and to work with parties to establish and maintain an online registry of residential school cemeteries, as per Calls to Action 72-76; and,
- $10 million over two years to support the establishment of a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, as per Call to Action 80.
Akwesasne Dundee Specific Claim
Key messages:
- The Mohawks of Akwesasne and Canada negotiated a settlement agreement to resolve a historical grievance regarding the 1888 surrender of lands and leases issued in Dundee, Quebec.
- The Mohawks of Akwesasne have approved the proposed settlement agreement in a vote. It will be finalized when signed by both parties.
- The settlement is an important milestone in advancing reconciliation with the Mohawks of Akwesasne and I look forward to celebrating with the community once it has been finalized.
Departmental Transformation
Key messages:
- The creation of Indigenous Services Canada and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, was announced by the Prime Minister in August of 2017.
- The dissolution of Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada follows the recommendations of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples and the two new departments are already better serving the distinct needs of First Nations, Inuit and Métis.
- These two new departments will allow us to break from the colonial past and to better serve the distinct needs of First Nations, Inuit and Métis while accelerating a move towards self-determination.
- We are improving the delivery of services while accelerating a move to self-determination of Indigenous peoples.
- Between the departments, a shared service model is in place where some corporate level activities are shared between them, including Human Resources and Communications functions.
If pressed on cost
- There has been a minimal increase in the administrative costs of either department as a result of the creation of the departments.
- In 2016-2017, the former INAC and the First Nation and Inuit Health Branch's internal services represented 2.8% of the total program budget. In 2019-2020, internal services will represent 1.9% of the total program budget.
Mandate of Indigenous Services Canada (ISC)
- ISC's mandate is to improve the delivery of services and programs to Indigenous communities, and to build their capacity to enable them to close socio-economic gaps, and move towards self-determination.
- The goal is to support and empower Indigenous people to independently deliver services and programs to improve outcomes.
Mandate of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC)
- CIRNAC's goal is to accelerate the work already begun to renew the nation-to-nation, Inuit-Crown, and government-to-government relationship between Canada and Indigenous peoples, as well as promote the self-reliance, prosperity and well-being of the residents and communities of the North.
- This involves modernizing institutional structures and governance so that First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples can build capacity that supports implementation of their vision of self-determination.
Transition Costs
- There has been a minimal increase in the administrative costs of either department as a result of the creation of the departments.
- The departments were provided with additional funding of $117.1 million for transition costs over a period of three years with an ongoing component of $19.1 million.
- From the additional funding, $59.7 million was attributed to create separate departments and the integration of the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB) from Health Canada into ISC.
- The remaining $57.4 million was intended to fund ongoing administrative costs for both departments' internal services (such as management and oversight (Minister and Deputy Ministers' offices), finance, procurement and material management, accommodations, security, human resources, information management, information technology, audit and evaluation and real property services).
- Factoring this additional funding, the internal services costs for CIRNAC and ISC will still be smaller as a percentage of overall funding than what the percentage of internal service costs was for CIRNAC and ISC at the time of the Government's announcement.
- However, there may be a need for additional funding going forward to ensure that both departments can deliver on their respective mandates and keep pace with the needs of our partners.
Departmental Budget
- In 2016-17, the former INAC and Health Canada's FNIHB had a total combined budgetary authority of $12.6B.
- The total for 2019-20 is $21.6B broken down as:
- $13.7B for Indigenous Services Canada;
- $7.0B for Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada; and
- $0.8B which was incurred by Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development prior to the creation of the new department, Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs.
- Significant increases observed since 2016-17 is a result of successive budget investments as well as funding related to the Sixties Scoop and Childhood Claims settlements.
Authorities | 2016–17 Year End Authorities (in billions of dollars) |
---|---|
INAC | 9.5 |
HC - FNIHB | 3.1 |
Total Combined | 12.6 |
Authorities | 2017-18 Year End Authorities (in billions of dollars) |
---|---|
INAC | 8.4 |
HC - FNIHB | 2.3 |
ISC | 4.5 |
Total Combined | 15.2 |
Authorities | 2018-19 Year End Authorities (in billions of dollars) |
---|---|
CIRNAC: DIAND (Old Legal Entity) |
5.1 |
CIRNAC: CIRNA (New Legal Entity) |
N/A |
Total | 5.1 |
ISC | 11.9 |
Total Combined | 17.0 |
Authorities | 2019-20 Proposed Authorities including Supplementary Estimates (A) & (B) (in billions of dollars) |
---|---|
CIRNAC: DIAND (Old Legal Entity) |
0.9 |
CIRNAC: CIRNA (New Legal Entity) |
7.0 |
Total | 7.9 |
ISC | 13.7 |
Total Combined | 21.6 |
Internal Services Costs
- In 2016-2017, the former INAC and the First Nation and Inuit Health Branch's internal services represented 2.8% of the total departmental budget. In 2019-2020, internal services will represent 1.9% of the total budget.
- In 2017-18, former INAC and Health Canada's FNIHB and ISC internal services was approximately $382 million. This represents 2.6% of program dollars.
- In 2018-19, CIRNAC and ISC internal services was approximately $462 million. This represents 2.8% of program dollars.
- In 2019-20, based on Supplementary Estimates B proposed authorities to date, CIRNAC and ISC internal services is $394 million. This represents 1.9 % of program dollars.
Authorities | Total Combined | ||
---|---|---|---|
INAC | HC - FNIHB * | ||
Programs | |||
Other Votes (Operating, Capital) | 844.0 | 1,357.4 | 2,201.4 |
Transfer Payments | 8,359.8 | 1,701.5 | 10,061.3 |
Sub-total | 9,203.8 | 3,058.9 | 12,262.7 |
Internal Services | |||
Sub-total | 310.9 | 27.4 | 338.3 |
Total | 9,514.7 | 3,086.3 | 12,601.0 |
% of IS vs Transfer Payment | 3.7% | 1.6% | 3.4% |
% of IS vs Program | 3.4% | 0.9% | 2.8% |
% of IS vs Total | 3.3% | 0.9% | 2.7% |
Source: Public Accounts and Departmental Results Report 2016-17 to 2018-19 * The $27.4 for Heatlh Canada FNIHB Internal Services is based on the amount agreed upon by Health Canada and ISC. This figure has been included to ensure a comparable baseline but is not publicly available information. |
Authorities | Total Combined | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
INAC | HC - FNIHB * | ISC | ||
Programs | ||||
Other Votes (Operating, Capital) | 776.3 | 895.1 | 806.7 | 2,478.1 |
Transfer Payments | 7,345.1 | 1,411.8 | 3,619.7 | 12,376.7 |
Sub-total | 8,121.5 | 2,306.9 | 4,426.5 | 14,854.8 |
Internal Services | ||||
Sub-total | 316.3 | 27.4 | 37.8 | 381.5 |
Total | 8,437.7 | 2,334.3 | 4,464.2 | 15,236.3 |
% of IS vs Transfer Payment | 4.3% | 1.9% | 1.0% | 3.1% |
% of IS vs Program | 3.9% | 1.2% | 0.9% | 2.6% |
% of IS vs Total | 3.7% | 1.2% | 0.8% | 2.5% |
Source: Public Accounts and Departmental Results Report 2016-17 to 2018-19 * The $27.4 for Heatlh Canada FNIHB Internal Services is based on the amount agreed upon by Health Canada and ISC. This figure has been included to ensure a comparable baseline but is not publicly available information. |
Authorities | Total Combined | ||
---|---|---|---|
CIRNAC: DIAND (Old legal entity) and CIRNA (New legal entity) |
ISC | ||
Programs | |||
Other Votes (Operating, Capital) | 833.0 | 1,805.8 | 2,638.8 |
Transfer Payments | 4,015.8 | 9,889.9 | 13,905.7 |
Sub-total | 4,848.8 | 11,695.7 | 16,544.5 |
Internal Services | |||
Sub-total | 279.7 | 182.7 | 462.4 |
Total | 5,128.5 | 11,878.3 | 17,006.9 |
% of IS vs Transfer Payment | 7.0% | 1.8% | 3.3% |
% of IS vs Program | 5.8% | 1.6% | 2.8% |
% of IS vs Total | 5.5% | 1.5% | 2.7% |
Source: Public Accounts and Departmental Results Report 2016-17 to 2018-19 |
Authorities | Total Combined | ||
---|---|---|---|
CIRNAC: DIAND (Old legal entity) and CIRNA (New legal entity) |
ISC | ||
Programs | |||
Other Votes (Operating, Capital) | 4,114.2 | 2,038.9 | 6,153.2 |
Transfer Payments | 3,579.2 | 11,488.3 | 15,067.5 |
Sub-total | 7,693.4 | 13,527.2 | 21,220.6 |
Internal Services | |||
Sub-total | 183.9 | 209.8 | 393.6 |
Total | 7,877.3 | 13,737.0 | 21,614.3 |
% of IS vs Transfer Payment | 5.1% | 1.8% | 2.6% |
% of IS vs Program | 2.4% | 1.6% | 1.9% |
% of IS vs Total | 2.3% | 1.5% | 1.8% |
Source: Public Accounts and Departmental Results Report 2016-17 to 2018-19 |
Full-time Equivalents (FTEs)
- In 2016-17, former INAC and Health Canada's FNIHB internal services had a total of 1,793 FTEs. This represented 34.5% of program FTEs.
- In 2017-18, former INAC and Health Canada's FNIHB and ISC internal services has 1,870 FTEs. This represented 34.4% of program FTEs.
- In 2018-19, CIRNAC and ISC internal services had a total of 1,957 full-time equivalents. This represented 35.3% of program FTEs.
Benchmarking
- The table reflects the various cost factors utilized by the Office of the Comptroller General that compare ISC and CIRNAC separately and combined to the former INAC.
- The combined ISC / CIRNAC benchmark results have reduced significantly from the former INAC levels, with a 33% effective reduction for internal services FTEs over program FTEs from 46% to 31%, as internal services FTE growth has not kept pace with that of program FTEs.
Cost Factors | Comparable Ranges | INAC | 2019-20 | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Upper | Median | Lower | 6 years exp. | ISC | CIRNAC | Combined | |
1. Internal Services FTEs / Program FTEs | 44% | 34% | 25% | 46% | 32% | 29% | 31% |
2. Adjusted Internal Services Gross Voted Operating Expenditures / Adjusted Program Gross Voted Operating Expenditures | 51% | 38% | 25% | 31% | 26% | 25% | 26% |
3. Internal Services Gross Voted Operating Expenditures / Departmental FTEs (000's) | 46 | 36 | 25 | 60 | 29 | 37 | 32 |
4. Internal Services FTEs / Departmental FTEs | 31% | 25% | 20% | 32% | 24% | 23% | 24% |
* Gross Voted Operating Expenditures exclude Grants and Contributions ** The Lands and Economic Development Sector and the Individual Affairs Branch are reflected in CIRNAC |
Departmental Plan (if tabled)
Key messages:
- CIRNAC is committed to achieving its distinct mandates of creating lasting and impactful changes for Indigenous peoples and Northerners across Canada.
- This is why we have taken a new approach to working in partnership with First Nation, Inuit and Métis peoples in a manner that affirms and implements their rights and their visions of self-determination. This is evident in the results we are reporting on in this report.
- We continue to work towards advancing meaningful reconciliation and accelerating the renewal of the Crown's relationship with Indigenous peoples, as well as to lead the Government's work in the North in cooperation with territorial, provincial, federal and Indigenous partners.
Transition
- This report also continues to reflect our transition as the final structure of CIRNAC continues to evolve in partnership with Indigenous peoples.
- We have grown to understand that progress is more easily achieved when we work together, building solid partnerships based on trust and respect.
- It is important that we continue to work towards renewing relationships with First Nation, Inuit and Métis across Canada, so that we can move forward with a shared strength and build a better future for all Canadians.
Decreased spending
- On November 30, 2017, CIRNAC transferred the Education and Social Development Programs and Partnership, and Regional Operations Sectors to Indigenous Services Canada (ISC).
- As a result, CIRNAC's 2018-19 actual spending exclude these sectors. The 2017-18 amounts include 8 months of program operations spending prior to the transfer of these programs over to ISC.
Decreased spending for Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement
- Our Government is committed to justice for Indian Residential School survivors and ensuring that all those entitled to Independent Assessment Process compensation receive it.
- The Independent Assessment Process was specifically designed to resolve Indian Residential School abuse claims.
- To date, 99.8% of all claims have been resolved.
- The declining funds reflect that the vast majority of claims have already been resolved.
- We continue to pursue meaningful and lasting resolution to Independent Assessment Process claims, and the vital goal of advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
Increased spending for claims settlements
- Our Government is committed to a renewed relationship with Indigenous Peoples, based on recognition of rights, cooperation and partnership.
- The Government of Canada remains committed to the fair resolution of claims. We will continue to make funds available to enable settlements to be reached and paid out on a timely basis.
- This supports ongoing efforts by our government to negotiate the settlement of claims more rapidly.
Background on Departmental Results Report
CIRNAC financials: Departmental Spending Trend (from 2016–17 to 2021–22)
For the period 2016–17 to 2018–19, CIRNAC's actual spending for 2018–19 was $4.4 billion, a net decrease of approximately $4.7 billion over a 3-year period from 2016–17. This is due to in large part to:
- The transfer of the Education and Social Development Programs and Partnerships and Regional Operations Sectors to Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) as of November 30, 2017 pursuant to Orders in Council (-$6,365.4 million)
Offset by:
- An increase in spending for specific claims settlements (+$381.4 million)
- An increase in spending for special claims settlements (+$769.0 million)
For the period 2018–19 to 2021–22, spending is expected to decrease from $4.4 billion in 2018–19 to $3.2 billion in 2021–22. The net decrease of $1.3 billion can be explained in 2 parts.
- Spending is expected to increase from $4.4 billion in 2018–19 to $6.0 billion in 2019–20. The increase of $1.6 billion primarily reflects an increase in funding for the settlement of Childhood Claims and the Sixties Scoop settlement offset by the decrease in spending related to the specific claims settlements and the special claims settlements.
- For the period 2019–20 to 2021–22, spending is expected to decrease from $6.0 billion in 2019–20 to $3.2 billion in 2021–22. This decrease of $2.9 billion is in large part due to:
- Change in the approved funding profile for the settlement of Childhood Claims as per the projected timing of payment (-$873.2 million)
- The sunset of funding of the Sixties Scoop settlement as payments are expected to be completed in 2019–20 (-$750.0 million)
- The decrease in approved funding level related to the specific claims settlements (-$644.9 million).
CIRNAC priorities:
Accelerating the renewal of the relationship with Indigenous peoples
- CIRNAC held more than 100 engagement sessions with nearly 1,700 First Nation, Inuit and Métis peoples to hear their thoughts on what should be included in future federal legislation and policy as part of the Government of Canada's commitment to basing its relationship with Indigenous peoples on the recognition and implementation of Indigenous rights.
- CIRNAC fully implemented 9 Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, which fall under federal or shared purview, 54 are well underway and 13 are in early planning stages, as of September 2019.
- CIRNAC marked, on December 1, 2018, an important milestone with the taking of effect of the Sixties Scoop (Status Indians and Inuit) settlement agreement. In March 2019, the Minister and representative plaintiffs announced that the parties had reached a proposed settlement of the McLean Indian Day Schools litigation and in August 2019, the Federal Court approved the settlement agreement.
- CIRNAC worked in a tripartite forum with the First Nations Summit (a representative organization of First Nations in British Columbia treaty negotiations) and British Columbia to co-develop the Recognition and Reconciliation of Rights Policy for Treaty Negotiations in British Columbia.
Modernizing institutional structures and governance to support self-determination
- CIRNAC continued to engage with First Nations to explore shared priorities and co-develop mandates, advance interests in fostering self-determination as well as negotiate Self-Government Agreements.
- CIRNAC co-developed a proposal, through the Assembly of First Nations—Canada Joint Technical Working Group on Specific Claims, to take a more collaborative approach to the resolution of specific claims.
- CIRNAC helped identify and review joint priorities, further the co-development of policies and monitor progress through the First Nations bilateral mechanism, the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee and the Métis bilateral mechanism.
BC Treaty Policy
Key Messages:
- In 2019, the Governments of Canada and British Columbia, and the First Nations Summit co-developed the Recognition and Reconciliation of Rights Policy for Treaty Negotiations in British Columbia.
- This policy will improve the treaty process with BC First Nations and help advance self-determination and the implementation of rights, outlined in section 35 of the Constitution.
- It reinforces our commitment to implement the UNDRIP, and outlines a new relationship with Indigenous partners based firmly in the recognition of rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership.
If pressed on co-development in other parts of the country and the status of a national policy to replace the Comprehensive Land Claims Policy and Inherent Right Policy
- This policy will apply to treaty negotiations in British Columbia and does not apply to groups that are not participating in that process or elsewhere in the country.
- This policy informs the treaty process and offers guidance on the recognition and implementation of rights, while supporting First Nations self-determination. It replaces the Comprehensive Land Claims and Inherent Right policies for First Nations in the treaty process in British Columbia.
- This new policy could inform future policy development work elsewhere in the country.
Background:
As the British Columbia treaty process is based on the tripartite recommendations of the 1991 Report of the British Columbia Claims Task Force, treaty negotiations in British Columbia are organized somewhat differently than in the rest of Canada (e.g., Canada, British Columbia, and the First Nations Summit are formal partners in the BC Treaty Process; negotiations take place according to a six-stage process). In 1993, a made-in-British Columbia treaty negotiations process was created to guide negotiations in British Columbia. For years, Canada, the First Nations Summit and British Columbia have been working collaboratively to strengthen and improve treaty negotiations toward the advancement of reconciliation and to make progress on concluding treaties and other negotiated agreements in British Columbia.
More recently, Canada, British Columbia and the First Nations Summit have worked collaboratively to advance meaningful initiatives on a tripartite basis, resulting in the co-developed Recognition and Reconciliation of Rights Policy for Treaty Negotiations in British Columbia.
The development of the British Columbia policy demonstrates Canada's commitment to working collaboratively with our Indigenous and provincial partners based on the recognition and implementation of rights. This policy supports a rights-based approach to treaty negotiations. A central feature of the policy is basing negotiations on the recognition and continuation of rights without modification, surrender or extinguishment. Under this policy, future treaties, agreements and other constructive arrangements will set out guidelines for reconciling Crown and Indigenous rights based on a relationship that can evolve over time. It also provides greater flexibility to develop agreements incrementally in British Columbia. It reflects an unprecedented effort by the Principals to the BC treaty process to co-develop guidance for how treaties, agreements and other constructive arrangements are to be negotiated in a manner consistent with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Biographies
Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs (INAN), 43rd Parliament, 1st Session
Gary Anandasangaree
![Gary Anandasangaree](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_gary-anandasangaree_1589896182179_eng.jpg)
Jaime Battiste
![Jaime Battiste](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_jaime-battiste_1589896231815_eng.jpg)
Bob Bratina
![Bob Bratina](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_bob-bratina_1589896134424_eng.jpg)
Marcus Powlowski
![Marcus Powlowski](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_marcus-powlowski_1589896422345_eng.jpg)
Adam van Koeverden
![Adam van Koeverden](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_adam-van-koeverden_1589896061653_eng.jpg)
Lenore Zann
![Lenore Zann](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_lenore-zann_1589896394883_eng.jpg)
Bob Zimmer
![Bob Zimmer](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_bob-zimmer_1589896159584_eng.jpg)
Gary Vidal
![Gary Vidal](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_gary-vidal_1589896208515_eng.jpg)
Arnold Viersen
![Arnold Viersen](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_arnold-viersen_1589896110843_eng.jpg)
Jamie Schmale
![Jamie Schmale](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_jamie-schmale_1589896371946_eng.jpg)
Sylvie Bérubé
![Sylvie Bérubé](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_sylvie-berube_1589896490063_eng.jpg)
Mumilaaq Qaqqaq
![Mumilaaq Qaqqaq](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_mumilaaq-qaqqaq_1589896468429_eng.jpg)
Gary Anandasangaree, Scarborough—Rouge Park, ON
![Gary Anandasangaree](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_gary-anandasangaree_1589896182179_eng.jpg)
Biographical Information
Mr. Anandasangaree was first elected to the House of Commons in 2015.
Prior to his election to the House of Commons, Mr. Anandasangaree advocated for education and justice as an internationally recognized human rights lawyer and community activist. He has served as Chair of the Canadian Tamil Youth Development Centre, President of the Canadian Tamils' Chamber of Commerce, and counsel to the Canadian Tamil Congress. He was also legal counsel to the Independent Mortgage Brokers and Agents, a board member of the Youth Challenge Fund, member of the Toronto Police Chief's Advisory Board, and a member of the United Way Newcomers Grant Program.
Mr. Anandasangaree attended Osgoode Hall Law School. He was called to the bar in 2006 and later managed his own firm in Scarborough. He has been an advocate for human rights issues, regularly representing Lawyers' Rights Watch Canada at the United Nations. He has also served as an advocate for local youth, intervening in cases of wrongful student expulsion and suspension.
In honour of his devotion to community service and local advocacy, Mr. Anandasangaree has received both the Queen's Golden and Diamond Jubilee medals. He also received the Osgoode Hall Law School "One to Watch" Gold Key Award and the South Asian Bar Association's Young Practitioner Award.
Statements on Indigenous Issues
- Food Security in the North: None.
- Wet'suwet'en Protests: "Our government is seized with this matter. The Prime Minister has a cabinet that is working on the situation around the clock. We all want peace and we want to get rail traffic going across the country. The Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and the Minister of Indigenous Services have stated that they are ready and willing to meet with the hereditary leadership at the earliest opportunity. With the B.C. RCMP's outreach to the chiefs yesterday, we hope this creates the ability to advance a peaceful resolution." Hansard, Feb 21, 2020
- Indigenous Languages: "We can never recover from it, and I do not think that many people who have faced this type of struggle and violation could ever recover from it, but it is important that we start the process. That is why, overall, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action are important, and that is why language revival is so essential." Hansard, May 2, 2019
- Residential Schools: "Healing the damage of residential schools will require the sustained action of not only involved governments, but other institutions and all Canadians. The need to achieve reconciliation is a fundamental truth and is beyond partisan politics." Hansard, Sep 24, 2018
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- United States – Mexico – Canada Agreement: Achieved a good deal that benefits everyone; provisions that protect women's, minority and indigenous rights and environmental protections; protection for labour and minimum standards across our three countries. Hansard, Feb 3, 2020
- Environment: Government is committed to attaining net-zero emissions by 2050; ban single-use plastics by 2021; protect 25% of our shores and 25% of our land mass by 2025, 30% by 2030; attaining net-zero emissions will require enormous commitment from everyone to reach this target by 2050. Hansard, Dec 11, 2019
- Bill C-18 (An Act to amend the Rouge National Urban Park Act, the Parks Canada Agency Act and the Canada National Parks Act): Canada at the forefront of efforts to conserve elements of its heritage, flora, fauna, and landscapes; first priority on ecological integrity in the management of the Rouge National Urban Park to further international leadership in conservation. Hansard, Feb 17, 2017
General Issues Raised in the Media
- Sri Lanka Protests: "Standing in Solidarity with the families of the disappeared as we mark the 1000 days of protest. In the sweltering heat, downpours, and the dust, these women and men have stood for justice, peace, and with their families. Truth must prevail." Twitter, Nov 16, 2019
Written Questions
- None
Private Members' Business
- M-24 (Tamil Heritage Month) (Motion Agreed To, Oct 5, 2016) - That, in the opinion of the House, the government should recognize the contributions that Tamil-Canadians have made to Canadian society, the richness of the Tamil language and culture, and the importance of educating and reflecting upon Tamil heritage for future generations by declaring January, every year, Tamil Heritage Month.
First Nations and Indigenous Organizations in Riding
- TBD
Jaime Battiste, Sydney-Victoria, NS
![Jaime Battiste](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_jaime-battiste_1589896231815_eng.jpg)
Biographical Information
Born in Potlotek First Nation, NS, Mr. Battiste was first elected to the House of Commons in 2019.
Prior to his election, Jaime was a published writer on Mi'kmaw laws, history, and knowledge. After graduating from Dalhousie Law in 2004, Mr. Battiste worked as a professor, senior advisor, citizenship coordinator and Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief.
Mr. Battiste has done extensive volunteer work in athletics, youth advocacy, community events, and advocacy for the Mi'kmaq Nation. He is a member of the Aboriginal Sport Circle, a part owner of the Eskasoni Junior B Eagles. He served as the Nova Scotia Youth council representative to the Assembly of First Nation National Youth Council from 2001-2006. In 2005, the National Aboriginal Healing Organization named him as one of the National Aboriginal Role Models in Canada. In 2006, as Chair of the Assembly of First Nations Youth Council, he became one of the founding members of the Mi'kmaw Maliseet Atlantic Youth Council (MMAYC), an organization that represents and advocates for Mi'kmaw and Maliseet youth within the Atlantic. In 2018, Mr. Battiste was recognized with the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers.
Statements on Indigenous Issues
- Food Security in the North: None.
- Wet'suwet'en Protests: "I ask today for leaders in Canada, leaders of both indigenous and non-indigenous people, to commit to making our relationship work. Political action, not police action, has the ability to decrease tensions. It is the only way. Political discussion and negotiation is what is needed, not inflammatory rhetoric. We need to inspire hope. If nothing else during this speech, I want to make sure to say that there is still hope. The politician in me believes that and the protester in me believes that too." Hansard, Feb 18, 2020
- Indigenous Languages: "Our govt. is implementing the Indigenous Languages Act by contributing $337m over the next 5 yrs for Indigenous Languages, and $1500/yr for kindergarten to grade 12 First Nations students as part of the new co-develop education funding policy." Twitter, Jan 27, 2020
- Acknowledgement of Indigenous Role: "Being the first-ever Mi'kmaq Member of Parliament who is also a member of the Eskasoni First Nation, I want to acknowledge the significant role indigenous people have played in Canada's history. Our government is committed to working together to advocate for indigenous languages and for the well-being of indigenous peoples across Canada." Hansard, Jan 27, 2020
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- Environment: The Indigenous Leadership Initiative hosted the Land Needs Guardians conference in Ottawa to address the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss; indigenous nations are at the forefront of a growing movement to create indigenous protection in conserved areas. Hansard, Feb 5, 2020
General Issues Raised in the Media
- Health Care in Cape Breton: "One of the no. 1 things I heard at the doors was the need to improve access to health care in Cape Breton. I met with Hon. @PattyHajdu, Minister of Health, to discuss what matters most to Cape Bretoners when it comes to quality access to health care services. This will be one of my many priorities. I look forward to working with the Minister and improve access to the services we rely on every day." Twitter, Dec 19, 2019
Written Questions
- None
Private Members' Business
- None
First Nations and Indigenous Organizations in Riding
- TBD
Bob Bratina, Hamilton East — Stoney Creek, ON
![Bob Bratina](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_bob-bratina_1589896134424_eng.jpg)
Biographical Information
Born in Hamilton, ON, Mr. Bratina was first elected to the House of Commons in 2015, and again in 2019.
Prior to his election, Mr. Bratina worked in radio and broadcasting for local morning shows and sporting events. In 1998, he was inducted into the Football Reporters of Canada Hall of Fame. He was also a nominee for Hamilton Citizen of the Year, and won Hamilton Mountain Citizen of the Year. He also served on numerous Boards of Directors including; GO Transit, Art Gallery of Hamilton, Theatre Aquarius, and HECFI.
In 2004, he was election as MPP for Hamilton Centre, and again in 2006. His concerns over high lead readings in city drinking water resulted in a lead water service replacement loan program and a lead blood screening program for young children. He was elected as Mayor of Hamilton in 2010, seeing the completion of a new stadium, development in the downtown core, and a move to solve the impasse in the local Randle Reed project.
Statements on Indigenous Issues
- Food Security in the North: None.
- Wet'suwet'en Protests and the RCMP: "All communities should benefit from policing that is professional and dedicated, and indigenous communities are no exception. That is why we will co-develop a legislative framework for first nations policing and expand the number of communities served by the first nations policing program. We will ensure police officers and services have the necessary tools and resources to protect the vulnerable and increase community safety" Hansard, Feb 20, 2020
- Water Quality: "We can no longer take a reactive approach to combatting lead pipes and drinking water quality. The time has come for the federal government to work together with its provincial, territorial, municipal, and indigenous partners to create a unified cross-country solution to eradicate these issues, which affect the very young more than the old, and low-income families more than the affluent. Children in older, poorer neighbourhoods should not be exposed to a serious health hazard because of where they live or their family's economic status." Hansard, Feb 7, 2017
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- Steel and Bill C-101 (An Act to Amend the Customs Tariff and the International Trade Tribunal Act): Government must have tools and resources it needs to protect Canadians while continuing to encourage foreign investment, trade and economic growth. C-101 would provide this protection. Amendments to C-101 would help government respond quickly and appropriately to a substantiated surge of imports harming Canadian producers and workers. Hansard, Jun 6, 2019
- Veterans: Must keep investing in veterans' benefits and services. After 10 years of cuts to funding and staff, we are rebuilding the trust of veterans. Hansard, Sep 25, 2018
General Issues Raised in the Media
- Steel: "I've always supported steel all my life […] I had steelworkers at the door thanking me for what I did. (Stelco) is working; pensioners are getting their pensions; we put millions of dollars to increase the production facility." Hamiltonnews.com, Oct 22, 2019
Written Questions
- None
Private Members' Business
- M-69 (Water Quality) (Motion Agreed To, Feb 7, 2017) - That, in the opinion of the House: (a) the Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities should undertake a study on (i) the presence of lead in Canadian tap water, (ii) provincial, territorial and municipal efforts to date to replace lead water distribution lines, (iii) current federal efforts to support other levels of government in the provision of safe drinking water; (b) the Committee should report to the House no later than December 1, 2017; and (c) following the tabling of the said report, the federal government should engage with key stakeholders, such as provincial and territorial governments, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, as well as Indigenous partners, to discuss options for addressing lead drinking water service lines, including any potential role for the federal government.
First Nations and Indigenous Organizations in Riding
- TBD
Marcus Powlowski, Thunder Bay—Rainy River, ON
![Marcus Powlowski](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_marcus-powlowski_1589896422345_eng.jpg)
Biographical Information
Born in Fort William, ON, Mr. Powlowski was first elected to the House of Commons in 2019.
Prior to his election, Mr. Powlowski served as a physician in the Emergency Room at Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Centre. In addition to being a medical doctor, he has two law degrees - LL.B, LL.M from the universities of Toronto and Georgetown, respectively. He also attended Harvard University and obtained a Masters of Public Health in Health Law and Policy.
Mr. Powlowski worked as a doctor for two years in northern First Nations communities, and for seven years practicing medicine in several developing countries in Africa and Oceania. For several years, he worked as a consultant in health legislation for the World Health Organization. He also volunteered on a medical project in Ethiopia.
Statements on Indigenous Issues
- Food Security in the North: None.
- Wet'suwet'en Protests: "It is imperative to exhaust all peaceful means of resolving the rail blockades." Hansard, Feb 18, 2020
- Indigenous living conditions: "I fully support efforts to improve the living conditions of the indigenous population - we can do better than we are doing now." Netnewsledger.com, July 21, 2019
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- Housing: Government has made a real investment in Canadian communities; cost of rent is going up everywhere; need for federal government to play a leadership role in the housing sector. Hansard, Jan 27, 2020
General Issues Raised in the Media
- Firearms: "Given that there is currently no legal definition for a 'military assault rifle in Canada, some community members I have spoken with are skeptical that a ban based on this term would make sense as a coherent firearm policy. Such a term, as they see it, is more political than policy oriented, and seeks to target certain firearms without a rational basis." Ipolitics.ca, Jan 21, 2020
Written Questions
- None
Private Members' Business
- None
First Nations and Indigenous Organizations in Riding
- TBD
Adam van Koeverden, Milton, ON
![Adam van Koeverden](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_adam-van-koeverden_1589896061653_eng.jpg)
Biographical Information
Born in Toronto, ON, Mr. van Koeverden was first elected to the House of Commons in 2019.
Prior to his election, Mr. van Koeverden was a professional sprint kayaker. He has won numerous Olympic medals, including the gold medal in Men's canoeing at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, and has also won numerous medals at World Championship events, including the gold medal in 2007, and again in 2011.
Mr. van Koeverden has also worked as a managing consultant with Deloitte, and as a broadcaster, writer and producer with CBC Sports. He graduated as valedictorian from McMaster University in 2007 with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology.
He grew up in cooperative housing in a single mother household, and has volunteered extensively for organizations like Right To Play, WaterAID, Special Olympics, Parkinson's Canada, and the David Suzuki Foundation. He has also served as Chair of the Canadian Olympic Athletes' Commission, and was a member of the federal government's working group for Gender Inclusion and Gender Based Violence in Sport.
Statements on Indigenous Issues
- Food Security in the North: None.
- Wet'suwet'en Protests: "We can certainly all agree, I hope, that a peaceful process and a resolution that results in no violence is in everyone's best interests. However, the language that we have heard from the Leader of the Opposition is anything but peaceful, as he suggested that indigenous people 'check their privilege'. The Leader of the Opposition doubled down on that statement today when he urged haste and force." Hansard, Feb 18, 2020
- Indigenous Inclusion: "I am grateful to Inuit people for providing a boat that I used for many years. As a white guy from Oakville, I always express gratitude to indigenous people for the artifacts that we often use. Many are not aware that lacrosse, for example, is an indigenous sport, and kayaking as well. I think acknowledging that is a very important aspect of truth and reconciliation, […] our government's track record speaks for itself on truth and reconciliation, although there is far more work that needs to be done by all parties in this House." Hansard, Dec 12, 2019
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- Equality in Sport & Society: Find solutions so all Canadians can access sport, recreation and physical activity; examine barriers that women in leadership roles face inside and outside the sport industry; work on expanding Canada's anti-racism strategy; ensure easier access to sports and community activities for newcomers to Canada. Hansard, Jan 27, 2020
- Environment: Carbon pricing a very effective solution; government has stepped in to make sure that everybody follows a carbon pricing scheme; investments in green energy and green infrastructure to bring us closer to zero net carbon emissions by 2050. Hansard, Dec 12, 2019
- Mental Health: Workplaces across Canada should have mental health standards; people should not have to wait months for mental health services; government will work to introduce relevant workplace mental health standards. Hansard, Jan 27, 2020
- Cooperative Housing: Mom has been building co-ops and managing co-ops for over 30 years; one of the ways to relieve poverty is to ensure that there is less profit and that when people pay the rent, they do not need to ensure that somebody else is making a buck; always going to be a vocal advocate for co-op housing. Hansard, Dec 12, 2019
General Issues Raised in the Media
- Canada Child Benefit: "Canada is an example of what real action on poverty reduction looks like. With programs like the Canada Child Benefit - families in Milton, and across our country have more money each month. That's more money for healthy food, sports & recreation and quality time together." Twitter, Feb 6, 2019
Written Questions
- None
Private Members' Business
- None
First Nations and Indigenous Organizations in Riding
- TBD
Lenore Zann, Cumberland—Colchester, NS
![Lenore Zann](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_lenore-zann_1589896394883_eng.jpg)
Biographical Information
Born in Sydney, Australia, Ms. Zann was first elected to House of Commons in 2019.
Prior to her election, Ms. Zann worked as a screen, television, stage, and voice actress, and appeared in numerous television shows, films, radio, and animated series.
Ms. Zann was elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in 2009, and again in 2013 for the Nova Scotia NDP. As a first-time opposition member, she was named NDP spokesperson for Education, Environment, Status of Women, Human Rights Commission, Aboriginal Affairs & Truth & Reconciliation, Agriculture, Advanced Education, African NS Affairs, and Gaelic Affairs. She served as the Ministerial Assistant for the Department of Tourism, Culture, and Heritage.
Each summer, Ms. Zann produces and directs a community theatre production for the Truro Theatre Society, which boasts a cast of all ages - including students from local schools.
Statements on Indigenous Issues
- Food Security in the North: None.
- Wet'suwet'en Protests: "As we heard from the Mohawk leaders, and from AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde last week, we need to resolve this impasse through dialogue and mutual respect. Therefore, we only ask that the Wet'suwet'en be willing to work with our federal government as a partner to find solutions." Hansard, Feb 20, 2020
- Indigenous Role in the Environment: "The First Nations people, the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia, have been very active in combatting all kinds of environmental degradation in our province. I am very proud to have stood with them on the front lines, fighting for government recognition and fighting to get these issues noticed, especially when big corporations are polluting the lands right beside the First Nations communities." Hansard, Dec 12, 2019
- Environmental Racism: "One of the bills I introduced in the legislature in Nova Scotia was called "An Act to Address Environmental Racism". It acknowledged the disproportionate amount of toxic waste sites, landfills, dumps and huge corporate pollution on the lands of first nations and black communities. I would like environmental racism to be talked about more often, especially in the House, as we move forward." Hansard, Dec 12, 2019
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- Gang Violence: Root causes of violence are poverty, desperation, lack of education, lack of a sense of hope, mental illness and addiction. Hansard, Dec 12, 2019
- Health and Addiction: More money into addictions research; in Nova Scotia, the wait time for addictions counsellor is sometimes 125 days, sometimes 365 days. Hansard, Dec 12, 2019
- United States – Mexico – Canada Agreement: New agreement maintains preferential access to markets; modernizes outdated elements of NAFTA, including labour obligations on employment discrimination based on gender. Hansard, Dec 12, 2019
General Issues Raised in the Media
- Environmental Habitat in Newfoundland: "An environmental assessment off the coast of Newfoundland could fast-track oil and gas exploration in an area that is home to sensitive corals and sponges, and includes important habitat for endangered whales. We have until Feb. 21 to take action ecologyaction.ca/ocean" Twitter, Feb 8. 2020
Written Questions
- None
Private Members' Business
- None
First Nations and Indigenous Organizations in Riding
- TBD
Bob Zimmer, Prince George—Peace River, BC
![Bob Zimmer](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_bob-zimmer_1589896159584_eng.jpg)
Biographical Information
Born in Dawson Creek, BC, and raised in Fort St. John, BC, Mr. Zimmer was first elected to the House of Commons in 2011, and again in 2015 and 2019.
Prior to his election, Mr. Zimmer began his career working for his father's family carpentry business, obtained his Red Seal Journeyman Carpentry Certification, and went on to own his own construction business.
He received an undergraduate degree from Trinity Western University in human kinetics and history/political science as well as a bachelor's of education degree from the University of British Columbia.
Mr. Zimmer is currently the critic for Northern Affairs and the Deputy Critic for the Northern Economic Development Agency. He serves as Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Outdoor Caucus.
In the 42nd Parliament, he served as Chair of the Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics (2017-2019), Vice-Chair of the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities(2016-2017), Critic for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, Chair of the BC/Yukon Conservative Caucus, and Chair of the National Prayer Breakfast. In the 41st Parliament, Mr. Zimmer has sat on several committees including the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food (2013-2014), the Standing Committee on Natural Resources (2013-2014), the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2012-2013), and the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs (2012-2013).
Statements on Indigenous Issues
- Food Security in the North: None.
- Wet'suwet'en Protests: "The fact remains that consultations were conducted and the majority of the Wet'suwet'en people support the project and believe the project will benefit their First Nations. Coastal GasLink has signed agreements will all 20 elected First Nations governments along the pipeline's path, including five of the six band councils in the Wet'suwet'en Nation." EnergeticCity.ca, Feb 12, 2020
- (Cont.) "It is shameful that elected officials, representing millions, were prevented from fulfilling their duties in Victoria. The work that is done in buildings like the BC legislature is a vital part of our democracy and to deny these officials the ability to do the work they were elected to do is alarming to say the least." Hansard, Feb 20, 2020
- Bill C-69 (An Act to enact the Impact Assessment Act and the Canadian Energy Regulator Act, to amend the Navigation Protection Act and to make consequential amendments to other Acts) and the Moratorium on Northern Development: "We have Indigenous peoples across the North who want to develop their resources and a good economy for their people and for their benefit. What we saw from the government was a complete stifling of that opportunity." Hansard, Dec 12, 2019
- Residential Schools: "I understand that some of the decisions Sir John A. Macdonald made are controversial, especially as it relates to residential schools…we have all made mistakes." Energeticcity.ca, Aug 22, 2018
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- Softwood Lumber in BC and USMCA: Tariff affecting the sale of lumber and timber to U.S.; new NAFTA should include an agreement on softwood lumber. Hansard, Dec 12, 2019
- Firearms Registry: Enough regulations and laws; no need for gun registry. Hansard, Jun 19, 2019
- Trans-Mountain pipeline expansion: With growing federal debt and deficits the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion would provide an opportunity to make money as a country through natural resource development. Hansard, Jun 5, 2019
- Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Canada Energy Mega Project in Kitimat, BC: Largest private investment in Canada's history; $22 billion in provincial revenue; reducing the reliance on emitters that use higher amounts of emissions. Hansard, Oct 2, 2018
General Issues Raised in the Media
- Firearms: "The fact is the vast majority of firearms owners respect Canada's gun laws. It's criminals who do not. While it may be much harder to go after gangs and illegal gun traffickers, that is precisely what this government should be doing to make Canadians safer." Alaska Highway News, Jan 20, 2020
- Natural Resources: "Interesting response from Parliamentary Secretary to Natural Resources in the @OurCommons today when asked about developing our CDN Oil/Gas resources...@LefebvrePaul actually said they "support investment". Please tell me Paul how C-48 (An Act respecting the regulation of vessels that transport crude oil or persistent oil to or from ports or marine installations located along British Columbia's north coast) and C-69 (An Act to enact the Impact Assessment Act and the Canadian Energy Regulator Act, to amend the Navigation Protection Act and to make consequential amendments to other Act) "support investment". I'll wait." Twitter, Dec 13, 2019
Written Questions
- Q-195, Grants and contributions under $25,000 provided by the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, since January 1, 2018 – Jan 27, 2020
- Q-55, Office of the Prime Minister and minister's offices – Dec 5, 2019
- Q-54, Cambridge Analytica and AggregateIQ scandal – Dec 5, 2019
Private Members' Business
- Bill C-346, An Act to amend the Firearms Act (licenses) (Defeated, House Second Reading, Nov, 2017 – 42nd Parliament)
- M-589 (Firearms regulations) (Motion debated for 1 hour, May 26, 2015 – 41st Parliament) - That, in the opinion of the House: (a) Canada already exceeds all the standards listed in United Nations resolution 55/255 concerning firearms (the resolution); (b) the regulations envisioned in the resolution would do nothing to enhance public safety, and would serve only to burden the law-abiding firearms community; and therefore, the government has already surpassed its obligations with respect to the resolution and is not required to take any further steps.
- M-588 (United Nations Firearms Protocol) (Motion Withdrawn, Mar 26, 2015 – 42nd Parliament) - That, in the opinion of the House, the United Nations firearms markings regime does nothing to enhance public safety and only serves to burden the law-abiding firearms community and therefore, the government should not be obliged to implement the regime.
First Nations and Indigenous Organizations in Riding
- TBD
Gary Vidal, Desnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River, SK
![Gary Vidal](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_gary-vidal_1589896208515_eng.jpg)
Biographical Information
Born in Meadow Lake, SK, Mr. Vidal was elected to the House of Commons for the first time in 2019.
Prior to his election, Mr. Vidal served as Mayor of Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan from 2011 to 2019. He graduated from Carpenter High School in 1983 and went on to study at the University of Saskatchewan and Briercrest Bible College. He is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CGA) and is a partner in the accounting firm Pliska Vidal & Co. where he has been serving clients since 1988. He was also Vice Chair of Saskatchewan City Mayors' Caucus from 2016 to 2018. He was a member of the SaskWater Board of Directors from 2008 to 2017. In this position, he also served as Chair of the Governance and Corporate Responsibility Committee, Chair of the Audit and Finance Committee, and Chair of the Board from 2015 to 2017.
Mr. Vidal is currently the critic for Indigenous Services.
Mr. Vidal has volunteered in a variety of leadership capacities in his local church as well as on the board of Bethel Gospel Camp, an interdenominational children's bible camp. Other volunteer activities include coaching and managing minor hockey, baseball, and soccer teams. In 2012, he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.
Statements on Indigenous Issues
- Food Security in the North: None.
- Wet'suwet'en Protests: "We simply cannot allow a minority of protestors to stand in the way of the will of the Wet'suwet'en nation. These protestors have taken extraordinary measures to hold Canada hostage, compromising the safety of our rail infrastructure, blocking and intimidating people attempting to go to work and in some cases physically assaulting elected members of a provincial legislature." Hansard, Feb 18, 2020
- Softwood Lumber and United-States – Mexico – Canada Agreement (UCSMA): "NorSask Forest Products is a 100% First Nations-owned company whose profits are directed to the nine bands that make up the Meadow Lake Tribal Council. These funds are used for services like housing, education and health care, including suicide prevention programs. Since 2017, NorSask has paid over $10 million in softwood lumber tariffs. That is $10 million not being used for services in these communities." Hansard, Dec 10, 2019
- Indigenous participation in Industry: "With the Indigenous Services file, one of the things we are looking for is partnerships between Indigenous communities and industry, allowing Indigenous people to be part of the private sector, to be part of the market so they create economic activity that will help them take care of the very demanding needs in their First Nations communities." Hansard, Jan 30, 2020
- Indigenous Youth Suicides: "If young people in northern Saskatchewan could look to the people they look up to, their parents, big brothers and sisters, and if they could look to the people they respect and see them succeed by being part of the industry in northern Saskatchewan, they would have hope. With that hope, they would not have to consider suicide as an outcome." Hansard, Jan 30, 2020
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- Softwood Lumber and USMCA: lack of transparency from government, cannot adequately scrutinize the deal; no softwood lumber agreement, workers enduring hardships, fears of closure of lumber mills. Hansard, Dec 10, 2019
General Issues Raised in the Media
- Firearms: "Here in Northern Saskatchewan, hunting and sport shooting are a way of life for a lot of people… A Conservative government will protect the rights of law abiding gun owners." Twitter, Sep 15, 2019
Written Questions
- Q-186, Foreign takeovers and acquisitions of Canadian companies by foreign state-owned enterprises covered by the Investment Canada Regulations and the Investment Canada Act – Jan 27,2020
- Q-187, Canadian Armed Forces members serving abroad – Jan 27, 2020
Private Members' Business
- None
First Nations and Indigenous Organizations in Riding
- TBD
Arnold Viersen, Peace River—Westlock, AB
![Arnold Viersen](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_arnold-viersen_1589896110843_eng.jpg)
Biographical Information
Born in Barrhead, AB, Mr. Viersen was first elected to the House of Commons in 2015, and again in 2019.
Prior to his election, Mr. Viersen apprenticed as an auto service technician and attained his journeyman ticket from the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT). He has also earned a business degree from the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) while continuing his automotive career.
In the 42nd Parliament, Mr. Viersen was the Deputy Critic of Rural Affairs. He advocated for the rights and concerns of rural families, farms and industries in Alberta and across Canada. Since 2015, he has been a member of the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs.
Mr. Viersen is also involved in a number of parliamentary caucuses; including the Indigenous Affairs Caucus, Outdoor Caucus, and the Pro-Life Caucus. He is also a member of the Canada-Netherlands Parliamentary Friendship Group, Parliamentarians for Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament and the Parliamentary Friends of the Kurds.
Statements on Indigenous Issues
- Food Security in the North: None.
- Indigenous Languages: "It is not just indigenous languages that are struggling in Canada. Without the economic underpinning, people's culture, way of life and community are under threat, if people are unable to finance them and to survive under the economic situation in their particular area." Hansard, May 2, 2019
- Indigenous Victims of Trafficking: "We know indigenous women and girls are the most represented victim group in sex trafficking and prostitution in Canada. They make up only 4% of Canada's population, yet make up more than 50% of the victims in Canada." Hansard, Feb 4, 2020
- Pipelines and Indigenous Communities: "One of the things that has really helped indigenous communities in northern Alberta is their participation in the oil and gas industry, and the wealth it has brought there. When the communities have the wealth, they become communities again; their culture begins to thrive and their languages are able to be maintained." Hansard, May 2, 2019
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- Human Trafficking and Sex Work: Legalized prostitution causes violence against sex workers; Sex trafficking increase, especially among youth; happened in Germany, New Zealand and the Netherlands; legitimization of prostitution normalizes attitudes of violence, misogyny and the objectification of women and girls. Hansard, Feb 4, 2020
- Oil and Gas: To get the economy right in northern Alberta, we need pipelines; we need pipelines to get oil off the railway, and replace it with grain and lumber going to market. Hansard, Dec 12, 2018
- Trans Mountain: Trans Mountain would allow petroleum products to reach people living in energy poverty and without luxury. Hansard, Feb 12, 2018
General Issues Raised in the Media
- Human Trafficking: "Modern day slavery & human trafficking exist in every country of the world including Canada. With over 25 million people around the world trapped in modern day slavery, we have a responsibility to tackle the slavery in our communities and in our supply chains" Twitter, Feb 6, 2020
Written Questions
- Q-113, New "For Glowing Hearts" logo unveiled by Destination Canada – Jan 27, 2020
- Q-112, Government's participation in the UN Climate Change Conference COP 25 in Madrid, Spain, in December 2019 – Jan 27, 2020
- Q-111, Government purchases of tickets or passes for Canada 2020 events during 2019
- Q-110, Total amount of late-payment charges for telephone services since June 1, 2018 – Jan 27, 2020
Private Members' Business
- M-212 (National Human Trafficking Awareness Day) (Motion Placed on Notice, Feb 20, 2019) - That, in the opinion of the House, the government should encourage Canadians to raise awareness of the magnitude of modern day slavery in Canada and abroad and to take steps to combat human trafficking, and should do so by designating the 22nd day of February each year as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, to coincide with the anniversary of the unanimous declaration of the House on February 22, 2007, to condemn all forms of human trafficking and slavery.
- M-47 (Instruction to the Standing Committee on Health (Violent and Sexual Online Material)) (Motion Agreed To, Dec 6, 2016) - That the Standing Committee on Health be instructed to examine the public health effects of the ease of access and viewing of online violent and degrading sexually explicit material on children, women and men, recognizing and respecting the provincial and territorial jurisdictions in this regard, and that the said Committee report its findings to the House no later than July 2017.
First Nations and Indigenous Organizations in Riding
- TBD
Jamie Schmale, Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock, ON
![Jamie Schmale](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_jamie-schmale_1589896371946_eng.jpg)
Biographical Information
Born in Brampton, ON, Mr. Schmale was elected to the House of Commons for the first time in 2015, and again in 2019.
Prior to his election to, Mr. Schmale he served as the executive assistant and campaign manager for former Conservative MP Barry Devolin (Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock, Ontario). He graduated from the Radio Broadcasting program at Loyalist College in Ontario, and started his career as a news anchor. He later became news director for CHUM media.
Mr. Schmale is currently the critic for Crown-Indigenous Relations.
In the 42nd Parliament, Mr. Schmale served as the opposition critic for Northern Economic Development, and Deputy Critic for Natural Resources. He was a member of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs (2015-2017) and the Standing Committee on Natural Resources (2017-2019).
Statements on Indigenous Issues
- Food Security in the North: None.
- Wet'suwet'en Protests: "What Conservatives have pointed out many times, and which I did in my speech, is that there are activists who have an agenda that is totally separate from that of those first nations communities. These people want the end of oil and gas development in Canada. They want to shut down that vibrant economy of our country and are trying to glom on to this very important issue that five hereditary chiefs have with what is going on with this pipeline." Hansard, Feb 18, 2020
- Water Quality in Indigenous Communities: "The minister's department [CIRNAC] and the Parliamentary Budget Officer are at odds over the true cost to get water and wastewater in Indigenous communities up to the same standards as the rest of Canada." Hansard, Dec 9, 2019
- Bill C-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other Acts: "When the Prime Minister vetoed the northern gateway pipeline, he killed benefit agreements between the project and 31 First Nations, worth about $2 billion.... All this is destroying energy jobs and investment from coast to coast to coast. Now, with Bill C-88, we add another coast, the northern coast… we […] are deeply disappointed that the Prime Minister, who campaigned on a promise of reconciliation with Indigenous communities, blatantly would allow and choose to deny our 31 First Nations and Métis communities their constitutionally-protected right to economic development." Hansard, Apr 9, 2019
- Bill C-69, An Act to enact the Impact Assessment Act and the Canadian Energy Regulator Act, to amend the Navigation Protection Act and to make consequential amendments to other Acts: "…is putting a chill on investment in Canada's natural resources sector. The President of the Indian Resource Council said, 'Bill C-69 will harm Indigenous economic development, create barriers to decision-making, and make Canada unattractive for resource investment.' This legislation must be stopped." Hansard, Oct 26, 2018
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- Natural Resources: Supports economic development and getting energy to markets; the Conservatives view the North as a key driver of economic activity for Canada. Hansard, Apr 9, 2019
- Oil and Gas: Supports the oil and gas sector; anti-energy bills are regulating to death the west-to-east pipeline. Hansard, Jun 13, 2019
General Issues Raised in the Media
- Firearms: "After all, if you want to stop increasing gun crime, the answer lies in tackling criminals and gangs, not punishing law abiding gun owners." Twitter, Jan 31, 2020
Written Questions
- Q-193, Classified or protected documents since January 1, 2019 – Jan 27, 2020
- Q-188, Veterans Affairs Canada service standard of 16 weeks for decisions in relation to disability benefits applications – Jan 27, 2020
- Q-172, Purchase of carbon offset credits by the government – Jan 27, 2020
Private Members' Business
- None.
First Nations and Indigenous Organizations in Riding
- TBD
Sylvie Bérubé, Abitibi—Baie-James—Nunavik—Eeyou, QC
![Sylvie Bérubé](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_sylvie-berube_1589896490063_eng.jpg)
Biographical Information
Ms. Bérubé was first elected to the House of Commons in 2019.
Prior to her election, Ms. Bérubé she spent 30 years with the in human resources and information. She also acted as the Director of the social committee at l'Hôpital de Val-d'Or, administrator for Taxibus, was a member of the information security association of Québec, and was President of the Parti Québécois d'Abitibi-Est.
Ms. Bérubé is currently the critic for Indigenous Affairs.
Statements on Indigenous Issues
- Food Security in the North: None.
- Wet'suwet'en Protest: "Since the beginning of this crisis, it seems that only the Bloc Québécois has been trying to find concrete solutions to address the situation. We did not stand idly by, unlike the Prime Minister and his ministers, who did nothing for far too long, hoping that everything would fix itself. The federal government needs to step up and take action […] With every day that this crisis goes on, our economy suffers even more. This crisis is affecting workers and ordinary folks. Just look at the number of CN employees who have been temporarily laid off because of the rail blockade. If nothing is done right now, many more employees will join their ranks." Hansard, Feb 20, 2020
- Treaties: "More than ever, we need to make sure that we are respecting treaties and their interpretation, if we are to break free from the colonialism that this country's First Nations suffered and still suffer to this day. This should be one of the priorities in the throne speech." Hansard, Dec 12, 2019
- Key Indigenous Issues in Northern Quebec: "As far as Indigenous affairs are concerned, the key issues are social housing, homelessness and infrastructure in northern Quebec. The melting snow is also important […] because it changes their culture. When it comes to the environment, we have to work with First Nations." Hansard, Jan 28, 2020
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- Québec Infrastructure: Need to invest in transportation, telecommunications, airport infrastructure investments; transport of dangerous goods by rail ignored by Ottawa. Hansard, Jan 28, 2020
- Housing: Large mining sector in riding causing housing shortage, need investments in water and sewer systems. Hansard, Jan 28, 2020
General Issues Raised in the Media
- Québec-Federal Relations: "Ce n'est jamais facile avec le fédéral. On envoie de l'argent à Ottawa qu'on pourrait garder chez nous et le fédéral met des bâtons dans les roues du Québec." Lecitoyenvaldoramos.com, Jul 1, 2019
- Québec Issues: "On ne sera jamais aussi bien servis que par nous-mêmes. Plusieurs dossiers du fédéral m'agacent, dont la couverture internet, le financement de logement social, l'inaction concernant la Loi sur les Indiens et la taxe sur le bois d'œuvre qui affecte notre région." Lecitoyenvaldoramos.com, Jul 1, 2019
Written Questions
- None.
Private Members' Business
- None.
First Nations and Indigenous Organizations in Riding
- TBD
Mumilaaq Qaqqaq, Nunavut, NU
![Mumilaaq Qaqqaq](/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TRNSPRCY/STAGING/images-images/briefing-documents_appearance_inan-blockades-march2020_mumilaaq-qaqqaq_1589896468429_eng.jpg)
Biographical Information
Born in Baker Lake, NU, Ms. Qaqqaq was first elected to the House of Commons in 2019.
Prior to her election, Ms. Qaqqaq was a facilitator, public speaker, and volunteer. She was best known for her speech in the House of Commons on International Women's Day in 2017, through the Daughters of the Vote, a program designed for young women to speak about their visions for their country in the House of Commons. She worked as an employment officer with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, and as a wellness program specialist with the Health Department of the Government of Nunavut. She has held positions with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, working with Susan Aglukark in the Arctic Rose Foundation, and with Northern Youth Abroad. She graduated from the Jonah Amitnaaq Secondary School.
Ms. Qaqqaq is currently the critic for the Northern Economic Development agency, Northern Affairs, and the Deputy Critic for Natural Resources.
Statements on Indigenous Issues
- Nutrition North: "Since [it] started, food security has actually gotten worse in Nunavut. People in need struggle to get quality food and necessities. Nunavut is the only fly-in, fly-out territory, so in my riding it is even worse." Hansard, Jan 29, 2020
- Wetsu'wet'en Protests: "What we are seeing across this country is not just about one resource project. This is about generations of underfunding, broken promises and broken treaties. The federal government has backed indigenous peoples into a corner. Food, water, safe housing and infrastructure are fundamental human rights that the federal government has promised us and continues to deny us." Hansard, Feb 18, 2020
- Climate Change and Northern Peoples: "It threatens the lives and abilities of our hunters to provide for families and communities. We need to treat it just as it is, a crisis." Hansard, Dec 6, 2019
- Northern Infrastructure: "In Nunavut we continue to fight for basic human rights: to have a safe place to live, to afford to feed ourselves and to have clean drinking water." Hansard, Dec 6, 2019
- Indigenous and Northern Youth Suicides: "This is a conversation that has been going on for decades. I hope that by the end of this term we can talk about post-secondary opportunities and child care spaces." Hansard, Dec 6, 2019
- Indigenous and Northern Languages: "I am not fluent in Inuktitut. Unfortunately, this is a reality of too many Inuit. The NDP is committed to protecting and revitalizing Indigenous language through new legislation and stable funding." Twitter, Oct 2, 2019
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- None.
General Issues Raised in the Media
- None.
Written Questions
- None.
Private Members' Business
- None.
First Nations and Indigenous Organizations in Riding
- TBD