Appearances before the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs on 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A) 2020-21 (June 16, 2020) — Crown-Indigenous Relations
Table of contents
- Overview
- MMIWG Issue Notes
- Supplementary Estimates A - Crown-Indigenous Relations
- Supplementary Estimates A - Northern Affairs
- Other files
- Biographies
Overview
Scenario note
Logistics
Date: Tuesday, June 16, 2020
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Videoconference (Zoom)
Subject: 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A)
Appearing:
- The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Indigenous Services
- The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations
- The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs
Supporting Witnesses from Indigenous Services Canada
- Jean-François Tremblay, Deputy Minister
- Valerie Gideon, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch
- Philippe Thompson, Chief Finances, Results and Delivery Officer
Supporting Witnesses from Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs
- Daniel Watson, Deputy Minister
- Annie Boudreau, Chief Finances, Results and Delivery Officer
- Serge Beaudoin, Assistant Deputy Minister, Northern Affairs Organization
- Jeff Moore, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, Policy and Strategic Direction Sector
- Martin Reiher, Assistant Deputy Minister, Resolution and Individual Affairs Sector
Context
The Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs has been studying the Government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic since May 1st. On June 5, 2020, the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs adopted a motion to study the 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A). While the members will be expected to ask questions that pertain to the topic at hand, they will likely attempt to ask a wide range of questions due to the presence of Cabinet Ministers at the table. The questions will likely be focused on the COVID-19 investments, the MMIWG National Action Plan, actions to address racism and diversity.
During the last few meetings at INAN, opposition members from the Committee have questioned the witnesses on the tools they need from the federal government to address COVID-19 and the re-opening of the economy (MP Qaqqaq [NDP], MP Bérubé [BQ] MP Schmale [CPC], MP Vidal [CPC] and MP Gazan [NDP]). Questions have also been raised by the Conservatives on the impact of the pandemic on non-renewable resources in Indigenous communities (MP Dalton, and MP Viersen). Federal government support for northern airlines during this pandemic has also been raised (MP Qaqqaq [NDP], MP Dalton [CPC], MP Gazan [NDP], MP Viersen [CPC] and MP Bérubé [BQ]). Witnesses have testified that northern airlines north of 60 are not receiving the support they need from the federal government.
A number of members of the Committee (MP Zimmer [CPC], MP Qaqqaq [NDP], MP Viersen [CPC], and MP Vidal [CPC]) have asked about whether there is enough personal protective equipment (PPE) being distributed and whether more testing is needed. Opposition members have also asked questions on housing needs (MP Bérubé (BQ), data collection (MP Vidal (CPC) and restricted access to First Nation communities (MP Viersen (CPC). Some witnesses have indicated they do not have their own police force, and it has been difficult to keep people in communities, and stop people from entering their community.
The issue of youth has been raised frequently. MP Qaqqaq (NDP) indicated concerns about more mental health supports. Witnesses have indicated a need for more mental health supports for youth, including infrastructure (recreational centres, etc).
MP Qaqqaq (NDP) has probed witnesses on connectivity in northern and remote communities. Witnesses have pointed out that a lack of connectivity could become more problematic when school starts up again in the September.
It should be noted that the Conservatives have attempted to raise the Wet-suwet'en negotiations during several meetings (MP Zimmer, and MP Schmale). MP Schmale also introduced a motion to invite the elected chiefs to provide testimony on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the ability of the chiefs to enter into open and transparent negotiations regarding land rights and title with the federal government. The motion was voted down.
Meeting proceedings
The meeting is scheduled to occur between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. via the web platform Zoom. Witnesses will be asked to connect to the meeting prior to 5 p.m. It is expected that the meeting will end on time due to recent demands from members on the committee who have other meetings.
The first hour will see remarks delivered by Ministers (five minutes each) followed by rounds of questions from Committee members. The meeting can be watched via Parlvu, however there is a 70-second delay.
While simultaneous translation will be available, witnesses are asked to respond to questions in either language but to limit switching back and forth between languages as this often creates technology/interpretation challenges.
The Chair will open the meeting and provide instructions for the meeting proceedings. He will then introduce all witnesses. Ministers will then deliver remarks as per standard practice. It is also recommended to speak slowly, and at an appropriate level, to ensure the interpreters can hear you, as well as to mute your phone when you are not speaking.
It should also be noted that the Committee has been authorized to study the issue of COVID-19, and it has not been authorized to report back to the House. During this meeting, members will not be able to propose motions or challenge the Chair's rulings.
- 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 Québécois
- 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
Opening Remarks
MMIWG Issue Notes
National Action Plan Overview
Key Messages
- In response to the Final Report's 231 Calls for Justice, we are developing a truly national, not federal, action plan in which Indigenous, provincial, and territorial governments as well as Indigenous organizations, families and survivors, and experts will contribute.
- The National Action Plan, which will include specific jurisdictional and distinctions-based chapters, will be the responsibility of all contributing parties. Wherever possible, approaches will be coordinated and shared, but there will also be space for stand-alone contributions.
- We have been and are committed to continuing to work together with all of our Indigenous, provincial, and territorial partners on the development and implementation of the National Action Plan. Together, we will work towards and be held accountable for driving transformative change to end systemic racism and violence against Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people.
- The National Action Plan will be distinctions-based, regionally representative, and respond to the diverse needs of communities across the country. The National Action Plan will recognize the need for broad and sustained action and the importance of continuing to define and address future needs in light of what will be learned from the first phases of the National Action Plan. It will be "evergreen", meaning that it will not remain a static and one-time response. Built into its design will be follow-up, revision and improvement processes that will ensure sustained focus and action in this area.
- The government did not wait for the National Inquiry's final report before undertaking work towards an end to the violence against Indigenous women, girls, Two-spirit and LGBTQ people. We made significant investment even before the interim report was tabled and responded to the interim report with nearly $50M of investments. And since the final report was released, we have engaged regularly with provinces, territories, and Indigenous partners.
If pressed about other funding to respond to the National Inquiry's Final Report
- We are not waiting for the National Action Plan to be developed to invest in protecting Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people. We have more recently announced that we are investing:
- $85.6 million over five years and $10.2 million annually ongoing to build and operate 12 new shelters, 10 shelters in on-reserve First Nations communities and 2 shelters in the territories, which will help protect and support Indigenous women and girls experiencing and fleeing violence.
- $1 million a year ongoing, starting this year, to support engagement with Métis leaders and service providers on shelter provision and community-led violence prevention projects for Métis women, girls, and LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people
If pressed about funding to address violence against Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people
- We did not wait for the National Inquiry to release their final report before taking action. We responded to their interim report with nearly $50 million of investments, including:
- $13 million for the establishment of a MMIWG Commemoration Fund to support Indigenous governments and organizations to work with families, survivors, and communities to develop and implement commemoration initiatives to honour the lives and legacies of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people;
- $5.42 million for Justice Canada's Family Information Liaison Units (FILUs) which ensure that family members have a culturally-grounded and trauma-informed team to assist them in accessing information about loved ones and to help them navigate the criminal justice system;
- $21.3 million for continued healing and health supports for families and survivors including access to mental health counselling, emotional support, community-based cultural support services, and some assistance with transportation costs from 2017 to 2021, delivered through Indigenous Services Canada; and
- $9.6 million to support the establishment of a national investigative oversight body at the Royal Canadian Mounted Police which has taken a lead role in creating and updating national training initiatives, and continues to examine the best way to collect information and specifically address cases where the victims are Indigenous women or girls.
National Action Plan Timeline
Key Messages
- The National Inquiry called on all governments to develop a National Action Plan. That work was well underway prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- We have heard from Indigenous organizations that rates of gender-based violence have increased for Indigenous women and children during COVID-19.
- Our partners input into the National Action Plan is essential and we are working with them throughout COVID-19 to advance the work of developing the plan. While this is happening, we have also made investments where there have been needs that could be addressed promptly.
- We all remain committed and we are continuing to move forward with programs aimed at addressing the root causes of violence as identified in the final report.
National Action Plan Engagement
National Action Plan Engagement: Indigenous Women's Organizations
Key Messages
- Our government recognizes the important role that Indigenous women and Indigenous women's organizations play in engaging with their communities on the development of the National Action Plan.
- That is why we are investing $30M over five years to support Indigenous organizations in engaging with their members, including families and survivors, to:
- identify priority Calls for Justice,
- determine how they want to be engaged in co-development, and
- identify wise and promising practices that will enhance the development of the National Action Plan.
- Funded women's organizations include:
- Assembly of First Nations' Women's Council,
- Congress of Aboriginal Peoples,
- Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women,
- Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak,
- National Aboriginal Circle Against Family Violence,
- National Association of Friendship Centres,
- Native Women's Association of Canada,
- Newfoundland Aboriginal Women's Network,
- Ontario Native Women's Association,
- Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, and
- 2 Spirits in Motion Foundation.
- Initial priorities that have been identified include access to safety; healing; child safety and well-being; data collection; and provision of permanent funding.
- CIRNAC will continue to work with Indigenous women's organizations throughout the development and implementation of the National Action Plan. We will also continue to support Indigenous women's organizations in submitting proposals to lead future engagement sessions. This important work will ensure that the voices of Indigenous women are centralized as these women and organizations work together to improve the safety of their communities.
If pressed
- In 2019-20, CIRNAC provided $2.3M in funding to Indigenous organizations for Indigenous-led engagement.
- Future funding will be provided to Indigenous organizations to support the longer-term organizational, policy, and program capacity of national and regional Indigenous organizations and groups to engage with the federal government on the implementation of the Calls for Justice identified in the National Action Plan.
Background
Organization | Funding Commitment Amount | Funding Flow Date (FY 2019-20) |
Fiscal Year 2019-2020 |
Fiscal year 2020-2021 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Assembly of First Nations' Women's Council | $1,500,000.00 (over two years) |
March 6, 2020 | $80,000 | Y2: 1,420,000.00 |
Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women | $274,160 | March 26, 2020 | $274,160 | |
Congress of Aboriginal Peoples | $400,000.00 | December 4, 2019 | $400,000.00 | |
Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak | $366,790.00 | January 20, 2020 | $366,790.00 | |
National Aboriginal Circle Against Family Violence | $82,225.00 | March 23, 2020 | $82,225.00 | |
National Association of Friendship Centres | $449,650.00 (over two years) |
March 26, 2020 | $35,650 | Y2: $414,000 |
Native Women's Association of Canada | $295,288.00 | January 13, 2020 | $295,288.00 | |
Newfoundland Aboriginal Women's Network | $117,428.19 | March 25, 2020 | $117,428.19 | |
Ontario Native Women's Association | $200,000.00 | March 31, 2020 | $200,000.00 | |
Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada | $305,693.00 | January 13, 2020 | $305,693.00 | |
2 Spirits in Motion Foundation | $218,845.00 | March 26, 2020 | $218,845.00 | |
Total | 4,210,079 | $2,376,079.19 | $1,834,000 | |
Important note regarding carry-forward: Organizations were given the opportunity to carry-over funding from FY 2019-2020 to 2020-2021, however some did not provide their details yet. They have until July 29th to submit the request. |
National Action Plan Engagement: Provinces and Territories
Key Messages
- The National Action Plan is envisioned to be truly national. The Final Report includes 184 Calls for Justice that fall within shared federal, provincial, and territorial jurisdiction. As such, it is imperative that we continue to collaborate with our provincial and territorial partners to ensure that we develop a whole-of-Canada Action Plan.
- Provinces and territories have been reviewing the Calls for Justice, undertaking their own engagement activities, and identifying priorities and initiatives related to ending violence against Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people.
- Provinces and territories are working on their respective priorities towards reducing violence against Indigenous women and girls, including:
- implementing Advisory Councils (e.g. Government of Alberta's Joint MMIWG Working Group and Ontario's Indigenous Women's Advisory Council),
- developing strategies and action plans (e.g. Yukon MMIWG2S+ Strategy), and
- advancing priorities, such as human trafficking and child welfare reform.
- A Federal-Provincial-Territorial Working Group on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls was established during the National Inquiry and continues to meet bi-monthly to advance discussions on a National Action Plan.
- A Federal-Provincial-Territorial Deputy Ministers Committee was struck in March 2020 to inform the development of a National Action Plan and to promote and identify opportunities for cross-jurisdictional and multilateral engagement, collaboration, and partnership in response to the Final Report. This Committee met on March 4th and May 28th, 2020, and will continue to meet going forward.
- Our government will continue to promote cooperation and collaboration with provinces, territories, and Indigenous partners in order to drive the transformative change that is needed to end systemic racism and violence against Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people.
- To advance discussions on the National Action Plan, we are currently organizing virtual national engagement sessions with Indigenous partners and participants from federal, provincial, and territorial governments.
- On May 15th, a session was held with Jeanie Dendys, Yukon Minister responsible for the Women's Directorate, Maryam Monsef, federal Minister for Women and Gender Equality, and [myself / Carolyn Bennett, federal Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations]. Future sessions with other jurisdictions, including the Government of Manitoba and the Government of Ontario, are taking place June.
National Action Plan Engagement: Families and Survivors
Key Messages
- Families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls and survivors of gender-based violence started the grassroots advocacy work that led to the creation of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
- Throughout the National Inquiry, family members of lost loved ones and survivors of violence were put ahead of others. This is an approach that will be continued as we develop and implement the National Action Plan.
- CIRNAC provided $30M over five years to support Indigenous-led engagement, in which families and survivors were actively involved. Engagement took a families-first approach toward initiating widespread legislative and institutional change and toward recommendations on the implementation of achievable, actionable short and long-term goals.
- Provinces and territories have also centered their engagement on inclusion of families and survivors to ensure that their voices and experiences continue to be heard and they are part of any change moving forward.
- CIRNAC will continue to solicit guidance and knowledge directly from families and survivors throughout the development and implementation of the National Action Plan.
National Action Plan Engagement - LGBTQ2S
Key Messages
- The Final Report included 32 Calls for Justice that specifically addressed LGBTQ and Two-Spirit issues, such as the need for dedicated shelters, data collection / research, and support for grassroots organizations and communities.
- As part of its $30M investment for Indigenous-led engagement to inform development of the National Action Plan, we provided funding to 2 Spirits in Motion Foundation. The Foundation will lead engagement with Indigenous LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people to identify priorities, as well as wise and promising practices, for addressing violence against Indigenous LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people.
- 2 Spirits in Motion Foundation hosted a national engagement session from January 24th to 26th, 2020 to discuss the Calls for Justice and the National Action Plan. Prior to COVID-19, other engagements were held across the country. Virtual sessions continue to be planned during the pandemic.
- These engagement sessions as part of ongoing engagement will help the Government of Canada better understand the intersection between LGBTQ2 and Indigenous identities, and the unique needs of this population.
If pressed
- In 2019-20, CIRNAC provided $218,845.00 to 2 Spirits in Motion Foundation to lead engagement with the Indigenous LGBTQ and Two-Spirit community.
National Action Plan Engagement : Federal Government (Interdepartmental Working Group)
Key Messages
- In addition to working with provinces, territories, and Indigenous partners, the Government of Canada is working across the federal family to develop the federal response to the National Action Plan.
- CIRNAC is leading and coordinating this whole-of-government approach, primarily through two senior-level official Committees.
- Building on lessons learned and actions taken by the Government of Canada since the release of the Final Report, federal departments have undertaken a thematic approach to the federal component of the National Action Plan. The themes are : Justice, Culture, Human Security & Safety, Health & Wellness and Indigenous Women's Empowerment,
- For each theme, departments are identifying actions taken to date and priorities moving forward.
- The Committees will work to develop a federal response to addressing the issues raised in the final report of the National Inquiry and support development of the National Action Plan in partnership with Indigenous, provincial, and territorial partners.
MMIWG Interim Report - Concrete actions since 2015
Key Messages
- Since 2015 our government has been working to address systemic issues, as identified in the report, that contribute to this national tragedy.
- We have listened to the families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls who started the grassroots advocacy around this tragedy and called for a national inquiry.
- We did not wait for the National Inquiry to release their final report before taking action. In 2017 we responded to their interim report, "Our Women and Girls are Sacred," with nearly $50M of investments, including:
- $13M for the establishment of a MMIWG Commemoration Fund to support Indigenous governments and organizations in working with families, survivors and communities to develop and implement commemoration initiatives to honour the lives and legacies of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people.
- $5.42M for Justice Canada's Family Information Liaison Units (FILUs), which ensure that family members have a culturally grounded and trauma-informed team to assist them in accessing information about loved ones and to help them navigate the criminal justice system;
- $21.3M for continued healing and health supports for families and survivors, including access to mental health counselling, emotional support, community-based cultural support services, and some assistance with transportation costs from 2017 to 2021, delivered through Indigenous Services Canada; and
- $9.6M to support the establishment of a national investigative oversight body at the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, which has taken a lead role in creating and updating national training initiatives, and continues to examine the best way to collect information and specifically address cases where the victims are Indigenous women or girls.
- Beyond responding to the Interim Report, we've made a number of investments in Indigenous people and communities:
- We invested $333.7 million over 5 years beginning in 2019-20 and $115.7 million ongoing, to support Indigenous language revitalization efforts and the creation of the Office of the Commissioner of Indigenous Languages.
- We doubled funding to child and family services agencies, based on their actual needs and with an emphasis on prevention, from $681 million in 2015 to2016 to $1.7 billion in 2019 to 2020.
- We invested $425 million annually for community-based services to address the mental wellness needs of First Nations and Inuit. This funding supports a continuum of culturally appropriate, community-based programs, services and strategies, including mental health promotion, counselling, crisis intervention and addictions prevention and treatment. This includes the creation of 52 new mental wellness teams, for a total of 63 teams serving 344 communities.
- We launched a fund of $10 million over 5 years to support projects that contribute to the revitalization of Indigenous legal traditions and laws.
- In addition to these targeted investments, we are committed to reconciliation, to renewing the relationship with Indigenous peoples on the basis of recognition of rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership - and we have made significant investments to address the root causes of violence.
- Our government is committed to ending the ongoing national tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls and that is why are continuing to invest in initiatives that have made a positive impact.
MMIWG Final Report
Key Messages
- 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 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 Final Report included 231 Calls for Justice directed at all levels of governments, institutions, social service providers, industries, and all Canadians. Of the 231 Calls for Justice, 215 fall under federal-provincial-territorial jurisdictions.
- Our government is committed to ending the ongoing national tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls and that is why we launched an independent national inquiry.
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. The Government of Canada's 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 provided $38M in additional funding to support the Inquiry during its extension. The Commission 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.
Since the release of the Final Report, federal, provincial and territorial governments as well as Indigenous organizations, leaders, and communities have been undertaking engagement activities to inform their respective and collective response to the National Action Plan. For example:
- National and regional Indigenous organizations, with funding from the Government of Canada, have been engaging their members, including families and survivors, to identify priority Calls for Justice, wise and promising practices, and how they want to be included in the development of the National Action Plan.
- Provinces and territories, Indigenous partners and federal departments have been reviewing the Calls for Justice, undertaking their own engagement activities, and identifying priorities and initiatives related to ending violence against Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people.
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the urgency of addressing the root causes of violence as identified in the National Inquiry's Final Report. Unfortunately, it also delayed engagement and collaboration efforts that were already underway. While the pandemic has changed the way the government engages and collaborates, it is committed to working with Indigenous partners, families and survivors, provinces and territories to moving forward on developing the National Action Plan.
MMIWG and COVID-19
Key Messages
- The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the urgency of addressing the root causes of violence as identified in the National Inquiry's final report.
- We have heard from Indigenous organizations that rates of gender-based violence have increased for Indigenous women and children during COVID-19. This is why we are continuing to move forward with programs aimed at addressing the root causes of violence as identified in the final report.
- In response to COVID-19, our government is investing $10 million for shelters on reserve and in the Yukon to support Indigenous women and children fleeing violence.
- Our government began by providing $15 million for Indigenous organizations that provide services to Indigenous peoples living in urban centres and off reserve, including Indigenous women's organizations.
- We heard loud and clear that more support is needed for Indigenous organizations working and operating in urban centres.
- That is why the Prime Minister announced an additional $75 million for these organizations supporting Indigenous Peoples living in urban areas and off-reserve. This announcement marks a five-fold increase in the initial funding.
- Our government will continue to do what is right and necessary to address violence against Indigenous women and children.
COVID Funding
- To support First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities in responding to their unique needs during this time, the Government of Canada has delivered $380 million directly to communities through the Indigenous Community Support Fund.
- This distinctions-based approach has allowed communities maximum flexibility to identify and respond to their own needs.
- This funding has given communities the ability to respond to specific needs of women and girls, including arranging temporary shelters, bolstering overall community security, providing mental health supports and increasing access to education for children.
- To support Indigenous peoples living off-reserve and in urban centres, $90 million in proposal-driven funding is being delivered to friendship centres, regional organizations and other groups providing supports to vulnerable Indigenous peoples, including survivors of violence and LBGTQ+ and Two-Spirit people.
- Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada participates in Indigenous Services Canada's bi-weekly meetings of the Advisory Committee on Indigenous Women's Wellbeing, which is a forum to share information with National Indigenous Women's Organizations and other partners, as well as to solicit ideas on how to best support Indigenous women at this time and hear about organizations' work.
Background
- In the context of COVID-19 responses, ISC has focused on addressing gaps in supports for Indigenous peoples. To date, funding actions have included:
- $380M Indigenous Community Support Fund;
- $285.1M plus $107.8M to support the ongoing public health response to COVID-19 in Indigenous communities;
- $270M to supplement the on-reserve income assistance program;
- $85.6M to build and operate 12 new shelters to support family violence prevention on-reserve and in the Yukon, plus $10M to top-up the existing 46 shelters;
- $306.8M for Indigenous businesses & Aboriginal Financial Institutions;
- $129.9M to the Territorial Governments for health and social supports; and,
- $75.2M to increase existing distinctions-based support for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation students pursuing post-secondary education.
- The Indigenous Community Support Fund has been distributed as follows:
- $215 million for First Nations: allocated to each First Nation based on population, remoteness and community well-being
- $45 million for Inuit, allocated to each of the four land claims organizations through an allocation determined by the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and regional Inuit land claims organizations
- $30 million for Métis Nation communities, through each of the Governing Members
- $15 million for Indigenous organizations and communities providing services to Indigenous peoples in urban centres or off reserve such as Friendship Centres, Métis Settlements General Council of Alberta and Métis in the Northwest Territories
- $90 million for urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations and communities urban distributed through a call for proposals process (an original $15 million supplemented with $75 million)
- The Advisory Committee on Indigenous Women's Well-Being provides a forum for National Indigenous Women's Organization's and other partners to provide advice, guidance, and recommendations on addressing issues impacting Indigenous women's health and wellness ISC and CIRNA are participants in meetings. Members:
- Assembly of First Nations
- Assembly of First Nations Women's Council
- Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami
- Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak - Women of the Métis Nation
- Native Women's Association of Canada
- Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada
- National Aboriginal Circle against Family Violence
- National Aboriginal Council of Midwives
- Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
Trafficking and sexual exploitation
Key Messages
- Human trafficking is a heinous crime that affects mostly women and girls, as well as their families and communities.
- The National Inquiry's Calls for Justice call for support of Indigenous-led prevention and community awareness initiatives as well as training for transportation and hospitality service providers to help identify trafficked persons.
- The Government of Canada is committed to preventing and addressing gender-based violence, including protecting those who are at risk of human trafficking.
- In September 2019, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, a whole-of-government approach, was introduced to address this crime. This strategy is supported by an investment of $57.22 million over five years and $10.28 million ongoing.
- The National Strategy builds on Canada's Human Trafficking Hotline – a multilingual, 24/7 service to help connect victims and survivors to services and law enforcement as well as accept tips from the public.
- These new investments will support a national public awareness campaign, enhance support services for victims and at-risk populations; develop training tools to help key sectors in the identification of trafficked persons; and increase capacity to detect and respond to suspected cases.
Gender-based Violence
Key Messages
- Canada is committed to preventing and addressing gender-based violence against women, girls, LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people.
- We know that addressing gender-based violence is especially important for Indigenous women and girls, as research has shown they self-report experiencing dramatically higher rates of violent victimization.
- It's Time: Canada's Strategy to Prevent and Address Gender-Based Violence, which my colleague Minister Monsef launched in 2017, has received more than $200M in new investments and more than $40M per year ongoing in three areas: preventing gender-based violence; supporting survivors and their families; and promoting responsive legal and justice systems.
- Since then the Government has implemented actions, including: funding projects to prevent teen/youth dating violence; launching the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline; and, strengthening the sexual assault provisions in the Criminal Code.
- Building on this, we are moving forward to develop a National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence with a focus on ensuring that anyone facing gender-based violence has reliable and timely access to services.
- Our government is taking a whole-of-government approach and collaborating across all levels of government, including provincial and territorial governments and among multiple departments and agencies, to end gender-basedviolence.
- I am working closely with the Minister for Women and Gender Equality to ensure that the National Action Plans are well-aligned and complementary.
Supplementary Estimates A - Crown-Indigenous Relations
Overview
- The 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A) include key initiatives and new funding totalling approximately $879.5 million. Of these amounts, $748.7 million is for Crown-Indigenous Relations (CIR) and $130.8 million is for Northern Affairs (NA). This includes:
- $114.9 million in funding for new initiatives related to COVID-19 response measures, including support for urgent health and social support needs in the Territories, support for northern air carriers, and for the Nutrition North Canada program;
- $741.2 million in reprofiled funding for the Federal Indian Day Schools Settlement ($481.2 million), and the Sixties Scoop Settlement ($260.0 million); and
- $23.4 million in grants and contributions for northern research and higher education ($9.9 million); to respond to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls' Final report ($6.0 million); to support planning activities of the Government of Northwest Territories for the proposed Taltson hydroelectricity expansion project ($6.0 million); and to continue Indigenous Consultation and Capacity Support Activities ($1.5 million).
- The total budgetary authorities for Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) in 2020-21 will be approximately $5.8 billion.
- This funding ensures that the Department will be able to make concrete steps to continue the work to renew the nation-to-nation, Inuit-Crown, government-to-government relationship between Canada and First Nations, Inuit and Métis, to support their vision of self-determination and advance work in the North.
Background
The 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A) for all departments were tabled in the House of Commons by the President of Treasury Board on June 2, 2020.
The 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A) include key initiatives and new funding totaling approximately $879.5 million, of which $138.3 million represents funding for new initiatives including statutory authority related to the COVID-19 response measures; reprofiles totaling $741.2 million; and $0.8M of internal reallocation from contributions to grant to support the Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC) program, led by the Department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.
The net increase of $879.5 million is comprised of:
- $741.2 million in Vote 1 Operating expenditures: Reprofiles funding for the Federal Indian Day Schools $481.2 million, and Sixties Scoop Settlement $260.0 million;
- $23.4 million in Vote 10 Grants and contributions: Funding to support research and higher education in Canada's North ($9.9 million); to respond to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls' Final report ($6.0 million); to support planning activities of the Government of Northwest Territories for the proposed Taltson hydroelectricity expansion project ($6.0 million); and to continue Indigenous Consultation and Capacity Support Activities ($1.5 million); and
- $114.9 million in Statutory funding: Payments to Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut responses to COVID-19 for urgent health care and social support needs ($72.6 million); for Nutrition North Canada ($25.0 million), and to support northern air carriers ($17.3 million) all under the Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act.
Supplementary Estimates A — Crown-Indigenous Relations
May 2020
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 (A) is the first Estimates for 2020–21.
- Eligible items are:
- Only Treasury Board approved items are to be included, non-urgent organizational requirements have been deferred to a future Estimates.
- COVID-19 response measures items funded in the Statutory appropriation under the Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act.
2020–21 Supplementary Estimates (A)
- The 2020–21 Supplementary Estimates (A) reflects a net increase of $879.5 million, which include $741.2 million of reprofile funding, $23.4 million for new initiatives, and $114.9 million in statutory funding.
- The total budgetary authorities for 2020–21 will be $5.8 billion.
Detail by Organization
Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs
Authorities to date | These Supplementary Estimates — Transfers | These Supplementary Estimates — Adjustments | Total* | Authorities to Date | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Budgetary Voted | |||||
1a Operating expenditures | 1,528,290,836 | 741,227,567 | 741,227,567* | 2,269,518,403 | |
5 Capital expenditures | 268,287 | 268,287 | |||
10a Grants and contributions | 3,309,017,994 | 23,376,941 | 23,376,941* | 3,332,394,935 | |
Total Voted | 4,837,577,117 | 764,604,508 | 764,604,508* | 5,602,181,625 | |
Total Statutory | 47,846,390 | 114,900,000 | 114,900,000* | 162,746,390 | |
Total Budgetary Expenditures | 4,885,423,507 | 879,504,508 | 879,504,508* | 5,764,928,015 | |
Non-Budgetary Voted | |||||
L15 Loans to Indigenous claimants | 25,903,000 | 25,903,000 | |||
Total Non-Budgetary Expenditures | 25,903,000 | 25,903,000 | |||
Grand Total: Budgetary and Non-Budgetary | 4,911,326,507* | 879,504,508* | 879,504,508* | 5,790,831,015* | |
* Not published |
Explanation of Requirements 2020–21 — By Vote and Key Initiatives
The net increase of $879.5 million is comprised of:
- $741.2 million in Vote 1 Operating expenditures: reprofile funding for the Federal Indian Day Schools. $481.2 million, and Sixties Scoop Settlement $260.0 million,
- $23.4 million in Vote 10 Grants and contributions: funding for measures to support a better future for Canada's North ($15.9 million); to respond to the national Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls' Final report ($6 million); and to continue Indigenous Consultation and Capacity Support Activities ($1.5 million),
- $114.9 million in Statutory funding for payments to: Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut responses to COVID-19 ($72,6 million); Nutrition North Canada ($25 million), and to support northern air carriers ($17.3 million) all under the Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act.
Key Initiatives (in dollars) | Vote 1a Operating | Grants | Contributions | Vote 10a Grants and contributions | Voted Total | Total Statutory | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Voted Appropriations | |||||||
Funding for Federal Indian Day Schools (McLean) Settlement Agreement | 481,227,567 | 481,227,567 | 481,227,567 | ||||
Funding for the Sixties Scoop Settlement | 260,000,000 | 260,000,000 | 260,000,000 | ||||
Funding to support research and higher education in Canada's North* | 9,876,941* | 9,876,941* | 9,876,941* | 9,876,941* | |||
Funding to respond to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls' Final Report: Reclaiming Power and Place (horizontal item) | $6,000,000 | 6,000,000 | 6,000,000 | 6,000,000 | |||
Funding to support planning activities of the Government of Northwest Territories for the proposed Taltson hydroelectricity expansion project* | 6,000,000* | 6,000,000* | 6,000,000* | 6,000,000* | |||
Funding to Continue Indigenous Consultation and Capacity Support Activities | 1,500,000 | 1,500,000 | 1,500,000 | 1,500,000 | |||
Internal reallocation of ressources from contributions to the grant to support the Innovation Solution Canada program | 779,530 | (779,530) | |||||
Total Voted | 741,227,567 | 6,779,530 | 16,597,411 | 23,376,941 | 764,604,508 | 764,604,508 | |
Total Statutory* | 114,900,000* | 114,900,000* | |||||
Total Budgetary Expenditures | 741,227,567 | 6,779,530 | 16,597,411 | 23,376,941 | 764,604,508 | 114,900,000 | 879,504,508 |
* These items are for Northern Affairs |
Crown-Indigenous Relations — Supplementary Estimates (A) items
Funding for Federal Indian Day Schools (McLean) Settlement Agreement ($481.2 million)
Objective:
- Reprofile of funding for the Federal Indian Day Schools Settlement Agreement (McLean).
Outcome:
- The Federal Indian Day Schools Settlement Agreement (McLean) was approved by the Federal Court of Canada on August 19, 2019 and implementation of the claims process began on January 13, 2020.
Status:
- As of March 2020, 22,000 claims have been received by the claims administrator. Compensation for Level 1 claims has started to flow to former students.
- Given the delay of the implementation date as a result of several court appeals and prioritization of payments of Level 1 compensation, the department is seeking to reprofile $470M in Level 2–5 payments received in 2019–20 to 2020–21.
- Further, as a result of the delays noted above it is anticipated that the administration costs will be larger than anticipated for in 2020–21. As such, the department is seeking to reprofile $11.2M.
- Total amounts the department is seeking to reprofile are $481.2M.
Funding for the Sixties Scoop Settlement ($260 million)
Objective:
- Reprofile of funding to support the implementation of the Sixties Scoop settlement agreement.
Outcome:
- In the spirit of reconciliation, the Government of Canada is committed to working with Indigenous Peoples to resolve litigation outside of the courts, wherever possible.
Status:
- The Sixties Scoop Settlement Agreement was approved by the Federal Court of Canada and the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in summer 2018. December 1, 2018 marked the implementation of the agreement.
- As per the terms of the settlement, Canada has committed to providing between $500M-$750M in compensation. In March 2020, the court directed Canada to make an initial payment of $500M and to seek further direction from the court on payment of the remaining $250M in 2020–21 to compensate eligible class members.
- The department is seeking to reprofile the $250M in remaining compensation funds.
- Due to the delays, including COVID-19, funds to cover the administration of the settlement will be required to support ongoing implementation efforts in 2020–21.
- The department is also seeking to reprofile $10M from the administrative fund to support these efforts.
- Total amounts the department is seeking to reprofile are $260M. The Department has no funding for this initiative in 2020–21.
Funding to respond to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls' (MMIWG) Final Report: Recla6iming Power and Place ($6.0 million)
Objective:
An off-cycle budget request in 2019 provided funding:
- For national and regional Indigenous organizations and groups (including Indigenous LGBTQ2S groups) to engage with constituents on the co-development of a National Action Plan in response to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls' Calls for Justice (Call for Justice 1.1), and
- To support the longer-term organizational, policy and program capacity of national and regional Indigenous organizations and groups (including Indigenous LGBTQ2S groups) to engage with the federal government on the implementation of the Calls for Justice identified in the National Action Plan.
Outcome:
- CIRNAC, as the lead department, will coordinate the establishment of a National Action Plan that responds to the Calls for Justice.
- Indigenous organizations and groups will have the opportunity to participate in the co- development and initial implementation of the National Action Plan and the identified priorities within it.
Status:
- Prior to COVID-19, work to develop the National Action Plan was well underway.
- Several Indigenous organizations received funding to engage their communities to identify priorities for inclusion in the National Action Plan for addressing violence against Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ2S. However, Indigenous-led engagement was interrupted due to COVID-19.
- Despite the challenges caused by COVID-19, the MMIWG Secretariat is continuing to work with Indigenous, provincial and territorial partners to support the advancement of engagement, co- development and implementation of the National Action Plan.
- The Treasury Board submission was approved at the February 27, 2020 Treasury Board meeting.
Funding to Continue Indigenous Consultation and Capacity Support Activities ($1.5 million)
Objective:
- The funds identified in Budget 2019 that was first allocated in 2019–20, provided funding to support Indigenous partners' meaningful participation in Crown consultation processes through the continued implementation of consultation capacity measures, such as consultation protocols and resource centres.
Outcome:
- The funding will be used to support Indigenous partners' meaningful participation in Crown consultation processes through the continued implementation of consultation capacity measures, such as consultation protocols and resource centres.
- This will ensure that the consultation environment with Indigenous people is more predictable and that the capacity tools meet the needs of Indigenous communities.
- Ultimately, this will strengthened collaboration between government and Indigenous communities and organizations.
Status:
- The Treasury Board submission was approved at the February 27, 2020 Treasury Board meeting.
- The funding for this program will sunset on March 31, 2021.
Northern Affairs Supplementary Estimates (A) items
Funding for measures to support a better future for Canada's North ($15.9 million)
Objective:
The funds identified in Budget 2019 for which a portion was allocated in 2019–20, are intended to implement a suite of four initiatives in support of the shared priorities, goals and objectives of Canada's Arctic and Northern Policy Framework. The three post-secondary education initiatives are part of a Horizontal Initiative supporting the Framework, which also includes initiatives to be delivered by Global Affairs Canada and Transport Canada. The funds identified as Vote 10, Grants and contributions, for 2020–21 include the following :
- Funding to support research and higher education in Canada's North ($9.9 million); and
- Funding to support Taltson Hydroelectricity Expansion Project ($6.0 million)
Specifically, this 5 year funding which started in 2019–20, is targeted towards:
- the establishment of a task force on post-secondary education in the North and initial engagement with Northerners; supporting Indigenous knowledge and education delivered by Dechinta Centre for Research and Learning; and the initial construction phase of a new campus science building at Yukon University;
- the support to the Government of Northwest Territories in undertaking planning activities for its proposed Taltson Hydroelectricity Expansion Project.
Outcome:
- The outcome of the investments in the suite of post-secondary education in the North initiatives will close the gaps in education outcomes; and provide ongoing learning and skills development opportunities, including Indigenous-based knowledge and skills. Over three years, the Government of Northwest Territories will support economic reconciliation by negotiating partnership and capacity agreements with impacted Indigenous groups; formalize commercial arrangements, business case and investment relationships to support construction.
- The expansion of the Taltson Hydroelectric system will provide residents and businesses with clean, reliable, affordable hydroelectric power and reduce Government of Northwest Territories' reliance on fossil fuels for heat and electricity.
Status:
- The anticipated nomination of the task force on post-secondary education in the North has been postponed until COVID-19 measures have been lifted.
- The Treasury Board submission was approved at the February 27, 2020 Treasury Board meeting.
Statutory Appropriations — Funding related to COVID-19 response measures under the Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act ($114.9 million)
Objective:
- Up to $25 million to support temporary enhancements to Nutrition North Canada, further safeguarding food security for people living in Canada's North;
- Up to $72.6 million for urgent health care and social support needs in the territories in response to COVID-19. Of this amount, $18.4 million will be allocated to Yukon, $23.4 million to Northwest Territories, and $30.8 million to Nunavut; and
- Up to $17.3 million to enable the continuation of northern air services supporting essential resupply and medical services in the North.
Outcome:
These investments are funded to:
- support the Nutrition North Canada mandate in improving access to healthy foods through nutritional education and subsidies to help alleviate the cost of food in isolated communities;
- respond to public health emergencies and related services for Territorial residents and populations;
- support a focused and reliable air network for the movement of essential goods and services in response to the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.
Status:
- No Treasury Board approvals are required to implement this initiative.
- Funding has been already disbursed for the urgent health care and social support needs in the territories in response to COVID-19 and to enable the continuation of northern air services supporting essential resupply and medical services in the North.
- Funding for Nutrition North Canada will be disbursed this summer.
Federal Indian Day Schools Settlement Agreement (McLean)
Supplementary Estimates (A)
Vote # 1
481,227,567 dollars reprofiled
- The implementation of the Federal Indian Day Schools Settlement Agreement began on January 13, 2020. Through this settlement, all persons who attended one of the 699 eligible Indian Day Schools will be able to apply for individual compensation for harms, including physical and sexual abuse, associated with their attendance.
- An appeal of the Federal Court's approval of the settlement delayed the implementation of the claims process until January 13, 2020.
- As a result, my department is seeking to re-profile $481.2M to ensure that compensation is available to eligible class members for incidents of physical and sexual abuse and to support the administration costs of the settlement.
- The re-profiled funds are required to ensure compensation is available to eligible class members for incidents of physical and sexual abuse and to support the administration costs of the settlement.
- The re-profile will ensure that all eligible former students receive compensation for their harms suffered at federally-run Indian Day Schools.
Key Messages
- 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.
- The settlement also includes an investment of $200 million to support healing, wellness, education, language, culture and commemoration.
- Canada is committed to reconciliation and we will continue to work with survivors.
Claims Process
- The claims process is paper-based and does not require survivors to testify. It minimizes the burden on survivors and avoids the re-traumatization associated with a hearing.
- The claims process will not put day school survivors on trial. No one will be cross-examined or asked to defend their story.
- The process is designed to be quick and require minimal documentation that should already be in the possession of survivors or their family members.
- Survivors who require assistance with the claims process will be able to seek advice from the administrator, Deloitte, or class counsel, Gowling WLG, without charge.
Other Claims
- Our government is deeply committed to advancing reconciliation and healing.
- We are committed to righting past wrongs through negotiation rather than litigation and the proposed settlement agreement brings us one step closer to lasting and meaningful resolution to the legacy of Federal Indian Day Schools.
- We know that there are other Childhood Claims and we are actively working with parties, including the provinces, territories and Indigenous leadership, to resolve litigation in a respectful, compassionate and fair manner.
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 has 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 Appeals dismissed the motion.
The settlement implementation began on January 13, 2020, and class members will have 2.5 years to apply for compensation.
Since it was launched, the process has progressed well and as of June 1, the claims administrator Deloitte has received 43,628 claims. Of those claims, 10,292 have so far received compensation.
Funding for the Sixties Scoop Settlement
Vote # 1
260,000,000 dollars reprofiled
Supplementary Estimates (A)
- The 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A) provided $260.0 million of reprofiled funding for the Sixties Scoop Settlement.
- The reprofiled funds are required to ensure sufficient funds continue to be available for individual compensation to eligible class members (up to $250M) and to support ongoing administration costs of the settlement ($10M).
- This funding is essential to fulfill the Government's obligation to implement the settlement agreement as per the Federal Court of Canada and Ontario Superior Court of Justice.
- The Sixties Scoop is a dark and painful chapter in our history. The settlement agreement represents a significant first step in resolving this historic injustice.
- Canada is committed to ensuring that survivors receive compensation as quickly as possible.
- Through the settlement agreement, Canada has committed to providing between $500M and $750M in compensation to survivors. $500M has been transferred to the claims administrator. Transfer of the remaining compensation will be determined once the total number of eligible claims is known.
- Eligible class members have now already started receiving partial payments of $21,000.
- Canada is committed to working with the parties to ensure payments are made as quickly as possible.
Key Messages
- Given the exceptional circumstances created by COVID-19, class counsel with support from Canada sought approval from the courts to issue partial payments to class members with a valid claim immediately.
- On June 1st the Federal Court granted that order and on June 2nd the Ontario Superior Court of Justice also granted the order.
- Eligible class members can now expect to receive partial payments of $21,000 over the coming weeks.
- Canada welcomes the courts' decision and is committed to working with all parties to ensure payments are made as quickly as possible.
Suspensions
- COVID-19 has meant that timelines to respond to incomplete applications have been suspended and validation of applications have been delayed - resulting in delays in survivors receiving compensation.
- The parties are working collaboratively with the administrator to ensure that once the suspension is lifted the claims process will resume in an efficient and timely manner.
- Canada is committed to ensuring that survivors receive compensation expeditiously.
Métis / Non-Status not included
- The Sixties Scoop is a dark and painful chapter in our history.
- We now have a settlement for Status First Nations and Inuit, which represents a significant first step in resolving this historic injustice.
- We know that there are other claims that remain unresolved, including those of the Métis and non-Status.
- Canada is working with our partners toward a fair and lasting resolution for all those affected by this dark chapter in Canadian history.
Background
Following a series of negotiations presided over by Federal Court Justice Michel M.J. Shore, the parties reached an Agreement-in-Principle on August 30, 2017. The proposed agreement was finalized and signed by the parties on November 30, 2017.
The Sixties Scoop settlement agreement includes:
- $500-$750 million for individual compensation for Status Indian and Inuit survivors.
- Up to $50 million to establish a foundation - in collaboration with Indigenous communities and individuals - to support and provide access to education, healing and wellness, and commemoration activities for communities and individuals.
- Up to $75.0 million for legal fees.
- Third-party administration costs.
In May 2018, the Federal Court of Canada approved the settlement as fair, reasonable, and in the best interest of the parties. The Federal Court also approved $37.5 million in legal fees for plaintiffs' counsel who appeared in Federal Court. In June 2018, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice approved the settlement agreement, with the exception of legal fees. In order to address the issues of legal fees in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, the parties in both the Ontario and Federal Court actions signed an amendment to the settlement to clarify that the courts only had jurisdiction to approve the legal fees of counsel appearing before them. Subsequently, the Federal Court approved the settlement on July 27, 2019 and the Ontario Court of Justice on August 3, 2018. Legal fees were approved by the Ontario court on November 15, 2018.
December 1, 2018 marked the implementation of the settlement with the opening of the claims process, payment to the Sixties Scoop Healing Foundation and legal fees. Compensation for valid claims will be made in January 2020.
Collectiva and its First Nations partners offered 55 information sessions across the country to support class members through the claims process.
On March 27, 2020 the Federal Court issued an order amending the settlement agreement to allow Canada to transfer $500M in compensation to the administrator. The Court further amended the settlement by allowing payments to be made to survivors once the approximately 4,767 applications have been fully and finally rejected. This will ensure that all class members received a minimum of $25,000. The original terms of the settlement required all claims to be processed before Canada could transfer compensation to the administrator and payments could be made to applicants with valid claims.
On June 1, 2020, the Federal Court issued an order amending its March 27, 2020 order to allow interim payments, of $21,000, to be made immediately to eligible class members. A similar motion is before the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. Once granted, eligible class members can expect to receive payment in the coming weeks.
Payments began flowing to eligible class members on June 10, 2020.
Métis Litigation
Since the announcement of the settlement agreement, several new claims seeking compensation for Métis peoples impacted by the Sixties Scoop have been filed. The Department and the Métis National Council continue to share information and discuss options that could inform a future settlement of this litigation.
Funding to respond to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls' Final Report (horizontal item)
Vote # 10
6,000,000 dollars in the 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A)
- Our government is committed to doing what is right and what is necessary to address the ongoing tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people.
- We are committed to working together with all of our Indigenous, provincial, and territorial partners to drive transformative change to end systemic racism and violence against Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people.
- This is why the 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A) provided $6M ($30M over 5 years) in new funding to support Indigenous organizations to engage with their members, including families and survivors, on identifying priority Calls for Justice, determining how they want to be engaged in co-development, and identifying wise and promising practices for the development of the National Action Plan.
- This funding will also support the longer-term organizational, policy, and program capacity of national and regional Indigenous organizations and groups (including Indigenous LGBTQ2S groups) to engage with the federal government on the implementation of the Calls for Justice identified in the National Action Plan.
- The total cost associated with addressing the root causes of the violence will be better understood once the plan is developed.
Background
Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, as the lead department, will coordinate the establishment of a National Action Plan that responds to the Calls for Justice. Indigenous organizations and groups will have the opportunity to participate in the co-development and initial implementation of the National Action Plan and to identify priorities within it.
Prior to COVID-19, work to develop the National Action Plan was well underway. Several Indigenous organizations received funding to engage their communities to identify priorities for inclusion in the National Action Plan for addressing violence against Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ2S. However, Indigenous-led engagement was interrupted due to COVID-19.
Despite the challenges caused by COVID-19, the MMIWG Secretariat is continuing to work with Indigenous, provincial and territorial partners to support the advancement of engagement, co-development and implementation of the National Action Plan.
Funding to Continue Indigenous Consultation and Capacity Support Activities
Vote # 10
1,500,000 dollars in the Supplementary Estimates (A)
- The 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A) provided $1.5 million in new funding to Continue Indigenous Consultation and Capacity Support Activities.
- The funds identified in Budget 2019 will support Indigenous partners' meaningful participation in Crown consultation processes through the continued implementation of consultation capacity measures, such as consultation protocols and resource centres.
- Specifically, funds will allow for implementation of 10 Consultation Protocols (involving 43 Indigenous communities and 15 Métis regions) and 5 Resource Centres (involving 74 Indigenous communities and 6 Métis regions).
- Funds will support a consultation environment with Indigenous peoples that is more predictable and that will provide direct capacity to support Indigenous communities' ability to participate meaningfully in federal consultation activities.
Supplementary Estimates A - Northern Affairs
Funding for COVID-19 Response Measures under the Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act
Supplementary Estimates (A)
Statutory Vote
$114,900,000
- Canada remains committed to supporting provincial and territorial governments in responding to COVID-19.
- Territorial governments have unique needs related to remoteness, transportation and health care limitations, and have a higher cost of living and doing business.
- The 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A) provided $114.9 million in new funding for COVID-19 response measures.
- This funding aims to:
- support Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut responses to COVID-19 for urgent health care and social support needs ($72.6M);
- support the Nutrition North Canada mandate in improving access to healthy foods through nutritional education and subsidies to help alleviate the cost of food in isolated communities ($25M); and
- support a focused and reliable air network for the movement of essential goods and services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic ($17.3M).
Background
The new statutory funding related to COVID-19 response measures under the responsibility of Minister of Northern Affairs includes :
- Up to $25 million to support temporary enhancements to Nutrition North Canada, further safeguarding food security for people living in Canada's North;
- Up to $72.6 million for urgent health care and social support needs in the territories in response to COVID-19. Of this amount, $18.4 million will be allocated to Yukon, $23.4 million to Northwest Territories, and $30.8 million to Nunavut; and
- Up to $17.3 million to enable the continuation of northern air services supporting essential resupply and medical services in the North.
Funding has been already disbursed for the urgent health care and social support needs in the territories in response to COVID-19 and to enable the continuation of northern air services supporting essential resupply and medical services in the North. Funding for Nutrition North Canada will be disbursed this summer.
Funding for COVID-19 Response - Nutrition North Canada
Supplementary Estimates (A)
Statutory Vote
$25,000,000
- The 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A) provide a one-time financial injection of $25M to the Nutrition North Canada subsidy program. This is to ensure that Northern families have access to nutritious food and personal hygiene products and will help offset the financial burden caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.
- Subsidy rates have been increased on basic and essential goods that families require during this challenging period.
- To help northerners afford nutritious food and other essentials their families need, Nutrition North Canada has added more non-perishable food and hygiene items to the eligibility list.
- By providing additional subsidies on a broad range of items, residents of isolated communities are better able to afford to feed and protect themselves and their families.
- This measure came into effect on May 1st and will extend until March 31, 2021.
- Our government remains committed to collaborating with territorial governments and to upholding the well-being of Northerners throughout this crisis and into the future.
Nutrition North Canada
- Nutrition North Canada helps to make perishable and nutritious foods more affordable and accessible to residents of eligible isolated northern communities that lack year-round road, rail or marine access.
- The program subsidizes perishable foods flown in by air, and certain non-perishable and essential items brought in by seasonal sealift, barge or winter road.
- Nutrition North Canada has expanded its list of subsidized food and essential items to include cleaning and personal hygiene products.
- Northerners are now also benefiting from the program's new Harvesters Support Grant which is increasing access to traditional foods and alleviating the high costs associated with hunting and harvesting activities.
If pressed on food eligibility
- To help northerners afford nutritious food and other essentials their families need, Nutrition North Canada has added more non-perishable food and hygiene items.
- Canned meat, with the exception of canned fish and seafood, and boxed macaroni and cheese are not currently eligible.
- The eligibility list continues to be updated in conversation with our Indigenous partners, and we will be guided by their advice as we work to improve it.
If pressed on the Harvesters Support Grant
- Our Government understands how important it is that northern families have access to more affordable, healthy food.
- This is why, in collaboration with Indigenous partners, we have developed the Harvesters Support Grant, to improve access to traditional foods by alleviating the high costs associated with traditional hunting and harvesting activities.
- Funding for the first year of the Grant has been allocated to Indigenous partners, and the Government of Canada is working to quickly deliver the next wave of money.
If pressed on Transparency regarding the Subsidy
- In order to further enhance transparency, the program is committed to working with Indigenous and northern partners on establishing a northern-based audit review committee to ensure that suppliers and retailers have passed on the subsidy to consumers.
If pressed on Food Security
- The objective of Nutrition North Canada is to help make perishable, nutritious food more accessible and more affordable than it otherwise would be for residents of isolated northern communities.
- Food security is a complex, multifaceted and multijurisdictional issue, requiring an array of innovative and horizontal approaches.
- No single department, institution, organization or initiative has the capacity required to address the issue of food security on their own.
- That's why we are committed to improving food security in the North through a whole-of-government approach that includes working with Provinces, Territories, and Indigenous leadership and communities.
Background
The new statutory funding related to COVID-19 response measures under the responsibility of Minister Vandal includes :
- Up to $25 million to support temporary enhancements to Nutrition North Canada, further safeguarding food security for people living in Canada's North;
- Up to $72.6 million for urgent health care and social support needs in the territories in response to COVID-19. Of this amount, $18.4 million will be allocated to Yukon, $23.4 million to Northwest Territories, and $30.8 million to Nunavut; and
- Up to $17.3 million to enable the continuation of northern air services supporting essential resupply and medical services in the North.
Funding has been already disbursed for the urgent health care and social support needs in the territories in response to COVID-19 and to enable the continuation of northern air services supporting essential resupply and medical services in the North. Funding for Nutrition North Canada will be disbursed this summer.
Funding for COVID-19 Response Measures - Health and social services
Supplementary Estimates (A)
Statutory Vote
$72,600,000
- Territorial governments have unique needs related to remoteness, transportation and health care limitations, and have a higher cost of living and doing business.
- The 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A) provided $114.9 million in new funding under statutory vote for COVID-19 response measures in Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.
- This includes $72.6M allocated to support Yukon, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut to support their COVID-19 health and social services preparations and response, as follows:
- $18.4 million for Yukon,
- $23.4 million for the Northwest Territories, and
- $30.8 million for Nunavut.
- This funding builds on the $500 million in funding already announced for provincial and territorial governments through the Canada Health Transfer and will help the territories address the critical priorities they identified to minimize the spread of the virus.
- Funding has been already disbursed for the urgent health care and social support needs in the territories in response to COVID-19.
- Our government remains committed to collaborating with territorial governments and to upholding the well-being of Northerners throughout this crisis and into the future.
Background
The Government of Canada is taking decisive action to help Canadians facing hardship because of COVID-19. This includes working closely and proactively with provincial, territorial and Indigenous governments to meet the unique needs of Indigenous and Northern communities, which are among the most vulnerable to COVID-19. On April 14th, the Prime Minister announced $130 million in targeted Northern funding to address immediate health, economic, and transportation needs identified by territorial Premiers in correspondence in mid-March.
Funding for COVID-19 Response Measures - Northern air services
Supplementary Estimates (A)
Statutory Vote
$17,300,000 in new funding
- The 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A) provided $17.3 million to support a focused and reliable air network in the territories for the movement of essential goods and services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- This funding, which has been disbursed, will assist northern air carriers in maintaining a basic network of routes and services, and includes:
- $3.6 million for Yukon;
- $8.7 million for the Northwest Territories; and
- $5 million for Nunavut.
- In partnership with investments by the territorial governments, the federal funding will ensure the continued supply of food, medical supplies, and other essential goods and services to remote and fly-in communities in the North.
Background
The Government of Canada is working closely and proactively with provincial, territorial and Indigenous governments to meet the unique needs of Indigenous and Northern communities, which are among the most vulnerable to COVID-19. On April 14th, the Prime Minister announced $130 million in targeted Northern funding to address immediate health, economic, and transportation needs identified by territorial Premiers in correspondence in mid-March.
The new statutory funding related to COVID-19 response measures under the responsibility of Minister Vandal includes up to $17.3 million to enable the continuation of northern air services supporting essential resupply and medical services in the North.
Funding has been already disbursed to enable the continuation of northern air services supporting essential resupply and medical services in the North.
Funding to support planning activities of the GNWT for the proposed Taltson hydroelectricity expansion project
Vote # 10
6,000,000 dollars in new funding in the 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A)
- The 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A) provided $6.0 million in new funding to support planning activities of the Government of Northwest Territories for the proposed Taltson hydroelectricity expansion project.
- Funds were identified in Budget 2019 to reduce pollution in Canada's North resulting from electricity generation.
- The expansion of the Taltson Hydroelectric system will provide residents and businesses with clean, reliable, affordable hydroelectric power and reduce Government of Northwest Territories' reliance on fossil fuels for heat and electricity.
- Our Government continues to support infrastructure projects in order to meet our climate change goals.
Background
Budget 2019 committed $18 million over three years (2019-2020 to 2021-2022) to fund the pre-development phase of the Taltson hydroelectric expansion project.
This 3-year funding, which started in 2019-20, is targeted to support the Government of Northwest Territories in undertaking planning activities for its proposed Taltson Hydroelectricity Expansion Project.
The Taltson Hydroelectricity Expansion Project looks to expand the existing Taltson Hydro facility and connect the North Slave and South Slave hydropower systems and achieve a transformative reduction in the Northwest Territories' greenhouse gas emissions, while stabilizing the cost of living and doing business. This project is essential to the ongoing growth and economic prosperity of the Northwest Territories and its citizens.
The Government of Northwest Territories project plan places early emphasis on securing and creating strong partnerships with Indigenous governments to collaboratively develop the partnership model, and ensure full participation in the project, including formalization of the investment relationship, undertaking of engineering technical and feasibility studies, and the environmental assessment process.
The expansion of the hydroelectric grid is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 227 kilotons (KT) by 2030 and will play a critical role in meeting the territorial and national climate change goals.
Funding to support research and higher education in Canada's North
Vote # 10
9,876,941 dollars in new funding in the 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A)
- These Supplementary Estimates investments support the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework and contribute toward closing the gaps in education outcomes.
- The 2020-21 Supplementary Estimates (A) provided close to $9.9 million in new funding to support research and higher education in Canada's North. This includes $0.5 million for the Task Force on Post-Secondary Education, $6.6 million for the new science building at Yukon University, and more than $2.8 million for the Dechinta Centre for Research and Learning.
- Responding to the recommendations of the Task-Force on Post-Secondary Education in the North is a priority for our government.
- The goal of the investments in post-secondary education in the North initiatives is to help close the gaps in education outcomes and provide ongoing learning and skills development opportunities, including Indigenous-based knowledge and skills.
- We will work together, with our partners, to implement a shared vision for a strong, prosperous and sustainable Arctic.
Background
The Arctic and Northern Policy Framework (Framework), launched on September 10th, 2019, sets out a long-term, strategic vision that will guide the Government of Canada's activities and investments in the Arctic to 2030 and beyond and will better align Canada's national and international policy objectives with the priorities of Indigenous peoples and Arctic and Northern residents.
The Framework is articulated around eight goals, and specific to post-secondary education in the North is to nurture healthy families and communities. Within this goal, there is a very clear co-developed objective to close the gaps in education outcomes.
Budget 2019 announced investments for the implementation of a suite of post-secondary education in the North initiatives in support of the shared priorities, goals and objectives of the Framework. The outcome of the investments within the suite of post-secondary education in the North initiatives will close the gaps in education outcomes and provide ongoing learning and skills development opportunities, including Indigenous-based knowledge and skills.
The Task Force on Post-secondary Education in the North will build on the reports and findings already completed by Northern and Arctic stakeholders.
Dechinta Centre for Research and Learning is a unique and innovative land-based program offering accredited university courses in a number of fields. The Government of Canada's investment will support the development, extension and maintenance of its suite of accredited post-secondary courses and support the transition to a full term program.
Government of Canada's investment to construct a new campus science building will help Yukon College undertake its transformation into Canada's first university north of 60°. The new science building will facilitate teaching, applied research and technology development by providing collaborative space for academia, researchers and industry.
Other files
COVID-19 Response: Support for Indigenous women and girls and LGTQ+ and Two Spirit people
Key Messages
- Canada recognized that First Nation, Inuit and Métis are among the most vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, Indigenous women and girls as well as LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit people are facing exceptional social and economic challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- We recognize the heightened risk of domestic and gender-based violence during this time.
- We know women and girls are disproportionately experiencing the repercussions of physical distancing measures, including reduced access to services, increased food insecurity, and mental health challenges.
Shelters for Indigenous women and girls
- Shelters in Indigenous communities provide a vital place of refuge for women and children escaping violence.
- On May 29, we announced $44.8 million over five years to build 12 new shelters to help support Indigenous women and children escaping domestic violence as well as $40.8 million over five years and $10.2 million ongoing to operate these shelters.
- This funding is in addition to the $10 million previously announced in COVID-19 supports for 46 First Nations shelters and the $1 million per year ongoing to engage Métis leaders and service providers on shelter provision and community-led violence prevention projects for Métis women, girls, LGBTQ, and Two-Spirit People.
Supports and services for Indigenous women in urban centres
- We know that Indigenous peoples living in urban centres, including women and their families, have unique needs and challenges.
- In response to COVID-19, we provided $90 million to organizations and groups serving Indigenous people living in urban areas and First Nations off reserve.
- Through Budget 2019, $60 million was dedicated to providing safe and accessible spaces for urban Indigenous peoples to receive culturally relevant services.
- Additionally, over 300 community violence prevention projects are funded on and off reserve each year through ISC's Family Violence Prevention Program.
Background
The Advisory Committee on Indigenous Women's Well-Being provides a forum for National Indigenous Women's Organization's and other partners to provide advice, guidance, and recommendations on addressing issues impacting Indigenous women's health and wellness ISC and CIRNA are participants in meetings. Members:
- Assembly of First Nations
- Assembly of First Nations Women's Council
- Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami
- Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak - Women of the Métis Nation
- Native Women's Association of Canada
- Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada
- National Aboriginal Circle against Family Violence
- National Aboriginal Council of Midwives
- Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
Wet'suwet'en
Key Messages - MOU
- In 1997, the Supreme Court of Canada strongly encouraged parties in Delgamuukw-Gisday'wa [del-gam-OOK gis-day-away] to pursue good faith negotiations regarding Aboriginal rights, this MOU breathes life into that decision by marking an important step in our shared work to implement Wet'suwet'en rights and title.
- This MOU establishes a path forward for discussions towards substantive agreements, which would describe future governance and the implementation of Wet'suwet'en rights and title. The MOU does not create, modify or implement rights and title, but does reflect a shared commitment to negotiate substantive agreements.
- Any such agreements, once reached, would be taken back to all Wet'suwet'en people for approval through a process that must clearly demonstrate the consent of the members of the nation. The parties will be discussing the appropriate approaches to ratification.
If pressed
- Next steps will include:
- further and ongoing engagement by the Wet'suwet'en with their house groups - including the elected chiefs of the Wet'suwet'en Nation, their community members and others;
- Development of a community engagement plan to inform third parties and the public on the status of the negotiations, and provide them with opportunities to express their views on how their specific interests might be addressed; and
- Canada will consult neighboring Indigenous Groups that have shared territories with Wet'suwet'en.
- Walking the path of reconciliation means working together and having these complex - and sometimes difficult - discussions as we do the work of implementing Indigenous rights in the true spirit of respect, cooperation and partnership.
If Pressed - why going ahead when there is opposition from the elected Chiefs and other community members?
- It was the hereditary chiefs who took the case of the rights and title of the Wet'suwet'en Nation to the Supreme Court of Canada.
- Now, the Wet'suwet'en nation: elected representatives, hereditary Chiefs, and community members should work together to design their governance, with the support of Canada and BC.
- We need to provide the space for the internal conversations that are going on right now between the elected and hereditary leadership and will continue throughout the process to help inform negotiations.
- We look forward to the work ahead as all three governments work together to implement rights and title of the Wet'suwet'en Nation.
Pipeline
- Our discussions in Smithers with the Wet'suwet'en Hereditary Chiefs and the BC government focused on two distinct issues - Wet'suwet'en rights and title and issues arising out of the CGL pipeline.
- The CGL pipeline remains entirely within provincial jurisdiction and I would refer you to comments made by the BC Government with respect to that project.
EDC - Coastal Gaslink
- As a financially self-sustaining Crown corporation, Export and Development Canada operates at arm's length from the Government.
- This means that EDC's participation in certain projects is at arm's length from policy makers and without taxpayers' money.
- We expect EDC to be fully transparent and accountable for their transactions and also ensuring it continues to meet the evolving needs of Canada's exporters and upholds the values that Canadians expect which includes corporate social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
- The Government of Canada remains confident that EDC, as an arm's length organization, provides its services upholding these values.
Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action
Key Messages
- June 2, 2020 marked the 5-year anniversary of the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 94 Calls to Action.
- The Calls to Action provides the opportunity for all Canadians to contribute to the ongoing journey towards reconciliation.
- Over the past five years, significant progress has been made to implement the Calls to Action and renew the relationship with Indigenous Peoples, based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership.
- To date, close to 80 per cent of the 76 Calls to Action under federal responsibility alone or shared responsibility between provinces and territories and other key parties, are complete or well underway.
- Six Calls to Action that are well underway are within the purview of the department and could be implemented within a 1-2 year timeframe. Those are:
- Work with plaintiffs not included in the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement to settle disputes that will require both financial authorities and legislation (CTA #29);
- Legislation and multi-year funding to establish the National Council for Reconciliation (CTA #53-54);
- Resources to the National Centre for Truth & Reconciliation to establish the National Residential School Student Register (CTA #72);
- Establishing and maintaining an online registry of residential school cemeteries, which will require financial authorities (CTA #73); and
- Adopting strategies and principles for documenting, maintaining, commemorating and protecting residential school cemeteries, which will require both financial and policy authorities (CTA #76).
- Twelve Calls to Action are now complete. Of those, five were completed in 2019:
- In April 2019, the Government announced funding for the Canadian Museums Association in response to Call to Action 67.
- In June 2019, the Government adopted the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families and the Indigenous Languages Act, in response to Calls to Action 4 and 14, respectively.
- Also in June 2019, An Act respecting Indigenous Languages, previously known as Bill C-91, received Royal Assent, in response to Call to Action 13, and
- The Commission of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls delivered its final report entitled, "Reclaiming Power and Place", on June 3, 2019, in response to Call to Action 41.
- With respect to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, although this Call is now considered complete, we have been responsive to the Calls to Justice and we are developing a truly national, not federal, action plan.
- As called for in the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Woman and Girls, we are working together on a distinctions basis with Indigenous partners, with family members and survivors, and all of our provincial and territorial partners on the co-development of a National Action Plan.
- This plan will set a clear roadmap to end the systemic causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ and Two-Spirit people.
- This work continues, but it is clear that the grassroots who are essential to developing this plan are also on the frontlines of Covid-19.
- As part of that commitment, we are investing $50 million to support shelter and sexual assault centers for women and children fleeing violence, which includes targeted funding for facilities serving Indigenous communities.
- Implementing the Calls to Action requires time, investments, partnerships, and in many cases policy and/or legislative changes. Our Government is committed to continuing its efforts on implementing the Calls to Action.
If pressed on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
- Call to Action 41 calls upon the federal government, in consultations with Indigenous partners, to appoint a public inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.
- In response to this call, the Government launched the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls in September 2016.
- On June 3, 2019, the Commissioners of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls released their final report, Reclaiming Power and Place, completing Call to Action 41.
- The Government of Canada has since engaged with Indigenous partners on the development of an national action plan to address the Calls to Justice.
- We have heard from Indigenous organizations that rates of gender-based violence have increased for Indigenous women and children during COVID-19. This is why we are continuing to move forward with programs aimed at addressing the root causes of violence as identified in the final report.
Background
- As agreed to by the parties of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission was established on June 1, 2008 with the objective of documenting the history and lasting impacts of the Indian Residential Schools on Indigenous students and their families. It provided residential school survivors an opportunity to share their experiences during public and private meetings held across the country.
- In June 2015, the Commission released an Executive Summary of its findings along with 94 Calls to Action regarding reconciliation between Canadians and Indigenous peoples. The Commission formally concluded in December 2015 with the publication of its final report. The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, which opened at the University of Manitoba in November 2015, is an archival repository home to the research, documents, and testimony collected during the course of the Commission's operation.
- The Calls to Action were grouped into two categories, namely Legacy and Reconciliation. The Legacy section of the Calls to Action focused on redressing the harms resulting from the Indian residential schools and pertain primarily to Child Welfare, Education, Language and Culture, Health, and Justice. The Reconciliation section of the Calls to Action were focused on creating better relations between the federal and provincial governments of Canada and Indigenous nations, with an emphasis on creating a new relationship.
- During the Commission's closing event, the Prime Minister committed to implementing the Commission's Calls to Action and reiterated the Government's commitment to "a renewed relationship with Indigenous Peoples based on the recognition of rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership."
- The Calls to Action provide Canada with a roadmap to advancing reconciliation. A total of 76 Calls fall under the responsibility of the federal government alone or shared responsibility between the federal government, provinces/territories and other key parties.
- Canada has adopted a distinctions-based, whole-of-government approach to implementing those 76 Calls to Action. It is a collective commitment involving 13 lead federal departments and agencies, with the support of another 25 federal departments and agencies.
- Given the scope of the task and the wide range of partners involved, implementation requires time, continued substantial investments, sustained partnerships, and in many cases legislative changes.
- On May 3, 2018, the Government of Canada launched the web page, Delivering on Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, in which Canadians can monitor how Canada is responding to the Calls to Action. The web page is updated on a regular basis and a new publication is expected over the summer.
- June 2nd marked the fifth anniversary of the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action. This was an opportunity for the Government of Canada to recommit to honour and support Indigenous Peoples on the journey of reconciliation.
The Native Women's Association of Canada
Key Messages
- Our government is renewing the relationship with Indigenous peoples based on the affirmation of rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership.
- When Indigenous women are empowered, their families, communities, and all of Canada benefit.
- This is why we signed the Canada-Native Women's Association of Canada Accord in February 2019, which establishes a mechanism to ensure the voices of Indigenous women are heard and reflected.
- We also provided $7.3 million over three years to support the Accord to ensure that the perspectives of Indigenous women are included in policy and program development.
- In addition, in 2019-20, NWAC received core funding of $1 million plus $2.1 million in enhanced funding for a total of $3.1M in operational support.
- NWAC has also received project funding from the Consultation and Policy Development budget: $411,280 in 2019-20 as well as $295,288 for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls engagement.
- We will continue to work in partnership with NWAC to make progress on issues important to Indigenous women.
Background
NWAC is a national non-profit Indigenous organization representing the political voice of Indigenous women throughout Canada. Incorporated in 1974, NWAC works to advance the well-being and equality of women through advocacy, education, research and policy. An aggregate of 12 Indigenous women's organizations across the country, NWAC was founded on the collective goal to enhance, promote, and foster the social, economic, cultural and political well-being of Indigenous women within their respective communities and Canadian societies.
NWAC works on a variety of issues such as environment, employment and labour, health, violence prevention and safety, human rights, and international affairs. CIRNAC has a collaborative and effective working relationship with NWAC on many key federal priorities including Descheneaux (Bill S-3) and pre-Inquiry work on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
While NWAC is not part of the Permanent Bilateral Mechanism, they play a crucial role in ensuring that the unique needs and interests of Indigenous women are considered in the co-development of all policy, program and legislative initiatives. The importance of their role in furthering the reconciliation and the feminist government agendas was underlined by the Prime Minister at the January 2017 meeting with the organization. CIRNAC, on behalf of the federal government finalized an Accord setting out a process for collaboration and co-development of shared priorities. The Accord was signed on February 1, 2019, and provided funding of $7.3 million over three years. In 2019-20, NWAC received core funding of $1 million plus $2.1 million in enhanced funding for a total of $3.1 million in "core and core-like" funding.
In addition, the NWAC received project funding from the Consultation and Policy Development budget: 411,280 in 2019-20 as well as $295,288 for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls engagement.
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation - Non-Claim Records Request for Direction
Key Messages
- Our Government is committed to preserving the history of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement.
- Canada is already taking steps to comply with Justice Perell's direction to file a proposal outlining the transfer of non-claim records held by the Indian Residential Schools Adjudication Secretariat to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.
- The records pertain to the operations, management, and oversight of the Independent Assessment Process.
- As a result of COVID-19, Canada has sought an extension of the June 30, 2020 deadline to file the proposal with the court.
If pressed on survivors' documents
- Canada recognizes the importance of preserving a record of the legacy of Indian Residential Schools for survivors, their families, and future generations, while protecting and respecting former students' privacy.
- Canada supports the decisions of claimants who elect to preserve their histories with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, but that decision must be the survivors and theirs alone.
- Canada fully supports the court's direction to the Chief Adjudicator to provide notice to Independent Assessment Process claimants that they can preserve their records with the National Truth and Reconciliation Commission, should they wish.
If pressed on the appeal on the litigation
- Canada has already begun to take steps to comply with Justice Perell's direction with respect to the "non-claim records".
- The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation's appeal of Justice Perell's decision is limited to the issue of 'static records'.
- Canada's position in the appeal will focus on ensuring that the privacy of the Independent Assessment Process claimants is protected.
- Canada's is committed to protecting the privacy of survivors and is concerned the release of static documents could result in a breech.
Background
The Request for Direction was filed by the Chief Adjudicator to seek direction on the disposition to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation of the non-claim records held by the Indian Residential Schools Adjudication Secretariat pertaining to the operations, management, and oversight of the IAP. He seeks direction on certain discrete categories of records to which special considerations may apply and approval of his Proposal for Disposition of Non-Claim Records. The records include statistical reports (from SADRE), the records and in camera minutes of Chief Adjudicator's Reference Group (CARG) and IAP Oversight Committee, the Chief Adjudicator's Report to Supervising Courts, and Complaint Records.
On January 20, 2020, Justice Perell dismissed the RFD and directed Canada to file an RFD by June 30, 2020, with a proposal for archiving copies of non-claim records with the NCTR. The NCTR has appealed the decision.
As a result of COVID-19, Canada has requested an extension from the court to undertake consultations and complete the proposal for the transfer of documents to the NCTR.
Self-Governing COVID19 Funding
Key Messages
- Our priority is to ensure that everyone in Canada is safe and that communities are able to fight Covid-19. This means working closely with Modern Treaty and Self-Governing Indigenous Governments during the pandemic.
- The Indigenous Community Support Fund provides almost $20 million to Modern Treaty and Self-Governing Indigenous Nations.
- Members of these Nations are also be eligible for support programs available to all Canadians, such as the Emergency Response Benefit and the increase to the Canada Child Benefit.
- By working in partnership, we will continue to ensure that they have the resources they need to keep their communities safe.
Gottfriedson
Key Messages
- Our Government is working towards righting past wrongs, especially those involving Indigenous children, outside of the courts.
- We remain committed to negotiating a resolution outside of the courts, as we believe that negotiation is always preferable to litigation.
- We know that working collaboratively with Indigenous peoples to renew the relationship based on affirmation of rights, respect, co-operation and partnership is fundamental to achieving reconciliation.
Brunning litigation
Key Messages
- Canada has complied with all court orders regarding Independent Assessment Process documents for St. Anne's Indian Residential School.
- The courts, including Justice Perell, have upheld Canada's actions regarding document disclosure since 2015, even saying that "the evidence shows that Canada has kept and continues to keep its promise".
- 96% of all claimants from St. Anne's Residential School have received compensation. Individual survivors of St. Anne's were awarded compensation commensurate with survivors of other Indian Residential Schools.
- Canada remains committed to doing what is right for survivors and their healing journeys.
100 Wellington
Key Messages
- The spirit and intent of the Indigenous Peoples Space has always been that it must remain First Nations, Inuit and Métis led.
- We have been working in the true spirit of reconciliation - all decisions around the space are taken as a group between partners, and we look forward to continuing this work together.
- Prior to COVID-19, we were working on the short-term use plan of the Indigenous Peoples' Space while the longer-term design is completed.
- Our commitment remains while our current focus is ensuring Indigenous communities are prepared for the pandemic.
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
- COVID-19 Indigenous business subsidies: Indigenous businesses provide good jobs & are leaders in their communities. Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau announced $306.8M to help small & medium Indigenous businesses & to support Aboriginal Financial Institutions. This investment ensures access to interest-free loans & non-repayable contributions through AFI's. This will help thousands of businesses in all parts of our economy & the people are employed by these businesses. There is still work to be done and more people we need to help. We will have more to say soon on further measures to support Indigenous businesses." Twitter, Apr 18, 2020
- 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
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
- Anti-Black Racism: "We cannot continue to afford to let history repeat itself. We must not only address Anti-Black racism and educate one another, but stand shoulder-to-shoulder with all our brothers and sisters across the globe to fight back against any form of racism and discrimination." Twitter, May 30, 2020
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.
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
- COVID-19 government response: "Our Government is investing $100M to meet the urgent food needs of vulnerable Canadians, including those living in Indigenous and northern communities. This money will help ensure that organizations can buy and deliver food to those who need it most." Twitter, Apr 3, 2020
- 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
- First Nations Education: "In Nova Scotia, the Mi'kmaq took control over their education system 20 years ago with Mi'kmaw Kina'matnewey, which we call MK, for those who are not linguistically gifted, and we saw a 30% graduation rate increase to where we are today at about 90%. The evidence seems to clear that first nations-led and first nations-governed education systems achieve better results for first nations students. I also understand that there are 23 Anishinabek nations who have signed a historic self-government agreement on education." INAN, Feb 25, 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.
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
- COVID-19: 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.
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
- COVID-19: "H1N1, which was the last COVID-19-like virus to go around, disproportionately affected people in northern indigenous communities for the reasons you mentioned, probably the usual social determinants of health, lack of water, overcrowding, those kinds of things. However, I think there was probably also a genetic component. Being a doctor in Thunder Bay regional hospital at the time, we had a lot of ICU beds occupied by people from northern communities. There were young people who got H1N1 and were ill enough that they had to be intubated and put on a ventilator. The ultimate concern with COVID-19 is the proportion of people who have more serious illnesses. The answer to that, if you're in one of the northern fly-in communities, is to fly them out. In the case of an epidemic, you're probably going to need more planes, better transportation systems. Is that being considered and prepared for?" INAN, Mar 12, 2020
- Wet'suwet'en Protests: "It is imperative to exhaust all peaceful means of resolving the rail blockades." Hansard, Feb 18, 2020
- Funding for Services: "A constant refrain that I hear in Thunder Bay is that we have this large community here, but we're not getting the funding to provide services for that community. I know there's Jordan's Principle there that says nobody falls between the cracks, but that seems like that's filling in the cracks, that's not really a plan. What is being done in order to assist indigenous people coming to these kinds of communities to get the services they need to integrate if they so choose, into the society?" INAN, Feb 25, 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
- COVID-19: HESA, Apr 15, 2020
- I know that our federal government is doing absolutely everything it can in order to make sure that, as much as possible, we're getting the PPE to the people out there.
- Over the years, because of a lack of infectious disease, we've become a lot more concerned about doing everything possible not to infringe on individual liberties, and we've been very reluctant to use any sort of coercive action to control the spread of infectious disease. This is public health academia. Although our government was criticized for it, it is the prevailing attitude in public health academia and public health circles in the western world… this was perhaps a mistake on the part of the public health community.
- 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
- LGBTIQ+ Discrimination: "LGBTIQ+ people still face serious challenges in their everyday life. When we stop pointing to the exceptions and start looking at how we can best support each other, we break the silence and continue the demand for systemic change." Twitter, May 17, 2020
- 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.
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
- COVID-19: 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
- Energy: "As we all know, many communities continue to rely on diesel-fuelled power as a primary energy source. We've heard from many communities that this is becoming increasingly challenging as the impacts of climate change affect their ability to access diesel, as well as the cost." INAN, Feb 25, 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.
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
- COVID-19: 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
- New fiscal relationships: "…When indigenous communities move toward self-governance and self-determination, they have better outcomes across the board. Jaime has talked about education, for instance, and health is the same. Part of this includes developing fiscal relations with communities that allow them to make their own choices about where to invest and government has proposed a new collaborative self-government fiscal policy as a better way to address the needs of self-governing first nations." INAN, Feb 25, 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.
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
- Wet'suwet'en presence at INAN: "I can't understand why the Liberals and the NDP members on the Indigineous and Northern Affairs Committee would vote down a motion to hear the voices of the Wet'suwet'en people. I have heard from Hereditary Chiefs Theresa Tait-Day, Gary Naziel and Herb Naziel as well as the elected chiefs of the Westsuwetin and they have many questions that deserve answers. What are the Liberals hiding, why won't they allow elected and hereditary chiefs to come to the committee and be heard?" The National Telegraph, May 29, 2020
- INAN Committee motion: "The Libs want a free pass with 0 accountability. We've been trying to bring forward a motion in #INAN committee, but being ruled out of order as not 'COVID related' (even though it is). Parliament right now is a sham and no @JustinTrudeau, its not working." Twitter, May 27, 2020
- COVID-19: "Canada's North faces many challenges unique to the rest of the country and the COVID-19 pandemic has proven to be no different. Unfortunately, the federal government has currently chosen a one-size-fits-all approach to its emergency business measures which has left many of the North's vital industries unable to qualify for much needed assistance. Conservatives are calling on the government to listen and work with business and Indigenous leaders in the North to ensure that no one falls through the cracks in getting the help they need." Press release, Apr 21, 2020
- Northern business emergency subsidies: "Businesses in the north have a very different need from the rest of the country. With a shorter business season and industries like junior mining and exploration, it is clear that the government's one-size-fits-all approach to emergency business measures has, sadly, done little to support our northern economy. The Yukon Chamber of Mines and the Northwest Territories and Nunavut Chamber of Mines, as well as other northern businesses, have said programs like the Canada emergency wage subsidy will not work for the north. Will the government listen to these leaders and make changes so that our businesses in the north have a fighting chance to survive?" COW, Apr 20, 2020
- COVID-19 (Cont): "Any potential COVID-19 outbreak in remote communities in the North could have a devastating impact and these communities need readily available medical supplies and equipment to help prevent the spread." Press release, Apr 10, 2020
- COVID-19 (Cont): "Given recent reports of some First Nations concerned about the lack of PPE available to health care workers in their communities, the government must address how they are ensuring our Northern communities have access to these vitally important supplies now and in the weeks ahead. Press release, Apr 10, 2020
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- Softwood lumber companies: U.S. duties on softwood lumber cannot currently be disbursed, creating billions in held-up capital. If lumber companies fail, then pulp mills will close at a time when pulp products are needed for both PPE and toilet paper. COW, Apr 20, 2020
- Northern defence systems: Systems need to be upgraded. The North Warning System is outdated; experts are reporting that our long and short-range radar is essentially obsolete. COW, Apr 20, 2020
- Northern Airlines: Airlines in the north are critical for essential needs like food and medications. COW, Apr 20, 2020
General Issues Raised in the Media
- Energy sector crisis: "Any action the government takes should focus on real solutions that secure the short-term survival of energy employers and workers, and longer-term measures that will ensure recovery and future growth in Canada." Press release, Apr 3, 2020
- 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
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.
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
- INAN Committee: "Surprised to hear @ccab_national @BullTabatha tell our #INAN committee that no Indigenous businesses have secured any procurement contracts from the Government to produce PPE's when many are willing and able. The Government needs to do better." Twitter, May 30, 2020
- COVID-19 legislation: "The currently legislation leaves out First Nations across Canada — we need to ensure these businesses have access to the same programs so they can survive during this difficult time." Twitter, Apr 24, 2020
- COVID-19 legislation (Cont): "The standard model for first nations in Canada to carry on business is through the use of limited partnerships. These limited partnerships operate businesses in all parts of the Canadian economy, including forestry, mining, manufacturing, construction and consumer sales. The effect of the COVID crisis on these companies mirrors that of the general Canadian economy. The brief indicates that this business model will not qualify for either of the amounts of the wage subsidy programs. If first nations businesses, through their limited partnership models, are excluded from these benefits, I see this as a huge gap in the creation of this wage subsidy." FINA, Apr 8, 2020
- COVID-19 First Nations elections: "Minister Miller and his department need to be in direct contact with these Nations immediately and provide them clarification. These elections are dangerous and the Government needs to be doing all they can to prevent outbreaks in indigenous communities." Twitter, Mar 26, 2020
- First Nations consultation: "…Why weren't the provinces consulted or engaged earlier on? The honest heart of the social service minister in Saskatchewan was an honest concern about no child falling through the cracks. Is there an intention to get the provincial departments more involved in the process going forward than they maybe were during the development of the legislation?" INAN, Feb 25, 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
- COVID-19 Tax increases: "Today the Liberal's increased taxes on Canadians AGAIN! During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Justin Trudeau has increased his Carbon Tax, making everything more expensive for Canadians. So my colleagues and I from Saskatchewan wrote to the Minister of Finance, demanding he stop!" Twitter, Apr 1, 2020
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.
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
- COVID-19: None.
- Indigenous Victims of Trafficking: "it is well known that indigenous women are by far the highest represented victim group in human trafficking in Canada while being only 4% of the women's population in Canada. A 2014 report by the Canadian Women's Foundation established that at least 50% of the female victims of sex trafficking in Canada were indigenous. In Winnipeg it was more like 70% or 80% and in Edmonton, a city near where I live, 40% to 50% of sex crime victims are indigenous women." INAN, Mar 12, 2020
- Band election accountability: "One of the concerns that keeps coming out of my riding is around band elections and due process for band members when they feel there is an irregularity or a change of a date, these kinds of things. In one case where there is no quorum because people have resigned from the band council, there's no ability to make quorum anymore and there's an expectation that INAN step in to fill the void. Because at this point they can't make quorum, they can't sign cheques, people aren't getting paid. I'm speaking about Kapawe'no First Nation. What is the process for allaying some of these concerns around due process when it comes to elections?" INAN, Feb 25, 2020
- 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
- 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
General Issues Raised in the Media
- COVID-19 Assistance: "We are in this together. Whether you are a farmer, small business owner, oil and gas worker, front-line worker, or student — if you need assistance or help — please contact my office. We are here to help you get through this." Twitter, Apr 15, 2020
- Online sexual exploitation: "Parents must remain vigilant when it comes to the online activities of their children. As young people spend more time online during this time of confinement, the risks of online sexual exploitation increase." Twitter, Apr 14, 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.
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
- Wet'suwet'en Presence at INAN: "It is appalling the Liberals, with the support of the NDP who represent the Wet'suwet'en in the riding of Skeena-Bulkley Valley, would shut down a motion giving a voice to Indigenous peoples." Official Press release, May 29, 2020
- Indigenous community pandemic fund: "On March 20, Minister Miller announced the details of how that $305 million fund will be divided and worked out. As I understand it, of that $305 million, $215 million is allocated for the Assembly of First Nations members, specifically the 334,000-plus first nations individuals living on reserve; $45 million is for Inuit, available to the 47,000-plus living in four Inuit homeland regions; we also have $30 million allocated for the Métis National Council communities and their 42,000 members in Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia. Now, that leaves about $15 million for almost 643,000 first nations individuals living off reserve, over half a million Métis not affiliated with MNC, and almost 18,000 Inuit outside of the four ITK regions." FINA, Apr 8,2020
- Government response to COVID-19: Debates, Apr 20, 2020
- "The indigenous services minister stated that his department sent packages of PPE supplies to first nations across Canada. However, there are still first nations communities that are reporting little access to this life-saving equipment.Can the minister report on how many first nations communities are still waiting for their PPE?"
- "Did the government consult at all with the three First Nations Fiscal Management Act institutions prior to designing the $336-million indigenous business fund?"
- "Of the $305 million that was announced for the indigenous community support fund, $15 million, or less than 5%, was allocated to urban indigenous organizations. With over 60% of indigenous people in Canada living in urban centres, can the government explain this split?"
- "Which off-reserve and non-status indigenous groups were at the table making the decisions on how to best allocate those $15 million?"
- "It is our understanding that funding for off-reserve and non-status indigenous groups has not been approved for release by Indigenous Services Canada. When will this money flow?"
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- Industry during COVID-19: The forestry industry was in crisis before the pandemic with mills closing down and thousands of jobs lost. If our forestry industry is in jeopardy, the production of medical supplies, toilet paper and other essential products is also in jeopardy. The tourism industry has been devastated and the recovery post-COVID-19 is uncertain. Bookings have been cancelled well into 2021. Small businesses in my riding are reeling from inconsistencies in the BDC. SMEs who took out loans just prior to the shutdown and had not opened are expected to pay the interest on principal they are not yet required to pay. Debates, Apr 20, 2020
- Oil and Gas: Supports the oil and gas sector; anti-energy bills are regulating to death the west-to-east pipeline. Debates, 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.
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 CISSS de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue 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
- COVID-19: None.
- Wet'suwet'en Protest: "Since this government abdicated its leadership responsibilities on the rail crisis, the situation has deteriorated. More blockades are going up in Quebec and elsewhere. When the Prime Minister decided to hide from this dispute last Friday, he said that he wanted to engage in dialogue, but that it takes two to have a dialogue." Hansard, Feb 25, 2020
- Boil water advisories: "Je représente la circonscription de Abitibi-Baie-James-Nunavik-Eeyou et, actuellement, il y a des situations qui dégénèrent relativement à l'accès à l'eau potable et aussi en matière de logement. Vous dites que vous avez un groupe de travail mixte composé de l'Assemblée des Premières Nations. Qui, parmi les Premières Nations, siège au comité du groupe mixte?" INAN, Feb 25, 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.
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
- Conflict of Interest in COVID-19 Supply Council: "The federal government had a clear conflict of interest when it bought medical supplies from a company with ties to their own COVID-19 Supply Council. I am proud that my colleagues on the INAN Committee agreed that we need answers." Twitter, May 30, 2020
- MMIWG Action Plan delay: "I can't even begin to wrap my head around this. Justice, safety, and care is what people need right now! We must protect our women. There is HUGE inequality. Our women deserve to be safe and protected!" Twitter, May 28, 2020
- COVID-19 government support: "Nunavummiut are still waiting for support related to COVID-19 from the federal government, which was promised weeks ago. While communities are doing everything they can to prepare — right now we need the federal government to deliver the resources they promised." Twitter, Apr 26, 2020
- COVID-19 (cont): "People are worried about the lack of necessary facilities and services to help face the pandemic. This is where the government needs to have a plan that fits our reality. And act quickly." Twitter, Apr 1, 2020
- Inuit services: "Continuously we see the lack of services for Inuit and Métis. It's hard to talk about things like training on maintaining water system infrastructure when that infrastructure isn't even there to begin with." INAN, Feb 25, 2020
- Wetsu'wet'en Protests: "Meeting with the Wetsu'wet'en chiefs would be a step in the right direction for reconciliation, but what we are seeing again is the Prime Minister failing. His broken promises to the people in my riding are seen every day, with a lack of and poor health care, mental health care, housing, education and transportation." Hansard, Feb 21, 2020
- 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
- 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
General Issues Raised in Question Period and Committee
- None.
General Issues Raised in the Media
- Climate change: "Climate change is already a reality in NU & will continue to threaten our communities & our way of life. I'm committed to fighting for real climate action now & supporting the next generation of leaders who know they cannot ignore climate change." Twitter, Apr 22, 2020
Written Questions
- None.
Private Members' Business
- None.