Appearance before the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs 2021-22 Supplementary Estimate (C) and 2022-23 Main Estimates (March 25, 2022)

The Honourable Daniel Vandal Minister of Northern Affairs, Paula Isaak, Associate Deputy Minister, Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs

Table of contents

Overview

2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (C) Northern Affairs

2022-23 Main Estimates Northern Affairs

Biographies

Overview

Appearance before the
Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs

SCENARIO NOTE

LOGISTICS

Date: Friday, March 25, 2022
Time: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Room 415, Wellington Building, 197 Sparks Street Videoconference (Zoom) (hybrid proceedings)
Subject: 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (C) and 2022-23 Main Estimates

Panel #1 (1 p.m. to 2 p.m.)

Indigenous Services Canada

  1. The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister (appearing in person)
  2. Christiane Fox, Deputy Minister (TBC)
  3. Philippe Thompson, Chief Finances, Results and Delivery Officer (appearing in person)
  4. Joanne Wilkinson, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, Regional Operations
  5. Patrick Boucher, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch
  6. Chris Rainer, Director General, Evaluation and Policy Redesign Branch

Panel #2 (2 p.m. to 3 p.m.)

Crown-Indigenous Relations

  1. The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister (appearing virtually)
  2. Daniel Quan-Watson, Deputy Minister (TBC)
  3. Darlene Bess, Chief Finances, Results, and Delivery Officer
  4. Martin Reiher, Assistant Deputy Minister, Resolutions and Partnerships
  5. Mary-Luisa Kapelus, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, Policy and Strategic Direction

Northern Affairs

  1. The Honourable Daniel Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs (appearing in person)
  2. Paula Isaak, Associate Deputy Minister, Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs
  3. Wayne Walsh, Director General, Northern Strategic Policy

Context

INAN agreed to the following motion on March 1, 2022:

That the Minister of Indigenous Services, the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and the Minister of Northern Affairs appear pursuant to Standing Order 81 to provide testimony on the Supplementary Estimates (C), 2021-22 and the Main Estimates 2022-23 on Friday, March 25, 2022.

Previous Work

This will be INAN's first meeting on the Department's estimates this parliamentary session.

The Committee's most recent focus has been a study on the Effects of Housing Shortage on Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Minister Miller, Minister Hajdu, and departmental officials appeared when the study launched on March 4, 2022. There was one follow-up from MP Gill regarding funding for housing in Nunavut.

MPs asked Minister Hajdu about tuberculosis, the Departmental Plan, and whether adequate accounting for population growth is factored into the Estimates. MPs asked Minister Miller about housing in Nunavut, seniors, and whether First Nations should govern and mange their own land interests.

In terms of questions raised for other witnesses, MPs asked about the effects of the housing shortage on Indigenous people, additions to land, slow delivery of funding to Inuit communities, and the role of the Inuit-Crown Partnership in measuring progress.

Before this study, INAN studied the Barriers to Indigenous Economic Development, which it launched on February 4, 2022. The ISC and Northern Affairs Ministers appeared with officials on February 11, 2022.The key issues that were raised during this study relate to the inaccessibility to funding for Indigenous communities, (leading to a lack of stable revenue); education; inaccessibility to energy and transportation infrastructure; and, housing disparities.

Membership

MP Gary Vidal (CPC), critic for Crown-Indigenous Relations, has spoken about the lack of funding allocated to Indigenous communities in the Prairies, as well as the need for better housing. He has also recently criticized the Government for allegedly "[marginalizing] Indigenous people by continuing to disparage the unvaccinated." (Hansard, February 10, 2022)

MP Jaime Schmale (CPC) has expressed interest in Indigenous Services Canada's Departmental Plan. In particular, at an INAN meeting on February 11, 2022, he wanted to know how many businesses were created and when will the Government have a mandate in place so Indigenous businesses can thrive.

MP Shannon Stubbs (CPC), who has nine First Nation and Metis communities in her riding, has raised the importance of building long-term sustainable relationships with Indigenous people. (February 15, 2022) At INAN on February 11, she spoke about the challenges Indigenous people face in improving their economies. "I am seized with many of the challenges that you've talked about. These are, primarily, access to capital, capacity building in communities so that they can effectively participate in the regulatory process, and the necessity for the Crown to meet their obligations for two-way dynamic consultation with Indigenous communities rather than just checking it off on a list."

MP Lori Idlout (NDP), the critic of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs, will likely focus her questions on the economy in Nunavut. Recently in the House of Commons, she indicated that people in Nunavut are struggling, and are faced with unemployment, poverty and a food insecurity. "Roughly four in 10 residents of Nunavut are on social assistance, the highest proportion in the country. Basic needs like heating and electricity are even more expensive because almost all of Nunavut's electricity is generated from diesel fuel." (Hansard, February 15, 2022) Earlier this month on Twitter, she indicated that more investments should be made in housing. "Feds know that more than 3,000 (homes) are need to relieve the overcrowded housing situation. These numbers are very minor to meeting the actual need." Last November on Twitter, she said the Throne speech was silent on housing for Indigenous people. "It was weak on commitments to addressing water issues. Basic needs are not in the forefront of the minds of the government. Just more pretty words." (Twitter, November 23, 2021)

MP Marilène Gill (BQ), critic of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs, has posed questions at INAN in previous years about Indigenous rights, food security in the North, and the lack of progress in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action. More recently, she asked the Minister of Indigenous Services at INAN about inequalities between First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities. (Hansard, February 11, 2022) On Twitter last December, she remarked that Government investments in housing for Indigenous people are lacking.

MP Michael V. Mcleod (LIB) will likely ask questions that pertain to communities in his riding in the Northwest Territories. He has indicated the importance of improving infrastructure. "Earlier today I met with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to discuss some of the priorities of NWTers, including Indigenous rights and closing the infrastructure gap." (Twitter, December 15, 2021) He was also involved in an announcement on February 3, 2022, on the $3.2 million to help create 14 units of transitional homes in Hay River for women and children fleeing violence.

MP Patrick Weiler (LIB)'s key interests are tourism, labour, housing and affordability. He has indicated that he was "proud" when the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People received Royal Assent on June 21, 2021. (Pique News Magazine, August 27, 2021). Last fall, he acknowledged the role all Canadians should play in addressing the legacy of residential schools and reconciliation. "Part of reconciliation is about building an understanding & repairing relationships to move towards healing" (Twitter, September 30, 2021)

MP Marcus Powlowski (LIB) has recently spoken about the need for more mental health resources for Indigenous people. "Although our Government has done a lot to address addictions, mental health and the opioid crisis, I do not think we have been as successful as we would like to be." (Hansard, February 8, 2022)

MP Jaime Battiste (LIB), Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, highlighted the importance of advancing self-determination and economic development for Indigenous people through additions to reserve. "Additions to reserve play a significant role in returning land to Indigenous communities, fulfilling legal obligations, improving relationships with Indigenous communities, and fostering economic opportunities." (January 31, 2022)

Meeting Proceedings

The meeting is scheduled from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on March 25, 2022 and will be a hybrid meeting. The Minister of Indigenous Services Canada is appearing in person during the first hour. She will be joined in the committee room by the ISC DM and CFRDO. Remaining ISC officials will appear via Zoom.

During the second hour, the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and the Minister of Northern Affairs will appear in person. The CIRNAC DM, CFRDO and supporting officials will appear via Zoom.

Witnesses who are appearing virtually at the 1 p.m. panel will be asked to connect to the meeting at 12:30 p.m. The Zoom link will be sent directly from the House of Commons to the witnesses. Virtual witnesses for the 2 p.m. panel may connect later, but must be online by 1:45 p.m. (or as instructed during the connectivity test with Hill technicians).

The Chair will call the meeting to order and provide instructions for the meeting proceedings. He will then introduce the witnesses and invite Minister Hajdu to deliver opening remarks. This will be followed by a Q&A period (details below). The committee will suspend at approximately 2 p.m. at which point the ISC panel will be excused and the CIRNAC panel will join the meeting.

It is recommended that all speakers speak slowly and at an appropriate volume to ensure they are heard by the interpreters. All witnesses are asked to mute their microphones unless they are speaking.

While simultaneous translation will be available, witnesses are asked to respond to questions in either English or French, but to limit switching back and forth between languages as this often creates technology/interpretation challenges. It is recommended that the speeches are made in one official language.

Following the opening remarks, there will be rounds of questions from Committee members (as listed below).

1. 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
    • Conservative Party of Canada (5 minutes)
    • Liberal Party of Canada (5 minutes)
    • Bloc Québécois (2.5 minutes)
    • New Democratic Party of Canada (2.5 minutes)
    • Conservative Party of Canada (5 minutes)
    • Liberal Party of Canada (5 minutes)

The meeting can be watched via ParlvVU, however there may be an up to 70-second delay with the field. A real time audio line will be shared if one is provided for this meeting.

Opening Remarks

Speaking notes for The Honourable Daniel Vandal Minister of Northern Affairs

Check against delivery

Hello, I would like to begin by acknowledging that we come together on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg people.

I am here with you today to discuss and respond to your questions on the 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (C) and the 2022-23 Main Estimates for Northern Affairs.

Joining me today from Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs is Acting Assistant Deputy Minister Wayne Walsh.

SUPPLEMENTARY ESTIMATES C FOR 2021-22

As my colleague Minister Miller mentioned, CIRNAC's final Supplementary Estimates for 2021-22 reflect a net increase of $317.9 million, which includes both new and re-profiled funding. Of that amount, $20.4 million is for Northern Affairs. These funds are critical to advance the work to create more economic opportunities and a higher quality of life in Canada's North.

New funding for Northern Affairs includes $4.2 million this year to continue to implement Canada's New Marine Conservation Targets, as well as $5 million this year for the Government of Northwest Territories to support the transformation of Aurora College into a polytechnic university, a targeted investment which addresses northern post-secondary education gaps and contributes to Arctic and Northern Policy Framework implementation.

There is also $7.5 million in re-profiled funding in these estimates, unused from prior year funding, for the Northern Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program. These funds are necessary in order to reduce risk to human health and the environment and the associated financial liability at contaminated sites under federal responsibility, namely the remediation work being done at the Faro Mine site in Yukon.

OVERVIEW OF 2022-23 MAIN ESTIMATES

The Main Estimates for Northern Affairs total $656 million to continue to make progress on a number of priorities – notably climate change, clean energy, environmental protection and economic development.

Protecting environment

Climate change poses a threat to all of Canada, but in Canada's North, it is clear that the consequences of climate change are severe. We are therefore requesting $54.8 million for Climate Change Adaption and Clean Energy in these Estimates and $16.3 million for Northern and Arctic Environmental Sustainability.

Our Government is working with partners to protect the environment while providing economic opportunities through our efforts to clean up contaminated sites in the North. For this we have requested $339.5 million in the estimates for Northern Contaminated Sites

Arctic and Northern Policy Framework

The guiding principles for our work in the North and the Arctic is the co-developed, Arctic and Northern Policy Framework — or "the framework".

I met with Indigenous, territorial, and provincial governments in December in our 2nd framework leadership committee meeting. Our partners support strong governance structures. Policy development is integral to advancing the implementation of Framework goals and objectives.

To do so, we will provide $98.3 million for the Northern and Arctic Governance Partnership, $5.9 million for the Strategic and Science Policy program, and $19.5 million for the Northern Regulatory and Legislative Framework.

Food security

All Canadians, regardless of where they live, deserve access to affordable and nutritious food. Northern Affairs is working closely with other federal departments and Indigenous partners to identify shared, northern-based solutions to improve food security in the North.

A long-term strategy requires a whole-of-government approach that recognizes and addresses the key factors of income and employment. I'd further like to recognize the work of this committee on this important topic and I look forward to continued collaboration.

As you will know, the Nutrition North program is just one example of how our government helps to make perishable food and other essential household items more affordable and more accessible than they otherwise would be, to eligible isolated and Indigenous communities in the North.

We are requesting $121.7 million in the estimates for this program. NNC has also seen a number of improvements, including the addition of several communities to the program and the very successful Harvesters Support Grant, providing funds directly to Indigenous partners for costs associated with traditional hunting and harvesting activities, increasing access to traditional country foods.

CONCLUSION

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to appear before you today and provide a summary of the proposed spending of Northern Affairs and priorities. I would now be pleased to take your questions.

Meegwetch. Qujannamiik [Koo-ya-na-meek]. Marci. Thank you. Merci.

Supplementary Estimates (C) 2021-22 / Northern Affairs

If pressed on funding for Northern Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program

  • Supplementary Estimates (C) includes $7.5 million of unused prior year funding carried-over to 2021-22 for the Northern Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program.
  • This funding is necessary in order for the Government of Canada to meet the objectives of reducing the risk to human health and the environment and the associated financial liability at federal contaminated sites.
  • These funds requested through these Supplementary Estimates will continue the planned remediation activities at the Faro Mine in Yukon, which were impacted by travel restrictions and supply chain delays, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-21.

If pressed on funding to the Government of the Northwest Territories to Support the Transition of Aurora College to a Polytechnic University

  • Supplementary Estimates (C) provides $5.0 million of new funding through Budget 2021 for the support to the Government of Northwest Territories in transforming Aurora College into a polytechnic university through the funding of three transformation-related projects, starting in 2021-22.
  • These outcomes will support the increased availability of post- secondary education in Canada's North and will contribute to advancing the political, economic and social development in Canada's Arctic and the North.

If pressed on funding to Implement Canada's New Marine Conservation Targets

  • Supplementary Estimates (C) provides $4.2 million of new funding through Budget 2021 to support the Government of Canada's commitments to new marine conservation targets to protect 25 per cent of Canada's oceans by 2025.
  • This initiative will contribute to develop new scientific information and gathering of Indigenous Knowledge in a respectful and meaningful manner to complement Fisheries and Oceans Canada scientific research initiatives.
  • The funding will provide capacity and support to regional Indigenous organizations to identify research needs and to conduct studies that will inform decision-making on conservation sites.

Fact Sheet on Supplementary Estimates (C) 2021-22 - By Vote

  Budgetary
Key Initiatives
(in millions)		 Budget 2021
Announcements		 Vote 1b
Operating Expenditures		 Vote 10b
Grants and Contributions		 Voted Total Statutory Total
Budgetary
Expenditures
Voted Appropriations
Funding for Métis Nation Housing Strategy 51.1 51.1 51.1
Funding for litigation settlement 45.0 45.0 45.0
Funding for the implementation of Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action 74 to 76: Missing Children and Burial Information. 1.2 40.9 42.1 0.1 42.2
Funding for the Qikiqtani Inuit Association to continue implementation of recommendations of the Qikiqtani Truth Commission's final report 25.8 25.8 25.8
Funding for the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement 23.4 23.4 23.4
Funding to implement Wabaseemoong Independent Nations to exercise jurisdiction over its child and family services through its Customary Care Code. 16.3 16.3 16.3
Funding to Advance reconciliation with the Innu of Labrador – Incremental Treaty Agreements on Fisheries and Parks. 13.7 13.7 13.7
Funding to support the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. X 0.9 11.6 12.5 0.2 12.6
Funding for the continued support to engagement with Indigenous peoples through Indigenous Representative Organizations. X 0.0 10.0 10.0 0.0 10.0
Funding for the Northern Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program.2 7.5 7.5 7.5
Funding to the Government of the Northwest Territories to support the Transition of Aurora College to a polytechnic university.2 X 5.0 5.0 5.0
Funding to Implement Canada's New Marine Conservation Targets.2 X 1.1 3.0 4.1 0.1 4.2
Funding to support the government's commitment to meaningful engagement and consultation with Indigenous peoples. X 3.0 3.0 3.0
Funding for the Engagement on legislation for the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. 2.9 2.9 2.9
Funding to support engagement with Indigenous peoples through Indigenous Representative Organizations. 2.8 2.8 2.8
Funding for Federal Indian Day Schools Settlement Agreement. 1.7 1.7 1.7
Funding to respond to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls' Final Report: Reclaiming Power and Place. 1.5 1.5 1.5
Funding for the collaborative self-government fiscal policy. 1.3 1.3 1.3
Funding to Advance Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action Supporting Missing Children and Unmarked Burials. 0.4 0.8 1.3 1.3
Funding for the implementation of First Nations Education Jurisdiction in British Columbia. 1.2 1.2 1.2
Funding to accelerate the process for Additions to Reserve Land (horizontal item). X 0.4 0.5 0.9 0.1 1.0
Funding for Indigenous Peoples' Space at 100 Wellington Street 0.3 0.2 0.5 0.5
Funding for Innovative Solutions Canada 0.4 0.4 0.4
Funding for Out-of court-settlements. 0.3 0.3 0.3
Funding for the Governor General's Canadian Leadership Conference. 0.2 0.2 0.2
Total Budgetary Expenditures 74.9 199.5 274.4 0.5 274.9
Transfers
Transfers with organizations
From the Department of Indigenous Services to support culturally appropriate child welfare prevention programming and early intervention activities. 25.4 25.4 25.4
From the Department of Indigenous Services to support the Mi'kmaw Kina'matnewey's infrastructure activities. 9.0 9.0 9.0
From the Department of Canadian Heritage to support the Commemoration of the History and Legacy of Indian Residential Schools. 5.0 5.0 5.0
From the Department of Indigenous Services for essential municipal services and social supports.2 4.0 4.0 4.0
From the Department of Canadian Heritage to provide support for Indigenous languages and cultural programs in the 11 self-governing Yukon First Nations. 3.0 3.0 3.0
From the Department of Indigenous Services for modern treaty and self-governing groups to support infrastructure projects. 2.5 2.5 2.5
From the Department of Indigenous Services for COVID-19 Emergency funds to support the James Bay Northern Quebec Agreement and the North-Eastern Quebec Agreement1 2.3 2.3 2.3
From the Department of Indigenous Services for post-secondary education investments for self-governing Indigenous governments in the Yukon. 1.4 1.4 1.4
From the Department of Indigenous Services for engagement activity with the Métis across Canada to understand their critical infrastructure needs. 0.3 0.7 1.0 1.0
From the Department of Indigenous Services for the Métis National Council and each of its Governing Members to support capacity development and engagement activities in the area of Métis health 1.0 1.0 1.0
From the Department of Employment and Social Development to support Indigenous early learning and child care. 0.9 0.9 0.9
From the Department of Employment and Social Development to support Indigenous skills and employment training 0.4 0.4 0.4
From the Public Health Agency Canada to support Indigenous early learning and child care. 0.3 0.3 0.3
From to the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development for the Ktunaxa Nation Council, the Okanagan Nation Alliance and the Shuswap Nation Tribal Council to support the consultation and engagement activities related to the Columbia River Treaty. 0.2 0.2 0.2
From the Department of National Defence to review an access agreement to the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range. 0.1 0.1 0.1
From the Department of Indigenous Services for modern treaty and self-governing groups to support the Post-Secondary Student Support Program. 0.1 0.1 0.1
From the Department of Indigenous Services to support activities related to the co-development of distinctions-based, Indigenous health legislation. 0.1 0.1 0.1
Transfer to the Treasury Board Secretariat for the Financial Community Developmental Programs and the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility initiative. 0.0 0.0 0.0
Transfer to the Treasury Board Secretariat to support the Capacity Accelerator Project. 0.0 0.0 0.0
Transfer to the Department of Canadian Heritage for the Governor General's Canadian Leadership Conference. -0.2 -0.2 -0.2
Transfer to Transport Canada to support remediation of contaminated sites under the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan (FCSAP).2 -0.2 -0.2 -0.2
Transfer to the Department of Indigenous Services to support activities related to the Inuit Art Foundation -0.5 -0.5 -0.5
Transfer to the Department of Indigenous Services for advisory services and litigation costs. -12.7 -12.7 -12.7
Total Transfers with other organizations -12.4 55.4 43.0 43.0
Internal Transfer
From vote 10 to vote 1 to meet CIRNA's cost share obligations under the Federal Contaminated Sites Inventory and support the delivery of site remediation efforts in the North 2 3.0 -3.0 0.0 0.0
From Contribution to Grants to Implement Comprehensive Land Claims and Self-Government Agreements and Other Agreements to Address Section 35 Rights to support the Cree Nation Government and the Naskapi for Infrastructure.($1,700,000)
Internal reallocation within Grants for the implementation of First Nations Education Jurisdiction in British Columbia ($1,189,888)
From Grants to implement comprehensive land claims and self-government agreements and other agreements to address Section 35 Rights to reimburse Contributions ($170,000,000)
"From Grant to the Qikiqtani Inuit Association to establish the Saimaqatigiingniq Fund to reimburse contribution ($25,000,000)
Total Internal Transfer 3.0 -3.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Total Transfer -9.4 52.4 43.0 0.0 43.0
Grand Total 65.5 251.9 317.4 0.5 317.9

Note: Due to rounding, figures may not add to totals shown.

1The only item of these Supplementary Estimates that is related to Covid-19

2These items are for Northern Affairs.

Fact Sheet on COVID-19 related funding
(Total, since inception)

Initiatives 2021-22 2020-21 Total
Crown-Indigenous-Relations
First Nations Finance Authority (Budget 2021) 33.4 33.4
Funding to improve ventilation in public buildings 5.5 5.5
Transfer from the Department of Indigenous Services for COVID-19 Emergency funds to support the James Bay Northern Quebec Agreement and the North-Eastern Quebec Agreement* 2.3 2.3
Funding for interest payment relief for First Nations with loans from the First Nations Finance Authority 17.1 17.1
Funding to support a safe restart in Indigenous communities 2.3 2.3
Total - Crown-Indigenous Relations 41.2 19.4 60.6
Northern Affairs
Statutory Grants and Contributions (Budget 2020)
Payments to support Nutrition North Canada 25 25
Payments to support northern air carriers 17.3 17.3
Payments to support Yukon, Northwest territories, and Nunavut responses to COVID-19 72.6 72.6
Total Budget 2020 0 114.9 114.9
Fall Economic Statement (FES)
Funding for the northern supports package to territorial governments to support steps taken to respond to the pandemic 64.7 64.7
Transfer from ISC - To deliver critical services in Nunavut communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic 3.5 3.5
Total FES 0 68.2 68.2
Total - Northern Affairs 0 183.1 183.1
Grand TOTAL 41.2 202.5 243.7
Updated: February 21, 2022
*This transfer is to be approved through the Supplementary Estimates (C).

Overview of Main Estimates for NA

2022-23 Main Estimates

  • Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) 2022-23 Main Estimates will be approximately $5.8 billion. It reflects a net increase of $1.1 billion, compared to the 2021-22 Main Estimates.
  • CIRNAC's financial resources include $656 million for Northern Affairs.
  • These funds are important to address the unique needs of Northerners and advance the work to create more economic opportunities and a higher quality of life in Canada's North.

If pressed on Expenditures by Type

  • The 2022-23 Main Estimates for Northern Affairs are composed of $343 million in operating expenditures and $313 million in transfer payments.
  • Fund will be used for the remediation of Northern Contaminated Sites, to address the significant risks they pose to the environment and to human health and safety.
  • Transfer payment resources will be used to support accessibility to nutritious food in isolated northern communities through the Nutrition North Program.

If pressed on variations between 2022-23 Main Estimates and 2021-22 Main Estimates

  • In comparison to 2021-22 Main Estimates, the Northern Affairs Main Estimates for 2022-23 show a net increase of $68 million.
  • Increased funding will support the protection of the environment, towards the remediation of Northern Contaminated Sites and transition of Indigenous and remote communities to clean energy.

If pressed on variations between 2022-23 Main Estimates and 2021-22 Forecasted Spending

  • For Northern Affairs, there is a net decrease of $82 million between forecasted spending of $738 million for the year ending March 31, 2022 and the 2022-23 Main estimates of $656 million.
  • Forecasted spending is based on funding received through Main and Supplementary Estimates for 2021-22.
  • When comparing the 2021-22 forecasted spending to the 2022-23 Main Estimates, the difference reflects variations in the funding profiles in key areas such as infrastructure, nutrition and climate change.

Fact Sheet on Main Estimates

Program Inventory 2021-22
Main Estimates
[A]		 2022-23
Main Estimates
[B] 		Variance
[A] - [B] 		Explanation
Crown-Indigenous-Relations
Specific Claims 1,238.7 2,391.1 1,152.4 The net increase of $1.15B is mainly attributed to the increased funding received to implement the $1.3B Siksika Nation Global Settlement Agreement.
Management and Implementation of Agreements and Treaties 1 1,108.2 1,599.9 491.7 The net increase of $491.7M primarily reflects the funding for Indigenous Infrastructure projects as well as the impact of a realignment of program
funding (Note 1).
Other Claims 1,158.0 410.0 (748.0) The net decrease of $748M primarily reflects decreased funding related to the settlement of the Federal Indian day School (Mclean) class action, as the implementation of the agreement nears completion.
Consultation and Policy Development 38.0 236.9 198.9 The net increase of $198.9M primarily reflects the funding related to:
  • Canada's Response to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls National Inquiry's Final Report ($97.5M);
  • the Truth and Reconciliation's Call to Action 74 to 76 on Missing Children and Burial Information ($46M); and
  • Inuit-specific housing needs ($40M).
Negotiations of Claims and Self-Government Agreements1 336.5 186.2 (150.3) The net decrease of $150.3M is mainly attributed to a program funding realignment (Note 1) as well as a decrease in funding for a program that Supports the Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination tables.
Federal Interlocutor's Contribution Program 49.7 131.0 81.3 The net increase of $81.3M is primarily attributable to the Métis Nation Housing Strategy and other Indigenous Infrastructure projects.
Basic Organizational Capacity 25.3 34.3 9.0 The net increase of $9M primarily reflects an internal realignment to fund recurring pressures, but includes an increase of $2M from Budget 2021 to support Indigenous Women's organizations.
First Nation Jurisdiction over Land and Fiscal Management 26.9 29.7 2.8 The net increase of $2.8M primarily reflects funding for the Additions to Reserve policy review.
Consultation and Accommodation 6.2 22.9 16.7 The net increase of $16.7M primarily reflects the funding for the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.
Residential Schools Resolution 8.3 11.2 2.9 Funding in this program has remained consistent.
Crown-Indigenous Relations Total 3,995.8 5,053.2 1,057.4
Northern Affairs
Northern Contaminated Sites 285.6 339.5 53.9 The net increase of $53.9M reflects the funding related to the Northern Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program and the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan.
Nutrition North 119.5 121.7 2.2 Funding in this program has remained consistent.
Northern and Arctic Governance and Partnerships 101.6 93.3 (3.3) The net decrease of $3.3M primarily reflects the decrease in funding related to the negotiation of Nunavut Devolution.
Climate Change Adaptation and Clean Energy 35.7 54.8 19.1 The net increase of $19.1M primarily reflects the funding for a Streamlined Approach to Transitioning Indigenous and Remote Communities to Clean Energy.
Northern Regulatory and Legislative Frameworks 19.1 19.5 0.4 Funding in this program has remained consistent.
Northern and Arctic Environmental Sustainability 13.3 16.3 3.0 The net increase of $3M primarily reflects the new funding to Implement Canada's New Marine Conservation Targets.
Northern Strategic and Science Policy 13.2 5.9 (7.3) The net decrease of $7.3M reflects the decrease in funding for the measures to support a better future for Canada's North.
Northern Affairs Total 588.0 656.0 68.0
Internal services 138.8 124.3 (14.5) The net decrease of $14.5M primarily reflects the transfer of Indigenous Service Canada's portion of the legal services budget that remained in CIRNAC.
Total 4,722.5 5,833.5 1,111.05
1 Note 1: Funding of $94.1M to reimburse Indigenous groups who had repaid comprehensive land claims negotiation loans, is represented under the Negotiations of Claims and Self-Governement Agreements program in 2021-22, but was realigned under the Management and Implementation of Agreements and Treaties in 2022-23.

Biographies

The Hon. Marc Garneau
(LIB)
Hon. Marc Garneau
Jamie Schmale
(CPC)
Jamie Schmale
Marilène Gill
(BQ)
Marilène Gill
Jenica Atwin
(LIB)
Jenica Atwin
Jaime Battiste
(LIB)
Jaime Battiste
Michael V. Mcleod
(LIB)
Michael V. Mcleod
Marcus Powlowski
(LIB)
Marcus Powlowski
Patrick Weiler
(LIB)
Patrick Weiler
Martin Shields
(CPC)
Martin Shields
Shannon Stubbs
(CPC)
Shannon Stubbs
Gary Vidal,
(CPC)
Gary Vidal
Lori Idlout
(NDP)
Lori Idlout

Committee Member Biographies

The Hon. Marc Garneau, Notre-Dame-de-Grâce—Westmount, QC INAN Chair

Marc Garneau

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Born in Quebec City, Quebec, the Honourable Marc Garneau was first elected to the House of Commons in 2008, and re-elected in 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2021.

Mr. Garneau graduated from the Royal Military College of Canada in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science in engineering physics and began his career in the Canadian Forces Maritime Command. In 1973 he received a PhD in electrical engineering from the Imperial College of Science and Technology in London, England.

From 1982 to 1983, he attended the Canadian Forces Command and Staff College in Toronto. While there, he was promoted to the rank of commander and was subsequently promoted to captain(N). Mr. Garneau retired from the Canadian Forces in 1989.

Mr. Garneau was also one of the first six Canadian Astronauts and he became the first Canadian in outer space in October 1984. In February 2001, he was appointed executive vice-president of the Canadian Space Agency and became its president in November 2001.

Mr. Garneau was Minister of Transport from 2015-2021 and Minister of Foreign Affairs January-October 2021 . Mr. Garneau is currently not in Cabinet.

Jamie Schmale, Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock, ON
Critic for Indigenous Services; Vice-Chair INAN

Jamie Schmale

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Born in Brampton, ON, Jamie Schmale was elected to the House of Commons for the first time in 2015, and re-elected in 2019 and 2021.

Prior to his election, Mr. Schmale 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 a news director for CHUM media.

Mr. Schmale was the critic for Crown-Indigenous Relations in the 43rd Parliament. 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).

Currently, Mr. Schmale serves as the critic for Indigenous Services.

Marilène Gill, Manicouagan, QC Critic Indigenous and Northern Affairs; Vice-Chair INAN

Marilène Gill

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Born in Sorel, QC, Marilène Gill was first elected to the House of Commons in 2015, and was re-elected in 2019 and 2021.

Prior to her election, Mrs. Gill was teaching at the college level and pursuing doctoral studies in literature. Her background also includes roles as a unionist, development officer, coordinator of the Table de concertation en condition feminine de la Côte-Nord. She is also involved in the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec (CALQ). She has also acted as literary director for Éditions Trois-Pistoles, and has published personal works there for which she has received several awards and grants. Mrs. Gill was also political attaché to Michel Guimond, former member and chief whip of the Bloc Québécois.

Mrs. Gill is deputy whip, chair of the Young Families Caucus and critic for Indigenous and Northern Affairs for the Bloc Québécois.

Jenica Atwin, Fredericton, NB

Jenica Atwin

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Jenica Atwin grew up in Oromocto, NB. She was first elected to the House of Commons in 2019 as a Member of the Green Party before joining the Liberal Party in June 2021.

Mrs. Atwin completed a Master's in Education at the University of New Brunswick.

Prior to being elected, she was an education consultant and researcher at a First Nations Education Centre. In 2016, she co-organized a spin-off of We Day focused on introducing First Nations youth to one another and helping those who have recently moved off of reserves.

She is a new member of INAN. She previously served on the COVID-19 Pandemic Committee.

Jaime Battiste, Sydney—Victoria, NS Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations

Jaime Battiste

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Born on the Eskasoni First Nation, NS, Jaime Battiste was elected to the House of Commons in 2019 and re-elected in 2021. He is the first Mi'kmaw Member of Parliament in Canada.

Mr. Battiste graduated from Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University in 2004. He has held positions as a Professor, Senior Advisor, Citizenship Coordinator, and as a Regional Chief for the Assembly of First Nations.

Mr. Battiste's volunteer work over the years involves athletics, youth advocacy, community events, and advocacy for the Mi'kmaq Nation. He is a member of the Aboriginal Sport Circle and a part owner of the Eskasoni Junior B Eagles.

Mr. Battiste served as a representative to the Assembly of First Nation's 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 the Chair of the Assembly of First Nations Youth Council, he was 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 region. In 2018, Mr. Battiste was recognized with the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers, which is a Canadian decoration to honour volunteers who have made significant and continual contributions to their community.

Mr. Battiste was named Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations in December 2021.

He has been a member of INAN since February 2020 and has previously been a member of the Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans.

Michael V. Mcleod, Northwest Territories, NWT

Michael V. Mcleod

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Born in Fort Providence, NWT, Michael Mcleod was first elected to the House of Commons in 2015 and re-elected in 2019 and 2021.

Prior to entering federal politics, Mr. McLeod served Northwest Territories residents as a member of the Legislative Assembly from 1999-2011 and advised clients in the tourism industry as Tourism Development Officer for the Government of the Northwest Territories. He also previously served as mayor of Fort Providence, president of his Métis Local, and vice-president of Deh Cho Regional Council.

Mr. McLeod earned a diploma in Management Studies from Arctic College and began his career as a self-employed contractor. He has been a member of the Northwest Territories Tourism, NWT Public Utilities, and Mackenzie Valley Environment Impact Review Boards. The latter's mission, conducting fair and timely environmental assessments, remains a key interest.

Mr. McLeod was previously a member of INAN 2016-2017 and has served as a member of the Standing Committee on Finance and as Chair of the Arctic and Northern Caucus.

Marcus Powlowski, Thunder Bay—Rainy River, ON

Marcus Powlowski

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Born in Fort William, ON, Marcus Powlowski was first elected to the House of Commons in 2019 and re-elected in 2021.

Prior to being elected, 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.

Mr. Powlowski has been a member of INAN since February 2020 and has also sat on the COVID-19 Pandemic Committee and the Standing Committee on Health.

Patrick Weiler, West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky Country, BC

Patrick Weiler

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Born in West Vancouver, BC, Patrick Weiler was first elected to Parliament in 2019 and re-elected in 2021.

Prior to his election, Mr. Weiler was an advocate for safeguarding the environment as an environmental and natural resource management lawyer, representing First Nations, small businesses, municipalities, and non-profit organizations in Canada and internationally. Mr. Weiler has also worked in partnership with the United Nations and international development agencies, with a mission to improve the governance of natural resources and management of aquatic ecosystems.

Mr. Weiler completed a Bachelor of Arts at McGill University and received his Juris Doctor degree from the University of British Columbia's Faculty of Law.

Mr. Weiler served on the Standing Committee on Natural Resources, the Standing Committee on Government Operations and Estimates, and the bi-partisan Climate Caucus and Tourism Caucus.

Martin Shields, Bow River, AB Deputy Critic Minister for Indigenous Services

Martin Shields

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Born in Lethbridge, AB, Martin Shields was first elected to the House of Commons in 2015, and reelected in 2019 and 2021.

Prior to his election to the House of Commons, Mr. Shields served as a teacher and administrator for 30 years and a part-time university instructor for 20 years. He has served as Mayor and Councilor of the City of Brooks, Board member and vice chair of the Palliser Regional Health Board, Shortgrass Regional Library, Alberta Provincial Library Trustees Association, Bow River Basin Council, as well as a Director and Vice President of the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association.

He has previously served as the Director of Strathmore-Brooks Alberta Conservative Constituency Association and is a past President of the Medicine Hat Federal Conservative Constituency Association.

He has served on several committees, including the Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development, Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage, and the Standing Committee on the Status of Women. He also served as vice chair of the CPC-Alberta MP Caucus.

Mr. Shields is currently the CPC deputy critic for Indigenous Services.

Shannon Stubbs, Lakeland, AB

Shannon Stubbs

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Born in Chipman, AB, Shannon Stubbs was first elected to Parliament in 2015, and re-elected in 2019 and 2021.

Prior to her election, she worked for several years in the Oil Sands Business Unit in the Alberta Department of Energy and in the International Offices and Trade Division of Alberta Economic Development. She was then a Senior Consultant with Hill + Knowlton Canada where she advocated for clients across the health and pharmaceutical, oil and gas, not for profit and charity, and education sectors. She also contributed to a successful initiative for the expansion of energy trades and technology education and apprenticeship training with Government and Community Relations at SAIT Polytechnic.

Mrs. Stubbs is a new member of INAN. She previously served as the Critic for Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, and as Critic for Natural Resources. She was the Vice Chair of the Standing Committees on Public Safety and National Security, Natural Resources, and the Special Select Standing Committee for Pay Equity.

Gary Vidal, Desnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River, SK Critic for Crown-Indigenous Relations

Gary vidal

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Born in Meadow Lake, SK, Gary Vidal was elected to the House of Commons for the first time in 2019 and re-elected in 2021.

Prior to his election, Mr. Vidal served as Mayor of Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan from 2011 to 2019. He studied 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. 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 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.

Mr. Vidal previously served as the critic for Indigenous Services, and is currently the critic for Crown-Indigenous Relations. He has been a member of INAN since February 2020 and also sat on the Special Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic during the last Parliament (2019-2021).

Lori Idlout, Nunavut, NV Critic – Northern Affairs; Critic – Indigenous Services; Critic – Crown-Indigenous Relations

Lori Idlout

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Born in Igloolik, NU, Lori Idlout was first elected to the House of Commons in 2021.

Prior to her election Ms. Idlout practiced law in Iqaluit with her own firm, Qusugaq Law. She represented the group protesting against the Baffinland Iron Mine's expansion, as well as serving as the technical adviser for the Ikajutit Hunters and Trappers Organization during a public hearing on the issue. Between 2004 and 2011, Ms. Idlout served as the executive director of the Nunavut Embrace Life Council, a not-for-profit organization committed to suicide prevention. She had previously worked for Nunavut's Department of Health and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated as a policy analyst, and was the founder of Coalition of Nunavut DEAs as a director of the Iqaluit District Education Authority in order to advocate for educational services.

Ms. Idlout received a bachelor's degree in psychology from Lakehead University in 1997, and a doctorate in law from the University of Ottawa (2018).

She is a new member of INAN and the NDP critic for Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs, and Indigenous Services.

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