Ministerial Transition Book for CIRNAC - 2023

Financial Overview

CIRNAC's 2023-24 Main Estimates total $9.2 billion.

CIRNAC's 2023-24 Main Estimates are comprised of:

• approximately $4.3 billion or 47% in operating expenditures;
• approximately $4.9 billion or 53% in transfer payments to Indigenous organizations;
• approximately $0.1 million in capital expenditures; and
• $25.9 million in loan funding for claimants involved in negotiations.

Human Resources Overview

CIRNAC has its main base of operations in the National Capital Region. It also has a presence across the country in regional offices. There are a total of 2,294 employees in the Department, of which 1,602 work in the National Capital Region. The remaining 692 employees are based in regions.

There are 180 employees in the Vancouver office, who support the negotiation and implementation of comprehensive land claims, self-government agreements, litigation and the work on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, while approximately 216 employees work out of the various ISC regional offices, often as part of an internal shared services model.

First Nations

First Nations are not a single group but several different groups speaking different languages and having a wide range of traditions and cultural practices. Despite this diversity, First Nations share similar experiences as a result of their interactions with the Government of Canada, life on reserves and the impact of specific laws, such as the Indian Act. This Act, which is a piece of federal legislation, legally defines which individuals are entitled to be registered as "Indians" based on their ancestry. These individuals are typically referred to as "status" or "registered" Indians. Section 6 of the act provides the basis for how status is or can be passed down from parents to children. Status and place of residence are key in determining an individual's eligibility for federal programs and services.

Within First Nation communities, there is also a difference between Status Indians who are recognized as members of a First Nation community (also known as a "band") versus non-band members. Through provisions of the Indian Act, some individual communities determine how band membership is established. Band membership may confer a variety of benefits, including acceptance as a member of the community and its culture and access to band-administered programs and services.

Another distinction lies between Treaty Indians–individuals who are members of First Nations having signed an agreement relating to historic land surrender (prior to 1975) or modern agreements (since 1975) with the Crown–and non-treaty Indians. Specific rights and benefits, such as treaty rights to hunt and fish or annual treaty annuity payments under the terms of the treaties, are available to Treaty Indians whether or not they live on reserve.

The Assembly of First Nations is a national advocacy organization that generally represents the interests of over 634 First Nation communities across the country.

Inuit

Inuit are the Indigenous Peoples originating in northern Canada. Most Inuit reside in Nunavut, the Mackenzie Delta area of the Northwest Territories (Inuvialuit), as well as northern parts of Quebec (Nunavik) and Labrador (Nunatsiavut). Since the conclusion of land claims agreements with Inuit have been settled, they are most readily identified as beneficiaries of one of four land claim agreements:

• the Inuvialuit Final Agreement (1984);
• the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement (1993);
• the Labrador Inuit Agreement (2005); and,
• the Nunavik Inuit Land Claims Agreement (2006)/the Inuit-specific part of the Northern Quebec James Bay Agreement (1975)

Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami is the national voice of approximately 70,000 Inuit, living primarily in 53 communities in four Inuit land claim regions: Inuvialuit Settlement Region–Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Nunavik–Northern Quebec, and Nunatsiavut–Northern Labrador.

Métis

While there is no single or definitive legal definition of Métis, it is generally accepted that Métis are the descendants of First Nation women and European men who formed their own unique culture, traditions, language and way of life in distinct communities separate from other Indigenous and European communities.

Several court decisions have helped define Métis rights, such as the 2003 Powley decision where the Supreme Court of Canada held that for the purpose of establishing Indigenous rights, the term "Métis" in section 35 of the Constitution Act refers to distinctive peoples who, in addition to their mixed ancestry, developed their own customs, way of life, and recognizable group identity separate from their Indian and European forebears. In the 2013 Manitoba Métis Federation case, the courts signalled that the federal Crown needs to engage with the descendants of the Métis people of the Red River Valley in a meaningful way.

Beyond those with defined Métis rights, a broader community of Métis of mixed Indigenous–European ancestry is located throughout Canada, including outside the Métis homeland east of Ontario and in the North. Some members of this community are represented by the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples.

The Métis National Council represents four governing members: the Métis Nation of Ontario, the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan, the Métis Nation of Alberta, and the Métis Nation British Columbia.

Non-Status Indians

Non-Status Indians are persons who identify themselves as First Nation but who are not eligible to be registered under the Indian Act, as they do not meet the criteria established in section 6 of the Act, or choose not to register, and are thus not eligible for federal benefits flowing from registration. In 2016, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled in Daniels v. Canada that Non-Status Indians are "Indians" for the purposes of section 91(24) of the Constitution Act, 1867. Canada continues to work toward a response to the Daniels v. Canada decision that will address the unique circumstances of Non-Status First Nations and Métis.

The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples is a national advocacy organization (since 1971) that represents Non-Status First Nations (as well as the interests of off-reserve Status First Nations, Métis outside the Métis Nation, and Southern Inuit of Labrador). Work is underway to better define the scope of the organization's membership.

This population resides across Canada, where the vast majority live in urban areas and many are represented by the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples.

Demographics

The Indigenous population is younger than the overall Canadian population and is growing more rapidly than any other segment of the Canadian population.

In the 2021 Census, 1.8 million people in Canada identified themselves as Indigenous, representing four percent of the Canadian population.

In 2021, 41 percent of the Registered Indian population lived on reserve. Among the other groups, the majority of Non-Status Indians and Métis (75 percent and 71 percent, respectively) lived in urban areas, while Inuit lived predominantly in northern and rural areas.

Historical Context of the Crown–Indigenous Relationship

Indigenous Peoples' relationships with the Government of Canada have evolved over time, and continue to do so. Early interactions between European explorers and "Indians" (First Nations), Inuit, and later Métis, were based on mutually beneficial objectives and strategic alliances through treaties that largely focused on trade and protection, and eventually on land purchases. After the issuance of the Royal Proclamation of 1763 which established British authority in New France and addressed some First Nations' interests, the nature of the Crown–Indigenous relationship changed from one built on concepts of nation-to-nation relations to one where the Crown exercised growing power and authority over Indigenous Peoples.

By the 19th century, new ideas and approaches towards this relationship began to take hold. Starting in the 1820s, different initiatives were undertaken to assimilate First Nations into British settler society. After 1867, Canada assumed responsibility for the management of "Indians and Indian lands" and adopted the Indian Act of 1876. This Act gave greater authority to the Department of Indian Affairs by permitting it to intervene in the lives of First Nations and oversee local governance of communities. Amendments to the Indian Act led to increased restrictions and even greater controls upon the lives of First Nations. The Department of Indian Affairs was mandated to manage reserve lands and to push policies and programs aimed at bringing about the cultural and social change of Indigenous Peoples. Of specific note, the Department of Indian Affairs used the Indian Act and other policies relating to educational programs to force a transformation of Indigenous societies. Residential schools were established in the 1880s to educate Indigenous children in a religious environment. These schools saw the removal of 150,000 Indigenous children, often forcibly, from their families and communities to attend faraway schools, resulting in a loss of Indigenous languages and culture.

Since Confederation in 1867, Inuit were outside the responsibility of the Department of Indian Affairs, as it was argued that the wording of the British North America Act only included "Indians" as a federal responsibility and not Inuit. After a Supreme Court of Canada ruling in 1939, indicating that Inuit should be considered as "Indians" and be the responsibility of the federal government, programs and services were slowly developed for Inuit and other northern Indigenous Peoples. Although managed separately from the Department of Indian Affairs until 1966, programs and policies were largely ineffective and often inappropriate for northern regions. Since the 1970s, Inuit communities have negotiated land claims and governance agreements over their traditional lands, culminating in the creation of the territory of Nunavut as a public government.

By the mid-1940s, it was apparent that the policies to assimilate First Nations needed to be abandoned as First Nation communities rejected cultural assimilation into non-Indigenous society. This started a slow process of amendments to the Indian Act and other policies to gradually limit some of the authority of the federal government over First Nation communities. During the last half century, local control has been transferred through various programs, as well as through agreements on self-government, as a response to increasing calls for greater First Nation autonomy and growing recognition of an Indigenous right to self-government and self-determination.

While treaties to determine Indigenous land rights were in place up to the early 20th century, later policies ended the practice of treaty making and rejected Indigenous rights. By the 1970s, new policies, such as the Comprehensive Land Claims Policy and the Specific Claims Policy, were developed to address outstanding Indigenous claims and rights. After a series of landmark court decisions brought about an important shift in the recognition of Indigenous rights in Canada, a new policy was announced to settle Indigenous claims to lands and resources through a negotiated process. Since 1975, there have been 25 such agreements, commonly known as "modern treaties," signed with Indigenous Peoples across northern Quebec, the Northwest Territories, Yukon, and British Columbia. In conjunction, a companion policy was created in 1973 to address claims of a more specific nature relating to historic grievances, such as for unfulfilled treaty obligations or improper land management, known as Specific Claims. Since 2008, this process is supplemented by the Specific Claims Tribunal Act that creates an independent body known as the Specific Claims Tribunal with the authority to make binding decisions in respect to the validity of claims and compensation.

When the Canadian constitution was repatriated in 1982, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis political organizations pushed and succeeded in securing their places at the discussion table. These discussions culminated in the inclusion of section 35 to the Constitution Act, 1982, which recognized "existing Aboriginal and treaty rights" as well as a definition of Indigenous Peoples which included all three groups. Section 35 has become an important mechanism for Indigenous Peoples to define and clarify the extent of Indigenous and treaty rights.

Much like Inuit in Canada's North, Métis were long ignored by the federal government. Not recognized as an Indigenous group until 1982, Métis struggled to gain recognition of their rights or any federal responsibilities towards them. Since their recognition in section 35, provincial Métis organizations as well as the Métis National Council have used the courts to advocate for their place in Canada.

Since the adoption of section 35, new focus has been placed on addressing the errors of past policies and actions. After nearly a decade of discussions and negotiations, a settlement was announced in 2007 to compensate residential school survivors. As part of this settlement, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission was established to act as an independent body to provide a safe and culturally appropriate place for former students and others affected by the residential school system to share their experiences. On June 11, 2008, Prime Minister Stephen Harper offered a formal apology to former students of residential schools and sought forgiveness for the students' suffering as well as for the impact of the schools on Indigenous culture, heritage and languages. In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission issued its final report and Calls to Action calling for a sweeping overhaul of the relationship between Indigenous Peoples and Canadians. As Government of Canada and Indigenous partners continue to implement the Calls to Action, the announcement of unknown remains of children at the sites of residential schools continues to cause Canadians to confront the racist and discriminatory history of Canada's treatment of Indigenous Peoples.

Since the shift away from the policies of assimilation in the 1970s and the introduction of policies aiming to resolve outstanding claims and grievances, new processes have allowed for improvements to a difficult relationship. Over the course of 40 years, 25 modern treaties have been signed with over a hundred Indigenous communities, while over 500 Specific Claims have been settled, bringing over $6 billion in compensation into First Nations communities. To date, 20 self-government agreements have allowed Indigenous communities to take back control of their own affairs, creating new opportunities for growth and change. Building on the recognition of Aboriginal and treaty rights in the Constitution Act, 1982, new ways of discussing how to better recognize and implement those rights have been established, that will help to restore the Crown–Indigenous relationship and finding constructive paths to advance Indigenous economic and social participation and self-determination.

Mandate

In 2017, the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development was dissolved and the departments of Crown–Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) and Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) were established so as to separate the process of designing and rebuilding new relationships with Indigenous Peoples from the administration of the Indian Act. The Department was established to carry out activities that support the Government of Canada's commitment to advancing reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit and the Métis, by leading whole-of-government approaches relating to overall Crown–Indigenous relationships. Its primary focus is to renew nation-to-nation, Inuit–Crown, and government-to-government relationships based on affirmation and implementation of rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership. CIRNAC also works to promote respect for the rights of Indigenous Peoples as recognized and affirmed by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, and support the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Key activities include: facilitating collaboration and cooperation with Indigenous Peoples and with the provinces and territories in relation to entering into and implementing agreements; the recognition and implementation of treaties concluded between the Crown and Indigenous Peoples; promoting self-determination, prosperity and well-being for the residents and communities of the Canadian North, taking into account their respective needs and challenges; recognizing and encouraging Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing; addressing historical wrongs; and, promoting public awareness and understanding of the importance of working toward and contributing to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.

The Department coordinates the Government's relationship with national Indigenous organizations; namely the Assembly of First Nations, the Métis National Council, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples, and the Native Women's Association of Canada, as well as with other more local/regional Indigenous organizations and rights holders.

The Department supports Indigenous self-determination through the negotiation and implementation of self-government and comprehensive land claims agreements, the recognition and implementation of Indigenous and treaty rights, as well as through the settlement of claims relating to lands and historical grievances. It also consults and works with Indigenous Peoples, provinces and territories, and other stakeholders on policies, initiatives and legislation that could affect Indigenous communities.

To achieve a coherent whole of government federal approach to Crown–Indigenous relationships, the work of CIRNAC is always conducted in partnership with other government departments, such as Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Justice Canada and Employment and Social Development Canada. Of all federal departments, the effective delivery of CIRNAC's work is highly dependent upon the close cooperation and collaboration with ISC. CIRNAC and ISC are mandated to work together on a wide range of activities, such as capacity building to bring control of and jurisdiction for service delivery back to Indigenous communities. Where CIRNAC is responsible for continuing to modernize institutional structures and governance so that Indigenous Peoples can build capacity that supports the implementation of their vision of self-determination, ISC's primary responsibilities are focused on capacity building to improve access to high-quality services, and to support Indigenous Peoples in assuming control of the delivery of services at the pace and in the ways they choose.

The Department guides the Government of Canada's work to create a new relationship with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, using different approaches to respect the unique situations of each of these three groups. The Department, with the support of Justice Canada, plays a leadership role in ensuring that the Government of Canada is respecting its obligations as set out in agreements and the application of section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, which provides a constitutional recognition and affirmation of the Indigenous and treaty rights of Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

Statutory Authorities of the Minister of Crown–Indigenous Relations

The Minister of Crown–Indigenous Relations has authority, in full or in part, over laws covering a wide range of subjects and responsibilities. The majority of these laws are related to the implementation of comprehensive land claims (e.g. Nisga'a Final Agreement Act, Nunavut Act) and self-government agreements, where Indigenous groups have assumed authority for governance, land and resource management (e.g. Westbank First Nation Self-Government Act, Sioux Valley Dakota Nation Governance Act). The Minister also has authority over laws that bring First Nations out from under specific provisions of the Indian Act, such as for land management, fiscal management and local taxation powers (e.g. First Nations Land Management Act, First Nations Fiscal Management Act). The Minister continues to retain full accountability to Parliament for all of the statutes for which he or she is responsible. A complete list of statutes can be found in Annex A.

What We Do

The core purposes of the Department are to support Canada's efforts for Reconciliation by addressing historic wrongs, to ensure the fulfillment of its obligations towards Indigenous Peoples, to shape the nature of the Crown–Indigenous relationship, as well as to support and promote the self-reliance, prosperity and well-being of residents and communities of the North. There has been increased emphasis on (and heightened expectations related to) key areas that underscore the Crown–Indigenous relationship, including: co-development of legislative and policy proposals; support for the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples; and the advancement of Reconciliation as an overarching goal. The topics discussed in this section present an overview of the current business lines of the Department supporting these purposes, the work to date on leading files and the degree of advancement in the development of new policies.

Crown–Indigenous Relations Policy and Programs

The historic relationship between the Government of Canada and Indigenous Peoples has been challenging and complex. The Department has sought to establish new approaches to restore this relationship and find a constructive path forward to advance Indigenous economic and social participation and self-determination. A key element of this approach has been to engage organizations representing First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Indigenous women, Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+ (2SLGBTQI+) people, in high-level meetings to discuss priorities and interests to implement agreements and ensure voices of all Indigenous Peoples are reflected and gaps are addressed. This includes through the permanent bilateral mechanisms with the national Indigenous organizations, which were announced by the Prime Minister in 2016 and serve as a collaborative means to identify joint priorities, co-develop policy and monitor progress.

The Department is often the focal point within the Government of Canada for leading whole-of-government efforts on initiatives that advance reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. Commissions and inquiries, such as the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, have provided recommendations which directly affect the Crown–Indigenous relationship by setting out a way forward. Implementing the federal responses to these reports requires a coordinated approach among federal departments and with a range of other players, including provincial and territorial governments. The Department is also working with Inuit partners to implement the Inuit Nunangat Policy across the federal government, a policy intended to support socio-economic and cultural equity and foster the accessibility and effectiveness of policies, programs, services and initiatives for Inuit.

Supporting Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ People

Ending the disproportionally high levels of violence that Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people experience continues to be a priority for Indigenous Peoples and the Government of Canada. The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls highlighted the underlying factors of this violence, and provided 231 Calls for Justice to address them, directed at all governments, industry, service providers, the media and all Canadians. This included the development and implementation of a national action plan.

The development and implementation of such a comprehensive, whole-of-government and whole-of Canada action plan, requires strong coordination and collaboration. The Department leads and coordinates the collaboration with families and survivors of Missing and murdered Indigenous women, and girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people, Indigenous (women and 2SLGBTQI+) groups and organizations, other federal departments, provinces, and territories. The Department leads and coordinates the Government of Canada's work on the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People, which is the Government of Canada's contribution to the National Action Plan and includes the work of over 20 departments and agencies.

On June 3, 2023, the second annual Federal Pathway Annual Progress Report was released. It includes key highlights of concrete and sustained progress from programs across the Government of Canada that work toward the ultimate goal of reducing violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

The Department supports Indigenous groups, families, and survivors to engage and participate in the National Action Plan's development and implementation. It also implements programs including supports for projects that assist families and survivors in their healing journeys, for Indigenous groups to develop innovative approaches to data, and enhanced supports for Indigenous women's organizations.

International and Intergovernmental Relations and Obligations

The Government of Canada exercises leadership on engagement with Indigenous leaders on substantive federal-provincial-territorial issues, with a view to increasing the level of federal-provincial-territorial–Indigenous engagement, and international engagement. The Department is working with the Privy Council Office and ISC on a whole-of-government framework for federal–provincial-territorial–Indigenous relations that seeks to guide federal departments on principles and best practices for working with provinces and territories, and engaging with Indigenous partners in Federal-Provincial-Territorial spaces.

On the international stage, the Department has an active profile multilaterally, bilaterally, and in trade relations, collaborating with Indigenous and government partners to ensure that international work contributes to positive domestic outcomes for Indigenous Peoples.

The Department works to articulate national interests and promote/enhance Indigenous participation in international forums, and plays an important role in delivering on Canada's human rights obligations. CIRNAC works closely with other federal departments, such as Global Affairs Canada, to ensure that Canada's views are represented at international forums, such as the United Nations, the Arctic Council, and the Organization of American States.

Distinctions-based Housing and Infrastructure

CIRNAC designed its housing and infrastructure programming with a primary focus on self-determination, in recognition of its commitment to a government-to-government, Inuit–Crown relationship. Through this approach, Indigenous partners design and deliver their own housing and infrastructure programming according to their own needs and priorities. Since 2016, the Government of Canada has invested close to $4 billion in distinctions-based housing and infrastructure funding. CIRNAC has an integral role in the development of both the Inuit Nunangat and Métis housing strategies with the goal of addressing core housing needs for Inuit and Métis peoples and closing the gap with non-Indigenous Canadians by 2030. Housing funds are delivered, respectively, to support the Inuit Nunangat Housing Strategy ($1.8 billion since 2016) and the Métis Nation Housing Strategy ($930 million since 2018).

Infrastructure programming is Indigenous-led by design, with Inuit and Métis governments and organizations working in full partnership with CIRNAC on policy development, program implementation, and project prioritization. Budget 2022 provided $845 million over seven years for Inuvialuit, Nunavik, Nunavut, and Nunatsiavut regions for Inuit-led housing; and $190.2 million over seven years to improve housing in Métis communities, of which approximately $127 million will enhance the implementation of the Métis Nation Housing Strategy.

Since 2021, the Government of Canada has provided $517 million for Self-Governing and Modern Treaty Partners to address their housing and community infrastructure needs. Budget 2022 provided $565 million for Self-Governing and Modern Treaty Partners to better address their housing needs. Through the collaborative fiscal policy development process, CIRNAC and participating self-governing Indigenous governments are working to co-develop both interim and long-term fiscal approaches to support the infrastructure-related expenditure needs of self-governing Indigenous governments.

Negotiation of Treaties, Agreements, and Other Constructive Arrangements

Many treaties were concluded between the Crown and Indigenous peoples prior to Confederation but a significant number of communities have outstanding claims, rights and interests, including those related to lands and resources, that have not been addressed. The Government of Canada believes that respectful dialogue and co-development are important methods of resolving outstanding issues and reaching agreements that result in lasting solutions and benefit everyone.

In addition, the Government of Canada is working with Indigenous groups across the country to explore new ways of working together to reach agreements that will recognize the rights of Indigenous groups and advance their visions of self-determination for the benefit of their communities and all Canadians. These discussions are open to all Indigenous groups with rights under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. Discussions are community-driven and respond to the unique rights, needs and interests of First Nations, Inuit and Métis groups. Through the negotiation of modern treaties, self-government agreements, and other constructive arrangements, the Government of Canada and Indigenous groups are creating the foundations for enduring relationships based on the recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership.

Depending upon the priorities and interests of Indigenous groups, various federal departments may be implicated. The Department coordinates the federal government's interests in these negotiations.

Management and Implementation of Existing Agreements and Treaties

Modern treaties and self-government agreements are fundamental to advancing reconciliation. They create enduring intergovernmental relationships, sustained through ongoing implementation efforts that uphold the honour of the Crown.

CIRNAC provides oversight on the efficient implementation of modern treaties, self-government agreements and other section 35 agreements, creating and maintaining ongoing partnerships to support this goal. The program is responsible for the department's obligations related to the implementation of agreements. It also provides policy guidance and advice to other departments and agencies on the implementation of obligations and on how best to meaningfully engage and consult treaty and self-governing partners.

The Cabinet Directive on the Federal Approach to Modern Treaty Implementation and Canada's Collaborative Modern Treaty Implementation Policy were designed to address challenges regarding horizontal management for the Government of Canada, in terms of ensuring that departments are aware of, and successfully fulfilling, their modern treaty and agreement responsibilities and encouraging collaborative work on cross-cutting implementation issues.

Additionally, since May 2016, the Collaborative Fiscal Policy Development Process has been meeting with 25 self-governing Indigenous governments to co-develop a new fiscal relationship. The Management and Implementation of Agreements and Treaties program is currently the responsibility of the Implementation Sector in CIRNAC.

Resolution of Specific Claims

Specific claims are grievances that First Nations have against the Government of Canada for its failure to discharge its lawful obligations with respect to pre-1975 treaties and the management of First Nation lands, monies, and other assets. The 1973 Specific Claims Policy provides a voluntary alternative dispute resolution framework that allows the federal government to discharge its outstanding legal obligations through negotiated settlements, rather than through litigation. In 2008, the Specific Claims Policy was updated to reflect the adoption by Parliament of a legislative framework for specific claims resolution via the Specific Claims Tribunal Act. This legislation sets out specific timelines for the Government to assess and negotiate claims. It also created an independent Specific Claims Tribunal with the power to make legally binding decisions on the validity of specific claims and to make compensation awards up to a maximum of $150 million per claim.

Specific claims resolution is key to addressing historical grievances from First Nations and creating pathways to support nation building, self-determination and economic development. Settlements are often used by First Nations to support their longer-term community plans and economic development objectives. The Specific Claims Program is a high volume operation that engages CIRNAC directly with First Nations across the country. As of May 31, 2023, there were 650 claims in the Specific Claims Inventory: 181 in assessment, 328 in negotiations, 83 awaiting a response to Canada's offer to negotiate, and 58 under the purview of the Specific Claims Tribunal. From 1973 to May 31, 2023, Canada settled 664 claims, for a total amount of $12.6 billion in compensation paid to First Nations.

Resolution of Childhood Claims

Indigenous childhood claims litigation includes class actions, individual and multi-plaintiff litigation related to the Sixties Scoop, Indian Residential Schools day scholars, Indian Days Schools, Indian Hospitals, Indian Boarding Homes, provincial residential schools, joint schools, and other historic education and care programming. The approach has been to resolve childhood claims outside of the courts, whenever possible. By negotiating resolution of childhood claims outside of the courts, settlements can balance individual compensation with forward-looking programming for healing, wellness, education, language, culture, and commemoration.

Indigenous Institutions and Governance Modernization

Economic self-sustainability is an important element of Indigenous self-determination. To support this goal, the Department has established programs and policies to bring greater economic flexibility to First Nation communities.

Through the First Nations Fiscal Management Act and the support of its fiscal institutions, First Nations build their capacity and are able to transition away from the Indian Act allowing for greater control over financial and fiscal management as well as providing access to long-term, low interest financing for infrastructure and socio-economic development projects.

CIRNAC is responsible for two pieces of legislation relating to lands that support self-determination and reconciliation. The Department provides policy direction for the lands legislation, while ISC performs related operational activities.

The First Nations-led Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management provides mechanisms for communities to gain greater control of their lands and resources by withdrawing from the 44 land management provisions of the Indian Act. Over 204 First Nations have signed the Framework Agreement, and 102 First Nations now manage their lands. The Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management Act, which received Royal assent in December 2022, now gives the force of the law to the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management.

The Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations is also responsible for the Addition of Lands to Reserves and Reserve Creation Act. This legislation facilitates the setting apart of reserve land for the use and benefit of First Nations. Lands are at the heart of First Nation traditions, identity and economic opportunities, and advance self-determination. Through the Additions to Reserve and Reserve Creation Initiative, First Nations are strategically increasing their reserve land and resource base, including urban reserves, which are critical for First Nations' own-source revenue and aspirations for self-determination or self-sufficiency.

United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Implementation

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (the "Act" ) affirms the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (the "United Nations Declaration") as an international human rights instrument that can help interpret and apply Canadian law. It also provides a framework to advance the implementation of the Declaration at the federal level. As per 2021 Mandate Letters, every Minister is directed, "to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and to work in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to advance their rights". The Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations is further directed to "support the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada in fully implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act across government." Under the Act, the Government of Canada must work in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous Peoples to meet three obligations: take all measures necessary to ensure the laws of Canada are consistent with the United Nations Declaration (section 5); prepare and implement an action plan to achieve the objectives of the United Nations Declaration (section 6); and, develop annual progress reports and submit them to Parliament (section 7).

Justice Canada is the lead on the whole-of-government approach called for in the action plan, which was tabled in June 2023. The objectives of the United Nations Declaration- and the Act relate closely to CIRNAC's mandate. The department will continue to play a central role in the Government of Canada's efforts to implement the Act, particularly to compliment Justice Canada's leadership with policy perspectives. It is crucial that implementation of the Act reflects CIRNAC's ongoing commitment and practice of meaningful collaborative development with Indigenous partners. Indigenous partners have formally called on the Government of Canada to influence the provincial and territorial implementation of the Declaration. Intergovernmental coordination will be required to deliver on the transformational commitments of the action plan. A number of gaps related to partner priorities in the action plan exist. Advances will need to continue both within and outside of the action plan. Some of CIRNAC's action plan measures are already in progress at this time, and will continue to advance while the intergovernmental models are identified and established.

Issues Currently in the Public Eye

The following issues may be raised by the public or partners in the early days of the mandate.

We will be pleased to brief you on these and other more forward-looking issues over the coming weeks.

Mandate

The Department is also responsible for leading the Government of Canada's work in the North through the development, implementation and coordination of federal policy across departments in the North. It also leads the negotiation and implementation of the transfer of federal responsibilities to territorial governments (referred to as "devolution"), manages a number of federal regulatory and other functions not devolved through the Territorial acts, supports the negotiation and implementation of Indigenous land claims and self-government agreements, and delivers federal programs and initiatives in the region.

The Department of Crown–Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Act outlines the Department's responsibilities over the administration of lands in Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. As well, it outlines the work to complete the devolution of authorities to territorial governments. The resource management regimes in the North are implemented in large part by boards made up of representatives from Indigenous governments and organizations, the territorial governments, and the Government of Canada, as defined by land claims agreements. The Department maintains provincial-like responsibility for management of lands and water in Nunavut, which includes the approval of most water licences and land use permits issued in the territory. The Department is also responsible for the legislation governing environmental assessments and holds some decision-making powers involving environmental assessments and land use planning, as well as retaining responsibility for the management of offshore resources including oil and gas in all three territories.

Statutory Authorities of the Minister of Northern Affairs

The Minister of Northern Affairs has authority specifically defined by sections 11 to 18 of the Department of Crown–Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Act, as well as over, in full or in part, statutes relating to Canada's territories (e.g. Nunavut Act, Yukon Act), management of Northern land, resources and environment (e.g. Territorial Lands Act, Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act), the management of northern regulatory regimes (e.g. Northwest Territories Waters Act); and northern and polar science (e.g. Canadian High Arctic Research Station Act). A complete list of statutes relating to Northern Affairs can be found in Annex B.

What We Do

The core purposes of the Department are to support Canada's efforts for Reconciliation by addressing historic wrongs, to ensure the fulfillment of its obligations towards Indigenous Peoples, to shape the nature of the Crown–Indigenous relationship, as well as to support and promote the self-reliance, prosperity and well-being of residents and communities of the North. There has been increased emphasis on (and heightened expectations related to) key areas that underscore the Crown–Indigenous relationship, including: co-development of legislative and policy proposals; support for the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples; and the advancement of Reconciliation as an overarching goal. The topics discussed in this section present an overview of the current business lines of the Department supporting these purposes, the work to date on leading files and the degree of advancement in the development of new policies.

Northern Governance

A focus of the Department has been the improvement of governance structures and mechanisms in the Canadian North. A key activity in this area has been the transfer of federal responsibilities for lands and natural resources to territorial governments (called "devolution") to ensure greater local control, as well as to fostering effective relations with territorial and Indigenous governments.

Northern Policy and Programs

CIRNAC also works with Indigenous organizations and other territorial partners to help meet the needs and interests of Northerners in areas such as food security, post-secondary education, economic development, climate change (adaptation) and reduced reliance on diesel. Launched in 2019, the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework, co-developed by the federal government and territorial, provincial, and Indigenous partners, guides the Government of Canada's priorities, activities and investments in the Arctic to 2030 and beyond and aligns Canada's national and international policy objectives with the priorities of Northerners. The Department also advances Canadian and northern interests through forums such as the International Arctic Council.

Northern Science and Technology

The Northern Affairs portfolio has long played a central role in supporting scientific research and technology in the North and Arctic, through programs, partnerships and infrastructure to ensure domestic and international policy on key northern issues is better informed by a scientific knowledge base, which includes Indigenous Knowledge. To do so, its focus is to: research and monitor contaminants and their impacts on the ecosystem and human health through the Northern Contaminants Program; assess, manage and communicate scientific data and results, and contribute expertise to help inform public policy-making and international controls on certain contaminants; lead Canada's participation in the Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme, the working group of the Arctic Council focused on issues of pollution and climate change and their effects on ecosystems and human health; and support the advancement of northern research infrastructure.

Northern Contaminated Sites

Through the Northern Contaminated Sites Program, the Department manages a number of contaminated properties abandoned as a result of private sector mining and oil and gas activities and government military activity that occurred more than 50 years ago, when environmental impacts were not fully understood and polluter pay policies were not yet in effect. Canada is the owner of last resort for these sites. The objectives of the Northern Contaminated Sites Program is to manage contaminated sites in a cost-effective and consistent manner, reduce risks to human health and the environment, decrease federal liabilities, and maximize socio-economic benefits for Indigenous Peoples and Northerners, by promoting northern and Indigenous economic development. Priority is given to those sites posing the highest risks.

Northern Land, Resources and Environmental Management

While striving to increase the transfer of federal responsibilities to territorial governments, the federal government, through the Department's administration of Northern Affairs, retains responsibility over some lands and resources in the North; including oversight for resource management legislation that reflects, respects and gives effect to the Northern resource management regimes set out in modern treaties.

As a result, several programs and policies focus on the management, sustainable development and regulatory oversight of the land, water, natural resources, and environment of the North. This includes managing oil and gas resource development; implementation of offshore oil and gas accord; managing royalties in areas of federal responsibility, ensuring completion of territorial land use planning; supporting Critical Mineral Strategy's Northern Regulatory Initiative; and contributing to marine conservation and other ocean-related initiatives. Key is ensuring northern perspectives are captured in federal policies and programs.

Issues Currently in the Public Eye

The following issues may be raised by the public or partners in the early days of the mandate.

We will be pleased to brief you on these and other more forward-looking issues over the coming weeks.

Assembly of First Nations

The Assembly of First Nations is an advocacy organization, taking direction and fulfilling mandates as directed by the First Nations-in-Assembly through resolutions. These mandates include advancing First Nations health, economies, the environment, education, languages, clean water, social development, infrastructure, among others. It represented more than 600 communities across Canada.

CIRNAC works closely with the Assembly of First Nations Secretariat on files such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, Recognition and Implementation of Indigenous Rights, Indian Residential Schools, Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, Addition to Reserve Policy, Redesign of the Comprehensive Land Claims Policy and Inherent Rights Policy and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

Eleven Regional Chiefs are a part of the Assembly of First Nations Executive Committee. The Regional Chiefs work with the National Chief and the Chairperson of the Knowledge Keepers Council to guide the Assembly of First Nations.

Interim National Chief Joanna Bernard provided positive opening remarks to the Chiefs-in-Assembly in July 2023. As Interim National Chief, until December 2023, at which point the Assembly of First Nations will hold an official election, she will continue working on current Assembly of First Nations Chiefs' priorities such as United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act specific claims, water, climate change, policing, and rights. The Interim National Chief reiterated the Assembly of First Nations' mandate, and it being a national advocacy body for First Nations. She indicated that she would support a forensic audit if the Chiefs call for one.

At the Atlantic Regional Caucus meeting with your predecessor on July 13, 2023, Interim National Chief Bernard shared a message of unity, not only between the four Atlantic regions but also with the Assembly of First Nations. She stated she would rebuild the broken relationship between the National Chief's Office and the Assembly of First Nations Secretariat, and with the general public's confidence in the Assembly of First Nations as an institution and with government.

Assembly of First Nations Interim National Chief and Regional Chief Joanna Bernard
New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island
Contact Information: Lisa Tomah, afnregionaloffice@gmail.com

National Chief Bernard is the former chief of Madawaska First Nation. Under Chief Bernard's leadership, Madawaska recently voted, in a referendum community vote, to leave the Indian Act in regards to the management of lands. Her community also left the Indian Act with respect to Elections and Membership.

She holds a degree in education and law and was called to the New Brunswick Bar in 2000 and was the first Wolastoqey woman to graduate with a law degree. In 2013, she was the recipient of the Order of New Brunswick and was honoured for her dedication to economic development.

Beyond her community, interim National Chief Bernard has been active in various organizations and committees at the provincial and national levels. Interim National Chief Bernard served as a member of the First Nations and Business Liaison Group of New Brunswick, the Assembly of First Nations' Chiefs' Committee on Economic Development, and the Union of New Brunswick Indians' Aboriginal Natural Resources Committee. Additionally, she held the positions of President of the Maliseet Nation Conservation Council and Co-Chair of the Assembly of First Nations' Chiefs in New Brunswick. Through her involvement in these tables, interim National Chief Bernard advocates for First Nations inherent and Treaty rights, economic prosperity, and sustainable resource management.

In recognition of her efforts and leadership, Interim National Chief Bernard received the Order of New Brunswick in 2013 contributing to the well-being and economic prosperity of the Madawaska Maliseet First Nation and other First Nations communities throughout New Brunswick. Her dedication was acknowledged by being appointed as an Honorary Colonel in the Canadian Armed Forces and receiving Queen Elizabeth roman numeral 2II's Diamond Jubilee Medal and Queen Elizabeth roman numeral 2II's Platinum Jubilee Medal.

In 2021, Joanna Bernard assumed the role of Regional Chief for New Brunswick and the role of Interim National Chief in July 2023. With her experience, passion for economic development, and commitment to advocating for First Nations inherent and Treaty rights, Interim National Chief Bernard continues advocate for First Nations across Canada and future generations.

Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami

Founded in 1971, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami is the national voice of approximately 55,000 Inuit living primarily in 53 communities in four Inuit land claim regions (Inuvialuit Settlement Region–Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Nunavik–Northern Quebec, and Nunatsiavut–Northern Labrador). Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami represents and promotes the interests of Inuit on a wide variety of environmental, social, cultural, and political issues. Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami's Board is made up of the Presidents of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and four Inuit land claim organizations (Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, Makivik Corporation, the Nunatsiavut Government, and the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation), as well as the President of Inuit Circumpolar Council (Canada). The presidents of the National Inuit Youth Council and Pauktuutit Inuit Woman of Canada are ex-officio members.

President: Natan Obed
Contact information: 613-406-8942

On August 19, 2021, it was announced that Natan Obed had been elected by acclamation as President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami to a four-year term. This will be President Obed's third term as President of the organization.

In the 1990s, Natan Obed left his home in Nain, Nunatsiavut, to get a bachelor's degree in English and American studies at Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts. After that, he went to work for the Labrador Inuit Association, helping negotiate an Inuit impact and benefits agreement with respect to the Voisey's Bay nickel mine. From there, he served nearly two years as Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami's director of socio-economic development before moving to Iqaluit to become the director of social and cultural development for Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated.

Métis National Council

Formed in 1983, the Métis National Council represents the Métis Nation nationally and internationally, with a central goal "to secure a healthy space for the Métis Nation's ongoing existence within the Canadian federation". The Métis Nation is represented through four governing members: the Métis Nation of Ontario, the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan, the Métis Nation of Alberta, and the Métis Nation British Columbia. Together, they are the governing members of the Métis National Council, collectively representing the Métis Nation at the community, regional, provincial, national, and international levels.

The Métis National Council held elections on September 29, 2021, during their annual general assembly, to select a National President. In addition to the election, a resolution in favour of having the Métis Nation of Ontario added back at the assembly was passed. By virtue of this resolution the Métis Nation of Ontario's probation status is held in abeyance until a committee presentation is provided on the seven communities added by Métis Nation of Ontario and their ongoing registry review process.

In September 2021, the Manitoba Métis Federation withdrew from the Métis National Council due to concerns regarding the Métis Nation of Ontario registry and that they had not been adequately responded to prior to the Métis Nation of Ontario rejoining the Métis National Council.

Governing Members:

• Métis Nation of Ontario, President Margaret Froh
• Métis Nation-Saskatchewan, President Glen McCallum
• Métis Nation of Alberta, President Audrey Poitras
• Métis Nation of British Columbia, President Lissa Dawn Smith

President: Cassidy Caron
Contact information: 250-231-0362

Cassidy Caron was elected as President of the Métis National Council in September 2021, and is the first woman to hold the office. She has roots in the historic Métis communities of Batoche and St. Louis, Saskatchewan. She grew up closely connected to her Métis traditions, heritage and culture and is driven by her family and community values of respect, honesty and responsibility.

She served a four-year term as a provincially elected representative of the Métis Nation British Columbia, serving as the Provincial Métis Youth Chair and its Minister Responsible for Youth. Through her role with Métis Nation British Columbia, she supported the coordination, design, resourcing, implementation and evaluation of innovative, culturally grounded engagement and leadership development opportunities for Métis youth within all levels of Métis Nation British Columbia's governance. President Caron's goal is to explore and utilize innovative approaches to community development and nation building, which promote effective collaboration and understanding between Indigenous Peoples and all Canadians

Congress of Aboriginal Peoples

The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples is a national representative organization for Métis, Non-Status and Status Indians off reserve, and Southern Inuit of Labrador. It is a confederation of eleven provincial affiliates: Native Alliance of Quebec, New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council, Native Council of Prince Edward Island, Native Council of Nova Scotia, NunatuKavut Community Council (Labrador), Newfoundland Indigenous Peoples Association, Ontario Coalition of Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Peoples Association of Manitoba, Assembly of Métis, Non-and Status Indians of Saskatchewan, Indigenous Council of Alberta Association, and Northwest Indigenous Council (British Columbia).

Founded in 1971 as the Native Council of Canada, the organization was originally established to represent the interests of Métis and Non-Status Indians. Reorganized and renamed in 1993, the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples has extended its constituency to include off-reserve status and Non-Status Indians, Métis, and Southern Inuit, and serves as the national voice for its provincial and territorial affiliate organizations. The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples also holds consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, which facilitates its participation on international issues of importance to Indigenous Peoples.

National Chief: Elmer St. Pierre
Contact information: 613-747-6022

Elmer St. Pierre was elected as the National Chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples on October 3, 2020, and is a lifelong advocate for the rights of Indigenous People, particularly off-reserve and non-status communities. He first served as Vice Chief starting in 2006, and Chief starting in 2019, of the Ontario Coalition of Aboriginal Peoples, when he joined the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples Board of Directors. In the 1970s, he served as one of the founding members of the Métis Nation of Ontario, where he was a member until 2006. He was also a long-time member of the Ontario Métis Aboriginal Association.

As National Chief, his top priorities are to see the implementation of the CAP-Daniels decision, the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the fulfillment of the 2018 Canada- Congress of Aboriginal Peoples Political Accord, and support for all of Congress of Aboriginal Peoples' provincial and territorial affiliate organizations.

Native Women's Association of Canada

The Native Women's Association of Canada is a national Indigenous organization representing political voices of Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit, Transgender, and Gender-Diverse+ (WG2STGD+) People in Canada. The Native Women's Association of Canada is inclusive of First Nations on- and off-reserve, status, non-status, and disenfranchised Inuit and Métis.

Incorporated in 1974 as a non-profit organization, the Native Women's Association of Canada is an aggregate of 12 Provincial and Territorial Member Associations located across Canada, with its head office in Ottawa. As an aggregate of Indigenous women's organizations from across the country, the Native Women's Association of Canada was founded on a collective goal to enhance, promote, and foster social, economic, cultural, and political well-being of Indigenous WG2STGD+ People in their respective communities and Canadian societies.

The Canada – Native Women's Association of Canada Accord was signed on February 1, 2019, by the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations on behalf of Canada; it sets out a whole-of-government approach to shared priorities and interests such as environment, housing, poverty reduction, education, corrections and Gender Based Analysis +.

President: Carol McBride
Contact information: cmcbride@nwac.ca

President McBride was elected to lead the Native Women's Association of Canada in July 2022, representing Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people. The Seven Grandmother Teachings–love, truth, bravery, humility, wisdom, honesty, and respect–are central to her leadership.

Carol McBride is an activist and bridge builder, who says Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQAI+ people are unwilling to wait for change from the institutions that have historically kept them paralyzed in a cycle of dependency.

Manitoba Métis Federation

The Manitoba Métis Federation is a federally recognized Métis organization provincially incorporated in December 1967.

In September 2021, the Manitoba Métis Federation Cabinet passed a resolution to not participate in the Métis National Council annual general assembly. This followed a resolution from their annual assembly to withdraw from the Métis National Council assembly if the Manitoba Métis Federation's concerns over the Métis Nation of Ontario's registry were not adequately responded to prior to the Métis Nation of Ontario rejoining the Métis National Council.

President: David Chartrand
Contact information: 204-586-8474

David Chartrand has served as the democratically elected President of the Manitoba Métis Federation since 1997. He is the longest-serving president of the Manitoba Métis Federation's history, currently serving an eighth term following the 2022 acclamation of all elected officials. He has also served as a member of the Board of Governors of the Métis National Council from 1997 to 2021 and held a variety of portfolios prior to the withdrawal of the Manitoba Métis Federation from the Métis National Council in 2021.

Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada

Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, incorporated in 1984, is the national representative organization of Inuit women in Canada and is governed by a 14-member Board of Directors from across Canada. The organization fosters greater awareness of the needs of Inuit women, advocates for equality and social improvements, and encourages Inuit women's full participation in the community, regional and national life of Canada.

In June of 2017, the Canada-Pauktuutit Memorandum of Understanding to Establish Key Priorities for Joint Collaboration and Implementation with Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada was signed. This was a commitment to establish a deeper, whole-of-government relationship to address the issues of common concern that directly affect the well-being and safety of Inuit women and children across Canada, to help ensure significant progress in priority areas, and to contribute to the broader goal of reconciliation and healing with all Indigenous peoples. In October 2020, Canada and Pauktuutit amended the memorandum of understanding to remove the 5-year end term.

President: Gerri Sharpe
Contact information: 867-446-1682 gsharpe@pauktuutit.ca

Gerri Sharpe was previously the Vice-President of Pauktuutit and was elected to represent Yellowknife. In March 2022, Gerri was acclaimed to the position of Interim President for a one-year term, and in March 2023, was re-elected to continue as President.

Gerri is the eldest daughter of Mauti Qitsualik, born in Yellowknife and whose hometown is Gjoa Haven. She has lived all across Canada, and now calls the Northwest Territories home.

Mother of two and grandmother of three, she has been an advocate for women and children in the NWT, serving on the Inuvik Transition House Board for over seven years. When living in Inuvik, Gerri spent many years on the Inuvik District Education Authority, the Beaufort Delta Education Council, five years with the NWT Human Rights Commission and many working groups.

Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak

Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak is the National Indigenous Women's Organization democratically mandated to represent the Women of the Métis Nation across the Métis Motherland. Originally established as a secretariat of the Métis National Council in 1999, Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak was officially incorporated as an independent, not for profit organization in 2010 at the organization's inaugural meeting.

Women of the Métis Nation speaks as the national and international voice for Métis women. They aim to consult, promote and represent the personal, spiritual, social, cultural, political and economic interests and aspirations of women of the Métis Nation in Canada. Each Métis Nation Governing Member with the exception of Manitoba has its own form of women's secretariat or council with a representative sitting on the Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak Board.

In August of 2021, Melanie Omeniho, President of the Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak, and the Minister of Crown Indigenous Relations, signed the Canada - Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak Declaration. This historic declaration between the Government of Canada and the national organization representing women of the Métis Nation commits the parties to work together to advance the priorities of Métis Nation women and girls.

President: Melanie Omeniho, (Métis Nation of Alberta)
Contact information: 780-919-6980, momeniho@metiswomen.org

First elected as National President of Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak – Women of the Métis Nation in October 2010, Melanie Omeniho was re-elected to a fourth term in October 2018 and is expected to run in the upcoming 2023 election. As the President of Women's Métis Nation, she attempts to make sure that the Métis traditions and culture are a part of the initiatives advanced.

Melanie Omeniho has comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the issues facing Métis women and has been actively involved in the Métis community her entire life. She received the Queen's Jubilee Medal and recognition for her work in education, Métis youth and advocating for families involved with Children Services.

Femmes Autochtones du Québec | Quebec Native Women

Les Femmes Autochtones du Québec – Quebec Native Women consists of a 17-member Council of Elected Officers: three executive members, nine representatives from the nations, one representative of Indigenous women living in an urban centre, one youth representative, one elder representative, one employee representative and the Executive Director. One representative from each nation and one representative from the urban centres are elected by their members at Nation Council meetings every second year and sit on the Elected Council.

Young women are represented by the Quebec Native Women Youth Council that brings together one young woman from each nation chosen at the Councils of Nations. One youth representative elected by the Youth Council sits on the Elected Council. The Elder women also have one representative for each nation and one of them is chosen to sit on the Elected Council.

The Executive Committee of the Elected Council is composed of three positions elected at the Annual Gathering of Members every two years: The President, the Vice-President and Secretary-Treasurer. The President acts as the spokesperson for the Association.

President: Marjolaine Étienne
Contact: 514-863-0103, presidente@faq-qnw.org

With her experience in politics, management and her vast circle of influence, Marjolaine Étienne will be able to bring the voice and interests of Indigenous women and girls to the forefront so that they can finally receive the recognition and respect they deserve.

Marjolaine Étienne has been President of Quebec Native Women since 2021. Marjolaine is the spokesperson for Quebec Native Women and represents the organization and the interests of Indigenous women at the governments and institutions. She takes pride in valuing traditional practices and in promoting respect for the identity and culture of the Nations and the Indigenous women.

2 Spirits in Motion Society

The 2 Spirits in Motion Society is a registered national non-profit society incorporated in July 2018. The organization is governed by a ten (10) member provisional Board of Directors from various locations throughout Canada. The 2 Spirits in Motion Society held its first Annual General Meeting on January 26, 2020, in Toronto, Ontario during the 2nd Wind Forum on 2 Spirit People.

The 2 Spirits in Motion Society was born from the 1st Canadian Forum on 2 Spirit Peoples, HIV/AIDS and Health held in Edmonton, Alberta, in February 2003. Two significant recommendations were: to create a national 2 Spirit organization and to continue hosting national Forums on 2 Spirit people.

Executive Director: Paulete Poitras
Contact Information: executivedirector@2spiritsinmotion.com

Han Mitokiyapi, mija Dakota/Sahayah, mija winkte, O'E-yah wakan wi imakiyapi, muthpiyah ska imakiyapi.

Paulete Poitras is Dakota/Cree from Muscowpetung First Nation in Treaty 4 territory and a 2S female identified pronouns are she/her/they/them Paulete prefers to go by Paulie (as it is non-binary). Paulie is a 2 Spirit Ambassador for OUT Saskatoon and is married to her beautiful wife and partner Cheryl Prosper. They have three children and two grandchildren. Paulie grew up with a traditional ceremonial background and has a fondness to sew and bead. An established artist and Indigenous advocate, Paulie has a degree is Human Justice.

Paulie has worked with Prairie Harm Reduction as a Family Support worker since October 2020 and is proud of her sobriety. Paulie believes that her purpose on this earth is to help others, and community to heal from the traumas nobody will speak of. Through life experience and diverse perspective, she shares what knowledge she's been gifted with to help others better understand the communities she serves.

First Nations Tax Commission

The First Nations Tax Commission is a shared governance First Nations public institution that operates at arm's length from the federal government. It supports the implementation of First Nations' property taxation regimes under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act and under section 83 of the Indian Act. In addition to advocating for the advancement of First Nations' fiscal jurisdiction and new areas of revenues, the First Nations Tax Commission is supporting the First Nations Infrastructure Institute Development Board in its efforts to develop a national institution providing First Nations with infrastructure planning, procuring, financing, and management capacity. The First Nations Fiscal Management Act sets out the First Nations Tax Commission's purposes, functions, and powers.

Chief Commissioner: C.T. (Manny) Jules
Contact information: 250-828-9857, cc@fntc.ca

Chief Commissioner C.T. (Manny) Jules was the driving force behind the First Nations Fiscal Management Act (2005), which created the First Nations Tax Commission. He also led the amendment to the Indian Act (1988) which enabled First Nations to levy property taxes on designated lands. The Indian Taxation Advisory Board and the current First Nations property tax system were created as a result. Manny Jules served as Chair of the Indian Taxation Advisory Board from 1989–2003, and 2005–2007. He served as Chief of the Kamloops Indian Band from 1984–2000.

Manny Jules has devoted more than 30 years of his life to public service in support of Aboriginal issues and received an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from the University of British Columbia in 1997, and another from Thompson Rivers University in 2006.

First Nations Financial Management Board

The Financial Management Board is a shared-governance public institution that operates at arm's length from the federal government. The Financial Management Board assists First Nations in strengthening local financial management regimes, provides independent certification of First Nations' financial performance and systems, and manages intervention mechanisms for the First Nations Fiscal Management Act regime. The Financial Management Board is also working collaboratively with ISC on the implementation of the ten-year grants initiative and has been piloting a new approach to strengthen the governance capacity of First Nations that are in default with the conditions in their funding agreements. The First Nations Fiscal Management Act sets out the Financial Management Board's purposes, functions, and powers.

Executive Chair: Harold Calla
Contact information: 604-925-6665, Harold_Calla@fnfmb.com

Harold Calla is a member of the Squamish Nation located in North Vancouver, British Columbia. After many years of experience in international business, he worked with the Squamish Nation as a negotiator in the areas of economic development, land management, and finance, and served eight years on the Squamish Council. He has also acted as an advisor and an arbitrator for First Nations in Western Canada.

He has completed terms on the Boards of the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Partnerships British Columbia Inc., and the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology, and has either chaired or served on audit committees of these boards. Harold Calla is a recipient of numerous awards in recognition of excellence in leadership. In particular, the Certified General Accountants Association of Canada, when celebrating its 100th year in 2008, recognized him as one of 100 certified general accountants who, in its view, have influenced changes. In August 2012, Harold Calla was also awarded a fellowship by the Certified General Accountants Association of Canada. Harold Calla is a member of the Aboriginal Financial Officers Association and has been awarded the designation of Certified Aboriginal Financing Manager.

First Nations Finance Authority

The First Nations Finance Authority is a statutory not-for-profit organization without share capital, operating under the authority of the First Nations Fiscal Management Act. The First Nations Finance Authority's purpose is to provide First Nations governments with investment options, capital planning advice, and perhaps most importantly, access to long-term loans at preferable interest rates. The First Nations Finance Authority is governed solely by the First Nations communities that join as borrowing members. The First Nations Finance Authority is also exploring innovative infrastructure financing approaches for First Nations to leverage government transfers for long-term loans. The First Nations Fiscal Management Act sets out the First Nations Finance Authority's purposes, functions, and powers.

President and Chief Executive Officer: Ernie Daniels
Contact information: 250-768-5253, edaniels@fnfa.ca

Ernie Daniels is a certified general accountant and a certified Aboriginal financial manager. Mr. Daniels moved from Ottawa, Ontario, to Kelowna, British Columbia, in fall 2011, to work with the First Nations Finance Authority as Director of Finance and was appointed as President and Chief Executive Officer in June 2012. Prior to joining the First Nations Finance Authority, Ernie Daniels was President and Chief Operating Officer of the Aboriginal Financial Officers Association of Canada for seven years and the Director of Assessment and Finance Operations at the Aboriginal Healing Foundation for five years. He has worked at a number of Aboriginal non-for-profit organizations in leadership and management positions. He was a member of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants' Research Study Group that looked at financial reporting by First Nations, and has served as Chair of the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly Society, Chair of the Northwest Territories Development Corporation, and a former board member of the First Nations Financial Management Board.

Land Claims Agreement Coalition

The Land Claims Agreements Coalition was formed in 2003 and includes many, but not all, Indigenous signatories to modern treaties. The Coalition's primary mission is to ensure that agreements are fully implemented, respected, and honoured in a manner that meets unique treaty objectives. The Coalition does not speak for treaty signatories with respect to the implementation of individual modern treaties, nor issues specific to individual treaties. Rather, the Coalition advances resolutions for changes to how Canada implements modern treaties through policy documents, and continued engagement with the Government of Canada and third parties at the bureaucratic and political levels. Current co-chairs are President Eva Clayton, Nisga'a Nation and President Aluki Kotierk, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.

For more than 20 years, the Coalition called for Canada to create a modern treaty implementation policy, publishing a policy model in 2008. As well, the Coalition has long called for Canada to establish an independent review mechanism to provide oversight and accountability for modern treaty implementation, including a 2017 policy proposal to the Prime Minister. Throughout 2022, CIRNAC worked with Indigenous modern treaty partners, including those part of the Land Claims Agreements Coalition, at the Common Process to develop Canada's Collaborative Modern Treaty Implementation Policy, released in February 2023. This policy commits Canada to continued co-development with Indigenous modern treaty partners on several areas of further policy work, including an independent oversight mechanism. The Coalition has also been instrumental in advocating for an Indigenous Leaders Forum with the Prime Minister, similar to those in place with the National Indigenous Organizations. In 2023, following approval of Canada's Collaborative Modern Treaty Implementation Policy, the Indigenous Leaders Forum was established.

Land Claims Agreements Coalition Co-Chairs

Eva Clayton

Eva Clayton's public service to the Nisga'a Nation spans decades in various administrative and political capacities. Her employment history began with the Nisga'a Tribal Council in the 1980s. While working with the Nisga'a Tribal Council. Eva had the privilege of working closely with the many leaders of the day, including the late Dr. Frank Calder, James Gosnell, and Rod Robinson, while they were actively negotiating what would become the Nisga'a Final Agreement.

President Clayton has also held various political offices including Chief Councillor for the Gitlaxt'aamiks Village Government from 2004-2008, and various terms as Councillor for the then Gitlaxt'aamiks Band Council and now Gitlaxt'aamiks Village Government. While Chief Councillor for Gitlaxt'aamiks, President Clayton also served as Chair to the Nisga'a Lisims Government Programs & Services Committee and has also represented her village government on the Finance Committee.

Aluki Kotierk

Aluki Kotierk was sworn in as the 8th President of Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated on December 13, 2016. During her campaign, President Kotierk focused on empowerment, Inuit language and culture, collective healing and Inuit identity. Originally from Igloolik, President Kotierk lives in Iqaluit with her family. She grew up in a bicultural home as the oldest of seven children.

After attaining a bachelor's and master's degree from Trent University, President Kotierk worked for various Inuit organizations including Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, Inuit Tapirisat of Canada (now Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami) and Nunavut Sivuniksavut. She returned to Nunavut where she has held several senior management positions in the Government of Nunavut and the Office of the Languages Commissioner. President Kotierk was most recently Director of Inuit Employment and Training for Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated.

President Kotierk has a passion for empowering and improving Inuit lives, and has a keen interest in how Inuit culture and language could be better incorporated into the way programs and services are delivered in Nunavut.

Land Claims Agreements Coalition Membership Details by Province/Territory

• British Columbia: Tla'amin Nation, Tsawwassen First Nation, Nisga'a Nation, Maa-nulth Treaty Society (Huu-ay-aht First Nations, Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k:tles7et'h', Toquaht First Nation, Uchucklesaht First Nation, Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ First Nation)
• Yukon: Council of Yukon First Nations, Carcross/Tagish First Nation, Kwanlin Dün First Nation, Vuntut Gwitchin Government, Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation
• Northwest Territories: Gwich'in Tribal Council, the Sahtu Secretariat Inc., Tlicho Government
• Nunavut: Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.
• Quebec: Makivvik Corporation and Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach

Lands Advisory Board

The Lands Advisory Board was established by the originating First Nations of the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management (Framework Agreement). The Lands Advisory Board is comprised of an elected Chairman and regionally elected Directors, determined by the Councils of the Operational signatory First Nations. The Lands Advisory Board is the political body supporting signatories to the Framework Agreement in the implementation of their own land management regimes.

The Lands Advisory Board remains steadfast in supporting its vision of "First Nations working together to resume jurisdiction over reserve lands and resources."

Among its roles, the Lands Advisory Board:

• provides strategic direction to the First Nation Land Management Resource Centre;
• proposes amendments to the Framework Agreement and Federal Legislation as necessary;
• advocates for and negotiates funding with Canada on behalf of the First Nations; and
• performs whatever political functions or services are agreed to between the Lands Advisory Board and the First Nations.

The Lands Advisory Board has a strong relationship with Canada that is grounded in the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management. The Framework Agreement is a historic, government-to-government agreement signed on February 12, 1996, between the original First Nations who created and advocated for it, and the Minister of the former Indian Affairs and Northern Development Canada. One of the Lands Advisory Board's responsibilities is to propose amendments to the Framework Agreement to the Minister, as well as negotiate funding methods.

The Department works closely with the Lands Advisory Board in supporting First Nations in opting out of the lands-related sections of the Indian Act to resume jurisdiction over their lands, environment and resources.

Chair: Robert Louie
Contact information: 250-769-2804

Robert Louie is a former practising lawyer who specialized in native law.

Previously, he was a First Nations Summit Task Group member and involved in British Columbia treaty negotiations representing the Chiefs in British Columbia for a period of four years. Robert Louie has also served on numerous other boards and advisory bodies.

First Nations Infrastructure Institute

The First Nations Infrastructure Institute (the Institute) was formally established as the fourth institution under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act on June 20, 2023, through the passing of Bill C-45.

The new Institute is an Indigenous-led national institution mandated to provide interested First Nations (including those with self-governing and modern treaty agreements), and Indigenous organizations (such as the Atlantic First Nations Water Authority) with the skills, tools, technical support and processes necessary to efficiently and effectively plan, develop, procure, implement, own, manage, operate, and maintain infrastructure assets on their land. The Institute's approach is focused on improving its clients' infrastructure outcomes through the use of standards and industry best practices at all stages of the infrastructure life-cycle.

The concept of a First Nations Infrastructure Institute was first proposed by the First Nations Tax Commission in 2016-2017. An interim Development Board and Technical Working Group led the developmental work for the new institution.

Type of Services

While the new Infrastructure Institute is still ramping up its activities, it can already offer capacity building, knowledge transfer and advisory support services to assist interested First Nations, other Indigenous groups and Indigenous organizations with their infrastructure projects, including the development of business and financial plans, and procurement strategies to ensure the viability and sustainability of infrastructure assets. As the Institute ramps up its internal capacity, it will also provide certification services of infrastructure projects to those clients.

In addition, the Institute will build internal capacity to support First Nations scheduled to the First Nations Fiscal Management Act to assume jurisdiction over their infrastructure and to establish laws that regulate, prohibit and impose requirements in respect to the provision of services and the use of local infrastructure in the provision of those services on their lands. This support will include standards development, sample regulatory law development, and a law review service upon request. The First Nations Infrastructure Institute has been designed to collaborate with regional organizations and complement their service offering, without overlap. Further, the Institute is not empowered to fund projects, provide inspection, engineering or architectural services, act as a contractor, builder or operator, or make any decision with respect to infrastructure projects.

As for other First Nations Fiscal Management Act institutions, the Infrastructure Institute's services are optional and accessible upon request. The level of support and type of services provided by the Institute are adapted to the needs and capacity of each client.

Chair of the First Nations Infrastructure Institute Development Board: Allan Claxton
Contact Information: 250-886-5965, allan.claxton@gmail.com

Allan Claxton served his community of Tsawout as Chief for 20 years and as a councillor for ten years and is currently serving on Council. Allan has worked to develop infrastructure projects such as a multipurpose health and recreation facility and dealt with many challenges for roads and access to lands. Allan also served as Chair of the Chiefs Committee on Health nationally and co-chair of the Chiefs Health Committee regionally. He was also a member of the First Nations Fish Council for numerous years as well chair of many local boards and committees including the Wsanec School Board.

Enabling Legislation

• Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Act S.C. 2019, c. 29

Comprehensive Land Claims Legislation

• British Columbia Treaty Commission Act S.C., 1995, c. 45
• Cree-Naskapi (of Quebec) Act S.C., 1984, c. 18
• Eeyou Marine Region Land Claims Agreement Act S.C., 2011, c. 20
• Gwich'in Land Claim Settlement Act S.C., 1992, c. 53
• James Bay and Northern Quebec Native Claims Settlement Act S.C., 1976–77, c. 32
• Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement Act S.C., 2005, c. 27
• Maanulth First Nations Final Agreement Act S.C., 2009, c. 18
• Nisga'a Final Agreement Act S.C., 2000, c. 7
• Nunavik Inuit Land Claims Agreement Act S.C., 2008, c. 2
• Nunavut Land Claims Agreement Act S.C., 1993, c. 29
• Sahtu Dene and Metis Land Claim Settlement Act S.C., 1994, c. 27
• Tla'amin Final Agreement Act S.C., 2014, c. 11
• Tlicho Land Claims and Self-Government Act S.C., 2005, c. 1
• Tsawwassen First Nation Final Agreement Act S.C., 2008, c. 32
• Western Arctic (Inuvialuit) Claims Settlement Act S.C., 1984, c. 24
• Yale First Nation Final Agreement Act S.C., 2013, c. 25
• Yukon First Nations Land Claims Settlement Act S.C., 1994, c. 34

Self-government legislation

• Déline Final Self-Government Agreement Act S.C., 2015, c. 24
• Kelowna Accord Implementation Act S.C., 2008, c. 23
• Sechelt Indian Band Self-Government Act S.C., 1986, c. 27
• Sioux Valley Dakota Nation Governance Act S.C., 2014, c. 1
• Westbank First Nation Self-Government Act S.C., 2004, c. 17
• Yukon First Nations Self-Government Act S.C., 1994, c. 35

Specific Claims Legislation

• Manitoba Claim Settlements Implementation Act S.C., 2000, c. 33
• Saskatchewan Treaty Land Entitlement Act S.C., 1993, c. 11
• Specific Claims Tribunal Act S.C., 2008, c. 22

Land Management, Fiscal Management and Taxation Legislation

• First Nations Fiscal Management Act S.C., 2005, c. 9
• First Nations Land Management Act S.C., 1999, c. 24

Enabling Legislation

• Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Act S.C. 2019, c. 29

Northern Affairs Legislation

• Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act R.S.C., 1985, c. A-12
• Canada Lands Surveys Act R.S.C., 1985, c. L-6
• Canada Oil and Gas Operations Act R.S.C., 1985, c. O-7
• Canada Petroleum Resources Act R.S.C., 1985, c. 36
• Canadian High Arctic Research Station Act S.C., 2014, c. 39, s. 145
• Dominion Water Power Act R.S.C., 1985 c. W-4
• Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act S.C., 1998, c. 25
• Northern Canada Power Commission (Share Issuance and Sale Authorization) Act S.C., 1988, c.12
• Northern Canada Power Commission Yukon Assets Disposal Authorization Act S.C., 1987, c. 9
• Northwest Territories Act S.C., 2014, c. 2, s. 2
• Northwest Territories Devolution Act S.C., 2014, c. 2
• Nunavut Act S.C., 1993, c. 28
• Nunavut Waters and Nunavut Surface Rights Tribunal Act S.C., 2002, c. 10
• Nunavut Planning and Project Assessment Act S.C., 2013, c. 14, s. 2
• Territorial Lands Act R.S.C., 1985, T-7
• Yukon Act S.C., 2002, c. 7
• Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Act S.C., 2003, c. 7
• Yukon Surface Rights Board Act S.C., 1994, c. 43