Appearance before the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs (INAN) - Bill C-15, Budget 2025 Implementation Act, No. 1, Part 5, Division 35 (February 5, 2026)

Logistics

Date: February 5, 2026
Time: 8:15 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
Location: Room 425, Wellington Building, 197 Sparks Street

Appearing

Panel 1 (8:15 a.m. - 9:15 a.m.)

Key Messages

• Budget 2025 reinforces our commitment to reconciliation and focuses on Indigenous-led solutions particularly in housing, infrastructure, and governance. I work with colleagues to ensure that Indigenous peoples are not only consulted, but are active partners in informing the design of key initiatives, including, for example, the work of Build Canada Homes.
• Moving forward I will work to ensure that First Nations, Inuit and Métis are able to take advantage of the opportunities presented through Budget 2025 and the Build Canada Act, including through the Federal Initiative on Consultation and enhanced access to capital enabled by Indigenous Special Purpose Vehicles.
• I will also work with the Minister of Indigenous Services on to support the cross-government Indigenous Housing Strategy.

Background

Key Messages

• This government has reaffirmed that Crown-Indigenous Relations has an essential mandate to renew nation-to-nation, Inuit-Crown and, government-to-government relationships between Canada and First Nations, Inuit and Métis.
• We are committed to sound financial management and long-term sustainability, and will implement spending reductions thoughtfully to align resources with core programs while continuing to modernize Government of Canada structures to support the self-determined priorities of Indigenous Peoples.

Current Status

• Work with Department of Finance to confirm the programs impacted in Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern and Arctic Affairs is currently underway.
• Once the reductions are confirmed, the department will develop comprehensive implementation plans to guide the targeted measures.

Background

• Total reductions for Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada represent 2% of the base calculated using the 2025-26 Main Estimates.
• The department will need to achieve ongoing savings of $69.3M, starting in 2026-27 fiscal year.
• In August 2025, as part of CIRNAC’s measures to manage our budget pressures, the department reduced its temporary staff complement by approximately 40 individuals.
• Following the release of the Budget on November 4, 2025, CIRNAC implemented Work Force Adjustment in early December 2025. The number of impacted positions was 186, which includes 173 non-executive positions and 13 executive positions. These are positions for which a workload reduction is required or where functions have been or will be eliminated.

Naskapi and the Cree-Naskapi Commission Act sections 195 & 196 Repeal

On April 14, 2015, the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach filed a motion in the Superior Court of Quebec, alleging that Canada and Quebec failed to respect Section 13 of the Northeastern Quebec Agreement (NEQA), which relates to funding for Naskapi policing. In 2022, Cabinet approved a mandate for negotiations that resulted in the signature of the Complementary Agreement No. 4 and the Transaction and Release Agreement.

Amending Section 13 via Complementary Agreement No. 4 ensured that litigation was resolved without needing to initiate a process through the Courts. However, the amendment resulted in an inconsistency between sections 195 and 196 of the Naskapi and the Cree-Naskapi Commission Act (Naskapi Act) and the NEQA regarding the territorial authority of the Naskapi police force. Specifically, under the new Section 13 the NEQA provides for Naskapi policing on Category roman numeral 1IA-N lands and Category roman numeral 3III lands surrounded by IA-N lands, while the Naskapi Act provides for policing only on Category roman numeral 1IA-N lands.

Repealing sections 195 and 196 and subclauses resolves potential inconsistent interpretations of the territorial authority of the Naskapi police between the Naskapi Act and the NEQA, as amended by Complementary Agreement No. 4.

Naskapi and the Cree-Naskapi Commission Act sections 195 & 196 Repeal

Repeal sections 195 (Policing Jurisdiction Naskapis; Agreements for Policing Services) and 196 (Agreements for Policing Services; Jurisdiction of Police Forces) of the Naskapi and the Cree-Naskapi Commission Act.

Naskapi and the Cree-Naskapi Commission Act sections 195 & 196 Repeal

Naskapi and the Cree-Naskapi Commission Act sections 195 & 196 Repeal

Background

Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self Determination

A bilateral Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self Determination table with the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach was launched in 2019 and a Memorandum of Understanding was signed in 2020, with self-government negotiations as one of the main priorities. The Northeastern Quebec Agreement gives the Naskapi Nation jurisdiction powers similar to a municipality (e.g. bylaw making powers related to specific local issues). A future bilateral Self-Government Agreement would complement the existing treaty and be applicable to federal lands only (Category I-AN lands in Northeastern Quebec Agreement), as the Government of Quebec is not a party to the negotiations. Given that this agreement is still being negotiated, the discussions are confidential.

Key Data Points

This year, funding in the amount of $3.38M for CIRNAC and $10.5M for ISC is allocated to support the redesign of the Additions to Reserve (ATR) Policy and accelerate the assessment of ATR proposals. Since 2021, investments have supported:

• A total of 180 First Nation-led and Canada-led engagement activities, generating over 930 recommendations on how best to redesign the ATR Policy;
• The creation of a Technical Advisory Committee to provide technical advice and perspectives and support the development of policy options informed by recommendations from First Nation-led engagement activities;
• Nine interim changes to the ATR Policy to streamline its process while work continued on the comprehensive redesign of the ATR Policy;
• Capacity funding for Indigenous organizations providing ATR support to First Nations and technical support for 100 First Nations in different stages of the ATR process; and
• Completion of 145 ATR proposals since 2022.

Key Messages

• Additions to Reserve for First Nations supports economic prosperity by returning lands to First Nations that they can use for infrastructure and economic development investments and initiatives.
• The Additions to Reserve Policy has long been criticized as outdated, rigid, and paternalistic. It does not reflect a government-to-government relationship with First Nations.
• The current step-by-step approach creates multi-year delays. We are committed to finding ways to make the process quicker, in response to the feedback First Nations and First nation organizations have provided.

Current Status

• CIRNAC is currently working with a Technical Advisory Committee to draft a redesigned Additions to Reserve policy. This work, which is directly informed by engagement with First Nations and First Nation organizations, will include the development of guidance and implementation tools aimed to support accelerated addition of lands to reserve.
• Canada and First Nations partners are also exploring other approaches to accelerate the return of land to First Nations, including alternative land tenure models and pilot projects with First Nations to test new methods for returning land.
• Canada, in collaboration with the First Nations Lands Advisory Board (LAB), will identify the steps required to establish a First Nation-led ATR organization by assessing roles, responsibilities, capacity needs, and supporting systems needed to transfer ATR functions from Canada. This work will also examine potential cost-saving opportunities by assessing whether ATR responsibilities could be added to an existing First Nation-led organization, rather than establishing a completely new First Nation-led organization to deliver ATR services to First Nations.

Background

The Additions to Reserve (ATR) Policy has long been criticized as outdated, rigid, and paternalistic. It does not reflect a government-to-government relationship with First Nations or align with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Complex requirements, a phased approach, and the absence of service standards create delays and limit First Nations’ ability to pursue development opportunities.

From April 2023 to July 2024, CIRNAC participated in – or supported – 180 engagement activities to identify ways to make the ATR Policy more effective and efficient in supporting land expansion. These discussions involved 45 First Nations, 37 national First Nation organizations, 43 regional First Nation organizations, 9 provinces, and 7 federal departments and internal partners.

Once finalized, the redesigned ATR Policy is expected to create a faster mechanism to support land expansion, which will in turn better advance economic development and reconciliation. Faster access to land will enable First Nations to pursue development opportunities as they arise and strengthen local and neighboring economies. This is supported by a 2014 study by the First Nations Tax Commission where they found that six selected urban ATRs created 3,060 on-reserve jobs, 4,328 off-reserve jobs, approximately 600 seasonal positions, and over $1 billion in economic benefits, along with significant fiscal gains for First Nations and local governments.

ATR Success Stories:

• Ch’íyáqtel (Tzeachten) First Nation completed an expedited ATR process in just 10 months—far shorter than the 7.5-year average for ATRs completed over the past five years—through a collaborative pilot project with ISC that simplified requirements and removed barriers (e.g. third party interest where they signed a continuing interest agreement). They have worked closely with Canada to expedite the ATR process and relied on internal capacity to lead or coordinate many of the steps of the ATR process (surveys, title, internal approvals) rather than always relying on external federal steps.
• In 2024, a Certainty Order, issued by the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, formally recognized all four lots as reserve lands for the Flying Dust First Nation. This case sets a precedent for using Certainty Orders to return lands treated as reserve or previously expropriated for specific uses without the formal reserve creation process.

Key Data Points

• Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada has co-developed 13 consultation protocols representing 41 First Nations and nine Métis communities, and five resource centres.
• CIRNAC has also established five resource centres servicing 44 First Nations and 20 Métis communities, where more than half^{Footnote 2} of the proposed projects of national interest currently overlap with the areas of consultation protocols and resource centres. Three additional resource centres will established by end of fiscal year.
• In 2024-25, there were 42,973 visits to the Aboriginal and Treaty Rights Information System (ATRIS) application, with 32,109 visits in 2025-26 thus far.
• Combined, more than 675 Indigenous individuals representing First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities and organizations across Canada took part in two national engagement processes to inform the development of a Crown consultation coordinator function and to inform the renewal of federal guidelines for consultation and accommodation.

Key Messages

• Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada plays a key role in supporting federal departments in meeting their duty to consult obligations, including for projects of national interest under the Building Canada Act.
• Canada is investing $10.1 million over three years for the Federal Initiative on Consultation to support the meaningful participation of Indigenous rightsholders in consultation processes throughout the review cycle of projects under the Building Canada Act through consultation resource centres and protocols.
• We support efficient and predictable consultations processes through 13 consultation protocols, 5 resource centres and are expecting to have 3 additional ones by end of 2026-27.
• Following a national engagement process with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples, federal departments and agencies and industry associations, we will publish new consultation and accommodation guidelines in late spring , to better support federal officials in upholding the duty to consult for federal activities potentially impacting Section 35 rights.
• We provide a single window for the coordination of strategic advice and guidance and have supported federal officials in over 50% of major projects under the Impact Assessment Act and over 75% of major projects undergoing Northern environmental assessments in the last year.
• CIRNAC is responsible for the Aboriginal and Treaty Rights Information System, or ATRIS, which supports the early identification of potentially impacted Indigenous groups, including their potential or established Aboriginal or treaty rights distinguished. The department is currently taking steps to clarify relevant profiles where Section 35 rights are currently not established.

Current Status

• CIRNAC continues to provide advice and support to the Major Projects Office in its ongoing work implementing the Building Canada Act.
• CIRNAC assists the Major Projects Office with the early identification of potentially impacted Indigenous communities and their rights and interests as Projects of National Interest are identified.
• To enable meaningful Indigenous participation in consultation processes, CIRNAC is working to ensure capacity supports are available, particularly in areas where projects have been identified as a project of national interest.
• Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada is currently engaging with Indigenous Peoples across Canada on the renewal of the federal consultation and accommodation guidelines. The guidelines outline the overarching whole-of-government approach for Canada to meet its consultation and accommodation obligations where section 35 rights may be impacted as a result of a government decision.

Background

• CIRNAC provides expertise to federal departments on the legal duty to consult and accommodate, as well as key information regarding Canada’s relationship with Indigenous partners during impact and environmental assessment and regulatory decision-making throughout Canada. Through advice, guidance, and training, CIRNAC supports designated major projects under the Impact Assessment Act, as well as major projects undergoing Northern environmental assessments.
• The Building Canada Act allows the Government of Canada to designate a major project in the national interest, based on consultation with provinces, territories, and Indigenous Peoples. The government is committed to respecting its duty to consult pursuant to section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, by consulting with Indigenous rights-holders before a project moves forward for consideration by Governor in Council. These consultations will occur with the aim of securing the free, prior, and informed consent of Indigenous rights-holders.
• The Major Projects Office provides a single point of contact, and leadership, on major projects. This includes partnering with federal departments, provinces, territories, Indigenous Peoples and private-sector participants.
• An Indigenous Advisory Council supports the Major Projects Office by ensuring that partnership and Indigenous economic participation are embedded in all major projects in Canada, including through the provision of expert advice on policy, operational practices, and process improvements related to the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives on and interests in major projects and regulatory processes.
• In response to the Prime Minister’s commitment at the July First Nation Summit, eight First Nation regional engagement sessions were held from October 24 to December 8, 2025, to further discuss the implementation of the Building Canada Act, the role of the Major Projects Office and the Indigenous Advisory Council, and the consultation process. These include British Columbia, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Atlantic, Quebec, and Northern First Nations, and Modern Treaty and Self-Government Agreement Holders.

Key Data Points

• There are currently 385 First Nations scheduled under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act.
• The First Nations Finance Authority has provided close to $4 billion in financing to 104 First Nations for infrastructure and economic development, including supporting First Nations equity stakes in Clearwater Seafoods and Cedar LNG.

Key Messages

• Proposed federal measures, such as amendments to the First Nations Fiscal Management Act, will help Indigenous communities access capital, invest in major projects, and grow strong local economies.
• Proposed amendments to the First Nations Fiscal Management Act will provide the First Nations Finance Authority the ability to lend to Indigenous-owned Special Purpose Vehicles when there is a Government of Canada or provincial loan guarantee.
• Loan guarantees from the Government of Canada are making financing more affordable.
• These tools support economic reconciliation and long-term prosperity.

Current Status

• Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada will be amending the First Nations Fiscal Management Act to enable Indigenous owned Special Purpose Vehicles to become borrowing members and borrow from the First Nations Finance Authority if they have a loan guarantee from Canada or a province.

Background

• Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada will be amending the First Nations Fiscal Management Act to enable Indigenous owned corporations or limited partnerships, known as Special Purpose Vehicles, to access financing from the First Nations Finance Authority provided that the Special Purpose Vehicle has a loan guarantee from the federal or a provincial government.
• These amendments will support Indigenous groups to come together to finance their participation in major resource projects, supporting their economic prosperity and building a stronger Canadian economy.
• The proposed amendments to the Act would specifically allow a Special Purpose Vehicle to participate in the Act, apply to become a borrowing member of the First Nations Finance Authority (s. 76) and apply for a loan (s. 79 (2)).
• In order to be qualified for a loan, the Special Purpose Vehicles must be wholly owned by one or more Indian Act Bands or Indigenous group party to a Modern Treaty, Self-Government or Land Claim Agreement.
• The Special Purpose Vehicle would not have to undertake financial certification under the Act (s. 50), they are not eligible to be elected to the Board of the First Nations Finance Authority (s 61) and are not subject to intervention by the First Nations Financial Management Board.

Key Data Points

• There are currently 27 Modern Treaties in effect, covering over 40% of Canada’s landmass including 80% of the North and forming the basis of Canada’s relationships with 30 Indigenous Modern Treaty Partners.
• Implementing Modern Treaties is a whole-of-government responsibility — Modern Treaties created more than 9,000 obligations across over 30 departments and agencies.
• Evidence shows Modern Treaties are delivering real socio-economic results.
  • Studies have found that First Nations with modern treaties have 17% higher per-capita incomes and twice the rate of improvement in community well-being compared to non-treaty or Indian Act communities.
  • In Yukon, First Nations with Final Agreements saw household incomes rise by 62%—outpacing those without agreements.
• Examples of Indigenous Modern Treaty partners leading or partnering on major economic initiatives include:
  • Air Inuit is wholly owned by Nunavik Inuit through their economic development arm, Makivik Corporation.
  • Whitecap Dakota First Nation owns and is currently expanding the Dakota Dunes Resort, Casino and Golf Course. The expansion, which will include the construction of a spa complex, is expected to generate significant activity in construction and, once completed, tourism for the region at large.

Key Messages

• Modern Treaties and associated self-government arrangements support national priorities like trade, Arctic sovereignty, and resource development, as well as Indigenous-led economic development by:
  • Providing legal and regulatory stability for investors
  • Enabling greater Indigenous decision-making in economic sectors
  • Building economic capacity and participation
• These agreements are signed with the Crown, making their implementation a whole-of-government responsibility. While steps have been taken to improve implementation across federal departments, including through the Cabinet Directive on the Federal Approach to Modern Treaty Implementation and Canada’s Collaborative Modern Treaty Implementation Policy, challenges remain and more needs to be done.
• The Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation was co-developed with Indigenous Modern Treaty partners to address issues unique to Modern Treaty implementation. Bill C-10, An Act respecting the Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation, delivers on a specific policy commitment made jointly by Canada and Indigenous Modern Treaty partners to strengthen accountability for these constitutionally protected agreements.
• The Commissioner’s scope would, therefore, be focused on Modern Treaties and their related agreements, such as associated self-government agreements, implementation plans, and fiscal arrangements.
• Historic Treaties are supported through distinct institutional and policy mechanisms — including Treaty Relations Commissions in Saskatchewan and Manitoba — which promote public education, mediation, and dialogue between First Nations and the Crown on treaty implementation issues.
• Additionally, to ensure Provincial and Territorial jurisdiction is respected, the Commissioner would focus on federal implementation activities. Provinces and Territories remain responsible for implementing their own commitments and do not fall under the Commissioner’s purview.
• If Bill C-10 is passed by Parliament, the Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation will provide independent oversight and ensure that Parliament is kept informed of the Government’s implementation activities.

Current Status

• Legislation to establish the Commissioner was introduced in Parliament on September 25, 2025, and is currently at second reading in the House of Commons.
• Should the legislation receive Royal Assent, the next step will be the appointment of the inaugural Commissioner and the standing-up of the Office.

Background

• The Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation is a proposed Agent of Parliament co-developed in 2023 with all Indigenous Modern Treaty partners to provide independent, expert oversight of federal Modern Treaty Implementation.
• It fulfills a commitment made in Canada’s Collaborative Modern Treaty Implementation Policy (2023) and responds to 20 years of Modern Treaty partner advocacy for such a body.
• Legislation was initially introduced in October 2024 as Bill C-77, An Act Respecting the Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation. However it died on the Order Paper with the prorogation of Parliament on January 6, 2025. It was introduced, in its original form and with the same title, as Bill C-10 on September 25, 2025.

Key Data Points

• The Collaborative Fiscal Policy Process involves 29 self-governing Indigenous Governments, representing 39 communities and more than 40,000 people.
• Modern Treaty agreements address 40% of Canada’s total land mass.
• There are adjacent collaborative fiscal policy processes with Metis and education sectoral partners.
• Concrete impacts of investments:
  • Tla’amin built a new Child Development Resource Centre in 2021, expanding childcare capacity by 75 spaces;
  • Champagne and Aishihik built 64 new homes, nearly doubling community housing since 2018; and
  • Délı̨nę Government built a new preschool/daycare and modular homes in 2021, using gap-closing funds.
• Funding increases to date:
  • Through the Collaborative Fiscal Process, Canada and self-governing Indigenous Governments co-developed:
    • the governance and administration expenditure need methodology which resulted in a 118% increase in governance funding;
    • the Stage 1 lifecycle infrastructure methodology which resulted in a 154% increase in infrastructure funding; and
    • an interim approach for lands and resources funding,
  • In addition, since 2018, the federal government has committed approximately $689 million in time-limited funding to support self-governing Indigenous Governments in addressing socio-economic, infrastructure, and housing gaps.

Key Messages

• Canada’s Collaborative Self-Government Fiscal Policy addresses the fiscal relationship between Canada and self-governing Indigenous Governments and focuses on the actual expenditure needs of self-governments, rather than linking funding to previous levels under the Indian Act.
• The collaborative approach to fiscal policy development has allowed a greater understanding, a higher level of trust and stronger partnership between Canada and self-governing Indigenous Governments. Additionally, it has facilitated communication between Indigenous Governments, allowing them to build relationships amongst themselves and approach Canada with common policy interests.
• In 2023-24, fiscal transfer payments of over $2 billion were made to Indigenous signatories in support of their governance and program responsibilities supported under the new policy framework.
• The Collaborative Fiscal Policy Process also includes a shared focus on working towards closing socio-economic and wellness gaps. Tailored initiatives continue with on-going evaluation and reporting to assess progress.

Current Status

• As of September 2025, Canada has re-engaged with partners at the Collaborative Fiscal table to:
  • Review Canada’s Collaborative Self-Government Fiscal Policy;
  • Continue work on social well-being and data indicators and taxation policy; and
  • Hold exploratory fiscal discussions on housing and economic development.

Background

• Self-governing Indigenous Governments carry broader responsibilities than Indian Act bands and require stable, long-term, predictable funding to fulfill Treaty and self-government responsibilities.
• From 2016 to 2019, Canada and representatives from 25 self-governing Indigenous Governments worked together to co-develop Canada's Collaborative Self-Government Fiscal Policy.
• In 2019, the first co-developed expenditure need model for Governance and Administration was applied to 25 fiscal agreements at once, marking the first time agreements were renewed in parallel using a shared methodology.
• In 2022, a lifecycle funding approach for existing assets was adopted by Indigenous Governments. The approach, which funds a capital reserve over time, as opposed to being proposal-based, results in Indigenous governments having greater flexibility and the ability to better plan capital management activities over a longer time period.

Key Data Points

• In December 2024, the Haida Nation (Haida) and Canada signed the Chiix̲uujin / Chaaw K̲aawga "Big Tide (Low Water)" Haida Title Lands Agreement (the Agreement), bringing a key aspect of active litigation against Canada to a negotiated resolution.
• The Agreement protects fee simple (private property) interests and complements the Gaayhllxid / Gíihlagalgang "Rising Tide" Haida Title Lands Agreement between Haida and British Columbia that was signed in April 2024.
• In November 2024, during a Special House of Assembly, Haida citizens voted 97% in favour to approve the Agreement.
• In February 2025, over 350 community members gathered in Skidegate, Haida Gwaii to celebrate the public announcement of the Agreement.

Key Messages

• The Government of Canada has recognized Aboriginal title for the first time through a negotiated agreement, the Chiix̲uujin [Chee-Whoo-Gin] / Chaaw K̲aawga [Cha-Kow-Gaa] "Big Tide (Low Water)" Haida Title Lands Agreement.
• The Agreement recognizes Haida Aboriginal title to the land and foreshore of Haida Gwaii, while protecting fee simple (private property) interests, ensuring continued access to and use of lands for federal purposes, and preserving the delivery of federal public services for all residents.
• This is an example of how parties can negotiate to work through potential conflicts as they address Aboriginal title claims, rather than litigation which can result in greater uncertainty.

Current Status

• Canada is advancing work to bring the Agreement into effect through federal implementing legislation.
• On September 5, 2025, with the support of Haida, Canada, and British Columbia, the BC Supreme Court declared that the Haida Nation has Aboriginal title to the land and foreshore of Haida Gwaii, consistent with the terms of both the Agreement and the "Rising Tide" Agreement.
• The effects of the Court’s declaration are suspended for 24 months with respect to identified federal interests to give Canada sufficient time to introduce and pass implementing legislation.

Background

• Haida Gwaii is a group of over 200 islands (around one million hectares) located approximately 100 kilometres west of the northern coast of mainland British Columbia.
• The Haida Nation’s claims to Aboriginal title and rights in Haida Gwaii were first accepted for negotiation by Canada in 1986.
• In 2002, Haida initiated legal action against Canada and British Columbia, seeking a declaration of Aboriginal title and rights to the entirety of Haida Gwaii, as well as the seabed, water column, marine areas, surmounting airspace, and areas within Canada’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
• In 2021, Canada, Haida, and British Columbia signed the GayG̲ahlda / Kwah.hlahl.dáyaa "Changing Tide" Framework for Reconciliation, setting out an incremental approach to negotiating reconciliation agreements.
• In 2023, Canada, Haida, and British Columbia signed the Nang K̲’uula / Nang K̲’úulaas Recognition Agreement, recognizing the Haida Nation as the holder of inherent rights of governance and self-determination, and the Council of the Haida Nation as the governing body of the Haida Nation.
• In April 2024, Haida and British Columbia signed the Gaayhllxid / Gíihlagalgang "Rising Tide" Haida Title Lands Agreement, providing provincial recognition of Haida Aboriginal title on Haida Gwaii, including submerged lands (the seabed) extending up to 14 nautical miles from the low-water mark. The "Rising Tide" Agreement was brought into effect in July 2024 through provincial implementing legislation.
• From May to November 2024, Haida and Canada undertook negotiations to collaboratively develop the Chiix̲uujin / Chaaw K̲aawga "Big Tide (Low Water)" Haida Title Lands Agreement.
• On November 7, 2024, Bill S-16, An Act respecting the recognition of the Haida Nation and the Council of the Haida Nation, received royal assent.

Key Data Points

• Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) benefits from various CIRNAC program funding such as the Métis Housing strategy, Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care, and, Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing. This program funding has been secured through past Budget process and are time limited in nature.
• The funding has resulted in positive impacts such as:
  • the creation of approximately 650 new housing units;
  • the establishment of the Louis Riel Child Care Centre servicing 40 children and the Little Infinity Child Care center offering 55 spaces; and
  • the Michif Manor, which provides cultural wrap-around services to families receiving medical care in Winnipeg.
• MMF also benefits from ongoing Governance-Powley funding which supports activities such as :
  • build governance structures
  • maintain registries that meet Powley Test standards
  • negotiate and implement harvesting agreements
  • engage in rights‑related policy development
• CIRNAC also provides other funding to the MMF through an Interim Fiscal Financing Agreement, including governance-related transition funding, Indigenous Health Equity Fund, and the School Food Program. The Interim Fiscal Financing Agreement must be extended before it expires on March 31, 2026.

Key Messages

• Advancing self-government with the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) supports Canada’s broader reconciliation and economic development objectives, including with respect to major resource and infrastructure projects.
• The recognition of the MMF as an Indigenous government supports the development of a government-to-government relationship that can enhance engagement on project reviews, regulatory processes and economic opportunities.
• Individuals have a choice as to which Métis government represents them. To become a Red River Métis citizen, an individual must apply.
• The Treaty establishes that those who self-identify as Red River Métis, can show a "demonstrable connection" to the historic Red River Métis community, and have also been "accepted" by the contemporary Red River Métis community are eligible and can apply for Red River Red River Métis citizenship in accordance with their Laws.
• Canada is developing an Additions to Reserve Consultation and Accommodation Protocol with the MMF to support a coordinated approach to advancing Additions to Reserve matters in the province of Manitoba.

Current Status

• Time-limited program funding will continue to flow through existing mechanisms, i.e. MMF Contribution Agreement, and in accordance with the terms and conditions of the programs. These programs include Métis Housing Strategy funding (expires March 31, 2029), Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing (expires Mar 31, 2031), and Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care (expires Mar 31, 2028).
• MMF has expressed interest in having all time-limited program funding included in the negotiations of a future (non-interim) Final Fiscal Financing Agreement.
• Following the signing of the Red River Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Treaty (November 30, 2024), the next step is to introduce implementing legislation to give the Treaty force and effect.

Background

• On November 30, 2024, Canada and the MMF signed the Red River Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Treaty. It recognizes the Manitoba Métis Federation as the Indigenous government mandated to represent the Red River Métis in respect of their section 35 right to self-government and recognizes its jurisdiction and authority over internal governance matters. The Treaty does not address harvesting, resources or land-related matters.
• As acknowledged in the Treaty, the Red River Métis are one of a number of Métis collectivities whose rights are recognized under section 35(2) of the Constitution Act, 1982.
• Red River Métis Laws made pursuant to the Treaty will only apply to individuals who have chosen to register as Red River Métis citizens.

Key Data Points

• CIRNAC leads on the implementation of 44 of the 181 Action Plan Measures within the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UNDA) Action Plan; this includes 15 Shared Priorities, five First Nations Priorities, six Inuit Priorities, seven Métis Priorities, and 11 Modern Treaty Partner Priorities.
• Since the launch of the UNDA Action Plan in June 2023, CIRNAC has completed three Action Plan Measures and is on track to complete four more in 2025–26 (listed under Current Status below)—demonstrating tangible progress in advancing Indigenous rights, governance, and self-determination.
• Based on 2024–25 Annual Report data (August 2025), nine (15%) of CIRNAC’s measures are fully funded, 29 (48%) are partially funded, 15 (25%) are unfunded, and seven (12%) require no funding.

Key Messages

• CIRNAC continues to advance implementation of the UNDA, with tangible results through co-developed legislation, policies, and funding frameworks that advance reconciliation.
• Collaboration with Indigenous partners remains central — including through the operationalization of the Cabinet Directive on the Implementation of the Inuit Nunangat Policy (Shared Priority 67) and the renewal of Consultation and Accommodation Guidelines (Shared Priority 68).
• These efforts are translating commitments into measurable results that strengthen Indigenous governance, advance self-determination, and improve community well-being across Canada.

Current Status

• CIRNAC continues to advance implementation of its 44 Action Plan Measures in collaboration with Indigenous partners and partner departments and will continue to transparently report on progress, funding status, and barriers to implementation in the UNDA Annual Report. The most recent Annual Report was tabled in Parliament in August 2025.
• Completed Measures Reported in 2024-25
  • Modern Treaty Priority 1L: Enhanced Modern Treaty partner participation in federal decision-making, improving collaboration on legislation, policy, and program development.
  • Modern Treaty Priority 8: Co-developed a new fiscal policy framework supporting sustainable and collaborative funding arrangements for self-governing Indigenous governments.
  • Shared Priority 86: Increased food sovereignty through long-term and flexible funding to strengthen access to traditional foods and local food systems (e.g., Harvesters Support Grant, Community Food Programs Fund).
• Measures Reported as On Track for Completion in 2025–26
  • Shared Priority 104 (TRC Call to Action 66): Pilot project with Indigenous Youth Roots reaching 1.2 million youth and distributing over $9 million to 1,400+ youth-led initiatives; scheduled to conclude in 2025–26.
  • Métis Priority 1: Federal legislation to formally recognize Métis governments to be introduced to Parliament, strengthening Métis self-government.
  • Shared Priority 46: Co-development of the Indigenous Climate Leadership Agenda completed in 2024–25; follow-up expected in 2025–26 (This is a co-lead with ECCC).
  • Modern Treaty Priority 9: An Act respecting the Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation progressing in Parliament to establish an independent oversight mechanism.
• Highlights of Ongoing Implementation Progress
  • Shared Priority 67: Cabinet Directive on the Implementation of the Inuit Nunangat Policy operationalized in 2024–25, embedding Inuit co-development principles and consideration to implications for Inuit Nunangat in policy and program development across departments.
  • Shared Priority 68: Phase 2 of the Consultation and Accommodation Guidelines Renewal underway; new guidelines expected Spring 2026.
  • Shared Priorities 69 and 70: Continued support for Indigenous Women’s and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations, with $7.4 million invested in 33 projects in 2024–25, including initiatives led by the Esquao Institute and 2 Spirits in Motion Society.

Background

• The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UNDA) commits the Government of Canada to align federal laws and policies with the UN Declaration in consultation and collaboration with Indigenous Peoples and to reporting annually on progress.
• Justice Canada is the overall Government of Canada lead on the implementation of the UNDA. CIRNAC leads the largest portfolio of federal Action Plan Measures—44 in total—spanning self-determination, governance, and fiscal relations.
• CIRNAC remains committed to working with Justice Canada and Indigenous partners to maintain transparency, prioritize measures for advancement, and ensure progress toward reconciliation and the full realization of Indigenous rights in Canada.

Key Data Points

• As of June 3, 2025, 62% of the 215 Calls for Justice that speak to the federal government in some capacity (29 call upon the federal government exclusively; 186 call upon the federal, provincial, and territorial governments collectively) have been actioned. The federal government reported 133 Calls for Justice as actioned, which includes those where action was completed (2) and those with work underway (131), and 82 Calls for Justice as action pending. In addition to the Calls for Justice that speak the federal government, 5 other Calls for Justice have been advanced by federal departments.
• According to data from Statistics Canada, between 2009 and 2021, Indigenous women and girls were victims of homicide at a rate that was six times higher than non-Indigenous women and girls, and are 12 times more likely to be murdered or go missing than non-Indigenous women in Canada.

Key Messages

• As of June 3, 2025, of the 215 Calls for Justice that speak to the federal government in some capacity, and in the course of federal efforts a further five have been supported to end the crisis. The federal government reports 138 Calls for Justice as actioned, which includes those where action was completed (2), and those with work underway (136), and 82 Calls for Justice as action pending.
• CIRNAC continues to advance work related to Calls for Justice 1.7 (National Indigenous and Human Rights Ombudsperson) and 1.10 (independent mechanism to report on the implementation of the Calls for Justice), human trafficking, and the Red Dress Alert.
• To address this national crisis, a holistic approach of action and collaboration across all levels of government, with Indigenous partners, grassroots organizations, and many other partners is being taken. This collective approach is essential to addressing the persistent and deliberate human and Indigenous rights violations and abuses that are the root causes behind Canada’s staggering rates of violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Current Status

• On June 3, 2025, Giganawenimaanaanig released an interim report on the development of the Red Dress Alert pilot project. A final report is expected in November 2025, which will inform next steps.
• Since the appointment of the Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking in January 2025, CIRNAC, in collaboration with Public Safety, continues to support the Chief Advisor’s engagement with Indigenous partners.
• The 2026 National Indigenous-Federal-Provincial-Territorial Meeting on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People is taking place on February 11 and 12, 2026 in hybrid format in Ottawa.
• The Government of Canada continues to review the final reports on Calls for Justice 1.7 and 1.10 to ensure the approach to implementation of both Calls is effective and contributes to the existing accountability and oversight landscape, while ensuring the specific needs of Indigenous peoples are met.

Background

• On June 3rd 2019, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls released its final report "Reclaiming Power and Place" that documents the systemic and interconnected causes of the violence that Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people experience. Alongside its report, the National Inquiry outlined the path forward to redress this violence through 231 Calls for Justice. The National Inquiry’s Calls for Justice are aimed at both government and non-government actors and are wide-ranging, including calls for both long-term systemic changes and short-term immediate actions.
• The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ People Secretariat (MMIWG2S+ Secretariat) coordinated the co-development of the National Action Plan: Ending Violence Against Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA People (National Action Plan) with families and survivors, the federal, provincial, territorial and Indigenous governments, and Indigenous organizations and communities. This work was completed in 2021.
• The federal component of the National Action Plan is the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People (Federal Pathway). A Federal Pathway Annual Progress Report is published every year on June 3rd to commemorate the anniversary of the 2019 release of the National Inquiry’s final report. The Annual Progress Report details progress made on initiatives under the federal pathway along with federal efforts that respond to the Calls for Justice.
• In January 2025, the federal government launched the Calls for Justice Reporting tool which compliments the annual progress report by enabling Canadians to easily navigate federal efforts to advance the Calls for Justice.
• Many broader actions also look to address the socio-economic root causes that increase the vulnerability of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people to violence by improving access to education, health and wellbeing services for Indigenous people; supporting the improvement of infrastructure; and supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and economies. Implementation of these actions continues to be monitored and reported on against the Calls for Justice to track our progress.

Key Data Points

• Although Indigenous people account for only 5% of Canada’s population, they accounted for 25% of all homicide victims in 2023. Of the 193 Indigenous victims of homicide reported by police that year, 141 were men (73%) and 50 were women (26%). In 2023, the rate of homicide for Indigenous people was over six times higher than the rate for non-Indigenous people (9.31 victims per 100,000 population for Indigenous people, compared with 1.46 for non-Indigenous people).
• Indigenous overrepresentation in the criminal justice system has a negative impact on Indigenous peoples cultures and communities and has a high economic cost. Overrepresentation has been steadily characterized as a crisis since the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in R. v. Gladue in 1999 and is one of Canada’s most pressing human rights challenges (Office of the Correctional Investigator’s 50th Annual Report, 2022-23).
• Indigenous groups have expressed strong interest in having jurisdiction over the administration of justice and policing recognized in treaties and self-government agreements. Administration of justice is identified as a topic of discussion at approximately 70 active rights-related tables, while policing is being discussed at approximately 35.
• Administration of Justice, including policing, is included in some Modern Treaty and Self-Governing agreements in various capacities. Some agreements include explicit administration of justice and policing chapters, while others create an obligation to negotiate supplementary agreements.
• Recent success stories include:
  • In February 2025, Phase 1 of the Teslin Tlingit Council Administration of Justice Agreement was concluded, with the completion of all the following components: Peacemaker Court, Enforcement and Corrections and Community Services.
  • In Fall 2025, the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Framework Agreement was signed by all Parties.

Key Messages

• The Indigenous Justice Strategy sets out a vision and priority areas to address systemic racism and discrimination in Canada’s criminal justice system. It represents a holistic, whole-of-government approach to addressing the overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in the justice system.
• The Strategy was developed in close consultation with Indigenous partners, including First Nations, Inuit, and Metis, to advance the revitalization of Indigenous laws and justice systems.
• As the administration of justice is a shared jurisdiction, the trilateral approach envisioned in the Indigenous Strategy will be critical to its successful implementation, particularly in relation to the re-establishment of traditional justice systems.

Current Status

• Initial work to advance the Strategy is being carried out using dedicated funding announced in 2024 and other existing resources. Justice Canada will leverage existing justice-focused collaborative tables and processes with Indigenous partners, provinces and territories to help advance regional priority-setting and cost-shared implementation plans for the Strategy.
• CIRNAC supported the development of the strategy and continues to participates in interdepartmental discussions on the strategy, but its implementation role is largely related to supporting negotiations around administration of Justice agreements, where identified as a priority by partners.
• The strategy was also developed in collaboration with the provinces and territories, whose continued engagement will be critical given their key role and jurisdiction in relation to the administration of justice.

Background

• Canada’s inaugural Indigenous Justice Strategy was released in March 10, 2025, following collaborative engagement with Indigenous peoples, provinces, and territories to address the overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in the criminal justice system.
• Dedicated funding in the amount of $87M over 5 years starting in 2024-25 was announced for the Department of Justice to advance the Strategy. The majority of funds support the Indigenous Justice and Indigenous Courtworker Programs, $5.5 million over 3 years to support the revitalization of Indigenous laws and legal systems; and $25.1 million over 3 years for capacity building and engagement for the development and initial implementation of the Indigenous Justice Strategy.
• The Indigenous Justice Strategy was developed to address the overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in Canada’s criminal justice system, a result of systemic racism and colonial legacies. The Strategy recognizes the importance of Indigenous laws and governance as part of reconciliation, while respecting the diversity of Indigenous communities.
• Developed in consultation with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis leaders, the Strategy sets out a holistic framework for reforming Canada’s justice system to address the root causes of overrepresentation. This includes building capacity for Indigenous-led justice initiatives, improving community safety, and advancing the revitalization of Indigenous legal traditions.
• The Strategy includes Distinct chapters co-developed with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners to ensure that the Strategy is tailored to the unique needs and circumstances of each community, with distinctions-based principles and priorities to further advance self-determination, community safety and the revitalization of Indigenous laws and legal orders, while also recognizing the jurisdictional roles of provinces and territories.
• The Strategy is also aligned with broader government commitments, including the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People, and the United Nations Declaration Act, and Public Safety led efforts to improve the delivery of Indigenous policing and Community Safety as well as broader criminal justice reforms led by Justice Canda.

Key Data Points

• Budget 2025 outlines plans to support housing development through Build Canada Homes , which includes partnering with the Nunavut Housing Corporation to build over 700 public, affordable and supportive housing units.
• The budget confirmed the previously announced $2.8 billion for urban, rural, and northern Indigenous housing and committed to work with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners to develop an Indigenous Housing Strategy.
• The government will also increase the Canada Infrastructure Bank’s target for investments in Indigenous infrastructure that benefit First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities from at least $1 billion to at least $3 billion.
• Canada has provided Indigenous partners with approximately $5.1 billion between 2016-2024 to support housing and infrastructure needs. With these funds:
  • Inuit have constructed 640 new housing units and repaired 580 existing units; constructed and improved community infrastructure such as sportsplexes, carpentry and repair shops, and multi-purpose and youth centres.
  • Métis governments have helped with the construction or purchase of 2,025 houses; provided downpayment assistance to 2,809 households; renovated 7,918 houses; and provided rent supplements to 12,049 families. They have further addressed infrastructure needs in areas such as domestic shelters, childcare centres, senior complexes.
  • Modern Treaty Self Governing (MTSG) First Nations have constructed 689 new housing units, and repaired 162 units. For example, Uchucklesaht Tribe Government, a Modern Treaty First Nation, was able to rebuild their traditional village of Ethlateese and replace all previously condemned housing with 14 new homes and supportive infrastructure using funds from previous federal Budget initiatives.

Key Messages

• Canada is working with First Nations, Inuit, Métis, MTSG First Nations, Indigenous northern partners and territorial governments to support self-determined approaches to increase and improve housing and community infrastructure, which can lead to the creation of jobs and builds healthier, safer and more prosperous communities in the long-term.
• Indigenous partners are building new homes to reduce overcrowding and homelessness, repairing existing stock, augmenting housing supports and programming, and building and improving community infrastructure based on community driven priorities.
• In addition to the delivery of direct funding, support for housing and infrastructure in Indigenous and northern communities is also available through national programs and through provincial and territorial programs and initiatives.
• Build Canada Homes will complement direct funding delivery by CIRNAC to accelerate progress to close housing gaps and improve sustainability and prosperity in Indigenous and northern communities.
• Through the Major Projects Office, the Government of Canada intends to accelerate transformative infrastructure projects for Canada to enhance growth, security, diversification of markets and reconciliation.

Current Status

• Delivery of direct, distinctions-based funding by CIRNAC to Indigenous partners for housing and infrastructure continues through a number of initiatives (with funding identified up to 2030-31).
• Projects underway range from new home construction and major repairs to energy retrofits and land development, reflecting locally determined priorities and self-determined approaches.
• Implementation of the co-developed Inuit Nunangat Housing Strategy, that guides joint housing work with Inuit partners, continues through the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee.
• Exploratory discussions are underway with MTSG First Nations through the Collaborative Fiscal Policy Development Process to support public housing expenditure needs through their fiscal arrangements.
• CIRNAC continues to collaborate closely with federal partners to support the establishment of Build Canada Homes, launched in September 2025, to identify opportunities for Indigenous communities to benefit from the agency’s investments.
• CIRNAC is working with Build Canada Homes to ensure its non-market housing programming —focused on using public lands and innovative construction methods—are designed and delivered in ways that complement and strengthen existing housing funding for Indigenous and northern communities.

Background

• Indigenous People continue to face among the worst housing and infrastructure outcomes of any population in Canada due in part to historical underfunding, higher costs, and logistical and climate conditions.
• Infrastructure deficits such as inadequate transportation, connectivity, energy, and water and wastewater infrastructure continue to limit development, significantly impact the cost of living, and generally contribute to poor socio-economic and health outcomes.
• Indigenous and northern communities face persistent housing and infrastructure challenges and an extreme cost of living that are deeply influenced by supply chain and transportation constraints. Many of these communities are accessible only by air or seasonal roads, which significantly limit the movement of goods, services and people, including skilled labour.
• Geographic isolation, harsh climates and inadequate infrastructure significantly drive up transportation costs and lengthen project delivery timelines in already short construction seasons. Compounding this is the limited local availability of resources and skilled labour that adds to already extremely high costs and contributes to more rapid deterioration of housing and infrastructure.
• Distinctions-based housing and infrastructure funding supports Indigenous self-determination built on the principle of "for Indigenous, by Indigenous". Recent federal investments include:
  • 2021 - investments to support critical infrastructure through the $1.3 billion Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund. Funding for this four year program sunset on March 31, 2025.
  • 2022 - $1.6 billion over seven years for housing. This funding is helping Indigenous partners to further address the critical needs in their communities to improve housing adequacy and affordability.
  • 2024 - $918 million for Indigenous Housing and Community Infrastructure to accelerate work to narrow gaps in First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities
• In 2023, $4 billion were invested (over seven years from 2024-25 to 2030-31) to support an Urban, Rural, and Northern (URN) Indigenous Housing Strategy.
  • ISC and CIRNAC are responsible for the distribution of 30% of this funding (approximately $1.18 billion) to distinctions-based partners, i.e., First Nations, Inuit, Métis, MTSG First Nations, and Northern Indigenous organizations.
• The Government of Canada also delivered $200 million to territorial governments to help address housing and infrastructure needs and ensure that Indigenous and non-Indigenous northerners have access to safe, sustainable and affordable housing.

Key Data Points

• Since the Specific Claims process began in 1973 to January 1, 2026, 796 claims, totaling more than $24.4 billion in compensation to First Nations, have been resolved, of which 5 were resolved at the Specific Claims Tribunal for $169 million.
• An average of 45 claims per year have been settled over the last five years, up from an average of 28 claims per year in the previous five years.
• As of December 31, 2025, there were 764 claims in the Specific Claims inventory.
• There are 128 agricultural benefit claims in total from Treaties 4, 5, 6, and 10. 70 claims (or 55%) remain to be settled, with 49 of those having been submitted and at varying stages in the specific claims process.
• To date there have been 58 agricultural benefits claims settlements with First Nations from Treaties 4, 5, 6 and 10 for $7.7 billion in compensation.

Key Messages

• Specific claims are grievances that First Nations have against the Government of Canada for its failure to discharge its lawful obligations under pre-1975 treaties, and the management of First Nation lands, monies and other assets.
• Specific claims result from Canada’s historical behaviour towards First Nations. Negotiated settlements honour treaty and other legal obligations and resolve longstanding disputes in a way that respects the rights of all Canadians. Settlements provide First Nations with capital that can be invested in new opportunities for community and economic development that can benefit First Nations and their neighbours.
• Canada is committed to improving the efficiency, fairness and equity of the Specific Claims Program and the just and timely resolution of long-outstanding grievances

Current Status

• In recent years, the Specific Claims Program has implemented several innovative practices to expedite claims resolution, such as bundling claims from a same First Nation, developing framework approaches to resolve similar claims, and adopting measures to accelerate the resolution of smaller value claims.
• The Program will continue to resolve longstanding grievances with First Nations while trying to find ways to improve the process.

Background

• Specific claims address legal obligations with respect to pre-1975 treaties and the misadministration of First Nation lands and other assets.
• The objective of the Specific Claims Program is to ensure that whenever possible, Canada discharges its lawful obligations to First Nations through the implementation of negotiated settlement agreements, as an alternative to litigation.
• The agricultural benefits provisions of the Numbered Treaties stipulate that the Crown would provide various inputs to support a First Nation’s transition to farming or other economic pursuits. However, the Crown consistently failed to fulfill its obligations with respect to agricultural benefits, resulting in a large number of these types of specific claims against Canada. In January 2023, the Government established a resolution process for agricultural benefits specific claims in Treaties 4, 5 and 6 and 10, which has resulted in the settlement of 45% of the agricultural benefits claims from these treaty areas to date.
• In the last five years, the Government has implemented improvements to the Program, such as resolution frameworks for agricultural benefits claims in Treaties 4, 5 and 6 and 10. As a result, the rate of resolution has increased.

Key Data Points

• Over 188,000 claims were received by the January 2023 claims deadline and as of December 1, 2025, 161,320 claimants have received over $6.8 billion in compensation for the harms that they have suffered while attending a Federal Indian Day School.

Key Messages

• Canada deeply regrets past actions and policies that harmed Indigenous children, their families, and communities, and is committed to advancing reconciliation and healing for Survivors and their families

Current Status

• The parties are working collaboratively with the claims administrator to ensure the remaining claims move forward in an efficient and timely manner.

Background

• The Federal Indian Day Schools Settlement Agreement is an out of court settlement to resolve a certified national class action filed on behalf of former students at federally operated Indian Day Schools.
• Through this settlement agreement, all persons who attended one of the 699 eligible Indian Day Schools were able to apply for individual compensation for harms, including physical and sexual abuse, associated with their attendance.
• The Settlement also provided $200 million to the McLean Day Schools Settlement Corporation to fund projects that support language & culture, healing & wellness, commemoration, and truth telling.

Key Data Points

• The Federal Indian Hospitals Settlement Agreement was approved by the Federal Court in June 2025. The claims process opened on January 27, 2026.

Key Messages

• Working to bring resolution for the individuals who suffered harm while admitted to these hospitals is making meaningful progress in Canada’s reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.

Current Status

• Claimants will have from January 27, 2026 to July 27, 2028 to submit a claim for compensation.

Background

• The Federal Indian Hospital (Hardy) class action was filed on behalf of those admitted to a Federal Indian Hospital between 1936 and 1981 and experienced abuse.
• Individual compensation to class members will range between $10,000 and $200,000, based on the severity of abuse.
• A Claimant Support Program and other supports are available to assist claimants and their representatives with the claims process.
• The Settlement also includes the creation of a Foundation, which will manage two separate funds, a $150,000,000 Healing Fund and a $235,500,000 Research and Commemoration Fund. These initiatives collectively support healing, wellness, truth, reconciliation, cultures, protection of languages, commemoration, and research and education for class members and their families.
• The Settlement also provides for a $150,000,000 funding increase to extend existing Indigenous Services Canada mental health and wellness supports of class members and their families.

Key Data Points

• The Residential Schools Missing Children Community Support Fund currently has 165 agreements in place with Indigenous communities and partners for a total of $280 million as of December 31, 2025.
• These funds support community-led and Survivor-centric efforts to locate, document, and memorialize burial sites associated with former Indian residential schools, and honour families' wishes to repatriate children's remains.
• Investigation work has been conducted for 61% of former residential school sites (89 of 145 residential schools included in the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement and in the Newfoundland and Labrador Residential Schools Settlement Agreement).

Key Messages

• Addressing the ongoing legacy of residential schools is a priority for the Government of Canada. The Residential Schools Missing Children – Community Support Fund supports Indigenous-led efforts to research, locate, and document burial sites associated with former residential schools.
• The search for missing children and unmarked burial sites at former residential schools is highly sensitive and complex. An Indigenous-led and Survivor-centric approach honours and prioritizes community cultural, spiritual, and emotional needs.
• Communities are at various stages of this work: some are focused on locating missing children through archival research, knowledge gathering, and various geophysical and survey methods, and some are preparing for exhumation and identification of children’s remains.
• Examples of community work:
  • Research has led to locating the graves of two children – Alma Beaulieu (Deninu K’ue First Nation) and Juliette Rabbit Skin (Cree Nation of Mistissini) who died while attending Indian Residential Schools. The remains of both children have been repatriated to their home communities.
  • The archival research and knowledge gathering undertaken by the Cross Lake First Nation allows community members to answer their questions about children who attended the Cross Lake Indian Residential School. The goal has been "to build a bridge to the past by fostering a digital space where the stories of Residential School Students can be shared to ensure their memory endures".
  • The Assiniboia Residential School Legacy Group has created the Assiniboia Residential School Monument and Gathering Place in the City of Winnipeg. The beautiful Monument includes an inscription of the names of all of the children who attended, and died while attending the Assiniboia Indian Residential School.

Current Status

• The application deadline for the Residential Schools Missing Children Community Support Fund was September 15, 2025. Since the beginning of the Program in 2021-2022, CIRNAC has received 195 formal requests for funding from Indigenous communities and organizations under the Program, totaling over $ 776.5 million.
• Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada continues to:
  • support communities through the Residential Schools Missing Children Community Support Fund;
  • collaborate with Survivors, Indigenous communities and others to support the work of locating, documenting, and commemorating cemeteries and unmarked burials associated with former Indian residential schools and honouring families' wishes to repatriate children's remains; and
  • ensure Survivors, Indigenous communities, and families guide this work at their pace, in accordance with the principles identified in Call to Action 76.

Background

• The Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action 74 to 76 sets out an approach to honour missing children from Indian Residential Schools as well as undocumented burial sites.
• On May 27, 2021, Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc announced that a radar survey near the former Kamloops Indian Residential School had detected 215 anomalies, prompting Indigenous communities and Survivors across Canada to initiate similar efforts to locate missing children at other residential school sites.
• In June 2021, Crown-Indigenous Relations (CIR) launched the Residential Schools Missing Children Community Support Fund. The Fund’s purpose is to provide support to Indigenous communities and partners to locate, document, and memorialize undocumented burial sites associated with former residential schools and honour families’ wishes to identify and repatriate children’s remains. The former residential schools include 140 from the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement and 5 from the Newfoundland and Labrador Residential Schools Settlement Agreement.

Key Data Points

• This litigation is the focus of considerable national attention due to the BC Supreme Court Decision of August 7, 2025 declaring that the Cowichan Nation has Aboriginal title to an area of urban land in Richmond, British Columbia, which includes some privately owned fee simple lands, along with lands owned by Canada and the City of Richmond.

Key Messages

• Canada disagrees with certain elements of Court's decision, and we appealed it in our own right on September 8, 2025.
• We understand that this decision may cause uncertainty and concern for private landowners.
• This decision's potential significant implications, including on private property rights, necessitates greater legal clarity, and this clarity can come about through the proper legal process.

Current Status

• All parties to the litigation have appealed the Court’s decision. We remain committed to reconciliation and to working constructively with all parties throughout this appeals process.
• The appeals will likely be heard by the BC Court of Appeal some time in 2026. Hearing dates have not yet been set.
• On December 4, 2025, Montrose Industries Ltd., Montrose Property Holdings and EcoWaste Industries Ltd ("Montrose") in Richmond, BC, served the parties with an application to join the litigation as a party and to reopen the BC Supreme Court trial to make submissions as a company with private landholdings in the title area.
• Canada is consenting to Montrose’s application, with limited submissions to be made by Canada. Montrose’s application will be heard by the BC Supreme Court in mid-February, 2026.

Background

• In November 2014, the Cowichan Tribes, the Stz’uminus First Nation, the Penelakut Tribe, and the Halalt First Nation commenced an action in the BC Supreme Court against Canada, British Columbia, and the City of Richmond. The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, Musqueam Indian Band and Tsawwassen First Nation were added as defendants in 2016.
• The plaintiffs sought a declaration of Aboriginal title to 1,846 acres of land located on the waterfront in the City of Richmond, and a declaration of an Aboriginal right to fish for food in the south arm of the Fraser River. The claimed lands include approximately 700 acres of federal lands managed by Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. The remaining lands are municipal (Richmond) or are held by private landowners.
• The BC Supreme Court trial lasted from September 2019 to November 2023.
• On August 7, 2025, the Court issued its decision, declaring the Plaintiffs have title to approximately 40 percent of the claimed area and an Aboriginal right to fish.
• The Court also declared that:
  • Canada’s fee simple interests in the Aboriginal title lands (other than the fuel delivery lands) are defective and invalid;
  • Canada has a duty to negotiate Canada’s fee simple interest in the fuel delivery lands with the Plaintiffs’ Aboriginal title; and
  • The Crown grants of fee simple interests in the Aboriginal title lands unjustifiably infringe the Plaintiffs’ title.
• Canada filed its Notice of Appeal on September 8, 2025, and is appealing portions of the decision around Aboriginal title and invalidity of Canada’s fee simple interests. The appeal is filed to achieve clarity and certainty on the issues raised by the decision, which are of national importance.
• The other parties to the litigation have also appealed parts of the decision. This includes the Cowichan, who have appealed the overall declaration of title. On appeal, Cowichan is seeking title to all of the claimed area or in the alternative, a larger portion of the claim area than that to which title was declared.

Key Data Points

• Restoule: In 2024, Canada, Ontario and 21 Robinson Huron Treaty First Nations signed a $10 billion settlement agreement (with Canada and Ontario each contributing $5 billion) that resolved a longstanding dispute about Treaty annuity payments under the Robinson Huron Treaty of 1850.
• Whitesand: In January 2025, Canada and Ontario each committed to paying $1.82 billion in compensation to the Robinson Superior Treaty First Nations pursuant to a July 2024 decision by the Supreme Court of Canada. The Robinson Superior Treaty First Nations sought a review of the Crown’s decision in court; this review was heard in June 2025, and the court’s decision has not yet been released.

Key Messages

• The Restoule settlement for compensation for past annuities was a major milestone in ongoing collaborative work to build a renewed Treaty relationship with the Robinson Huron Treaty First Nations that is rooted in mutual respect, shared prosperity and partnership.
• Discussions on forward-looking arrangements on Treaty annuities are still at an early stage.
• With respect to the Whitesand litigation, we respect the Robinson Superior First Nations’ decision to seek a review by the court of the compensation that was paid. I cannot offer any further comment in light of the ongoing litigation.

Current Status

• In the Restoule context, the settlement on past annuities with 21 Robinson Huron Treaty First Nations has set the stage to explore forward-looking arrangements on Treaty annuities; these discussions are at the initial stages.
• In the Whitesand litigation, brought by the Robinson Superior First Nations, the Court review of the Crown’s determination of past compensation ($1.82 billion) was heard in June 2025. The court could decide that the Crown’s determination of compensation was sufficient or insufficient to meet the obligations of the Treaty. If the court finds the compensation insufficient, it may order a new amount to be paid, or order a redetermination by the Crown based on court guidance. It is not known when the Court’s decision will be released.

Background

• The Restoule and Whitesand actions are two civil actions brought by First Nations of the Robinson Huron Treaty and Robinson Superior Treaty respectively alleging Ontario and Canada had breached the terms of the Robinson Treaties of 1850 by failing to periodically increase annuity payments.
• On the interpretation of the Robinson Treaties, the Ontario Superior Court found the Crown had an obligation to increase the Treaty annuity payments over time. This decision was eventually upheld on appeal by the Supreme Court of Canada.
• The determination of compensation for the two Treaty groups took different paths:
  • The Restoule Plaintiffs (Robinson Huron Treaty) chose to pursue negotiations with Canada and Ontario, resulting in the $10 billion settlement.
  • The Whitesand Plaintiffs (Robinson Superior Treaty) proceeded to a trial to determine compensation, which was heard from January to September 2023.
• Pursuant to the requirements of the Supreme Court decision, on January 27, 2025, Canada (and Ontario) announced the determination that they would each pay $1.82 billion in compensation to the Robinson Superior First Nations. On the same day the Robinson Superior First Nations indicated that they would seek review of this decision by the Ontario Superior Court as allowed by the decision of the Supreme Court.

Key Data Points

• CIRNAC currently manages 25 annuity-related civil litigation actions involving at least 223 of the 275 Numbered Treaty First Nations. The actions claim breaches and damages based on Canada not having increased annuities over time.

Key Messages

• We recognize that more needs to be done in renewing the Treaty relationship and we remain open to looking at ways to advance this important work.

Current Status

• Most annuity-related civil actions were filed in 2023 or 2024. Most are in the early stages of the litigation process. Roughly half the claims are filed as representative actions, and half as proposed class actions.
• The most advanced representative proceeding is Nelson v. Canada (Treaty 1). The claim seeks $11 billion in compensation as well as punitive damages. A trial is scheduled for February 9-27, 2026. A decision is possible by late 2026.

Background

• The Numbered Treaties were entered into between Canada and First Nations from 1871 to 1921. There are now 275 recognized Numbered Treaty First Nations. The Numbered Treaties include annual payments of $4 or $5 to registered members. There is no provision in the Numbered Treaties specifying that annuities be augmented over time. As such, the same amount is still paid annually to registered individuals. While treaty annuities have virtually no purchasing power today, they carry deep symbolic significance as part of the solemn treaty relationship.
• Of the 25 litigation claims filed, 11 are proposed class actions. Canada's position in all the class actions is to oppose certification on the basis that representative actions are the preferable procedure (in class actions, individuals can opt out and pursue their own litigation and remedy). The first decision on class certification was rendered in the Nepinak and Acoose (Treaty 4) litigation in May 2025. The court dismissed certification, in alignment with Canada’s position. The decision is currently under appeal. Successful certification of any of the proposed class actions could impact the jurisprudence and remedies being sought.
• Unlike the earlier Robinson-Huron and Robinson-Superior Treaties that are the subject of treaty annuity indexation litigation in the Restoule/Whitesand proceedings, the Numbered Treaties do not specify that their treaty annuities be augmented over time.

Key Data Points

• The Indigenous Arts Collection contains 5,174 works valued at approximately $14.4 million.
• Since 2012, the Department has attributed $256,156 per year (on average) directly to the Indigenous Artists Community to purchase, exhibit or reproduce their artwork.
• Between 2018 and 2024, the Indigenous Art Centre worked with external partners to coordinate 124 loans to museums, galleries, and cultural Institutions, both nationally and internationally (i.e., U.S., Taiwan, Brazil and Norway), which featured 760 artworks from the Indigenous Art Collection.
• The Department has been conducting extensive follow-up work to account for the 132 items that were noted as "unaccounted-for" in the 2024 internal audit on the Indigenous Art Collection.
• Of the 132 unaccounted-for items, the Department has attributed 13 as being duplicate records, 45 as reproductions and prints, and 3 as archival and reference materials.
• 71 artworks remain unaccounted-for, most of which (66) were acquired by regional offices prior to 1994. These have an estimated replacement value of $34,103.

Key Messages

• The Indigenous Art Collection is a living reflection of Indigenous identity, history, and creativity. The Government of Canada takes its responsibility for the care of the Collection seriously and has taken the necessary measures to protect and conserve the Collection.
• Through its external loan program, the Indigenous Art Centre partners with museums and galleries across Canada and internationally, ensuring that Indigenous voices, stories, creativity, perspectives, and artistic traditions are visible and accessible to the public.
• In 2017, the Department ended its loan program to its headquarters and regional offices, other federal departments, and Parliament on the basis that it exposed artwork to unnecessary risk. Approximately 90 per cent of the unaccounted for art pieces were acquired by regional offices prior to 1994.
• The 2024 internal audit of the Indigenous Art Collection confirmed that the 132 unaccounted-for items were not the result of theft or any ill-intent.
• The Department is committed to working towards accounting for these unaccounted-for items and has developed a workplan outlining a structured, risk-informed approach to validating the status of these works and for developing recommendations for each record, including potential deaccession where appropriate.
• The approach emphasizes due diligence and consistency with museum best practices. It prioritizes confirmation of potential duplicate records through provenance analysis, Collection Management System (CMS) validation, targeted outreach to Headquarters and Regional Offices, and off-site storage visits where required.
• Where deaccession is recommended, decisions will be subject to a future Indigenous led deaccession jury review, in accordance with articles 11 and 31 of UNDRIP.
• We acknowledge that the unaccounted-for pieces in the Indigenous Art Collection do not reflect that standard of care expected of the Department. All five audit recommendations were accepted and are being implemented to strengthen how artworks are collected, maintained preserved, and promoted.

Current Status

• In 2024, CIRNAC completed an internal audit of the Indigenous Art Collection to assess governance, oversight, and controls supporting the acquisition, preservation, protection, and promotion of Indigenous artworks.
• The audit confirmed that a professional inventory system and conservation partnerships are in place, but also identified the need to update policies, strengthen documentation and oversight of recordkeeping, and formalize third-party storage and contracting practices.
• The audit also noted that 132 items were documented as being "unaccounted for" within the Art Collection.
• On November 19, 2025, departmental officials spoke to the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage on the results of the internal audit. The department has since responded to the Committee’s follow-up request for a list of all unaccounted artworks, examples of past loan agreements, and a timeline for the Department to contact affected artists and estates.
• As of, January 26, 2024, the Department has already confirmed 7 records as duplicate entries and located 6 items, leaving 119 items unaccounted-for. Further efforts are underway to locate the remaining unaccounted-for items.
• The Department has reached out to all affected artists and estates where contact information was available to inform them that artwork they, or their family member had created, is currently unaccounted-for. Contact has been made with 32 artists or estates connected to 47 of the artworks.
• We are continuing to verifying the contact information for and contact the other artists and estates connected to the remaining unaccounted for artworks.

Background

• Established in 1965, the Indigenous Art Centre supports the acquisition, preservation, protection, and promotion of contemporary Canadian Indigenous Art representing a diverse range of art forms from prominent, mid-career, and emerging First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists.
• All works within the Collection are accessible to the public, upon request, through research inquiries, curatorial projects, and external loan programs to galleries, museums, and cultural centers, both nationally and internationally, for the purpose of exhibits.
• Since April 1, 2025, the Department has partnered with museums, galleries and cultural centres on 14 loans, comprised of 110 artworks from the Collection (and counting).
• In 2022, the Indigenous Art Centre relocated the Collection to a temporary Public Services and Procurement Canada storage facility located within the National Capital Region as the previous storage facility was going through renovations. The Indigenous Art Collection also stores a portion of the art at third party storage facilities owned by private sector vendors.
• The current vault space meets RCMP secured storage requirements which includes access control, mesh in non-concrete walls, frame reinforcement of doors, security bars installed in HVAC duct work, and a 24/7 monitoring system that communicates with Departmental Security system.
• The Indigenous Art Centre implements articles 11 and 31 of UNDRIP, as they pertain to deaccession processes.
  • Article 11: Applies to an obligation to provide a mechanism (an Indigenous led deaccession jury) for Indigenous people's right to maintain and develop the past, present and future manifestations of their cultures in the form of visual arts.
  • Article 31: Applies to the effective measures our Department will take to recognize and protect Indigenous peoples' right to maintain, protect and control their cultural heritage and cultural expression, which includes the visual arts.