Prime Minister Mark Carney’s administration has unveiled a new initiative valued at over $35.5 billion aimed at maintaining connections between First Nations children and their communities, cultures, and families. This proposal, while lower than the $47.8 billion plan introduced by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government over a decade, spans a shorter timeframe and introduces a significant change – an annual commitment of $4.4 billion starting in 2033-34 after the initial $35.5 billion investment.
Before officially revealing the plan in Ottawa on Monday, Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty disclosed the details to CBC News. The initiative is set to reform the on-reserve child welfare system, with a focus on preventing the prolonged presence of children in care, as Gull-Masty emphasized the importance of creating a system where children can be surrounded by their community, loved ones, and cultural influences.
In addition to the government’s proposal, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal is also reviewing an alternative plan presented by a group of First Nations chiefs and children’s advocates known as the National Children’s Chiefs Commission. This competing proposal, developed in collaboration with the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society, prioritizes the well-being and cultural heritage of Indigenous children.
The submissions follow a historic ruling nearly a decade ago that found the Canadian government guilty of racially discriminating against First Nations children by inadequately funding First Nations Child and Family Services. The government’s national reform plan aims to establish regional agreements with First Nations entities, allowing communities to customize services based on their specific needs and standards of care.
Gull-Masty expressed a desire for community-led decision-making to drive the establishment of services within each First Nation, emphasizing the importance of tailoring solutions to individual identities. Despite the existence of multiple proposals, the minister highlighted the importance of collaboration and unity in closing the gap and working towards a common goal of improving child welfare outcomes for Indigenous communities.