Indigenous and Northern Affairs

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss proposed changes to the Indian Act, specifically Bill S-2, which deals with new registration entitlements. The main focus was on addressing discrimination and inequalities in the Act, particularly concerning the second-generation cut-off rule, which limits the ability to pass on status. Witnesses shared personal stories and legal perspectives on the importance of amending the Act to ensure equality and prevent the extinction of First Nations. Committee members discussed the need for the proposed law, with some raising concerns about the impact on First Nations communities and their right to determine their own membership. Key speakers included Sharon McIvor, who shared her decades-long experience fighting for Indigenous rights and highlighted the discriminatory nature of the current legislation. Dr. Pamela Palmater emphasized the legal obligations of the government to end discrimination and the need to pass the proposed law as amended by the Senate. Marjolaine Étienne spoke about the impact of the Indian Act on First Nations women and the importance of repealing the second-generation exclusion rule. Several other witnesses, including Grand Chief Jerry Daniels and Zoë Craig-Sparrow, shared personal stories and perspectives on the importance of the proposed law. Committee members questioned the witnesses on various aspects of the proposed law, including its impact on First Nations communities, the costs associated with the changes, and the legal implications of not addressing the discrimination in the Indian Act. Some committee members expressed concerns about the government imposing regulations on First Nations and the need to respect their right to self-determination. The committee is scheduled to meet again to continue its study of the proposed law.

The Indigenous and Northern Affairs Committee met to discuss a proposed law about sterilization procedures. The committee was doing a clause-by-clause review, which means they were looking at each part of the proposed law in detail. Marilène Gill from the Bloc Québécois party proposed two changes to the wording, mainly to make sure the French and English versions matched in meaning and to address concerns from doctors about the law's impact on medical procedures. During the meeting, officials from the Department of Justice, Matthew Taylor and Morna Boyle, helped explain the legal details and answer questions from the committee members. Senator Boyer, who introduced the proposed law in the Senate, was also present. The committee talked about whether certain medical procedures, like chemotherapy, could be affected by the proposed law if they unintentionally caused sterilization. Ultimately, both of Marilène Gill's proposed changes were withdrawn after discussions with the legal experts who confirmed the law's intent. The committee then agreed to all parts of the proposed law, including the main idea and the title. They also decided to send out a press release about it. At the end, Jamie Schmale from the Conservative party introduced a motion about protecting private property rights in light of a recent court decision, which the committee will discuss later.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss a proposed law, Bill S-228, which aims to amend the Criminal Code regarding sterilization procedures. The goal is to make it clear that forced or coerced sterilization is a crime. Witnesses included doctors, lawyers, and researchers who shared their views on the proposed law and its potential impacts. Some worried the law could make doctors afraid to do necessary procedures, while others emphasized the need to protect Indigenous women and other vulnerable groups from forced sterilization. Dr. Lisa Richardson spoke about the importance of ensuring consent is freely given and informed, and that Indigenous women have access to quality reproductive care. Professor Karen Stote highlighted the history of coerced sterilization of Indigenous women in Canada and the need to address the root causes of the problem. Liliane Brassard from the Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Quebec expressed concern that the proposed law could have unintended consequences, such as making it harder for women to access voluntary sterilization and making doctors hesitant to perform emergency procedures. Dr. Mauril Gaudreault from the Collège des médecins du Québec supported the goal of ending forced sterilization and described steps his organization has taken to address the issue. Dr. Modupe Tunde-Byass from the Federation of Medical Women of Canada raised concerns that the proposed law could negatively impact women's health services and deter women from entering the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Amanda Therrien from the National Association of Women and the Law suggested amendments to the proposed law to make it more gender-inclusive and to ensure it doesn't limit access to gender-affirming care or wanted contraception. Representatives from the Department of Justice clarified that the proposed law would not change the existing criminal law framework and would not criminalize consensual sterilization procedures. Committee members asked questions about the scope of the proposed law, the definition of consent, and the potential impact on medical practice. Some members expressed concern that the proposed law could have unintended consequences, while others emphasized the need to protect vulnerable groups from forced sterilization. Several witnesses offered suggestions for amendments to the proposed law to address these concerns. The committee plans to continue studying the proposed law and may consider amendments before voting on whether to pass it. They also discussed future meeting dates and topics, including a potential meeting about the community of Kashechewan and further discussion of Bill S-228.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss a proposed law, Bill S-228, which aims to amend the Criminal Code to explicitly state that sterilization without valid consent is aggravated assault. Senator Yvonne Boyer, the bill's sponsor, explained that the proposed law is a response to survivors' requests and addresses the disproportionate harm done to Indigenous women, people with disabilities, and racialized individuals. She emphasized that the bill doesn't criminalize emergency medical care or voluntary sterilization but targets intentional sterilization without free and informed consent. During the meeting, committee members heard from various witnesses, including representatives from the Canadian Medical Association, the Native Women's Association of Canada, Quebec Native Women Inc., and the Survivors Circle for Reproductive Justice. Dr. Margot Burnell from the Canadian Medical Association expressed strong support for the bill, acknowledging the medical profession's role in unethical practices and emphasizing the need for education and training to uphold patient autonomy. Dr. Jennifer Leason highlighted the importance of addressing the systemic conditions that enable sterilization without consent, such as the lack of reliable health data and limited access to community-based services. Representatives from the Survivors Circle for Reproductive Justice, including Harmony Redsky, Silvia Mckay, and Shelby Ponace, shared powerful personal stories of forced or coerced sterilization. They emphasized the ongoing nature of the issue and the need for the proposed law to protect future generations. The committee discussed the balance between protecting healthcare professionals in emergency situations and ensuring accountability for those who perform sterilizations without consent. Concerns were raised about potential unintended consequences on women's access to reproductive care, and the importance of clear definitions of free, prior, and informed consent was emphasized. Quebec Native Women Inc. President Marjolaine Étienne recommended the bill be passed quickly with clear definitions of consent, explicit recognition of systemic racism, and complementary measures to prevent and investigate violations of reproductive rights. The committee plans to continue studying the proposed law and hear from additional witnesses at a future meeting. They also discussed the need to submit witness suggestions for another proposed law, Bill S-2, by the end of the week.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss a proposed law about creating a commissioner for modern treaty implementation. This commissioner would be responsible for overseeing how the government fulfills its promises in modern treaties with Indigenous groups. The goal is to improve the government's performance and ensure that treaties are respected. Key speakers included David Wright, a law professor, Grand Chief Paul Murdoch of the Cree Nation Government, and Duane Gastant' Aucoin from the Teslin Tlingit Council. Wright emphasized that creating this commissioner is a commitment the government has already made and that it's a crucial piece in ensuring all government departments work together on treaty implementation. Grand Chief Murdoch highlighted the importance of the proposed law in fostering a better relationship between the Cree Nation and Canada. Aucoin shared his experiences with past governments and expressed hope that the commissioner would help resolve issues without needing to go to court. Committee members raised concerns about whether the commissioner would truly make a difference, given past failures in treaty implementation. Some worried that the commissioner's reports might end up being ignored, like those from the Auditor General. However, others argued that the commissioner's independence and focus on modern treaties would bring much-needed attention and accountability. Ultimately, the committee voted to approve the proposed law with some members dissenting. The proposed law will now go to the House of Commons for further consideration. The committee also agreed to limit briefs submitted to 10 pages and allow associate members access to digital binders.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss a proposed law about creating a commissioner for modern treaty implementation. This commissioner would be responsible for monitoring and reviewing how the government is fulfilling its obligations under modern treaties with Indigenous groups. The goal is to ensure these treaties are implemented properly and to address any issues that arise. Key speakers included Paul Irngaut, President of Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, and Chief Bertha Rabesca Zoe of the Tlicho Government. Both emphasized the importance of having an independent body to oversee treaty implementation. They argued that it would provide transparency, accountability, and help resolve disputes more efficiently. They also noted that the commissioner would complement, not duplicate, the work of the Auditor General. Committee members discussed concerns about the commissioner's power and whether it would truly lead to change. Some worried that it might just be another layer of bureaucracy without real consequences. However, Indigenous representatives stressed that the commissioner would provide Parliament with the information needed to hold the government accountable and ensure that treaty commitments are honored. Several Indigenous leaders expressed strong support for the proposed law as it is currently written, urging the committee to pass it without changes. They believe it's a crucial step towards building stronger relationships between Indigenous nations and the government. The committee plans to continue studying the proposed law and will hold a clause-by-clause review at the next meeting.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss a proposed law about creating a commissioner for modern treaty implementation. The goal is to have someone independent check if the Canadian government is keeping its promises in modern treaties with Indigenous groups. Several Indigenous leaders spoke about why they think this is important. Chief Glenn Bennett from Kitselas First Nation said the proposed law is a good step for transparency and stronger relationships. He suggested that when problems are found, there should be a clear plan to fix them together. Chief Nicole Rempel from K'ómoks First Nation said the commissioner would help make sure treaties are followed over time and prevent small issues from becoming big problems. Chief Louise Nattawappio from the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach supported the proposed law, saying it would help make sure the government does what it agreed to in the treaties. Committee members asked the chiefs how the commissioner would help their communities and if the proposed $2 million budget was enough. The chiefs said the commissioner would help hold the government accountable, make sure treaties are understood, and allow First Nations to focus on important issues like education and community development. Chief John Jack from the Huu-ay-aht First Nations asked that the proposed law be passed quickly without big changes. Overall, the Indigenous leaders supported the proposed law, saying it would help make sure the government keeps its promises in modern treaties. Some committee members raised concerns about the budget and how the commissioner would be chosen, but the chiefs emphasized the importance of having an independent body to oversee treaty implementation.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss a proposed law about creating a commissioner for modern treaty implementation. The goal is to have an independent person who reports to Parliament to make sure the government keeps its promises in modern treaties. These treaties are agreements between the government and Indigenous groups made more recently. Several Indigenous leaders spoke to the committee. Eva Clayton, President of the Nisga'a Lisims Government, said that this commissioner is needed because the government hasn't always followed through on treaty promises. She mentioned that the proposed law was co-written with Indigenous groups. Chief Sheldon Sunshine of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation talked about the older treaties, called numbered treaties, and wanted to make sure this new commissioner wouldn't be used to change those older agreements. Chief Pauline Frost of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation supported the proposed law, saying it would make sure treaties are respected and followed. Committee members asked questions about how the commissioner would work and what power the position would have. Some members were concerned that the commissioner wouldn't have enough power to make the government act. Others worried that it would create a two-tiered system for treaties. The committee approved budgets for this study, and for a study of issues related to the Indian Act registration.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss issues related to Indian Act registration, specifically focusing on the second-generation cut-off rule. This rule determines who is eligible for Indian status based on ancestry, and many argue it's discriminatory and leads to a decline in the status Indian population. Witnesses shared personal stories and expert opinions on the matter. Key speakers included National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), Grand Chief Kyra Wilson of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC), and Chief Kelly Wolfe from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation. National Chief Nepinak emphasized that the second-generation cut-off is a colonial tool that undermines First Nations' identity and rights, and called for its immediate end. Grand Chief Wilson supported proposed law S-2, which aims to repeal the second-generation cut-off, but stressed the importance of First Nations determining their own citizenship laws. Chief Wolfe shared her nation's experience in developing their own citizenship law, highlighting the challenges and the importance of community input. Other speakers included Dr. Pamela Palmater, Isaiah Bernard, and Kiara LaBobe. They all agreed that the second-generation cut-off is discriminatory and needs to be eliminated. They also emphasized the importance of First Nations determining their own citizenship laws and the need for adequate funding to support increased membership. There was a general consensus that the government needs to act urgently to address this issue and that consultation should not be used as a delaying tactic. Committee members discussed the complexities of the issue, including the potential impact on resources and the need for community-specific solutions. Some members expressed concern that proposed law S-2 might be imposed on communities without their consent. The committee agreed to obtain a Parliamentary Budget Officer report detailing the potential costs of implementing S-2. The committee also approved a budget for five members to attend the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. The chair will now seek approval from the liaison committee for funding.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss issues related to Indian Act registration, specifically subsections 6(1) and 6(2) of the Indian Act, including the second-generation cut-off. Witnesses from the Department of Indigenous Services, including Lori Doran, Stuart Hooft, and Sacha Senécal, provided information on the current state of registration, the backlog in processing applications, and the ongoing consultation process regarding the second-generation cut-off. The second-generation cut-off means that after two generations of parents with a non-registered person, the third generation is no longer eligible for registration under the Indian Act. Committee members raised concerns about the backlog in processing applications for Indian status and the training of those processing the applications. They also questioned the historical basis for the second-generation cut-off and the impact of potential changes to registration rules on First Nations communities. The witnesses explained that the department is working to reduce the backlog and improve the efficiency of the registration process. They also emphasized the importance of consulting with First Nations communities to find solutions to the second-generation cut-off that respect their rights and avoid unintended consequences. The discussion also covered Bill S-2, a proposed law that includes amendments related to the second-generation cut-off. Committee members discussed the potential impacts of the proposed law and the importance of consulting with First Nations communities before making any changes to the Indian Act. Witnesses clarified that the government is committed to addressing the second-generation cut-off and is currently consulting with First Nations to determine the best way to do so. They also noted that any solution will need to consider the rights of both individuals and communities. The committee heard that the consultation process on the second-generation cut-off is ongoing, with a legal review of potential solutions planned for the near future. The department aims to begin First Nations-led consultations in the spring and summer. The goal is to develop a solution, or a range of solutions, that can be considered in future legislation. Committee members requested additional information from the witnesses, including data on the number of people who have lost their status as a result of the second-generation cut-off and projections on the potential impact of changes to registration rules.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss proposed changes to a proposed law that would affect the Naskapi Nation. Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Rebecca Alty explained that the changes would clarify the Naskapi Police's authority on Naskapi lands and update funding arrangements to better meet the nation's needs, with the full support of the Naskapi Nation. She also highlighted other budget proposals aimed at advancing Indigenous self-determination and economic prosperity, such as amendments to the First Nations Fiscal Management Act and increased investment in Indigenous infrastructure. Committee members questioned the minister on a range of issues, including missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, missing Indigenous art, land rights, and firearms regulations. Conservative MP Jamie Schmale raised concerns about the justice system's handling of cases involving missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, as well as the department's refusal to release details about missing Indigenous art. He also questioned the minister on land rights and the government's approach to attracting investment in Indigenous communities. Bloc Québécois MP Marilène Gill inquired about vacancies in the Cree-Naskapi Commission and the minister's priorities regarding Crown-Indigenous relations in Quebec. Conservative MP Bob Zimmer questioned the minister on firearms regulations and whether the proposed changes would limit the ability to receive external policing services. Liberal MP Brendan Hanley focused on the benefits of the proposed law for Indigenous policing and the importance of passing the budget implementation act quickly. The committee agreed to pay for the study and a land base study. Minister Alty defended the government's actions, emphasizing the importance of working directly with Indigenous partners, advancing self-government agreements, and making targeted changes where needed. She also highlighted the government's investments in housing, infrastructure, and consultation with Indigenous communities. The committee discussed the need for concrete action to address the challenges facing Indigenous communities and to promote reconciliation. The committee approved expenses for the study under discussion, and for an upcoming land base study.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss issues facing Indigenous communities without a land base or modern treaty. Committee members heard from government officials about the process for First Nations to gain reserve land, including changes to policies aimed at speeding up the process. Officials acknowledged that the process is often slow and complex, involving multiple parties and steps, such as surveys and environmental reviews. They mentioned efforts to improve communication and project management, as well as working with municipalities and provinces to address delays. They also discussed funding available to support First Nations in this process. Several Indigenous leaders shared their experiences and challenges related to landlessness. They emphasized the importance of land for building sustainable communities, supporting cultural preservation, and accessing essential services. They spoke about the negative impacts of being excluded from federal programs and funding due to the lack of a land base. They also highlighted the frustration and division caused by long delays and broken promises in the process of obtaining reserve land. Chiefs from Wolf Lake First Nation and Long Point First Nation described their ongoing struggles to gain reserve status, despite being recognized by the federal government for generations. They emphasized the need for political will and a comprehensive approach to address their specific situations. Chief Cassivi from La Nation Micmac de Gespeg shared the positive experience of finally obtaining a reserve after many years of effort. Committee members discussed potential next steps, including gathering more information and working with Indigenous communities to expedite the process of land acquisition.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss the Auditor General's 2025 follow-up report on programs for First Nations. The report looked at whether Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) had made progress on recommendations from previous audits about things like health care, emergency services, and clean drinking water. The committee heard from the Minister of Indigenous Services, Mandy Gull-Masty, and the Auditor General of Canada, Karen Hogan. Minister Gull-Masty spoke about the progress her department has made, including expanding health services in First Nations communities and improving access to clean drinking water. She mentioned that legislation on clean drinking water is coming in the spring of 2026. However, she also acknowledged that there's still work to be done. Some committee members questioned the Minister about whether the proposed water law would respect the rights of First Nations who don't agree with it. Auditor General Karen Hogan stated that ISC had made "unsatisfactory progress" on over half of the audit recommendations, despite increased spending. She pointed out that some First Nations communities have been under long-term drinking water advisories for over a decade. Hogan identified barriers to progress including a lack of sustained management attention, unclear service levels, insufficient support for First Nations' capacity, and a passive, siloed approach by ISC. She suggested a different approach and mindset are needed to make real improvements. Committee members questioned both the Minister and the Auditor General on specific issues raised in the report, such as housing, emergency management, and funding for First Nations programs. The committee then went into a closed session to give instructions to the analysts and the clerk on what to work on next related to this study.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss Indigenous policing and public safety. The committee heard from witnesses about the challenges and potential solutions to improve policing in Indigenous communities. The discussion included the need for culturally safe practices, increased funding, and better coordination between different levels of government and police services. Sandra DeLaronde, project lead for Gi-Ganawenima'Anaanig, spoke about the importance of Indigenous-led initiatives, like the red dress alert system in Manitoba, to address the mistrust between Indigenous communities and non-Indigenous police services. She emphasized the need for culturally competent officers and dedicated units within police forces to better serve Indigenous people, especially women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals. Chief Karen Bell of Garden River First Nation shared her experiences as a police officer in an underfunded and understaffed Indigenous police service. She highlighted the lack of resources, inadequate backup, and the impact on officer safety and community well-being. She stressed the need for Indigenous policing to be recognized as an essential service with increased financial support and better equipment. Jason Jacques, interim Parliamentary Budget Officer, and Govindadeva Bernier, director of budgetary analysis, presented findings from their report on First Nations and Inuit police funding. They noted that while funding has increased, uncertainty and misalignment between federal and provincial funding cycles hinder long-term planning and effective service delivery. The committee agreed to a motion requesting the Parliamentary Budget Officer to prepare an estimate of the funding gap between First Nations communities and non-First Nations communities.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss public safety and policing in Indigenous communities. Witnesses included representatives from private security, Indigenous organizations, and local government. They spoke about the challenges of crime, drug use, and lack of resources in northern communities. They also discussed the need for Indigenous-led policing and community safety initiatives. Lloyd Yew, CEO of Turtle Island Private Investigators, described how his company helps Indigenous communities deal with social issues like drugs, gangs, and violence, often filling gaps where RCMP presence is limited. Chief Michael Yellowback from the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs highlighted the crisis in public safety faced by Manitoba First Nations, emphasizing the lack of resources and the need for self-administered policing services. Hilda Anderson-Pyrz, from the National Family and Survivors Circle, stressed that public safety for Indigenous people is a human right and called for Indigenous-led public safety systems and implementation of the calls for justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Committee members asked questions about the root causes of crime, the effectiveness of current policing models, and the role of government in supporting Indigenous-led solutions. Witnesses emphasized the importance of addressing systemic issues like poverty, addiction, and the legacy of residential schools. They also discussed the need for stable, multi-year funding for Indigenous policing and community safety initiatives. Sheila North, an Indigenous advocate, spoke about the importance of Indigenous languages in policing and the need for culturally sensitive officers. Lyle Herman, the mayor of La Loche, Saskatchewan, described the challenges of policing shortages and repeat offenders in his community. Vice-Chief Joseph Tsannie from the Prince Albert Grand Council discussed efforts to create an independent police force and the need for community-based solutions to crime. The committee agreed to invite the Parliamentary Budget Officer to answer questions about a report on First Nations and Inuit police funding and spending. The committee also agreed to undertake a study on issues related to federally recognized Indigenous communities that do not have a land base or reserve status, as well as those of federally recognized Indigenous nations that do not have a modern treaty.