Jordan’s Principle backlogs add financial strain to First Nation communities: Manitoba Chiefs
First Nations leaders in Manitoba are urging the federal government to take action on a backlog of requests for Indigenous children to receive timely access to health care and other vital services. The delays in approval under Jordan’s Principle have forced communities to cover the costs out of pocket, putting strain on resources and jeopardizing other important programs.
During the Assembly of First Nations annual winter meeting in Ottawa, acting Grand Chief Betsy Kennedy emphasized the urgent need for Indigenous Services Canada to fully fund and prioritize services for First Nations communities. Many are struggling to meet the needs of their families without adequate funding, running deficits and facing financial strain.
Named after Jordan River Anderson of Norway House Cree Nation, Jordan’s Principle ensures that First Nations children receive necessary services from the government first approached, with jurisdictional issues resolved later. However, the backlog has left some projects at a standstill in the 11 First Nations represented by the Keewatin Tribal Council in northern Manitoba.
Grand Chief Walter Wastesicoot highlighted the significant financial burden faced by the Keewatin communities, with millions owed for Jordan’s Principle requests that had to be paid upfront. The delay in reimbursement from the federal government has left communities struggling to provide essential services with limited resources.
Kennedy shared that a regional Indigenous Services Canada representative indicated that further funding may not be available until the end of the fiscal year. The department has reported providing over 8.2 million products, services, and supports under Jordan’s Principle since 2016, but the backlog continues to grow.
The Canadian Human Rights Tribunal has ordered Canada to address the backlog of requests, with the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society expressing concerns over the lengthy processing times. Cindy Blackstock, executive director of the Caring Society, emphasized that the backlog is a result of Canada’s own choices and called for urgent action to address the delays.
The urgent requests under Jordan’s Principle, which are supposed to be processed within 24 hours, are taking up to one month for review. The tribunal has mandated Canada to develop a detailed plan with timelines and targets to address the backlog before December 10th.
In conclusion, it is crucial for the federal government to prioritize and fully fund services under Jordan’s Principle to ensure that Indigenous children have access to essential health care, social, and educational services without delay. By addressing the backlog and providing timely support to First Nations communities, the government can uphold its commitment to meeting the needs of Indigenous children across Canada.
