Good morning! Welcome back to Queen Street Analytics' weekly roundup of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news concerning Indigenous communities, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, and their reserves, territories, and treaty rights.

Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

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Start Date: 2025-03-16
End Date: 2025-03-22

Top Headlines

Main Stories

Canada Settles $1.23 Billion Agricultural Benefits Claims with First Nations

The Government of Canada announced settlements totaling $1.23 billion with several First Nations in the Prairies, including Kahkewistahaw and Keeseekoose First Nations, under Treaties 4 and 6. The settlements, part of a broader strategy resolving 46 claims since 2023, address historical agricultural benefits promises, such as seeds and livestock. These settlements aim to support community investment and economic development initiatives, enhancing prosperity and self-sufficiency.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Innu First Nations and Canada Sign Consultation Protocol

Canada and the Innu First Nations of Pekuakamiulnuatsh, Essipit, and Nutashkuan signed a consultation protocol to foster Nation-to-Nation dialogue. This framework, rooted in self-determination and sustainable development principles, outlines consultation processes for federal decisions impacting Indigenous rights, including environmental stewardship, aligning with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Coordination Agreement Supports Algonquin-led Child Services

The Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation in Ontario, alongside the governments of Canada and Ontario, signed a coordination agreement to implement Pikwakanagan’s child and family services law, Nigig Nibi Ki-win, recognized under federal law. Canada committed $18.8 million annually in funding, adjusted for inflation and population growth, supporting culturally grounded child and family services delivery.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Government Backs Cedar LNG with $200 Million

The Cedar LNG project, set to be the largest Indigenous majority-owned infrastructure project in Canada, will receive up to $200 million from the Strategic Innovation Fund. This initiative, a partnership between the Haisla Nation and Pembina Pipeline Corporation, aims to produce ultra low-carbon LNG powered by hydroelectricity in Kitimat, B.C., aligning with Canada's climate and economic goals.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Inuit Child First Initiative Funding Extended

Minister Patty Hajdu announced the extension of the Inuit Child First Initiative with additional funding of $121.7 million until March 2026. Since 2019, Canada has committed $509.2 million to address Inuit children's unmet needs. The initiative involves co-developing a long-term approach with Inuit leadership, ensuring service delivery aligns with distinct Inuit children's needs.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq Aquatic Guardians Program Expansion

Parks Canada announced $1 million in funding over two years to expand the Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq's Nuji Kelo’toqatijik Earth Keeper Network, including an aquatics division. The Mi’kmaq-led initiative focuses on transferring traditional knowledge to youth, enhancing ecological health monitoring, and supporting Mi’kmaw self-determination through resource management.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Important Updates

Secondary Stories

Emergency Management Agreement with BC First Nations

Phase I of the Multilateral Emergency Management Agreement with BC First Nations was completed, enhancing emergency management services with $2.5 million in new funding for program coordinators in high-risk communities.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Indigenous-Led Advisory Committee for UN Declaration Act

The UN Declaration Act Action Plan Advisory Committee was established, comprising 10 Indigenous experts to advise on the implementation of Shared Priorities measures within the UN Declaration Act.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Indigenous-Led Clean Energy Initiatives Funded

Canada announced over $11 million for 15 clean energy projects across Indigenous communities, focusing on reducing diesel reliance and enhancing energy security.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Jordan’s Principle Funding Continues

The Canadian government announced continued funding for Jordan’s Principle for 2025-2026, supporting First Nations children’s access to essential services and products.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Indigenous Water Operators Celebrated

On National Indigenous Water Operator Day, Minister Patty Hajdu recognized the efforts of water operators ensuring clean drinking water access in First Nations communities.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

FedNor Investment in Indigenous Economic Development

FedNor announced a $108,000 investment in Serpent River First Nation to enhance tourism and business opportunities, supporting job creation and economic growth.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Provincial Announcements

BC Advances Emergency Management Agreement with First Nations

BC completed Phase I of the Multilateral Emergency Management Agreement with First Nations, enhancing emergency services and funding positions in high-risk communities.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.gov.bc.ca

Saskatchewan Budget Invests $285 Million in Indigenous Programs

Saskatchewan’s budget allocates $284.9 million for First Nations and Métis programs, focusing on economic reconciliation, community safety, and education improvement.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.saskatchewan.ca

Alberta’s Aboriginal Business Investment Fund Supports Indigenous Enterprises

Alberta announced $10 million for the Aboriginal Business Investment Fund to support Indigenous businesses and promote economic self-sufficiency across the province.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.alberta.ca

BC Hosts Information Sessions on shíshálh Nation Agreement Renewal

BC will hold virtual sessions on the shíshálh Nation Agreement renewal, discussing key elements and impacts on local governance and community interests.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.gov.bc.ca

BC Funds First Nations Clean Energy Projects

BC announced $1.49 million for clean energy projects in 12 First Nations, supporting sustainable energy solutions and reducing emissions.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.gov.bc.ca

Nova Scotia Grants Address Systemic Racism

Nova Scotia allocated $400,000 in grants to community organizations tackling systemic racism and supporting underserved groups, including Indigenous communities.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.novascotia.ca

BC Celebrates Two-Spirit Awareness Day

BC acknowledged Two-Spirit Celebration and Awareness Day, emphasizing support for Indigenous-led pathways toward inclusion and equity.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.gov.bc.ca

BC Premier Marks International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination

BC Premier David Eby reaffirmed the province’s commitment to combating racial discrimination, highlighting ongoing anti-racism initiatives and legislation.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.gov.bc.ca

Public Officials' Social Media

Terry Duguid on Indigenous-Led Downtown Revitalization

MP Terry Duguid praised the revitalization of downtown Winnipeg, highlighting Indigenous employment and the creation of affordable housing units.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Gary Anandasangaree Announces UN Declaration Advisory Committee

MP Gary Anandasangaree announced the UN Declaration Act Action Plan Advisory Committee, emphasizing Indigenous leadership and expertise.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Sylvie Bérubé Discusses Collaboration with First Nations Leaders

MP Sylvie Bérubé shared her discussions with First Nations leaders, focusing on community aspirations and collaborative efforts.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Ali Ehsassi on Indigenous Housing and Energy Modernization

MP Ali Ehsassi highlighted the government's initiatives for housing and energy modernization in Northern Indigenous communities.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Garnett Genuis Questions Hajdu's Reappointment Amid Procurement Concerns

MP Garnett Genuis criticized the reappointment of Minister Hajdu, citing issues with Indigenous procurement strategy management.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Pierre Poilievre on Collaboration with Webequie First Nation

MP Pierre Poilievre expressed ongoing collaboration with Chief Cornelius Wabasse, emphasizing economic opportunities for Webequie First Nation.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Senator Kim Pate on MMIWG and Anti-Racism

Senator Kim Pate called for implementation of MMIWG Calls for Justice on International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

What We're Reading This Week

• The BC First Nations Justice Council Welcomes Canada’s Indigenous Justice Strategy with Optimism and Support: BC First Nations Justice Council's positive reception of the new Indigenous Justice Strategy.
• How an Indigenous-led development is forcing Vancouver to face tough questions on reconciliation: Analysis of reconciliation challenges in Vancouver.
• New Indigenous Justice Strategy aims to address overincarceration of Indigenous people: Strategy targeting the issue of Indigenous overincarceration.
• Government of Canada Announces Funding for Clean and Reliable Energy in First Nations and Inuit Communities: Federal investment in Indigenous clean energy projects.
• Inuit-led child service project reaches major milestone in Nunavik: Progress in Inuit child service initiatives.
• Indigenous Services minister says economic reconciliation essential amid Canada-U.S. trade war: Minister emphasizes economic reconciliation in trade contexts.