- Accountability and transparency needed
- $1.3 billion for aboriginal health care
- Private property to be promoted on reserve
CALGARY: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation's Centre for Aboriginal Policy Change responded today to the announcements made at the First Ministers' Aboriginal Summit in Kelowna, British Columbia.
Accountability:
The federal government has agreed to the establishment of an aboriginal auditor general and ombudsman.
"For true accountability and transparency to be effective, the auditor general and ombudsman must be independent of the Indian industry," said the Centre's director Tanis Fiss.
The CTF has long advocated for the mandate of the current auditor general of Canada be expanded to include native governments.
Aboriginal Healthcare:
The federal government announced an additional $1.3 billion for aboriginal health care. This is in addition to the $700 million the federal government announced September 2004.
"It is difficult to view this as anything but vote buying and another empty promise, since none of the original $700 million the federal government announced over a year ago has been seen," continued Fiss.
Property Rights:
The federal government and native leaders agreed to promote homeownership on reserves.
"The CTF has advocated for private property rights on reserves for almost a decade. Better utilization of certificates of possession will help native communities prosper," concluded Fiss.
Other Announcements:- Aboriginal Education:
The government has promised $1.8 billion for aboriginal education.
- Métis and Inuit:
$800 million has been targeted for the Métis and Inuit.
- Indian Residential School:
$1.9 million to resolve Indian residential school claims.