Media.Knet.Ca

Lieutenant Governor and Arm Forces press releases ...

Northward Ho! First Convoy of Books Departs Queen's Park for Isolated Native Communities

TORONTO, Feb. 16 - The Honourable James K. Bartleman, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, will host a large outdoor event on Sunday, February 18, to officially send-off the first shipment of books collected from his current book drive. The collection phase of the Lieutenant Governor's 2007 Book Drive, which ended on January 31st, exceeded all expectations with more than 700,000 books gathered.

Escorted by Military, OPP and Toronto Police Cruisers, military trucks packed with 100,000 books will be given a ceremonial send off. Together with representatives from the Canadian Forces, the Ontario Provincial Police, Toronto Police Services, and a performance by the Morningstar River Group, the Lieutenant Governor will be joined by children from the First Nation School in Toronto to pack the last boxes of books on to the trucks and to wave goodbye to military personnel who will be delivering the first shipment of books to 15 fly-in First Nation communities in the far north.

The childrens' books have, once again, poured in from generous and enthusiastic Ontarians from all walks of life. The Canadian Forces will be rushing the books into the north to access winter ice roads that occur only at this time of year.

Media and the public are encouraged to join this celebration, to greet some key participants, to partake in ceremonial native drumming and an aboriginal blessing. Photo and interview opportunities will be available.

Who:

• The Hon. James K. Bartleman, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
• Brigadier-General G. R. Thibault, Commander, Land Forces Central Area
• Deputy Commissioner Chris Lewis, Ontario Provincial Police
• Chief William Blair, Toronto Police Services
• Morningstar River Group & Students from First Nation School

What: The Launch of the Military Convoy to Deliver Books from the 2007 Book Drive
Where: Queen's Park, Legislative Building, South parking lot
When: Sunday, February 18, 2007, at 12:00 p.m.

For further information: Nanda Casucci-Byrne, Office of the Lieutenant Governor, (416) 909-7552

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Military Convoy Carries Books North for Aboriginal Children

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Feb. 16, 2007) - A Canadian Forces convoy will leave Queen's Park on Sunday carrying 100,000 books from the Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario's Book Drive to deliver them to Aboriginal children in Ontario's Far North.

The Lieutenant-Governor's Book Drive has collected more than 500,000 "gently used" books donated by Ontarians for Aboriginal children living in isolated communities in Ontario, Quebec, Nunavut, Yukon and the Northwest Territories.

The Canadian Forces, which provided Moss Park Armoury as a central collection and sorting facility, have volunteered to deliver the books to remote communities in Ontario's Far North as part of a military re-supply mission.

The media are invited to witness the convoy's departure as it heads north with an escort of Military Police, Toronto Police and Ontario Provincial Police cruisers.

Lieutenant-Governor James Bartleman will speak to the convoy crews. Aboriginal drummers will sing an honour song for them and an Aboriginal elder will offer a prayer for a safe journey.

A group of children will deliver a last few boxes of books to be taken to the Aboriginal children of Northern Ontario.

The trucks will carry the books as part of Operation Wawatay Express, in which military supplies are taken over winter ice roads to Canadian Ranger patrols in 15 First Nation communities. Wawatay is the Cree word for the Northern Lights. Canadian Rangers are part-time reserve soldiers.

Some of the trucks will travel more than 6,000 kilometres, driving in challenging conditions over frozen tundra, rivers and lakes. Blizzards can block roads and temperatures can plunge to -50C. All crews must have completed winter survival training.

The departure will provide excellent photo opportunies for both still and video photographers. The Lieutenant-Governor, convoy crews and Brigadier-General Guy Thibault, commander of Land Force Central Area, the army in Ontario, will be available for interviews.

Representatives from the Toronto Police and Ontario Provincial Police, who provided police stations and detachments as drop-off points for the books, will also be present.

The event begins at noon on Sunday, February 18, in front of the main entrance to the Legislature at Queen's Park.

Military and police escort vehicles will occupy the area in front of the Legislature. Media parking will be available at the east side of the building.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Land Force Central Area
Lieutenant (Navy) Joe Frey
(416) 633-6200 extension 5501
Cell: (647) 221-3373

or

Canadian Rangers
Sergeant Peter Moon
(416) 364-0376

AFN press release ...

AFN National Chief Phil Fontaine announces Chief of Staff Bob Watts will become Executive Director of Truth and Reconciliation Commission; Roger Augustine appointed new Chief of Staff

     OTTAWA, Feb. 16 /CNW/ - "I am very pleased to announce that my Chief of Staff, Bob Watts, has accepted a position as Interim Executive Director of the Truth and Reconciliation. Bob played a key role in the negotiation of the historic Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement," said Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine. "An important element in the settlement will be the opportunity for survivors to tell their stories to a Truth and Reconciliation Commission."

     "The fact that Bob has been chosen for this pivotal role speaks highly of the government's commitment to ensuring that this Commission fulfills the needs envisioned by its creation," said the National Chief. "I have asked that Roger Augustine assume the new role in my office as Chief of Staff. Roger is currently a senior advisor in my office, and brings sixteen years of experience as a former Chief of Eel Ground First Nation in New Brunswick, and as a former Indian Claims Commissioner.

     "Please join me in congratulating Bob on his important posting, and in welcoming Roger as he carries out his new responsibilities."

     These changes will take effect on Monday, February 19, 2007. Bob Watts can now be reached at 613-947-6556.

     The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. 

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/For further information: Bryan Hendry, A/Director of Communications, (613) 241-6789 ext 229, (613) 293-6106, bhendry@afn.ca; Nancy Pine, Communications Advisor, Office of the National Chief, (613) 241-6789 ext 243, (613) 298-6382, npine@afn.ca

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From http://www.turtleisland.org/discussion/viewtopic.php?p=8016#8016

Truth and Reconciliation Commission - by Tehaliwaskenhas - Bob Kennedy, Oneida - February 18, 2007

"An important element in the settlement will be the opportunity for survivors to tell their stories. . ." Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement

The first national Truth and Reconciliation Commission in Canadian history is being created this year, as part of the comprehensive Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement.

What will it do?

"Promote public education and awareness about the Indian Residential School system and its legacy."

On Friday, AFN National Chief Phil Fontaine announced that his chief of staff, Robert Watts will be the Interim Executive Director of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. He was a key AFN player in the negotiations that led to the settlement agreement.

A Truth and Reconciliation will have a budget of $60 million over five years.

Former students, their families and communities will be able to (if they wish - this is a volunary process) share their Indian Residential School experiences "in a safe and culturally-appropriate environment".

Short term - the Truth and Reconciliation Commission will undertake a series of national and community events.

Long term - it will establish a research centre for ongoing access to the records collected throughout the work of the Commission.

In December, the leader of the AFN issued a statement after Canadian courts said the settlement agreement is fair and reasonable.

“The Truth and Reconciliation Commission will ensure that all Canadians will understand the significance of the serious harm done to our people. First Nations are determined to send the message to the world that ‘Never Again’ will such a racist agenda be tolerated in Canada.”

For more information about the residential school visit http://www.turtleisland.org/resources/resources001.htm

AFN and Quebec Chiefs press releases ...

National Chief responds to Aboriginal Affairs Committee's report on post-secondary education

     OTTAWA, Feb. 16 /CNW Telbec/ - There is an urgent need to increase financial support for both First Nations' students and First Nations controlled institutions in Canada, according to a report released this week by the Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development entitled "No Higher Priority - Aboriginal Post-secondary Education in Canada".

     "I am very pleased that this Parliamentary committee calls for the removal of the 2 % cap for post-secondary education, and recognizes the importance for First Nations controlled post-secondary institutions," said National Chief Phil Fontaine. "The federal government must provide necessary financial support and ensure recognition of First Nations' institutions."

     The report recommends that the federal government take immediate action to provide adequate funding to every eligible student based on actual costs and acknowledged "a failure to invest in the future of First Nations and Inuit learners now would also undoubtedly entail immeasurable long-term costs".

     The Assembly of First Nations applauds the timely release of this report, in advance of the federal budget, because the AFN has for many years clearly articulated the urgent needs for First Nations students and First Nations controlled institutions to no avail.

     "We have a young and growing population who need full access to all levels of education," said the National Chief. "We want our children to be able to have the opportunity to make significant contributions to their communities, and to Canada."

     The report concludes that "the successes of Aboriginal-controlled institutions should be acknowledged by government, supported and built upon.
In our view, government's objective should be to put in place measures that strengthen and promote the long-term viability of these key institutions for the future of Aboriginal post-secondary education".

     The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.

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/For further information: Bryan Hendry, A/Director of Communications, (613) 241-6789 ext. 229 or cell.: (613) 293-6106; Nancy Pine, Communications Advisor, Office of the National Chief, (613) 241-6789 ext. 243 or (613) 298-6382, npine@afn.ca

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Aboriginal Post-Secondary Education Calls for a Non-Partisan, Practical, Forward-Looking Approach says Report of the Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development

QUEBEC, Feb. 16 - The First Nations Education Council (FNEC) and the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador (AFNQL) have reacted positively to the report of the Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development entitled, "No Higher Priority: Aboriginal Post-secondary Education in Canada".

The report puts forward 10 key recommendations, which need to be implemented in the short and long term by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) in collaboration with First Nations.

Ms. Lise Bastien, Director of the FNEC located in Wendake, Quebec, stated, "We are pleased to see that the Parliamentary Committee has confirmed and recognizes the problems connected with post-secondary education among First Nations. The elimination of the 2% annual cap and the assurance of admissibility for First Nations students to post-secondary education are urgent measures to put in place.

"Another major priority is the availability of basic funding and support for the creation of First Nations post-secondary education institutions. These institutions are an obvious solution for the improvement of academic success among our students. This measure should be considered immediately," she added.

The Parliamentary Committee also recommends that INAC rectify the anomaly of vocational training affecting the First Nations of Quebec, who have raised this question for years now.

"It is completely unjustified and unacceptable that the Government of Canada still demands to this day more studies and analyses in order to demonstrate what the Committee has stated in its report. A number of previous studies and reports already confirmed the Committee's conclusions and if the government ignores these recommendations, it will have to assume full responsibility for and accept the consequences of the First Nations social and economic situation," stated Mr. Ghislain Picard, Regional Chief of the AFNQL.

"The new Government of Canada has the responsibility to act in an honourable manner and to collaborate with First Nations in order to implement these recommendations immediately," he affirmed.

The FNEC has represented 22 communities throughout Quebec for over twenty years now. Its principal mission is to defend the interests of First Nations communities in order to improve the educational services that are offered to all First Nations students.

The APNQL is the regional organization which represents the Chiefs of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador.

For further information: Lise Bastien, Director, First Nations Education Council, (418) 842-7672, lbastien@cepn-fnec.com.

The Centre of Excellence for Children and Adolescents with Special Needs is holding a two day workshop on Thursday and Friday, March 22nd & 23rd from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Valhalla Inn in Thunder Bay. Visit www.lcnorth.ca for full details.

“The focus of this workshop came from a community needs survey distributed throughout Northwestern Ontario, participants identified Behaviour and Early Intervention as areas where more information and training was needed,” says Jodi Kurzhals the workshop organizer.  “To meet this need, we have chosen to bring together 25 presenters providing 18 unique sessions.” 

The event will also feature some talented local youth. The Children’s Aid Society Black Light Theatre group will perform at noon on March 22nd and the Churchill High School Jazz Band on March 23rd at noon.

The workshop will feature two days of sessions highlighting a variety of topics.    Among the presentations on Behaviour are:  Teens who Hurt: An Examination of Violence and Interventions; On the Cutting Edge:  Working with People Who Self Injure; Tough Kids and Substance Abuse; Classroom Strategies for Disruptive Behaviours in Students;   Tapping Hidden Strengths - Planning For Students Who are Alcohol-Affected; The Family Help Program and Distance Treatment; and Enhancing Academic and Social Learning Opportunities for Developmentally At-Risk Children.

The sessions with a focus on Early Intervention include:  Resilient Thinking:  A Tool for Prevention and Intervention with Special Needs Children and Adolescents which is a 1 ½ day comprehensive session; Facilitating Communication and Participation for Children with Special Needs; The Importance of Early Intervention for Special Needs Infants and Toddlers; The Autism Spectrum Disorder School Support Program – Meeting the Needs of the North;  Towards Nutrition Screening in Ontario Preschoolers- Tool Development around best practices and implementation across the province; and Promising Practices for Service Delivery in Speech-Language Pathology Using Videoconferencing

The two day workshop will provide practical information for participants to take away and put to immediate use.

Full presenter information, session details and registration forms are available at www.lcnorth.ca or by phoning 807-343-8196.

The cost is $100 per day or $175 for both days.  Scholarships may be available for caregivers and students to attend. 

The workshop is organized by the Centre of Excellence for Children and Adolescents with Special Needs at Lakehead University.  Funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada, the centre focuses on the distinct challenges faced by children and adolescents with special needs in northern Canada.

Contact:  Jodi Kurzhals, Site Coordinator, 807-343-8196

Greenstone press release ...

Greenstone Community Portal launch helps communities get online

Greenstone, ON: The Greenstone Community Portal, a community-focused web portal, was officially launched today at www.greenstone.ca. Pioneered by the Municipality of Greenstone and its partners, Geraldton District Hospital and Geraldton Community Forest, the Greenstone Community Portal is strategically designed to connect and build capacity for Greenstone residents, non-profit organizations and businesses online.

Using advanced wireless and web technologies to meet the needs of communities in Northern Ontario, the Greenstone Community Portal provides an interactive experience that will enhance communication, offer access to new economic opportunities, improve professional recruitment and dramatically increase cooperation between individuals, businesses and organizations, both within Greenstone and across the world. 

The community owned and operated web portal was primarily funded by the McGuinty Liberal government's Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs’ Rural Economic Development (RED) program in the amount of $747,444.

The Greenstone Community Portal is user-friendly and has been specifically developed to allow the Greenstone communities at large to take full advantage of the Internet,” said Michael Power, Mayor of the Municipality of Greenstone. “It will act as an evolving resource for community information and services, event listings, tourism information, directories and e-commerce business solutions. All of the portal content will be created and developed by local residents, organizations and businesses who want to benefit from exposure on the World Wide Web.”

In addition to providing a diverse range of content, a key objective of the Greenstone Community Portal is to increase awareness and usage of web-based technology by local residents to support the emergence of a more diversified economy in Greenstone.

During today’s Greenstone Community Portal go-live event at the Geraldton Curling Club, it was also announced that a series of training workshops will be held in Greenstone, commencing March 2007. In addition, residents are being offered free access to internet tools such as web hosting and E-commerce shopping capabilities for one year.

“We want to ensure that residents have the skills they need to gain the most benefit from the portal,” continued Mayor Michael Power. “By providing workshops and developing training partnerships within the region, our residents will have the opportunity to learn how to use new technology and most importantly, how to leverage the portal to develop new economic growth initiatives for our region.”

“This initiative will open new windows of opportunity for the residents of Greenstone and provide an effective gateway for communication between government, the public, industry and business,” said Mayor Michael Power. “This entire Greenstone Community Portal project culminates in the realization of our aims to build a global communications channel to connect Greenstone residents with the world through www.greenstone.ca," concluded Mayor Michael Power.

For more information visit: www.greenstone.ca

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For further information: Contact: Stephanie Ash, Firedog Communications Tel: (807) 767-4443; Cell: (807) 472-5276; Email: stephanie@firedogpr.com

Click here to see the REPORT SUMMARY (PDF, 43K)

Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority and Northwestern Health Unit press release ...

Cost of Eating in Remote First Nations Unaffordable

Every year the Northwestern Health Unit (NWHU) and health units across the province, calculate the cost of a basic food basket.  In June 2006 in partnership with the Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority (SLFNHA), data regarding the cost of eating and some staple household items were collected from three remote First Nation communities; Sachigo Lake, Sandy Lake and Wunnumin Lake. The average monthly cost of feeding a family of four in the three communities was $1382.44.

This is almost 200% more than the cost of eating in the Kenora Rainy River Districts in 2006.   In 2006, a family of four on a remote First Nation would have paid about $16, 600 for food for the year. If that same family relied on social assistance they would only have brought in about $14, 400 for the year, this leaves a $2200 deficit before factoring in shelter, heating of homes, clothing and other necessities. “Because of high rates of unemployment and the reliance on the social assistance programs, many people are living way below the poverty line and in deplorable, third world conditions,” says Janet Gordon, SLFNHA Director Health Services.

The food basket is based on meeting basic nutritional needs. People in the north are being forced to compromise their nutrition by settling on less nutritional food to feed their families. This results in compromised health status, increasing the burden of preventable chronic disease like diabetes, heart disease and stroke, which already run rampant in the north. “The cost of eating in the north is unacceptable.  Good food is either unaffordable or unavailable and people can’t keep up.  It’s time for government to step up and support First Nations to meet their basic needs”, says Jennifer Maki, NWHU Public Health Nutritionist.

The food basket results will be used to lobby government for a reasonable living wage, to increase access to affordable food and to ultimately improve health in First Nation communities. For more information contact the Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority or Northwestern Health Unit.

For more information contact:
Janet Gordon
Director, Health Services
Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority
807-737-6125

Jennifer Maki
Public Health Nutritionist
807-737-2292, ext 29
jmaki@nwhu.on.ca

Click here for the Report of the Independent Blue Ribbon Panel on Grant and Contribution Programs

One noteable quote sums it up ... “Government departments are now evolving to become very centralized, controlled environments becoming more and more difficult to partner with in the development of innovative projects. Their unwillingness to take any risks is resulting in the mentality of being afraid to cross the street on a green light in case they might get hit by a car. In their own paralysis, they force this same controlled and centralized management structure on the communities and the projects that are trying to serve the communities with very mixed results.”
(RECIPIENT COMMENT) - page 35

Message from the co-chairs of the Blue Ribbon Panel on Grant and Contribution Programs (see the government's press release below in response)

February 14, 2007

Dear Sir or Madam:

As members of the Blue Ribbon Panel on Grant and Contribution Programs, we are pleased to inform you that we have submitted our final report to the President of the Treasury Board, the Honourable Victor Toews. The title of our report is From Red Tape to Clear Results.

In June 2006, the former President of Treasury Board, the Honourable John Baird, invited the panel to recommend measures to make the delivery of grant and contribution programs more efficient while ensuring greater accountability. We also were asked to identify barriers to access for applicants and recommend changes to government-wide and departmental policies and practices to ensure that programs are delivered in a fair, cost-effective and efficient manner.

Our report is the result of six months of intense analysis and consultation. We employed a web-based technique to consult with approximately 1,100 recipients of grants and contributions and over 500 federal program managers. We received over 40 written submissions and held face-to-face consultations with business leaders, representatives from the non-profit sector, Aboriginal leaders and the science and research community. We met with members of Parliament, the Auditor General of Canada, the Comptroller General and a number of senior federal officials.

We have arrived at three key conclusions. Our first and most important conclusion is that there is a need for fundamental change in the way the federal government understands, designs, manages and accounts for its grant and contribution programs. Our second conclusion is that, not only is it possible to simplify administration while strengthening accountability, it is absolutely necessary to do the former to ensure the latter. Our third conclusion is that making changes in an area of government as vast and multi-faceted as grants and contributions will require sustained leadership at the political and public service levels.

We hope that the conclusions and recommendations contained in our report will inform government policy and in turn enhance the lives of many Canadians. Our report sets out 32 specific recommendations that are presented thematically in Chapter III. The recommendations are listed again in Appendix 2, where they are organized with respect to time frame for implementation— i.e. short, medium and longer term.

The essence of our recommendations can be distilled into four simple proposals:

1) Respect the recipients—they are partners in a shared public purpose. Grant and contribution programs should be citizen-focussed. The programs should be made accessible, understandable and useable.
2) Dramatically simplify the reporting and accountability regime—it should reflect the circumstances and capacities of recipients and the real needs of the government and Parliament.
3) Encourage innovation—the goal of grant and contribution programs is not to eliminate errors but to achieve results, and that requires a sensible regime of risk management and performance reporting.
4) Organize information so that it serves recipients and program managers alike.

Although many of our recommendations can be implemented forthwith, we do not underestimate the challenges inherent in change. Culture change takes time in any large organization, but in government it can take a particularly long time. Of special note, a commitment will be required of politicians, officials and even the media to look at accountability through the lens of program performance rather than simply control.

Sustained leadership will be required of the President of the Treasury Board and his officials. At a minimum, the following will be required:

a) a clear statement of policy direction;
b) a practical approach that starts by making simple changes and then builds from an expanding base;
c) the assignment of clear roles and responsibilities to manage the change process, at both the political and public service levels, accompanied by the authority required to do the job; and
d) adequate resources, including funding for people, training and tools.

Over the long term, we believe that the adoption of our recommendations will encourage recipients and program managers to work together to plan, deliver and report on federally funded grant and contribution programs.

We would like to thank all of the many people who contributed their insight and expertise, including those we met in person, those who participated in our online consultations and those who made written submissions. These offerings of useful ideas and comments have contributed enormously to the value of this report.

We invite you to visit our website at www.brp-gde.ca. There you will find other products of our work, including reports on our many consultation initiatives. We have also made available a PowerPoint presentation that summarizes our work and recommendations in a user-friendly format. There is also a link to the government’s response to our report. Tape to Clear Results

In closing, we would like to express our appreciation to both the former and current presidents of the Treasury Board for having given us this opportunity to make recommendations to improve an area of federal programming that is of vital importance to Canadians.

Sincerely,

Frances Lankin

Ian Clark

Click here for the Report's Summary Presentation

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Federal Government response ...

Canada's New Government Acting to Improve Grant and Contribution Programs

Treasury Board President Welcomes Report to Cut Red Tape

* Backgrounder - Summary of the Report of the Independent Blue Ribbon Panel on Grants and Contributions
* Backgrounder - Canada's New Government Acting to Improve Grant and Contribution Programs

February 14, 2007

Ottawa - The Honourable Vic Toews, President of the Treasury Board of Canada, today announced a series of immediate actions to improve how grant and contribution programs are managed. The measures are a first step in response to the report of the independent blue ribbon panel on grants and contributions. In their report, From Red Tape to Clear Results, panel members Frances Lankin and Ian Clark outlined their findings and recommendations to make the delivery of grant and contribution programs more efficient, while ensuring greater accountability.

"Grants and contributions are cornerstones of the delivery of government programs to Canadians. These programs provide real benefits to people such as promoting physical activity and healthy eating to school children and providing employment programs for disabled Canadians," Minister Toews said. "That is why we promised, in the Federal Accountability Action Plan, to reduce unnecessary red tape to make these programs work better for Canadians. I want to thank the panel and those around them, who donated their time and expertise to this process, for their hard work and impressive report."

The panel concluded that there is a need for fundamental change, that it is both possible and necessary to simplify administration while strengthening accountability, and that sustained leadership at political and public service levels is required.

"Our report reflects the work of a great many people who realize how important grant and contribution programs are to so many Canadians. Our recommendations are relevant, affordable and feasible," said Ms. Lankin. "The fact that there is so much to be done should not lead to the conclusion that the task is simply too large or too difficult to undertake. Rather, it should lead to the conviction that it is time to begin," added Mr. Clark.

The actions announced today will begin the process of change under clear leadership to strengthen accountability for the management and the results of these programs. They include the following:

- The President of the Treasury Board will lead in the development of an action plan to reform the administration of grants and contributions with a view to ensuring they deliver clear results in the most effective and efficient way possible within a sensible risk management framework. The government will continue to consult with the recipient community as this action plan is developed.
- As a first step in the development of this action plan, Treasury Board Secretariat will work with selected departments to examine business processes to identify opportunities for improved service and efficiencies. Based on the results of this review, departments will develop their own action plans to streamline internal practices and reduce administrative burdens.
- The government will establish a centre of expertise on grants and contributions, to share best practices, and to promote innovation in program administration.

"Time and money are being wasted administering rules and processes that add little to results and nothing to accountability. The actions I am announcing today will allow for programs to be managed more effectively and efficiently and to deliver real results. These actions deliver on our promise to strengthen accountability and management and make these programs work better," Minister Toews added. "We are getting back to first principles- delivering good programs to Canadians."

Each year, the government delivers nearly $27 billion to Canadians through more than 800 grant and contribution programs.

"Panel members were thoughtful, qualified individuals and the process allowed for considerable sector input. Looking forward, we urge the government to focus on taking action and on continued meaningful engagement of the recipient community in the implementation process," says Georgina Steinsky-Schwartz, President and CEO of Imagine Canada.

"It is important that government periodically review its practices and that those affected have the opportunity to participate," said Terry Goodtrack, Chief Operating Officer of the Aboriginal Healing Foundation. "I look forward to reductions-brought about by these recommendations-in the administrative burden placed upon First Nations communities."

The report of the panel can be found at http://www.brp-gde.ca/. Attached are backgrounders that summarize the report and outline the government's actions.

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For more information, contact:

Mike Storeshaw
Director of Communications
Office of the President of the Treasury Board
(613) 957-2666

Robert Makichuk
Chief, Media Relations
Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat
(613) 957-2391

Gary Breen
Blue Ribbon Panel
(613) 762-4673

ASSEMBLY OF FIRST NATIONS press release

First Nations women leaders issue strong statement at conclusion of historic meeting
 
VANCOUVER, Feb. 14 /CNW Telbec/ - First Nations women chiefs and councillors released an eleven point consensus statement today following the conclusion of an historic three-day meeting in Vancouver. Critical issues such as poverty, matrimonial real property, the central role of women in sustainable communities, and First Nations jurisdiction were discussed and debated.

"The strength, knowledge, and capacity of our women leaders must be heard and honoured by all First Nations, and all Canadians," said Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine. "I guarantee that this consensus statement will be taken very seriously and will be acted upon by the AFN."

The following is the complete consensus statement:

"First Nations Women Chiefs and Councillors are mad as hell with Crown government interference in our lives and we're not going to take it anymore.

For the first time in modern history, First Nation Women Chiefs and Councillors, from all across Canada, gathered in unity at the Assembly of First Nations National Forum for First Nation Women Chiefs ("Forum") in Vancouver, British Columbia on February 12-14, 2007. First Nations Women Chiefs and Councillors express their overwhelming concern and frustration with the current situation facing First Nations communities, families and children.

This Statement represents the unanimous voice of the Women Chiefs and Councillors present at the Forum to address critical issues affecting our Nations, families and our future to compel change and make progress.

The following statements were adopted by the First Nation Women Chiefs and Councillors:

1. First Nations Women Chiefs and Councillors honor the spirit and intent of the original relationship between First Nations and the British Crown to live in peaceful co-existence, without interference, and to uphold the unceded Inherent authorities given to us by the Creator.
    
2. First Nations in Canada are Nations with pre-existing collective rights, responsibilities, languages, cultures, territories and laws.
    
3. We maintain our authority to be the law-makers and caretakers of our Nations, our families and our land. First Nation holistic laws will continue to guide our decision making in the face of any and all federal, provincial and territorial legislation. The Crown continues to breach this original compact and interfere with this Inherent jurisdiction, thereby creating and perpetuating poverty conditions amongst our peoples.
    
4. Our collective Inherent and Treaty rights must not be diminished or adversely impacted in the development of federal, provincial and territorial law and policy.
    
5. The First Nations Women Chiefs and Councillors will stand with First Nations governments to advance a comprehensive plan for accountability of all governments, the protection of collective rights and to eradicate poverty and social injustice.
    
6. First Nations Women Chiefs and Councillors will ensure that our lands, families and children are cared for; ensure that our rights are respected and upheld; and we will be responsible for the decisions that affect our lives. We will not relinquish our rights at the expense of our lands, families and future.
    
7. Negotiations and consultations regarding any federal, provincial or territorial initiatives that impact pre-existing Inherent First Nation jurisdictions and Treaty rights must take place with leadership of First Nations governments.
    
8. Solutions can be achieved locally, regionally, and nationally by working collectively. First Nations Women Chiefs and Councillors call upon the Government of Canada to work together with First Nations to co-create a new future for all our people.
     
9. The cycle of poverty, violence, lack of access to quality health care and education, and the non-recognition of Inherent First Nations jurisdiction continue to be perpetuated in federal genocide and assimilationist policies and approaches.
    
10. First Nation Women Chiefs and Councillors are united to oppose attempts by the federal government to unilaterally impose legislation and policy such as its initiatives currently reflected in the matrimonial real property process, and the repeal of section 67 of the Canadian Human Rights Act. These federal initiatives that diminish or adversely impact upon our unceded Inherent authorities will be rejected.
      
11. We will accomplish this through collective action that supports systemic change. We will stand with the leadership of First Nation governments to advance a comprehensive plan for accountability of all governments; the protection of collective rights; and to eradicate poverty and social injustice in our communities."

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.

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/For further information: Nancy Pine, Communications Advisor, Office of the National Chief, (613) 241-6789 ext 243, (613) 298-6382, npine@afn.ca; Bryan Hendry, A/Director of Communications, (613) 241-6789 ext 229, (613) 293-6106, bhendry@afn.ca/

CHIEFS OF ONTARIO press release

Standing Committee on Aboriginal Peoples report calls on federal government to remove decade old cap on First Nations post-secondary funding

     TORONTO, Feb. 13 /CNW/ - "No Higher Priority - Aboriginal Post-Secondary Education in Canada" is the title of an important report tabled in Parliament this week by the Standing Committee on Aboriginal Peoples and Northern Development. The report recommends the immediate removal of the 2% cap on Aboriginal post-secondary education spending which has been in place since 1996.

     "Federal post-secondary support has not kept pace with inflation, population increases, or provincial spending for post-secondary education" stated Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse. He further added that "the recommendation by the Standing Committee to remove this discretionary cap is the most significant measure which the federal government can implement to ensure more First Nations people have the opportunity to access post-secondary education."

     "No Higher Priority" also calls upon provincial governments to address accreditation and funding challenges facing First Nations controlled post-secondary institutions. The Regional Chief pointed out that First Nations controlled post-secondary institutions in Ontario have proven to be more effective for First Nations students than mainstream colleges and universities. "It is time to ensure that First Nations controlled post secondary institutions are able to take their proper place alongside provincially recognized colleges and universities as equal partners" states Regional Chief Toulouse.

     Regional Chief Toulouse identified the ongoing jurisdictional disputes between the federal and provincial governments' is a detriment to addressing the issues, as neither level of government accepts responsibility for the issue of First Nations post-secondary institutions. The Regional Chief further noted that the recommendations and proposals contained within the report provide a reasonable foundation for addressing the gaps which exist in First Nations post-secondary education. "I want to express my appreciation to the members of the Standing Committee for this report and for encouraging all parties in the House to work cooperatively and expeditiously to ensure the implementation of the proposals and recommendations."

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/For further information: Pam Hunter, Communications Advisor, (905) 683-0322 or (613) 203-3233/

Northern Ontario School of Medicine press release - February 13, 2007
 
Northern Ontario Aboriginal Communities Prepare to Host Medical Students

Today, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine hosts the “Sharing Experiences” workshop.  Representatives of the 28 Aboriginal communities which will host first-year medical students are meeting at the School’s West and East campuses.  

From April 30 to May 25, 2007, first year NOSM students will spend four weeks on placement in remote and rural Aboriginal communities in Northern Ontario.  Workshop participants include the Local Community Coordinators (LCCs) who will provide liaison between NOSM and the students.  The LCCs represent the three major treaty organizations, Métis Nation of Ontario and health access centres of Northern Ontario. 

The two-day “Sharing Experiences” workshop provides participants with an overview of NOSM and its unique mandate and curriculum.  Experiences and lessons learned from last year’s placements will be discussed and applied to the development of weekly student schedules for the 2007 placements.  In addition, participants will tour the NOSM facilities and meet the students and many faculty members. 

The community placements enable medical students to learn the clinical skills required for the curriculum and examine the roles of health care providers in rural and remote settings.  Placements occur in clinical settings such as urgent care, after hours clinics, youth and school programs, substance abuse centres, outpatient settings with RNs, MDs and visiting health care professionals.

Culturally-focused activities are also a large aspect of the community placements.  Students will participate in activities such as feasts, hunting and fishing.  NOSM Director of Aboriginal Affairs, Orpah McKenzie, says the students will gain an understanding of the relevance of community culture to lifestyle and health.  “Immersion in these remote, rural Aboriginal communities broadens students’ cultural awareness and strengthens their communications skills,” she explains. “These are integral skills for effective medical practice in Northern Ontario.”   

Throughout their four years of medical school, NOSM students will experience several placements in Northern Ontario communities, and these placements in Aboriginal communities mark the first placement for first-year students.  NOSM’s Director of Undergraduate Medical Education Programs, Marie Matte says students receive the widest possible experience through distributed learning.  “Community based education ensures that students gain a diversity of clinical knowledge and skills, as well as experience for themselves the special features of Northern Ontario.”  

The Northern Ontario School of Medicine is a pioneering faculty of medicine. The School is a joint initiative of Lakehead and Laurentian Universities with main campuses in Thunder Bay and Sudbury, and multiple teaching and research sites across Northern Ontario. By educating skilled physicians and undertaking health research suited to community needs, the School will become a cornerstone of community health care in Northern Ontario.

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For further information, contact:
Tracie Smith
Communications Officer - West
807-766-7314
Tracie.Smith@normed.ca

Yonaniko Grenon
Communications Officer - East
705-662-7243
Yonaniko.Grenon@normed.ca