2011 Alternative Federal Budget reflecting traditional Canadian values and caring society
The 2011 Alternative Federal Budget was launched today, containing proposals for federal investments in INAC elementary-secondary education program, INAC post-secondary education program, New schools construction for First Nations, First Nations language instruction, First Nations governance support, First Nations safe drinking water. Aboriginal Gender balance to economic development, Aboriginal maternal child health program, Sisters in spirit, Aboriginal healing programs for violent offenders (see AFN endorsement of this proposed budget below) and other programs supporting community development. Some of these include CED Policy Framework, a People-Centred Economy national roundtable, a national neighbourhood revitalization fund, and a division of the proposed Canadian Development Bank focused on social enterprise, micro-credit, CED and co-operative initiatives.
The document shows how sound fiscal and policy choices can create jobs, reduce poverty, turn Canada into an environmental leader and strengthen Canadian communities.
For more information and to download the AFB 2011, go to:
http://www.policyalternatives.ca/afb2011
AFN press release
AFN Supports Alternative Federal Budget: Focus on Sustainable Futures Based on Fair and Equitable Education
OTTAWA, March 15 /CNW/ - Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo strongly supports the Alternative Federal Budget (AFB) presented today by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives.
"The Alternative Federal Budget reflects our approach, which is to support First Nations so they can support themselves, ensure our children are educated and fully participate in the economic, social and cultural well-being of the country," said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo. "We need to re-focus the discussion from spending toward investments that will ultimately bring greater financial prosperity for First Nations and all Canadians."
The AFB, released this morning in Ottawa, highlights six key strategic areas where substantial investments for First Nations are required: support for First Nation governments; lifelong learning; health and healing; economic opportunities; environmental sustainability; and community infrastructure.
"At a time when we're hearing threats of funding cuts to basic services like policing, housing and infrastructure, it is essential that we work together to identify investments that will provide First Nation citizens with fair and equitable opportunities that lead to safety, security and success for our people," said National Chief Atleo, adding that the AFB proposes to invest significantly in First Nation education as a forward-looking strategy to ensure healthy, prosperous, and safe First Nation communities and to reduce the ongoing cost to Canadians in lost productivity and increased support requirements.
The AFB also calls for an additional $1 billion to address First Nation housing and water infrastructure needs. Currently, some 114 First Nations communities are under drinking water advisories. Housing and sustainable planning and building practices also require immediate attention, given an estimated 85,000 new units required to alleviate overcrowding and backlogs.
In addition to required investments in First Nations, the AFB also notes the need for a new funding relationship.
"We are seeking a clear commitment to sustainability and support for First Nation citizens and communities in the 2011 federal budget. This means, in part, an end to the two per cent cap that keeps too many of our people and communities in poverty with no way out," said National Chief Atleo. "A new funding relationship would mean First Nations could make long-term plans based on multi-year agreements. Based on the spirit and intent of Treaties and inherent jurisdiction, a new fiscal relationship would mean working together to ensure funding reflects real needs and the costs of service delivery."
The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.
For further information:
Don Kelly, Assembly of First Nations A/Communications Director
613-241-6789 ext. 334 or cell: 613-292-2787 or email dkelly@afn.ca
Jenna Young, Assembly of First Nations Communications Officer
613-241-6789, ext 401 or cell: 613-314-8157 or email jyoung@afn.ca
Alain Garon, Assembly of First Nations Bilingual Communications Officer
613-241-6789, ext 382 or cell: 613-292-0857 or email agaron@afn.ca