Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat
Symbol of the Government of Canada

ARCHIVED - Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and Canadian Polar Commission


Warning This page has been archived.

Archived Content

Information identified as archived on the Web is for reference, research or recordkeeping purposes. It has not been altered or updated after the date of archiving. Web pages that are archived on the Web are not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards. As per the Communications Policy of the Government of Canada, you can request alternate formats on the "Contact Us" page.

Horizontal Initiatives


Name of Horizontal Initiative: First Nations Water and Wastewater Action Plan

Name of Lead Department(s): Indian and Northern Affairs Canada

Lead Department Program Activity: Community Infrastructure

Start Date of the Horizontal Initiative: April 1, 2008

End Date of the Horizontal Initiative: March 31, 2010

Total Federal Funding Allocation (start to end date): $330,639,806 for the two years. Funds of $165,318,143 in 2008-2009 and $165,321,663 in 2009-2010 including employee benefits plans and Public Works and Government Services Canada accommodation requirements are sourced from the Fiscal Framework, as confirmed in Budget 2008.

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement): The prime objective of the First Nations Water and Wastewater Action Plan (FNWWAP) is to support First Nation communities on reserve in bringing their drinking water and wastewater services to a level and quality of service comparable to those enjoyed by other Canadians living in communities of similar size and location. There are five key activity areas in the FNWWAP: Infrastructure investments; Operations and Maintenance; Training; Monitoring and Awareness; and Standards.

To meet the objectives of the FNWWAP, several program enhancements have been introduced, including a national assessment of existing water and wastewater facilities, consultations on a new federal legislative framework for safe drinking water, increased training through Circuit Rider training program, modifying existing policies related to small water and septic systems and agreements for water/wastewater services, enhancement of the current drinking water monitoring program, enhancement of the quality assurance/quality control monitoring program, and a recruitment and retention strategy for Environmental Health Officers and investment in a National Wastewater Program and waterborne illness procedures.

The FNWWAP was implemented to support government commitments to supporting First Nation access to safe drinking water, in Budget 2008 and the 2007 Speech from the Throne.

The FNWWAP supports INAC’s strategic outcome for “The Economy”: Increased participation of Aboriginal people and Northerners in the Economy. The FNWWAP also supports Health Canada’s First Nations and Inuit Health Programming and Services strategic outcome of better health outcomes and reduction of health inequalities between First Nations and Inuit and other Canadians.

Shared Outcome(s): The FNWWAP works towards the achievement of four outcomes:

  • First Nation communities have an increased capacity to address potential water quality problems;
  • Reduction in health risks associated with water quality and supply;
  • All First Nation community water and wastewater facilities meet federal standards; and
  • First Nation communities have increased confidence in their drinking water.

Governance Structure(s): The First Nations Water and Wastewater Action Plan (FNWWAP) is a successor to the joint First Nations Water Management Strategy (2003-2008) and the INAC Plan of Action for Drinking Water (2006-2008). A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been in place between INAC and Health Canada (HC) since 2005 regarding data sharing related to drinking water. INAC shares information on the proposed water and wastewater infrastructure investments, the annual inspections of water and wastewater treatment plants, and information on action related to Drinking Water Advisories. HC shares information such as drinking water sample results that do not meet the Canadian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines and reasons for having recommended Drinking Water Advisories. At the working level, the Strategic Water Management on Reserve Committee which includes representatives from HC, INAC, Environment Canada (EC) and the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), provides a forum for discussion to share information and coordinate joint action, and to provide leadership in an integrated and coordinated manner to ensure safe drinking water for First Nations communities and implementing FNWWAP. Although this is not a formal decision-making body, it does provide a good venue to promote dialogue and the sharing of information.

Directors General and ADMs from HC and INAC meet when needed to exchange and coordinate action on all relevant issues related to the FNWWAP.


($ millions)
Federal Partners Federal Partner Program Activity (PA) Names of Programs for Federal Partners Total Allocation (from Start to End Date) Planned Spending for
2008-2009
Actual Spending for
2008-2009
Expected Results for
2008-2009
Results Achieved in
2008-2009
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada Community Infrastructure Capital Facilities and Maintenance Program $276.2 $138.1 $138.2 Improved First Nations water and wastewater management The number of high-risk drinking water systems has been reduced from 85 to 48.

The number of high-risk wastewater systems has been reduced from 71 to 60.

The number of water treatment operators with their first level of certification or greater, has increased from 41% to 64%.

14 additional Circuit Rider Trainers have been hired for a current total of 54. More will be hired in 2009.
Health Canada First Nations and Inuit Health Drinking Water Safety Program — FNWWAP funding $54.6 $27.3 $22.1M*
*Actual spending is under estimated because resources from some regions and headquarter were not all properly coded.
Increased capacity of First Nations to monitor drinking water quality. In 2008-2009, 707 out of 811 community sites had access to a Community-Based Water Monitor (CBWM) which represent same ratio from last fiscal year (87%).

A total of 668 out of 811 community sites had access to portable laboratory kits for testing which represent a 3.8% increase from last fiscal year.
Increase EHOs to support drinking water quality monitoring. 43 out of 48 EHO positions were staffed.

In March 2009, 49.2%* of piped drinking water distribution systems with five or more connections were monitored weekly which represents a 5.2% increase from last fiscal year.

A total of 159,431 water samples were taken and analyzed in First Nations communities which represent a 6.8% increase from last fiscal year.
Implementation of early warning database. Six out of the seven regions have a water database in place to monitor sample results.
Investigate waterborne diseases and waterborne outbreaks There were no instances where gastrointestinal illness was identified as a possible waterborne disease outbreak.
Review of water and wastewater project proposals Health Canada headquarters reviewed 13 water and wastewater project proposals from a public health perspective for Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic regions.
Development of a national wastewater program The draft National Framework for the Environmental Public Health Program in First Nations Communities South of 60° was developed. This document contains a chapter which outlines the objectives, roles, responsibilities, activities and reporting requirements of Health Canada’s First Nations Environmental Public Health Program with regards to wastewater.
Development of procedures to address waterborne illness threats on-reserve Work is underway to finalize the procedures, the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) — waterborne threats communication flow charts have been developed.
Development of public awareness and educational materials Health Canada has started to develop an annual success stories newsletter on drinking water and environmental health issues and materials to prevent individual wells for contamination.
Enhancement of the quality assurance/quality control national monitoring program Barriers preventing all communities from complying with quality control standards have been identified and recommendations to address specific issues for remote communities and to enhance the quality assurance/quality control program been made.
Development of a recruitment and retention strategy for Environmental Health Officers Recruitment and retention strategies are on-going. These include the development of an EHO exchange initiative in collaboration with US Indian Health Services.

*Please note that in 2007-2008, there was a discrepancy in the reporting. As of March 2008, 44%* of piped drinking water distribution systems with five or more connections were monitored weekly not 87%.
Total 330.8 165.4 160.3    

Comments on Variances: None

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable): None

Contact information:
Sébastien Labelle
Director, Policy
Indian and Northern Affairs
Policy Directorate, Community Infrastructure Branch
10 Wellington Street
Gatineau, Quebec Canada
K1A 0H4
Telephone: (819) 994-6466



Initiative horizontale


Titre de l’initiative horizontale : Plan d’action pour l’approvisionnement en eau potable et le traitement des eaux usées des Premières nations

Ministère responsable : Affaires indiennes et du Nord Canada (AINC)

Activité de programme : Infrastructure communautaire

Date d’entrée en vigueur : Le 1er avril 2008

Date de clôture : Le 31 mars 2010

Total des fonds fédéraux alloués (du début jusqu’à la date de clôture) : Le gouvernement fédéral a alloué à cette initiative 330 639 806 dollars répartis sur deux ans. Le cadre financier du Budget de 2008 prévoyait en effet des investissements de 165 318 143 dollars en 2008-2009 et de 165 321 663 dollars en 2009-2010 pour couvrir notamment les régimes d’avantages sociaux et le coût des locaux fournis par Travaux publics et Services gouvernementaux Canada.

Description de l’initiative horizontale (y compris de l’entente de financement) : Le Plan d’action pour l’approvisionnement en eau potable et le traitement des eaux usées des Premières nations a pour principal objectif d’aider les Premières nations dans les réserves à avoir accès à des services d’approvisionnement en eau potable et de traitement des eaux usées d’une qualité comparable à celle dont bénéficient les autres collectivités canadiennes de taille et de situation semblables. Le Plan d’action se concentre sur cinq secteurs prioritaires : l’infrastructure, l’exploitation et l’entretien, la formation, le respect des normes ainsi que la surveillance et la sensibilisation du public.

Depuis 2008, plusieurs améliorations ont été apportées dans le but d’atteindre les objectifs du programme. On a notamment entrepris une évaluation de toutes les installations d’alimentation en eau potable et de traitement des eaux usées qui existent à l’échelle nationale, on a mené des consultations sur le nouveau cadre législatif fédéral relatif à l’eau potable, on a encouragé l’apprentissage grâce au Programme de formation itinérante et on a mis en place de nouvelles procédures afin de mieux dépister les maladies d’origine hydrique. On a également remanié les politiques régissant les petits systèmes d’alimentation en eau et les fosses septiques, modifié les ententes sur la prestation de services d’approvisionnement en eau et de traitement des eaux usées, amélioré le programme de surveillance et d’assurance de la qualité de l’eau potable, instauré une stratégie de recrutement et de maintien en poste des agents d’hygiène du milieu et investi dans un programme national de gestion des eaux usées.

En résumé, le Plan d’action vise à permettre au gouvernement fédéral de s’acquitter de l’engagement qu’il a pris dans le Budget de 2008 et dans le discours du Trône de 2007, soit d’aider les Premières nations à avoir accès à une eau potable sécuritaire.

De même, le Plan d’action contribue à l’atteinte du résultat stratégique d’AINC axé sur l’économie, notamment en aidant les Autochtones et les résidants du Nord à participer plus activement à la vie économique. Il permet également d’obtenir de meilleurs résultats en matière de santé et de réduire les inégalités entre l’état de santé des Inuit et des membres des Premières nations et celui des autres Canadiens, un des résultats stratégiques établis par Santé Canada dans le cadre de ses programmes et services de santé destinés aux Inuit et aux Premières nations.

Résultats communs : Le Plan d’action vise quatre grands objectifs :

  • donner aux collectivités les moyens de régler les problèmes éventuels liés à la qualité de l’eau;
  • réduire les risques associés à l’approvisionnement en eau et à la qualité de l’eau potable;
  • veiller à ce que toutes les installations d’alimentation en eau et de traitement des eaux usées respectent les exigences du gouvernement fédéral;
  • amener les collectivités à faire davantage confiance à la qualité de leur eau.

Structure de gouvernance : Le Plan d’action pour l’approvisionnement en eau potable et le traitement des eaux usées des Premières nations fait suite à la Stratégie de gestion de l’eau des Premières nations (2003-2008) et au Plan d’action pour la gestion de l’eau potable dans les collectivités des Premières nations (2006-2008). En 2005, AINC et Santé Canada ont conclu un protocole d’entente en vertu duquel ils s’engageaient à échanger toute information pertinente relative à l’eau potable. Par conséquent, AINC renseigne Santé Canada sur les investissements proposés dans les installations d’aqueduc et d’égouts, sur les inspections menées chaque année dans les usines d’épuration de l’eau et de traitement des eaux usées ainsi que sur les mesures prises à la suite d’un avis concernant la qualité de l’eau. Pour sa part, Santé Canada transmet des renseignements sur les échantillons d’eau qui ne respectent pas les Recommandations pour la qualité de l’eau potable au Canada et sur les raisons motivant l’émission d’un avis concernant la qualité de l’eau. Sur le plan pratique, on a aussi créé le Comité de gestion stratégique de l’eau dans les réserves, qui regroupe des représentants d’AINC, de Santé Canada, d’Environnement Canada et de l’Assemblée des Premières Nations. Ce comité offre une tribune privilégiée pour discuter, échanger et planifier des actions collectives. Même s’il n’a pas de pouvoir de décision à proprement parler, le Comité de gestion stratégique dirige de façon cohérente la mise en œuvre du Plan d’action de manière à assurer aux collectivités des Premières nations un approvisionnement fiable en eau potable.

Les directeurs généraux et les sous-ministres adjoints d’AINC et de Santé Canada se réunissent, au besoin, pour discuter ou pour coordonner les activités entreprises dans le cadre du Plan d’action.


(en millions de dollars)
Partenaire fédéral Activité de programme Titre du programme Total des fonds alloués Dépenses prévues pour 2008-2009 Dépenses réelles en 2008-2009 Résultats prévus pour 2008-2009 Résultats atteints en 2008-2009
Affaires indiennes et du Nord Canada Infrastructure communautaire Programme d’immobilisations et d’entretien 276,2 138,1 138,2 Meilleure gestion de l’approvisionnement en eau potable et du traitement des eaux usées au sein des Premières nations Le nombre de réseaux d’alimentation en eau potable présentant des risques élevés a été réduit de 85 à 48.

Le nombre de réseaux de traitement des eaux usées présentant des risques élevés a chuté de 71 à 60.

Le pourcentage d’opérateurs possédant au minimum le premier niveau d’agrément est passé de 41 % à 64 %.

On a recruté 14 nouveaux formateurs dans le cadre du Programme de formation itinérante, ce qui porte le total à 54. D’autres s’ajouteront en 2009.
Santé Canada Santé des Premières nations et des Inuits Programme sur la qualité de l’eau potable — Fonds obtenus dans le cadre du Plan d’action 54,6 27,3 22,1*
* Les dépenses réelles sont sous-estimées étant donné que les ressources fournies par certaines régions n’ont pas été inscrites correctement.
Amélioration de la capacité des Premières nations à surveiller la qualité de l’eau potable En 2008-2009, 707 collectivités sur 811 avaient accès aux services d’un contrôleur de la qualité de l’eau, une proportion comparable à celle enregistrée en 2007-2008 (87 %). De même, 668 collectivités avaient accès à des trousses de laboratoire portatives leur permettant de procéder à des analyses de l’eau, une augmentation de 3,8 % par rapport à 2007–2008.
Augmentation du nombre d’agents d’hygiène du milieu engagés pour surveiller la qualité de l’eau potable On a doté 43 postes d’agents d’hygiène du milieu sur un total de 48.

En mars 2009, 49,2 %* des réseaux d’alimentation en eau potable comptant cinq raccordements ou plus faisaient l’objet d’une surveillance hebdomadaire, une augmentation de 5,2 % par rapport à 2007-2008.

On a prélevé et analysé 159 431 échantillons d’eau dans les collectivités des Premières nations, une augmentation de 6,8 % comparativement à 2007–2008.
Implantation d’une base de données permettant de détecter rapidement les problèmes liés à la qualité de l’eau Six régions sur sept ont accès à une base de données sur l’eau et peuvent ainsi examiner les résultats de l’analyse d’échantillons.
Enquête sur les maladies d’origine hydrique et sur les éclosions de telles maladies Il n’y a eu aucun cas de maladie gastro-intestinale pouvant être d’origine hydrique.
Examen des projets d’aqueduc et d’égouts Le personnel de Santé Canada à l’administration centrale a examiné 13 projets d’aqueduc et d’égout proposés pour le Manitoba, l’Ontario, le Québec et les Maritimes afin d’en déterminer l’intérêt du point de vue de la santé publique.
Élaboration d’un programme national de traitement des eaux usées On a élaboré la version préliminaire d’un cadre national pour le Programme de santé environnementale et publique dans les collectivités des Premières nations établies au sud du 60e parallèle. Ce document expose brièvement les objectifs, les rôles, les responsabilités, les activités et les exigences de déclaration liés au traitement des eaux usées.
Élaboration de procédures en cas de menaces de maladie d’origine hydrique dans les réserves On s’apprête à mettre la dernière main aux procédures et aux mesures de préparation et d’intervention d’urgence. On a également établi des procédures de communication à suivre en cas de menaces de maladie d’origine hydrique.
Production de matériel d’information et de sensibilisation du public Santé Canada a commencé à préparer des documents d’information afin de prévenir la contamination des puits individuels et a entrepris l’élaboration d’un bulletin annuel exposant les réussites dans le domaine de l’eau potable et de l’hygiène du milieu.
Amélioration du programme national d’assurance de la qualité de l’eau On a réussi à déterminer ce qui empêchait certaines collectivités de respecter les normes de contrôle de la qualité de l’eau. On a aussi formulé des recommandations afin d’améliorer le programme d’assurance de la qualité et de régler les problèmes qui se posaient dans les collectivités éloignées.
Élaboration d’une stratégie de recrutement et de maintien en poste des agents d’hygiène du milieu Des stratégies de recrutement et de maintien en poste des agents d’hygiène du milieu ont été mises en place. Elles comprennent la mise en œuvre d’un programme d’échange, en collaboration avec les services de santé autochtone des États-Unis.

* En mars 2008, 44 % des réseaux d’alimentation en eau potable comptant cinq raccordements ou plus faisaient l’objet d’une surveillance hebdomadaire et non pas 87 %, tel qu’il apparaît dans le rapport de 2007–2008.
Total 330,8 165,4 160,3    

Commentaires sur les écarts : Sans objet

Résultats attendus des partenaires non fédéraux (le cas échéant) : Sans objet

Personne-ressource :
Sébastien Labelle
Directeur des politiques
Direction générale des infrastructures communautaires
Affaires indiennes et du Nord Canada
10, rue Wellington
Gatineau (Québec) K1A 0H4
Téléphone : 819-994-6466



Horizontal Initiatives


Name of Horizontal Initiative: International Polar Year

Name of Lead Department(s): Indian and Northern Affairs Canada — Northern Affairs Program

Start Date of the Horizontal Initiative: April 1st 2007

End Date of the Horizontal Initiative: March 31st 2012

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement): To support Canada’s participation in International Polar Year (IPY), the Government of Canada has invested $150 million over five years. This funding is being used to carry out an innovative and multidisciplinary Arctic science program. The Government of Canada Program for IPY is led by INAC in conjunction with five lead federal departments and agencies: Environment, Fisheries and Oceans, Health, National Sciences and Engineering Research Council (on behalf of Industry), and Natural Resources. IPY will bring opportunities to welcome many top international scientists and other visitors to Canada. Canada’s significant involvement and investment in the International Polar Year 2007–2009 contributes to the government’s stewardship of Canada’s Arctic. The Government of Canada IPY Program is working with northern communities in developing and conducting activities such as research, training and capacity building.

Key areas of the Government of Canada Program for IPY include:

  • new science and research in and for the North, which includes the involvement of northern communities;
  • ensuring the health and safety of scientists and communities conducting research in the North;
  • communication information about the program and the science undertaken;
  • building capacity, through training opportunities for youth and Northerners aimed at enhancing participation in northern scientific research;
  • ensuring that the resultant scientific knowledge and data are properly managed, archived and made accessible; and
  • support for the appropriate procedural, regulatory and infrastructure framework for conducting scientific research.

The distribution of funds among federal departments and agencies is according to their involvement in the various aspects of the program, including the science and research program, support for logistics, communications and outreach, training, and capacity building. Funding is being provided to support Northern IPY Coordinators who act as points of contact on IPY matters for northern communities and researchers. They are working with the relevant licensing and permitting bodies to provide information and advice on licenses and permits needed for IPY initiatives.

The Northern IPY Coordinators maintain a regional network to support all aspects of Canada’s IPY Program. The work that they are doing to identify key issues for IPY in northern communities and organizations, to provide a contact between community groups and IPY researchers and facilitate the involvement of northerners in the development of IPY initiatives are an important component of the IPY program.

Shared Outcome(s): Increased understanding (of impacts of a changing climate and of health and well-being of northern communities) that informs policy and decision making, and contributes to recognition of Canada as an expert on the Canadian North. Enhanced northern research capacity through newly trained scientists, knowledge and skills transfer to Northerners, and greater participation in planning and delivery of research by Northerners.

Governance Structure(s):

  • Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM) Committee on IPY (chaired by the ADM of Northern Affairs, INAC);
  • IPY Federal Program Office (housed at INAC);
  • Director Generals, Communications Committees on IPY; and
  • IPY Advisory Subcommittees.

The Government of Canada Program for IPY works in conjunction with the Canadian IPY National Committee and the Canadian IPY Secretariat who link to the International Joint Committee for IPY and IPY committees from other participating countries.


($ millions)
Federal Partners Total Allocation (from Start to End Date) Planned Spending for
2008-2009
Actual Spending for
2008-2009
Expected Results for
2008-2009
Results Achieved in
2008-2009
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada 56,617,380 21,425,688 9,726,427 Initiate a targeted science and research program to address priorities on climate change impacts and adaptation and health and well-being of northern communities Conducted the second Researchers' Workshop.

34 Training, Communication and Outreach projects were implemented. IPY obtained successful levels of visibility and was able to reach out to young northerners.

Nearly 700 students and new researchers. Program was able to reprofile $10.1M up to fiscal year 2011-2012.
Health Canada 158,234 0 0 Not applicable as the budget was transferred to Natural Sciences and Engineering Reseach Council of Canada (NSERC).
Environment Canada 11,169,875 5,457,673 4,612,984 A new version of the regional Numerical Weather Prediction model covering the Arctic basin is now operational and represents an ideal platform for technology transfer from Thorpex Arctic Weather Prediction Initiative (IPY-TAWEPI) to the Canadian Meteorological Centre for Arctic weather forecasts.

OASIS-Canada has completed four field campaigns including one aboard the Amundsen icebreaker with the new insights gained to be incorporated into 3D ocean-atmosphere models concurrently under development.

IPY-CRYOSPHERE field work extended across the Arctic and one such snowmobile traverse with the Canadian Rangers produced new baseline measurements for the health of the ice shelf in the High Arctic.

Collaboration on both sides of the Pacific by Intercontinental Atmospheric Transport of Anthropogenic Pollutants to the Arctic (IPY-INCATPA) for air sampling and laboratory analysis of pollutants is continuing until 2010. Sampling in the Canadian Arctic shows that the atmosphere carries pollutants from different sources on different days.

Significant progress was made in attaining an improved process-level understanding of freshwater and nutrient flux to the Arctic ocean, improved predictive cold regions hydrological and hydro-ecological models, and the development of a unique legacy database of aquatic biodiversity and environmental information from Arctic freshwater ecosystems. In addition, the program was successful in expanding the capacity of northern communities to conduct aquatic biomonitoring and related environmental assessment programs.
Fisheries and Oceans 31,542,477 12,273,000 12,273,000 Funding for 2nd year of field research Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) IPY research projects, including all vessel costs incurred by Canadian Coast Guard (CCG). All planned research cruises on CCG icebreakers were successfully carried out, with one exception. The planned GEOTRACES (University of British Columbia) cruise was postponed until 2009-2010 aboard the CCG Amundsen. All DFO research programs completed as planned with no lapse (carry-over) of IPY funding.
Natural Resource Canada 3,063,000 1,267,000 1,235,355 Northern Issues: Earth Science Sector (ESS) science is being transferred across Nunavut communities through partnerships: with Canadian Institute of Planners, INAC and the Government of Nunavut.
Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council 31,290,669 11,461,106 11,865,141 Overall, projects have progressed in data collection and analysis with some preliminary results reported. Examples of achievement include: significant advancements in the understanding of sea ice and oceans, atmospheric and terrestrial processes and Arctic ecosystems; the first comprehensive assessment of the Arctic tundra; enhanced understanding of tundra food webs and associated ecosystem processes; examination of the carbon-balance of the Arctic tundra in fungi, vegetation and soils; investigation of seabirds and how they reflect ecosystem changes in the Arctic; insight into the feeding and movement patterns of the Greenland shark; and, increased knowledge and appreciation of the sea ice use and occupancy of Inuit hunters and travellers.
Canadian Institutes of Health Research 9,747,988 3,555,547 3,855,546 Projects have progressed well in 2008-2009. Achievements include: completion of data collection for the Inuit health survey; completion of field research on community resiliency in 11 communities with preliminary results showing links between climate and use of sea ice, infrastructure, food security and health; consultations in several Arctic communities to determine the impacts of oil and gas activity on community resiliency; completion of data collection and development of Northern Canadian Viral Hepatitis Database with preliminary results showing the prevalence and type of hepatitis found in the North; exploration of the impact of the immunization against respiratory illnesses in young children in Nunavik; completion of fieldwork to determine the relationship between past Inuit social strategies and changing environments with preliminary results providing insight into Inuit migration, the nature of early Inuit life and the link between climate change and Inuit society.
Canadian Food Inspection Agency 414,500 161,700 161,700 Developed or modified tissue and serological assays for screening game animals and wildlife for Toxoplasma.

Initiated a national survey to test northern food animals for Toxoplasma and Trichinella.

Developed and used a training module to help build skills and competence in analysts and collaborators in remote labs to test for Toxoplasma and Trichinella.

Completed transfer of food microbiology test capability to Northern laboratory (Nunavik Research Centre).

Completed survey of arctic animals to determine prevalence of Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7.
Parks Canada Agency 1,350,000 608,750 622,789 IPY Freshwater (FW) Systems

Hierarchical Ecological Classification [Nahanni, Wapusk, Auyuittuq];

Developing monitoring protocols for FW [Torngats, Auyuittuq];

Testing protocols at a landscape scale [Nahanni];

Support to eastern node IPY FW systems project (Culp, Curry);

Watershed-based monitoring design [Torngats, Western Arctic, Eastern Arctic]);

IPY Climate Change Impacts on Canadian Arctic Tundra (CiCAT) (tundra) — (1. Multi-Scalar Ecosystem Inventories).
Public Health Agency of Canada 617,000 172,000 403,500 Conducted HPV Prevalence Analysis and established cervical cancer risk assessment protocols in Nunavut and NWT.

Student processed 706 sera received from NWT for IPY project ("Detection of occult HBV in a community-based cohort") — Student analyzed 7 paired sera received from Greenland and 5 paired sera received from Alaska for IPY project ("Mutational rate, nature and regional susceptibility within HBV genotyping circulating in western circumpolar Inuit").

Hired two technicians and a reagent to perform HPV genotyping for the Northwest Territories HPV epidemiological study (6356 samples tested in the fiscal year 2008/09). The technician contributed about 25% of their time to the HPV surveillance project in Nunavut.
Agriculture and Agri-food 156,400 115,900 116,000 Field research completed.

Data analysis is completed.

Scientific papers are being prepared.
Canadian Museum of Civilization 795,200 408,000 190,014 A detailed helicopter survey and testing of archaeological sites were carried out along the southeastern coast of Baffin Island and extensive excavations were undertaken at Cape Tanfield near Kimmirut. The information recovered has added important new information about relations between the Indigenous occupants of the area and the medieval Norse or other early Europeans. Nine fresh water ponds adjacent to Dorset Palaeo-Eskimo and/or early European occupations, as well as one ancient Inuit site, on southern Baffin Island were sampled for palaeo-ecological information and preliminary work shows the likelihood of interesting palaeo-environmental results with implications for the human occupation of the area. Archaeological excavation of two additional ancient Inuit houses near Resolute Bay recovered further information on the settlement history of the site, as well as evidence of two distinct occupations, one of which is very early. Both projects were carried out in co-operation with local communities, and included the training of students from Resolute and Kimmirut.
Centrally Earmarked Funds 3,077,277 n/a     This funding will be allocated to INAC's budget to support logistics and science projects in 2009-2010.
Total 150,000,000 56,906,364 45,062,456    

Comments on Variances: None

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable): None

Contact information:
Kathleen Fischer
Executive Director
International Polar Year Federal Program Office
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
10 Wellington Street, Room 745
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0H4
Tel: 819-934-6085
Fax: 819-934-0584
fischerk@ainc-inac.gc.ca



Horizontal Initiatives


Name of Horizontal Initiative: Indian Residential Schools (IRS) Resolution Health Support Program.

Name of Lead Department(s): Indian and Northern Affairs Canada

Start Date of the Horizontal Initiative: November 30, 2006

End Date of the Horizontal Initiative: March 31, 2013

Total Federal Funding Allocation (start to end date): $94,500,000

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement): The Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program provides cultural, paraprofessional and professional support for individuals, families and communities, as well as assistance with the cost of transportation, throughout all phases of the Settlement Agreement including the Common Experience Payments, the Independent Assessment Process, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and Commemorative events.

Shared Outcome(s): Healing for former Indian Residential School students and their families as they go through the IRS Settlement Agreement process.

Governance Structure(s): Indian and Northern Affairs Canada is responsible for the overall Settlement Agreement and is working in partnership with Health Canada to coordinate and provide services for former Indian Residential School students and their families.

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada also has some responsibilities relating to the health supports, which include:

  • Administration of a national 24-hour toll free Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line operated by an Aboriginal organization with trained Aboriginal crisis counsellors;
  • Communicating the entire IRS Settlement Agreement to former Indian Residential Schools students and Aboriginal communities, including the various components of the Resolution Health Support Program;
  • Facilitating Health Canada’s verification of eligibility for Resolution Health Support Program services;
  • Ensuring that Health Canada’s Resolution Health Support Program is aware of dates for Independent Assessment Process/Alternative Dispute Resolution hearings, litigation, and Truth and Reconciliation and Commemoration events as they arise, so that Resolution Health Support Program regional coordinators are prepared to address the needs of former students and their families.

Health Canada is responsible for providing former students and their families with access to emotional health and mental wellness support services under the Resolution Health Support Program. These services include:

  • Cultural Supports provided by Elders;
  • Paraprofessional supports provided by Resolution Health Support Workers;
  • Professional counselling provided by licensed psychologists and social workers;
  • Assistance with the cost of transportation.

($ millions)
Federal Partners Federal Partner Program Activity (PA) Names of Programs for Federal Partners Total Allocation (from Start to End Date) Planned Spending for
2008-2009
Actual Spending for
2008-2009
Expected Results for
2008-2009
Results Achieved in
2008-2009
Health Canada First Nations and Inuit Health, Community Programs, Mental Health and Addictions Resolution Health Support Program $94.5 $28.3* $28.1 Health Canada will work with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada to ensure that eligible former students and their families have access to paraprofessional and cultural supports, and professional counselling. Health Canada provided supports to former students receiving Common Experience Payments, as well as those participating in the Independent Assessment Process, and their families, in a timely and effective manner.
Total $94.5 $28.3 $28.1    

Comments on Variances: *Planned spending reflects a Treasury Board Allocation of $13,142,783; $4,000,000 of re-profiled funds; and $11,172,400 of funds carried forward from previous years.

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable): None

Contact information:
Kari Nisbet
Manager
IRS Resolution Health Support Program


Horizontal Initiatives


Name of Horizontal Initiative: Labrador Innu Comprehensive Healing Strategy

Name of Lead Department(s): Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (lead); Health Canada; Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

Lead Department Program Activity: Social Development

Start Date of the Horizontal Initiative: June 2001

End Date of the Horizontal Initiative: March 2010

Total Federal Funding Allocation (start to end date): $204 Million

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement): The Labrador Innu Comprehensive Healing Strategy (LICHS) was developed by INAC, Health Canada (HC) and former Solicitor General in response to the 2000 gas-sniffing crisis facing the Labrador Innu to help resolve the serious health, social and safety issues in the communities of Davis Inlet and Sheshatshiu. While notable progress has been achieved, many serious issues remain. To address these issues, INAC and HC sought Cabinet approval and funding for the continuation of the LICHS. The proposed approach responded positively to the priorities in the October 2004 Speech from the Throne for addressing the needs of Aboriginal Canadians.

Shared Outcome(s): The partners, in consultation with the Innu, developed the following 5-year vision with respect to the continuation of the LICHS. This vision is for the federal government, the Province and the Innu to work in partnership to: advance Innu community healing; build increased Innu capacity for the management and delivery of some government programs; conclude a land claim Agreement-in-Principle; address issues arising from sexual, physical and emotional abuse; achieve improvements in health, education, family and social well-being, economic development, community development, public safety and First Nation governance; and, manage the LICHS in an integrated and effective fashion.

Governance Structure(s): Chaired by the Chief Federal Negotiator, Labrador Innu file. Membership includes representatives of the Labrador Innu leadership, Province of Newfoundland and Labrador, and federal partners to the LICHS. Tripartite sub-committees for: reserve creation, education, new school at Sheshatshiu, income support, child youth and family services, economic development, health, and evaluation.


($ millions)
Federal Partners Names of Programs for Federal Partners Total Allocation (from Start to End Date) Planned Spending for
2008-2009
Actual Spending for
2008-2009
Expected Results for
2008-2009
Results Achieved in
2008-2009
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada Sheshatshiu school design $0.1 Not available Not available
Education $14.8 $6.6 $7.3 Negotiate Education Agreement with Province of Newfoundland Agreement in place.
Child, Youth and Family Services (CYFS) $27.9 $7.7 $7.3 Negotiate CYFS Agreement with Province of Newfoundland Agreement in place.
Income Support $6.1 $1.5 $0.4 Negotiate Income Support Agreement with Province of Newfoundland Agreement in place.
Electrification — Natuashish $6.0 $3.5 $4.0 Electrification for Community of Natuashish Electrification/ Hydro supplied to community.
Airport Agreement — Natuashish $0.5 $0.1 $0.14 Current Airport agreement — costs shared with Province of Newfoundland to operate airport at Natuashish Costs Shared with Province to operate airport.
Facilities O&M Capacity Building $3.6 $0.6 $0.6 Facilities Manager to run operations of buildings Operation of buildings for MIFN (dozer operations, fork lifts, training, etc.)
Housing Capacity Building $0.6 Not available Not available
LTS Capacity Building $1.4 $0.1 $0.12 LICHS Funding used for other priorities Training, capacity building funds accessed through LTS regular programming.
Reserve Creation $0.2 Reserve creation completed Not available
Devolution Planning and Transition $0.8 $0.2 $0.15 Improve Innu capacity via: CYFS and Income Support Tripartite Committees, and Education Working Group Innu capacity improved via: CYFS and Income Support Tripartite Committees, and Education Working Group
New Paths (outpost) $1.0 $0.2 $0.2 Complete Outpost projects Enabled Innu to travel into the country as an educational community activity and to live in their traditional ways. Allowed for the inter-generational transmission of unique cultural knowledge, traditional practices, spiritual and cultural values and traditional language.
Strategies for Learning $2.2 $0.4 $0.5 Continued implementation of Philpott Recommendations Transition Facilitator, Ongoing implementation of Philpott Recommendations (i.e. Home School Liaisons and Nutrition Program)
Planning and Consultation $0.5 $0.1 $0.1 Fund committees — Main Table, CYFS, Income Support, Education, Equivalency, etc. Committees Active
Safe houses $1.4 $0.4 $0.4 Operation of Youth Safehouse in Sheshatshiu and dual purpose Safehouse in Natuashish Both Safehouses operating 24 hrs/7 days a week.
Health Canada Addictions/ Mental Health $12.6 $2.6 $2.8 Treatment programs continue through the Family Treatment (in Sheshatshui) and Healing Lodge (in Natuashish) programs Treatment offered through the Family Treatment Program (Sheshatshiu) and at the Healing Lodge (Natuashish).
Maternal/ Child Health $3.3 $0.7 $0.9 Health promotion programs continue through the Family Resource Centre (in Sheshatshui) and Wellness Centre (in Natuashish) Health promotion programs offered through the Family Resource Centre (in Sheshatshui) and Wellness Centre, Healing Lodge, and Safe House (in Natuashish)
Community Health Planning $1.1 $0.23 $0.3 Program evaluation information will inform future health programming in both communities Program evaluations reviewed and action plans developed collaboratively. Community Health Planners hired in both communities.
Management and Support $4.32
(2007-2008)
$0.89
(2007-2008)
$0.1 Improved coordination of health services being achieved through tri-partite projects on integration and adaption of health services at community and health authority levels Ongoing activities by Labrador Health Secretariat staff to support capacity development and program delivery by community staff as they move towards self management of effective health programs, coordination, integration and adaptation of health services delivered in both communities.
Safe houses $1.65 $0.4 $0.4 Program delivery, policy, and operations, continue Program delivery and operations continue at the Safe House. Program and policy development continues to look at other ways to offer programming to youth and women in the community.
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Safe houses $0.95 Complete Construction  
Total $90.92 $26.22 $25.77    

Comments on Variances: Health Canada total funding allocation includes departmental corporate costs. Planned and actual spending for 2008-2009 does not include corporate costs.

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable): None

Contact information:
Ausra Burns
A/Director
Social Services and Justice Directorate
Social Policy and Programs Branch
INAC
10 Wellington Street
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0H4
819-994-4837


Horizontal Initiatives


Name of Horizontal Initiative: Urban Aboriginal Strategy

Name of Lead Department(s): Indian and Northern Affairs Canada — Office of the Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians

Lead Department Program Activity: Urban Aboriginal Strategy

Start Date of the Horizontal Initiative: 2007

End Date of the Horizontal Initiative: 2012

Total Federal Funding Allocation (start to end date): $68.5 Million

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement): The Urban Aboriginal Strategy (UAS) was developed in 1997 to help respond to the needs of Aboriginal people living in key urban centres. Through the UAS, the Government of Canada seeks to partner with other governments, community organizations, Aboriginal people and the private sector to support projects responsive to local priorities.

In 2007, Canada set national priorities in relation to urban Aboriginal issues that focused on greater economic participation, and made a long-term commitment by investing $68.5 million over 5 years to help respond effectively to the needs of Aboriginal people living in key urban centres.

The Multi-year Comprehensive Funding Arrangement (MCFA) or Comprehensive Funding Agreement (CFA), as used by DIAND/OFI, is the funding arrangement used to transfer annual funding to eligible recipients for program delivery under the UAS.

Shared Outcome(s): The primary goal of the UAS is to better address issues facing Aboriginal people living in cities across Canada. To this end, the OFI works to achieve the following objectives:

  • Targeting of urban Aboriginal socio-economic needs within new and renewed federal initiatives, where appropriate;
  • Improving access to and the coordination of programs and services;
  • Coordinating policy research, knowledge and information sharing in the urban Aboriginal area; and
  • Improving horizontal linkages and policy integration within the federal government and seeking opportunities for partnership (i.e. between the federal government, provincial and municipal governments, Aboriginal groups and the private sector).

To accomplish these objectives, UAS projects will strategically focus investments in three priority areas (improving life skills, promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship and supporting Aboriginal women, children and families).

Governance Structure(s): All 13 UAS designated communities have established community-based Steering Committees that are the catalysts for planning, making funding decisions, and coordinating work through the Urban Aboriginal Strategy — along with other community activities — to respond to urban Aboriginal issues. Each UAS Steering Committee is composed of a cross section of the Aboriginal community, to ensure the Steering Committee decisions reflect broad community concerns and priorities. While the structure of the Steering Committees is meant to be reflective of local circumstances, each Steering Committee includes representation from the local Aboriginal community, the federal government, other levels of government and the private sector. The inclusive nature of the Steering Committee reflects the principle of partnership that underlies the UAS, particularly the objective of establishing strong and active partnerships between government and community.

In some of the designated cities under the UAS, federal funding is administered through a community entity (an incorporated organization having delegated authority for delivering UAS projects on behalf of the various partners). Regardless of whether funding is delivered by a community entity or by federal officials or a combination of the two, funding through the UAS is designed to promote cooperation with other key partners (including other federal departments) and stakeholders in support of community interests.

A major program objective of the UAS is to support federal coordination of urban Aboriginal issues. With respect to federal horizontal partnerships, the UAS collaborates with other federal departments on an opportunity-driven basis on proposals identified as offering a potentially good return in terms of advancing federal objectives. To assist in the development of efficient horizontal partnership arrangements between federal departments, the UAS has developed horizontal terms and conditions as a mechanism that allows for the coordination of Government of Canada efforts on urban Aboriginal issues in key urban centres and specifies when it would be appropriate for departments and agencies to implement these terms and conditions in the context of responding to national objectives. Consequently, departmental arrangements and departmental planned spending will vary based on the priorities of the designated UAS city and the ability of proposals to respond to both community and national priorities of the UAS.

The following departments and agencies may use the UAS terms and conditions when they participate in a UAS project:

  • Human Resources and Social Development Canada
  • Justice Canada
  • Public Safety Canada
  • Canadian Heritage
  • Western Economic Diversification
  • Public Health Agency of Canada

($ millions)
Federal Partners Names of Programs for Federal Partners Total Allocation (from Start to End Date)[1] Planned Spending for
2008-2009
Actual Spending for
2008-2009
Expected Results for
2008-2009
Results Achieved in
2008-2009
Office of the Federal Interlocutor for Métis and non-Status Indians Urban Aboriginal Strategy $68.5 $13.567 $13.567 UAS projects will strategically focus investments in the three national priority project areas:
— improving life skills;
— promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship; and,
— supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
UAS funded 138 projects nationally which demonstrated an exclusive or combined project focus in the following national priority areas:
— 81 projects involved activities associated with improving life skills;
— 38 projects involved activities associated with promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship; and,
— 50 projects involved activities associated with supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
Human Resources and Social Development Canada (HRSDC) Aboriginal Human Resource Development Strategy (AHRDS)

Homeless Partnership Strategy

Aboriginal Affairs Directorate
See note 1 $1,648,341 Actual spending totals by department will be known in August, 2009. The UAS partners with other federal departments within the three project priority areas of:
— improving life skills;
— promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship; and,
— supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
The UAS partnered with HRSDC within 16 projects in three different program areas. The UAS and HRSDC projects demonstrated an exclusive or combined project focus in the following national priority areas:
— 11 of the 16 projects involved activities associated with improving life skills;
— 5 of the 16 projects involved activities associated with promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship; and,
— 7 of the 16 projects involved activities associated with supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
HRSDC Programming Highlights: In a project involving activities related to supporting women, children and families between the UAS and HRSDC assisted people affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder with intensive supports and supportive housing. Complementary investments were also provided by Aboriginal service organizations and the municipality.

In another project involving activities associated with job training, skills and entrepreneurship, the UAS and HRSDC assisted trained at-risk urban Aboriginal youth in the construction trades and provided a variety of support services in preparation and during various work placement opportunities. Support services consisted of life skills, employment readiness and certified health and safety training. Additional retention supports were provided including assistance for housing needs, provision of bus tickets and 24 hour access to counsellors to ensure an easier transition into a workplace.
Health Canada First Nations Inuit Health Branch See note 1 $30,000 Actual spending totals by department will be known in August, 2009. The UAS partners with other federal departments within the three project priority areas of:
— improving life skills;
— promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship; and,
— supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
The UAS partnered with Health Canada on 1 project with the First Nations Inuit Health Branch. The UAS and Health Canada project demonstrated an exclusive or combined project focus in the following national priority areas:
— the project involved activities associated with supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
Health Canada Programming Highlights: A project involving activities related to supporting women, children and families between the UAS and Health Canada resulted in enhancing and continuing the Food Program at Aboriginal Sites in Saskatoon.
Canadian Heritage Urban Multi-Purpose Aboriginal Youth Program See note 1 $273,943 Actual spending totals by department will be known in August, 2009. The UAS partners with other federal departments within the three project priority areas of:
— improving life skills;
— promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship; and,
— supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
The UAS partnered with Canadian Heritage within 6 projects through the Urban Multi-purpose Aboriginal Youth Program. The UAS and Canadian Heritage projects demonstrated an exclusive or combined project focus in the following national priority areas:
— 2 of the 6 projects involved activities associated with improving life skills;
— 3 of the 6 projects involved activities associated with promoting job training, skills; and entrepreneurship; and,
— 2 of the 6 projects involved activities associated with supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
Canadian Heritage Programming Highlights: A project involving activities related to supporting women, children and families between the UAS and Canadian Heritage delivered a community action project, "Aboriginal Youth Animation Project", that targets Aboriginal Youth, including street-involved youth and those that face barriers to education and employment. The UAS funding was used to support project activities related to the project Instructor and Production Assistant salaries, youth wages, travel, emergency living expenses, and project completion. As a result of this project, Aboriginal Youth (ages 15–24) participating in the 25 week program will receive a full-time wage, and skills development training designed to assist the youth in pursuing future employment and education goals. This project also supported the development of short animations and a DVD.
Service Canada Youth Employment Strategy — Skills Link

Canada Summer Jobs

Student Employment Experience
See note 1 $256,289 Actual spending totals by department will be known in August, 2009. The UAS partners with other federal departments within the three project priority areas of:
— improving life skills;
— promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship; and,
— supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
The UAS partnered with Service Canada within three projects in three different program areas. The UAS and Service Canada sponsored projects demonstrated an exclusive or combined project focus in the following national priority areas:
— 2 of the 3 projects involved activities associated with improving life skills; and,
— 2 of the 3 projects involved activities associated with promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship.
Service Canada Programming Highlights: A project involving activities related to promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship between the UAS and Service Canada, the “Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth’s project — Career Planning for Aboriginal Youth”, will develop an online training tool. As a result of this project, Aboriginal people living in Calgary will have access to an online training website that will provide e-Learning for Aboriginal Youth in career planning.
Status of Women Women’s Program See note 1 Women’s Program Actual spending totals by department will be known in August, 2009. The UAS partners with other federal departments within the three project priority areas of:
— improving life skills;
— promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship; and,
— supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
The UAS partnered with Status of Women on one project through the Women’s Program. The UAS and Status of Women sponsored a conference that demonstrated an exclusive or combined project focus in the following national priority areas:
— the project involved activities associated with supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
Status of Women Programming Highlights: A project involving activities related to supporting women, children and families between the UAS and Status of Women was intended to reduce the incidence of violence that leads to the displacement and marginalization of Aboriginal women and to increase safety and security of Aboriginal women and girls in Winnipeg.
Justice Canada Aboriginal Justice Strategy See note 1 $95,794 Actual spending totals by department will be known in August, 2009. The UAS partners with other federal departments within the three project priority areas of:
— improving life skills;
— promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship; and,
— supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
The UAS partnered with Justice Canada on one project through the Aboriginal Justice Strategy. The UAS and Justice Canada sponsored a project that demonstrated an exclusive or combined project focus in the following national priority areas:
— the project involved activities associated with supporting Aboriginal women, children and families and improving life skills.
Justice Canada Programming Highlights: A project involving activities related to improving life skills and supporting women, children and families between the UAS and Justice Canada was developed to teach school staff, students, families and community members how to use the principles of restorative justice and traditional Aboriginal approaches to resolving conflict in a culturally appropriate manner. The aim of the project was to also increase the retention rate of Aboriginal students remaining in school and completing their education by providing them with a holistic, inclusive and healing approach to school community conflict.
Public Health Agency of Canada Aboriginal Head Start

HIV/AIDs
See note 1 $173,771 Actual spending totals by department will be known in August, 2009. The UAS partners with other federal departments within the three project priority areas of:
— improving life skills;
— promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship; and,
supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
The UAS partnered with Public Health Agency of Canada on 2 projects within two program areas. The UAS and the Public Health Agency of Canada projects demonstrated an exclusive or combined project focus in the following national priority areas:
— activities associated with supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
Public Health Agency of Canada Programming Highlights: A project involving activities related to supporting women, children and families between the UAS and Public Health Agency of Canada assisted women and their children fleeing family violence situations and wanting to make a change in their life, by providing safe, stabilized transitional housing with many supports to help them become self sufficient. Supports will include: day to day life skills, elder’s program, early childhood program, one on one and/or group counselling, referrals, advocating and supporting the women in all aspects of their lives.
Public Safety Canada Research Unit

National Crime Prevention Canada

Corrections Canada — Policy Unit
See note 1 $727,342 Actual spending totals by department will be known in August, 2009. The UAS partners with other federal departments within the three project priority areas of:
— improving life skills;
— promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship; and,
— supporting Aboriginal women, children and families.
The UAS partnered with Public Safety Canada on 4 projects in three different program areas. The UAS and Public Safety Canada projects demonstrated an exclusive or combined project focus in the following national priority areas:
— 2 of the 4 projects involved activities associated with improving life skills;
— 2 of the 4 projects involved activities associated with promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship.
Public Safety Canada Programming Highlights: A project involving activities related to improving life skills and promoting job training, skills and entrepreneurship between the UAS and Public Safety Canada entitled Regina Anti-Gang Strategy (RAGS) was supported. The project’s aim was to reduce youth gang criminal activity in the North Central area of Regina. This is being achieved through a targeted wrap-around service delivery model. The UAS specifically supported a pre-employment program as a component of the larger RAGS wrap-around model that helped give the participants the necessary building blocks to becoming a healthy, productive individual.
Total $3,222,498 $ unknown until August 2009    
[1] In relation to the Total Allocation column, please note that the total funding allocation for each department will vary year over year for the 5 year authority based on the amount of funding available in the department and the priorities and projects identified by the designated UAS community, as the UAS is opportunity-driven, and funds proposals which are identified as offering a good return in terms of advancing federal objectives.

Comments on Variances: Project actual totals are not known until August of every year with the receipt of the Audited Financial Statement of Revenue and Expense from project recipients of the UAS. This is consistent with the reporting structure of the Multi-year Comprehensive Funding Arrangement (MCFA) or Comprehensive Funding Agreement (CFA), as used by DIAND/OFI

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable): The refocused UAS improves program coordination within the Government of Canada to maximize its investments and enable greater federal program alignment with provincial and municipal programming on a 50:50 basis.

The UAS has been redesigned to better address issues facing urban Aboriginal people. Through sustainable partnership policy development, program coordination at the federal level and with provincial and municipal governments, Aboriginal and private sector partners, the UAS addresses local priorities and engages partners in the process of reducing the level of disparity that urban Aboriginal people face.

The UAS strives to make significant progress along the road of horizontal management as well as shared accountability with its federal partners. It represents a practical step which illustrates how Canada’s government is moving in the right direction to ensure that Aboriginal people living in cities across Canada have greater access to the skills and experiences they need to gain access to and succeed in urban centres.

Contact information:
Allan MacDonald
Director General
Office of the Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians
66 Slater Street
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H4
Telephone: 613-992-8186