OTTAWA — Tensions continue to mount as the federal government faces criticism over its handling of child welfare negotiations with First Nations communities. Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu has emphasized the necessity for clarity on leadership roles among the involved parties, stating, "There has been confusion...should be working with," referring to the National Children's Chiefs Commission and its role.
Hajdu's comments came through a letter dated February 25, 2025, where she encouraged direct engagement between the National Children's Chiefs Commission and officials from the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) to resolve the ambiguity surrounding the negotiations. This confusion is significant, as it has stalled progress on reforming child welfare for First Nations children, who have been historically underserved by governmental resources.
Representatives from the AFN have been assertive, making it clear to the federal government since last year their position to negotiate primarily with the National Children's Chiefs Commission. More than 200 chiefs across various Assembly gatherings voted against the proposed $47.8 billion deal, which was intended to grant control over the on-reserve child welfare system to the AFN. This decision arose after the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal found Canada discriminatory for mismanaging and underfunding services for First Nations children.
Chief Pauline Frost of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation, appointed chair of the newly formed National Children's Chiefs Commission, voiced her frustrations over the federal government's perceived indifference. "They have an obligation to work with each of our regions. That was the whole objective of the outcomes of the Human Rights Tribunal," she stated, asserting her confidence in reaching agreements meeting the needs of First Nations families.
Since the national deal was rejected, the AFN has sought legal reviews to determine the validity and impact of resolutions passed at previous chiefs' assemblies, aimed at redefining their negotiation process. Critics have accused the AFN of using these legal reviews to maintain control over the negotiations, perpetuating the very issues they sought to address.
The negotiations have been turbulent since last year when allegations arose against AFN National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak about allegedly concealing discussions with the Canadian government. Despite her repeated denials, this tension has resurfaced, particularly after chiefs dismissed the national deal and Ottawa proposed re-engaging with the AFN solely at the Ontario level.
Responding to these conflicts, the AFN issued statements reaffirming their commitment to the First Nations' resolution mandates as determined by chiefs-in-assembly. Genna Benson, spokesperson for the AFN, reiterated, "The AFN has consistently made it clear to Canada...once and for all," stressing the need for a renewed commitment from the federal government to negotiate meaningfully with the National Children's Chiefs Commission.
Frost has sent letters to both Haddou and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, urging them to reconsider their positions at the negotiation table. Unfortunately, these appeals have gone unanswered, contributing to the perception among First Nations leaders of being stonewalled by Ottawa.
Criticism of Woodhouse Nepinak has also emerged, centered around her perceived closeness to the Liberal party. Regional chiefs allege this connection undermines the independence required for negotiation, with calls for transparency and increased accountability echoing through meetings among dissenters.
These disputes have not only stymied efforts toward justice for First Nations children, but they have also revealed deep fractures within the leadership structures of First Nations organizations themselves. There is growing intensity around the negotiations, as leaders push for resolutions to past shortcomings, accentuated by the need for structural reform.
Each faction within this complex web of negotiations plays its role amid rising concern for First Nations children and families. With substantial funds on the line and the historic implication of these discussions, the urgency for resolution cannot be understated.
Despite prevailing tensions, the National Children's Chiefs Commission holds confidence for the future. Chief Frost's determination to secure meaningful agreements signifies hope for many battling systemic injustice. This push for reform is not only about mitigating past wrongs but aims toward creating sustainable and equitable frameworks for forthcoming generations of First Nations children.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published February 28, 2025.