Indigenous and Northern Affairs

The committee met to discuss a proposed law, Bill S-2, which aims to remove a rule in the Indian Act that limits who can be recognized as an "Indian" by the federal government. Witnesses strongly urged the committee to pass this proposed law quickly to end discrimination and allow First Nations to determine their own members. Chief Sidney Peters of the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaw Chiefs explained how the current "second-generation cut-off" rule is discriminatory and rooted in colonial policies. He shared a personal story about his niece, whose children will not receive support because of their status, and emphasized that Mi'kmaq people take care of their own. Deputy Chief Jeff Forbes of Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation echoed these concerns, stating that the rule is an artificial limit on identity and has personally affected his own children, who are denied status. He highlighted the urgency, warning that his nation faces extinction within this century if the rule is not removed. Both chiefs stressed that First Nations, not the federal government, should decide who belongs to their communities. Lawyer Drew Lafond argued that the federal Indian status system must be replaced by a system where First Nations have full control over their own citizenship. He called the current system a "constitutional deficiency" and a "sustained act of colonial control." While supporting the immediate removal of the "second-generation cut-off" as an urgent step, he stressed it's not a complete solution. Chief Delbert Wapass of Thunderchild First Nation reinforced this, stating that his nation has inherent sovereignty and the right to govern its people. He called the Indian Act's rules a "disappearing Indian formula" and urged the government to stop delaying justice. Committee members questioned the government's commitment to reconciliation and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) if the discriminatory rules remain. They also discussed the recent court decision denying the government an extension on a related case, which adds to the urgency. Witnesses agreed that while passing Bill S-2 is a crucial immediate step, a long-term solution is needed to transfer full control of citizenship and membership to First Nations, with adequate resources and safeguards.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss proposed changes to the Indian Act, specifically focusing on a proposed law to address discrimination in registration entitlements. Witnesses included Senator Michèle Audette, Dalia Edwards, Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler, and Chief Derek Epp with Councillor Hayden Guilderson. Senator Audette emphasized the need to eliminate discriminatory provisions, particularly those affecting the second generation, and highlighted that the government itself acknowledges the discrimination. Dalia Edwards shared her personal experiences with the impacts of the proposed law on her family and the importance of including Indigenous children in their communities. Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler stressed the importance of giving authority back to Indigenous communities to determine their own members and dismantling colonial structures. Chief Derek Epp and Councillor Hayden Guilderson spoke in support of the proposed law, highlighting the risk of legislative extinction their nation faces due to current laws. They recommended an opt-in, nation-to-nation implementation approach that includes fiscal planning, capacity support, and respect for First Nations' jurisdiction. During the question period, committee members discussed the potential costs and implications of the proposed changes, as well as the need for further consultation. Some members expressed concern about the government's commitment to addressing discrimination and the potential for delays in implementation. The committee also heard from a second panel of witnesses, including Cynthia Lapierre, Chief Marsha Smoke, National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, and Mario Huneault, who shared their perspectives on the proposed law and its potential impact on Indigenous communities. Chief Smoke stated that the Anishinabek Nation supports the immediate passage of the proposed law, including the Senate amendments and the one-parent rule to eliminate the second-generation cut-off. National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak called for a co-developed national implementation framework once the proposed law passes, emphasizing the need for stable funding and respect for First Nations' jurisdiction. Mario Huneault shared his personal story and urged the committee to pass the proposed law to end the suffering of families affected by exclusion after the second generation. Ultimately, the committee agreed to undertake a study of affordability challenges in northern Canada, while also continuing its work on the proposed law to amend the Indian Act. The committee also agreed to invite the Minister of Northern Affairs to appear before the committee to discuss affordability challenges in the north.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss proposed changes to the Indian Act, specifically regarding who is eligible for Indian status. The main focus was on Bill S-2, which aims to address inequities in registration, including the second-generation cut-off rule that has caused division within families. Witnesses shared personal stories of how the Indian Act has affected their families, leading to loss of identity, community, and access to benefits. Some argued for the immediate passage of the proposed changes, while others raised concerns about the lack of consultation with First Nations and the potential impact on community resources. Key speakers included Senator Mary Jane McCallum, who emphasized the Senate's role in ensuring the proposed law is fair and respects the rights of First Nations. Patty Fraser shared her family's experience with enfranchisement and the lasting consequences of losing status. Joshua Wesley Havill spoke about how the current rules prevent his children from obtaining status, impacting their access to important services. Marilyn Slett, representing the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs, urged the committee to pass the proposed law without further delay, highlighting the discrimination faced by First Nations women. Chief Jeremiah Johnson of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke expressed concerns about the proposed law's impact on their community and the need for Canada to respect Indigenous laws and governance. Carey Price, a professional hockey player and member of Ulkatcho First Nation, shared his personal experience with the Indian Act and how it has affected his children. Lynda Price, Carey's mother, provided a detailed explanation of how the Indian Act has discriminated against her grandchildren. Jo-Anne Green spoke about her family's struggle to regain status and the barriers created by the second-generation cut-off. Dave Lamouche, president of the Metis Settlements General Council, supported the deregistration provision in the proposed law, which would allow individuals to choose their identity. Committee members questioned the witnesses on various aspects of the proposed law, including the consultation process, the impact on self-determination, and the potential financial implications. There was discussion about whether the Prime Minister's office had interfered with the Senate's work on the proposed law. Several witnesses urged the committee to pass the proposed law as amended by the Senate, emphasizing the need to address the discrimination and inequities caused by the current Indian Act. The committee adjourned without making any decisions, but the discussion highlighted the complex issues surrounding Indian status and the need for further action.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss proposed changes to the Indian Act related to registration entitlements. The main focus was on Bill S-2 and its potential to eliminate the second-generation cut-off, a rule that limits status inheritance. Witnesses shared personal stories and legal arguments about the discriminatory impacts of the current Indian Act, particularly on women and their descendants. They emphasized the need to end sex and race discrimination to promote equality and cultural preservation. Key speakers included Kathryn Fournier, Ryan Beaton, Jeannette Corbiere Lavell, Mary Hannaburg, Dawn Lavell Harvard, Steven Bentley, Mark Nixdorf, Grand Chief Math’ieya Alatini, Shelagh Day, Mary Eberts, Wilton Littlechild, and Ingrid Green. Fournier and Beaton discussed their legal challenge to the enfranchisement provisions of the Indian Act. Lavell and Hannaburg shared their experiences with discrimination and the importance of cultural belonging. Harvard highlighted the mental health crisis among Indigenous youth and the need for a strong cultural identity. Bentley and Nixdorf spoke about the historical removal of the Edmonton Stragglers and the challenges they face in registration. Alatini, Day, Eberts, Littlechild, and Green all spoke in favor of the Senate amendments to Bill S-2, which would eliminate the second-generation cut-off. They argued that further consultation is unnecessary and that the committee should vote on the bill immediately. Littlechild proposed a solution with three elements: the UN declaration, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action, and the treaty. The committee agreed to undertake a review of key findings, recommendations, and themes originating from the Permanent Forum Session Report of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII), and allocate at least one meeting to this topic each calendar year.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss proposed changes to the Indian Act, specifically Bill S-2, which deals with new registration entitlements. The main focus was on addressing discrimination and inequalities in the Act, particularly concerning the second-generation cut-off rule, which limits the ability to pass on status. Witnesses shared personal stories and legal perspectives on the importance of amending the Act to ensure equality and prevent the extinction of First Nations. Committee members discussed the need for the proposed law, with some raising concerns about the impact on First Nations communities and their right to determine their own membership. Key speakers included Sharon McIvor, who shared her decades-long experience fighting for Indigenous rights and highlighted the discriminatory nature of the current legislation. Dr. Pamela Palmater emphasized the legal obligations of the government to end discrimination and the need to pass the proposed law as amended by the Senate. Marjolaine Étienne spoke about the impact of the Indian Act on First Nations women and the importance of repealing the second-generation exclusion rule. Several other witnesses, including Grand Chief Jerry Daniels and Zoë Craig-Sparrow, shared personal stories and perspectives on the importance of the proposed law. Committee members questioned the witnesses on various aspects of the proposed law, including its impact on First Nations communities, the costs associated with the changes, and the legal implications of not addressing the discrimination in the Indian Act. Some committee members expressed concerns about the government imposing regulations on First Nations and the need to respect their right to self-determination. The committee is scheduled to meet again to continue its study of the proposed law.

The Indigenous and Northern Affairs Committee met to discuss a proposed law about sterilization procedures. The committee was doing a clause-by-clause review, which means they were looking at each part of the proposed law in detail. Marilène Gill from the Bloc Québécois party proposed two changes to the wording, mainly to make sure the French and English versions matched in meaning and to address concerns from doctors about the law's impact on medical procedures. During the meeting, officials from the Department of Justice, Matthew Taylor and Morna Boyle, helped explain the legal details and answer questions from the committee members. Senator Boyer, who introduced the proposed law in the Senate, was also present. The committee talked about whether certain medical procedures, like chemotherapy, could be affected by the proposed law if they unintentionally caused sterilization. Ultimately, both of Marilène Gill's proposed changes were withdrawn after discussions with the legal experts who confirmed the law's intent. The committee then agreed to all parts of the proposed law, including the main idea and the title. They also decided to send out a press release about it. At the end, Jamie Schmale from the Conservative party introduced a motion about protecting private property rights in light of a recent court decision, which the committee will discuss later.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss a proposed law, Bill S-228, which aims to amend the Criminal Code regarding sterilization procedures. The goal is to make it clear that forced or coerced sterilization is a crime. Witnesses included doctors, lawyers, and researchers who shared their views on the proposed law and its potential impacts. Some worried the law could make doctors afraid to do necessary procedures, while others emphasized the need to protect Indigenous women and other vulnerable groups from forced sterilization. Dr. Lisa Richardson spoke about the importance of ensuring consent is freely given and informed, and that Indigenous women have access to quality reproductive care. Professor Karen Stote highlighted the history of coerced sterilization of Indigenous women in Canada and the need to address the root causes of the problem. Liliane Brassard from the Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Quebec expressed concern that the proposed law could have unintended consequences, such as making it harder for women to access voluntary sterilization and making doctors hesitant to perform emergency procedures. Dr. Mauril Gaudreault from the Collège des médecins du Québec supported the goal of ending forced sterilization and described steps his organization has taken to address the issue. Dr. Modupe Tunde-Byass from the Federation of Medical Women of Canada raised concerns that the proposed law could negatively impact women's health services and deter women from entering the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Amanda Therrien from the National Association of Women and the Law suggested amendments to the proposed law to make it more gender-inclusive and to ensure it doesn't limit access to gender-affirming care or wanted contraception. Representatives from the Department of Justice clarified that the proposed law would not change the existing criminal law framework and would not criminalize consensual sterilization procedures. Committee members asked questions about the scope of the proposed law, the definition of consent, and the potential impact on medical practice. Some members expressed concern that the proposed law could have unintended consequences, while others emphasized the need to protect vulnerable groups from forced sterilization. Several witnesses offered suggestions for amendments to the proposed law to address these concerns. The committee plans to continue studying the proposed law and may consider amendments before voting on whether to pass it. They also discussed future meeting dates and topics, including a potential meeting about the community of Kashechewan and further discussion of Bill S-228.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss a proposed law, Bill S-228, which aims to amend the Criminal Code to explicitly state that sterilization without valid consent is aggravated assault. Senator Yvonne Boyer, the bill's sponsor, explained that the proposed law is a response to survivors' requests and addresses the disproportionate harm done to Indigenous women, people with disabilities, and racialized individuals. She emphasized that the bill doesn't criminalize emergency medical care or voluntary sterilization but targets intentional sterilization without free and informed consent. During the meeting, committee members heard from various witnesses, including representatives from the Canadian Medical Association, the Native Women's Association of Canada, Quebec Native Women Inc., and the Survivors Circle for Reproductive Justice. Dr. Margot Burnell from the Canadian Medical Association expressed strong support for the bill, acknowledging the medical profession's role in unethical practices and emphasizing the need for education and training to uphold patient autonomy. Dr. Jennifer Leason highlighted the importance of addressing the systemic conditions that enable sterilization without consent, such as the lack of reliable health data and limited access to community-based services. Representatives from the Survivors Circle for Reproductive Justice, including Harmony Redsky, Silvia Mckay, and Shelby Ponace, shared powerful personal stories of forced or coerced sterilization. They emphasized the ongoing nature of the issue and the need for the proposed law to protect future generations. The committee discussed the balance between protecting healthcare professionals in emergency situations and ensuring accountability for those who perform sterilizations without consent. Concerns were raised about potential unintended consequences on women's access to reproductive care, and the importance of clear definitions of free, prior, and informed consent was emphasized. Quebec Native Women Inc. President Marjolaine Étienne recommended the bill be passed quickly with clear definitions of consent, explicit recognition of systemic racism, and complementary measures to prevent and investigate violations of reproductive rights. The committee plans to continue studying the proposed law and hear from additional witnesses at a future meeting. They also discussed the need to submit witness suggestions for another proposed law, Bill S-2, by the end of the week.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss a proposed law about creating a commissioner for modern treaty implementation. This commissioner would be responsible for overseeing how the government fulfills its promises in modern treaties with Indigenous groups. The goal is to improve the government's performance and ensure that treaties are respected. Key speakers included David Wright, a law professor, Grand Chief Paul Murdoch of the Cree Nation Government, and Duane Gastant' Aucoin from the Teslin Tlingit Council. Wright emphasized that creating this commissioner is a commitment the government has already made and that it's a crucial piece in ensuring all government departments work together on treaty implementation. Grand Chief Murdoch highlighted the importance of the proposed law in fostering a better relationship between the Cree Nation and Canada. Aucoin shared his experiences with past governments and expressed hope that the commissioner would help resolve issues without needing to go to court. Committee members raised concerns about whether the commissioner would truly make a difference, given past failures in treaty implementation. Some worried that the commissioner's reports might end up being ignored, like those from the Auditor General. However, others argued that the commissioner's independence and focus on modern treaties would bring much-needed attention and accountability. Ultimately, the committee voted to approve the proposed law with some members dissenting. The proposed law will now go to the House of Commons for further consideration. The committee also agreed to limit briefs submitted to 10 pages and allow associate members access to digital binders.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss a proposed law about creating a commissioner for modern treaty implementation. This commissioner would be responsible for monitoring and reviewing how the government is fulfilling its obligations under modern treaties with Indigenous groups. The goal is to ensure these treaties are implemented properly and to address any issues that arise. Key speakers included Paul Irngaut, President of Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, and Chief Bertha Rabesca Zoe of the Tlicho Government. Both emphasized the importance of having an independent body to oversee treaty implementation. They argued that it would provide transparency, accountability, and help resolve disputes more efficiently. They also noted that the commissioner would complement, not duplicate, the work of the Auditor General. Committee members discussed concerns about the commissioner's power and whether it would truly lead to change. Some worried that it might just be another layer of bureaucracy without real consequences. However, Indigenous representatives stressed that the commissioner would provide Parliament with the information needed to hold the government accountable and ensure that treaty commitments are honored. Several Indigenous leaders expressed strong support for the proposed law as it is currently written, urging the committee to pass it without changes. They believe it's a crucial step towards building stronger relationships between Indigenous nations and the government. The committee plans to continue studying the proposed law and will hold a clause-by-clause review at the next meeting.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss a proposed law about creating a commissioner for modern treaty implementation. The goal is to have someone independent check if the Canadian government is keeping its promises in modern treaties with Indigenous groups. Several Indigenous leaders spoke about why they think this is important. Chief Glenn Bennett from Kitselas First Nation said the proposed law is a good step for transparency and stronger relationships. He suggested that when problems are found, there should be a clear plan to fix them together. Chief Nicole Rempel from K'ómoks First Nation said the commissioner would help make sure treaties are followed over time and prevent small issues from becoming big problems. Chief Louise Nattawappio from the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach supported the proposed law, saying it would help make sure the government does what it agreed to in the treaties. Committee members asked the chiefs how the commissioner would help their communities and if the proposed $2 million budget was enough. The chiefs said the commissioner would help hold the government accountable, make sure treaties are understood, and allow First Nations to focus on important issues like education and community development. Chief John Jack from the Huu-ay-aht First Nations asked that the proposed law be passed quickly without big changes. Overall, the Indigenous leaders supported the proposed law, saying it would help make sure the government keeps its promises in modern treaties. Some committee members raised concerns about the budget and how the commissioner would be chosen, but the chiefs emphasized the importance of having an independent body to oversee treaty implementation.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss a proposed law about creating a commissioner for modern treaty implementation. The goal is to have an independent person who reports to Parliament to make sure the government keeps its promises in modern treaties. These treaties are agreements between the government and Indigenous groups made more recently. Several Indigenous leaders spoke to the committee. Eva Clayton, President of the Nisga'a Lisims Government, said that this commissioner is needed because the government hasn't always followed through on treaty promises. She mentioned that the proposed law was co-written with Indigenous groups. Chief Sheldon Sunshine of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation talked about the older treaties, called numbered treaties, and wanted to make sure this new commissioner wouldn't be used to change those older agreements. Chief Pauline Frost of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation supported the proposed law, saying it would make sure treaties are respected and followed. Committee members asked questions about how the commissioner would work and what power the position would have. Some members were concerned that the commissioner wouldn't have enough power to make the government act. Others worried that it would create a two-tiered system for treaties. The committee approved budgets for this study, and for a study of issues related to the Indian Act registration.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss issues related to Indian Act registration, specifically focusing on the second-generation cut-off rule. This rule determines who is eligible for Indian status based on ancestry, and many argue it's discriminatory and leads to a decline in the status Indian population. Witnesses shared personal stories and expert opinions on the matter. Key speakers included National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), Grand Chief Kyra Wilson of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC), and Chief Kelly Wolfe from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation. National Chief Nepinak emphasized that the second-generation cut-off is a colonial tool that undermines First Nations' identity and rights, and called for its immediate end. Grand Chief Wilson supported proposed law S-2, which aims to repeal the second-generation cut-off, but stressed the importance of First Nations determining their own citizenship laws. Chief Wolfe shared her nation's experience in developing their own citizenship law, highlighting the challenges and the importance of community input. Other speakers included Dr. Pamela Palmater, Isaiah Bernard, and Kiara LaBobe. They all agreed that the second-generation cut-off is discriminatory and needs to be eliminated. They also emphasized the importance of First Nations determining their own citizenship laws and the need for adequate funding to support increased membership. There was a general consensus that the government needs to act urgently to address this issue and that consultation should not be used as a delaying tactic. Committee members discussed the complexities of the issue, including the potential impact on resources and the need for community-specific solutions. Some members expressed concern that proposed law S-2 might be imposed on communities without their consent. The committee agreed to obtain a Parliamentary Budget Officer report detailing the potential costs of implementing S-2. The committee also approved a budget for five members to attend the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. The chair will now seek approval from the liaison committee for funding.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss issues related to Indian Act registration, specifically subsections 6(1) and 6(2) of the Indian Act, including the second-generation cut-off. Witnesses from the Department of Indigenous Services, including Lori Doran, Stuart Hooft, and Sacha Senécal, provided information on the current state of registration, the backlog in processing applications, and the ongoing consultation process regarding the second-generation cut-off. The second-generation cut-off means that after two generations of parents with a non-registered person, the third generation is no longer eligible for registration under the Indian Act. Committee members raised concerns about the backlog in processing applications for Indian status and the training of those processing the applications. They also questioned the historical basis for the second-generation cut-off and the impact of potential changes to registration rules on First Nations communities. The witnesses explained that the department is working to reduce the backlog and improve the efficiency of the registration process. They also emphasized the importance of consulting with First Nations communities to find solutions to the second-generation cut-off that respect their rights and avoid unintended consequences. The discussion also covered Bill S-2, a proposed law that includes amendments related to the second-generation cut-off. Committee members discussed the potential impacts of the proposed law and the importance of consulting with First Nations communities before making any changes to the Indian Act. Witnesses clarified that the government is committed to addressing the second-generation cut-off and is currently consulting with First Nations to determine the best way to do so. They also noted that any solution will need to consider the rights of both individuals and communities. The committee heard that the consultation process on the second-generation cut-off is ongoing, with a legal review of potential solutions planned for the near future. The department aims to begin First Nations-led consultations in the spring and summer. The goal is to develop a solution, or a range of solutions, that can be considered in future legislation. Committee members requested additional information from the witnesses, including data on the number of people who have lost their status as a result of the second-generation cut-off and projections on the potential impact of changes to registration rules.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met to discuss proposed changes to a proposed law that would affect the Naskapi Nation. Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Rebecca Alty explained that the changes would clarify the Naskapi Police's authority on Naskapi lands and update funding arrangements to better meet the nation's needs, with the full support of the Naskapi Nation. She also highlighted other budget proposals aimed at advancing Indigenous self-determination and economic prosperity, such as amendments to the First Nations Fiscal Management Act and increased investment in Indigenous infrastructure. Committee members questioned the minister on a range of issues, including missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, missing Indigenous art, land rights, and firearms regulations. Conservative MP Jamie Schmale raised concerns about the justice system's handling of cases involving missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, as well as the department's refusal to release details about missing Indigenous art. He also questioned the minister on land rights and the government's approach to attracting investment in Indigenous communities. Bloc Québécois MP Marilène Gill inquired about vacancies in the Cree-Naskapi Commission and the minister's priorities regarding Crown-Indigenous relations in Quebec. Conservative MP Bob Zimmer questioned the minister on firearms regulations and whether the proposed changes would limit the ability to receive external policing services. Liberal MP Brendan Hanley focused on the benefits of the proposed law for Indigenous policing and the importance of passing the budget implementation act quickly. The committee agreed to pay for the study and a land base study. Minister Alty defended the government's actions, emphasizing the importance of working directly with Indigenous partners, advancing self-government agreements, and making targeted changes where needed. She also highlighted the government's investments in housing, infrastructure, and consultation with Indigenous communities. The committee discussed the need for concrete action to address the challenges facing Indigenous communities and to promote reconciliation. The committee approved expenses for the study under discussion, and for an upcoming land base study.