Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PDF
March 21, 2019
It is with a sense of hope that we welcome the announcement of the 2019 Budget. The priorities of SCO can be met through many of the funding announcements:
Preserving, Promoting and Revitalizing Indigenous Languages; The funding for the strengthening of Indigenous Languages is long overdue, and we thank and honour our late Elder Doris Pratt of Sioux Valley, late Elder Elmer Courchene, and Elder Ruth Norton, both of Sagkeeng First Nation, all of whom dedicated their life’s efforts to this goal.
• Implementation of Jordan’s Principle;
• Supporting Indigenous Business Development
• Improving Emergency Response On-Reserve
• Safe and Accessible Spaces for Urban Indigenous Peoples
• Supporting Indigenous Post-Secondary Education
• Addressing certain Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action
While this new budget outlines funds for many health and social factors for First Nations, it does not address mechanisms for shifts in the jurisdiction, nor critical infrastructure needs. “It is, indeed, our plan to continue discussions with Canada on addressing the staggering numbers of communities in crisis due to lack of infrastructure for housing, health, social and educational needs,” said Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “We are in a treaty relationship with Canada, and we must address authority, wealth and parity with Canadians.”