Annex B: Shared Priorities

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Shared Priority 1

Processes and guidance on consistency of laws

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Government departments have made progress on measures to ensure federal laws align with the UN Declaration, in line with Section 5 of the UN Declaration Act. For example, JUS developed an "Interim Guide for Officials on how to assess consistency with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous peoples" (the Interim Guide for Officials) to assist federal departments and agencies assess the consistency of legislative and regulatory initiatives impacting Indigenous peoples and their rights with the UN Declaration. This guide was widely distributed and training was provided to ensure its effective use. Additionally, a working group including JUS, PCO and TBS was established to coordinate efforts among the various departments seeking to develop tools for assessing consistency of federal laws with the UN Declaration. The working group undertook preliminary consultation and cooperation that began in Fall 2024, demonstrating a commitment to work alongside Indigenous peoples to achieve the objectives of Section 5.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Government departments have consulted and cooperated with Indigenous partners to enhance their processes and incorporate Indigenous perspectives. For example, in June 2024, JUS shared the internal "Interim Guide for Officials" with a select group of Indigenous partners to gather input for future versions. The initial version has since been posted on the Justice website for greater accessibility to all partners. Additionally, consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners included several bilateral meetings to discuss their interests and gather insights that would inform a broader consultation and cooperation process. The broader consultation and cooperation process being shaped by these initial discussions will seek to develop tools for embedding consideration of the UN Declaration into processes for developing and amending legislation.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Concerns have been expressed by some partners regarding implementation and reform of the broader legislative process. Partners emphasize the need for meaningful engagement to ensure that their perspectives are incorporated into the development of policies and tools. Additionally, there are concerns about the interim guide for assessing consistency with the UN Declaration, which lacks a distinctions-based approach. Partners advocate for the establishment of a dedicated commission to review existing laws and ensure they align with the UN Declaration, emphasizing that any legislative reviews must include Indigenous input to avoid replicating colonial dynamics.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: TC

Shared Priority 2

Consistency of laws – review/amendment of specific statutes

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Government departments have made progress in advancing this Action Plan measures. For instance, JUS supported the passage of Bill S-13, which amended the federal Interpretation Act to include a non-derogation clause that ensures the interpretation of federal laws upholds Aboriginal and treaty rights. This legislation was a direct response to recommendations from a Senate Committee and involved extensive consultation and cooperation with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis governments. Additionally, JUS initiated preliminary internal planning to identify and prioritize existing federal statutes for review and possible amendment.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Building on previous discussions with Modern Treaty Organizations and other Indigenous representatives, JUS continued its engagement with Indigenous partners regarding financial and fiscal legislation, the department conducted follow-up consultations with Indigenous partners while Bill S-13 progressed through Parliament, addressing concerns raised during Senate committee hearings. This engagement ensured that Indigenous feedback was integrated into supporting documents, highlighting the importance of their contributions to the legislative amendment process. Additionally, JUS worked to enhance alignment with the UN Declaration, demonstrating a commitment to incorporating Indigenous perspectives into federal legislation.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some partners noted that discussions have focused on legislative priorities and the need for consultation and co-development in implementing the UN Declaration. Additionally, while Indigenous leaders support the long-awaited non-derogation clause, some expressed the view that there should have been a reference to the UN Declaration in Bill S-13. It is essential that lawmakers ensure section 35 rights are upheld and that interpretations of Canadian laws align with the UN Declaration. There is a strong desire to embed First Nations rights in federal laws and policies, but concerns have been raised about insufficient engagement with First Nations.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: CRA, TC

Shared Priority 3

Consistency of laws – periodic statutory reviews

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

As a regulatory department, TC ensures that new and amended legislation and regulations align with the UN Declaration Act, in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples. TC adopted a process to evaluate all legislative and regulatory proposals to identify potential intersections and ensure alignment with the UN Declaration. This is also applied to any periodic reviews and resulting amendments. Lastly, TC has also made significant efforts to ensure that employees at all levels are aware of and understand their obligations under the UN Declaration Act. To date, 82 UN Declaration Act Assessments have been completed on all new or amended legislative or regulatory initiatives with 25 completed in the past fiscal year.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

TC’s implementation of Section 5 review assessment was based on the Interim Guidance developed by JUS and did not involve external engagement with Indigenous Partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

The obligation for Canada to ensure that laws align with the UN Declaration is crucial for meaningful engagement with Indigenous peoples in legislative reforms. There are concerns that Canada is proceeding without this engagement, which risks inadequate reforms that do not fully reflect Indigenous peoples' expertise and positions on legal reform. Additionally, some partners have identified concerns with the Interim Guide developed by JUS on assessing consistency of laws, including the discretionary nature of federal decision-making, lack of guaranteed funding for Indigenous peoples’ participation, potential misinterpretation of the UN Declaration, insufficient disclosure of legislative developments, and inadequate early engagement with Indigenous peoples. These concerns highlight the need for genuine collaboration to ensure the realization of Indigenous peoples’ rights in the legislative process.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: CRA, TC

Shared Priority 4

Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Respecting the self-determination and self-governance of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis over key systems such as health and education is essential for establishing respectful collaboration mechanisms between federal, provincial, territorial, and Indigenous governments, which can help shift colonial biases and assumptions about Indigenous peoples. ISC’s efforts to combat anti-Indigenous racism in healthcare have focused on integrating cultural humility into federal, provincial, and territorial health systems while strengthening Indigenous-led health initiatives. Similarly, regional mechanisms for the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Framework promote complementarity and coordination, allowing provincial and territorial early learning and child care partners to learn from Indigenous perspectives. The Skills and Partnership Fund further supports collaboration across jurisdictions, industries, and educational institutions to improve labor market outcomes. Additionally, the Department of Justice has released its first Indigenous Justice Strategy, developed in consultation with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners, aimed at identifying specific strategies and actions to address systemic discrimination and the overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in contact with the justice system.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

In the past year, significant efforts were made to address anti-Indigenous racism through a virtual engagement session, which focused on the safety and well-being of women and gender-diverse individuals. Indigenous partners highlighted persistent barriers such as a lack of culturally safe services, inaccessible crisis resources, and systemic discrimination in health, justice, and housing systems. Some partners emphasized the importance of incorporating gender-specific and intersectional considerations into safety initiatives and called for long-term investments in support services. In addition, implementation should reflect not only technical goals but also our cultural responsibilities to land, language, and kinship systems.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 5

Community initiatives to combat anti-Indigenous racism

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

PCH has provided program funding to support community-based initiatives aimed at combating anti-Indigenous racism through Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy (CARS) 2019-2022, which committed nearly $70 million to help community organizations foster intercultural and interfaith understanding and dialogue. This funding is now delivered under the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program. The renewal of CARS for 2024-2028 involved extensive engagement to assess the impact of existing initiatives and identify necessary measures to eliminate systemic racism, discrimination, and hate. The new strategy aims to enhance governance and reporting on the effectiveness of the government’s anti-racism efforts while remaining adaptable to the evolving needs of Indigenous peoples, as well as racialized and religious minority communities.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

Consultations and collaboration with Indigenous partners was part of the design of Canada's Action Plan on Combatting Hate (CAPCH) and CARS 2024-2028. The lead for community engagement is the Federal Anti-Racism Secretariat, which is under the authority of the Department of Employment and Social Development Canada.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

In the past year, significant efforts were made to address anti-Indigenous racism through a virtual engagement session, which focused on the safety and well-being of women and gender-diverse individuals. Indigenous partners highlighted persistent barriers such as a lack of culturally safe services, inaccessible crisis resources, and systemic discrimination in health, justice, and housing systems. Some partners emphasized the importance of incorporating gender-specific and intersectional considerations into safety initiatives and called for long-term investments in support services.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 6

Indigenous health legislation and Joyce’s Principle

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

ISC supported over 200 engagement activities with Indigenous partners, in addition to those led by the partners themselves. A total of 42 Indigenous-led engagement reports and position papers were submitted, and the engagement data was analyzed to identify common themes with the assistance of a co-analysis working group made up of engagement partners. This process culminated in the preparation of a public "What We Heard" summary report. In October 2024, the Minister of Indigenous Services was granted the authority to extend timelines, pursue distinct policy and legislative options for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, and adjust co-development approaches to enhance transparency and collaboration. Ongoing discussions with partners are focused on strategizing the next steps.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

Engagement and co-development discussions concluded in September 2023, and based on the significant feedback received from Indigenous partners, ISC requested updated policy authorities to guide the next steps. These authorities were granted in October 2024, resulting in no engagement sessions being held in 2024-2025. ISC continues to meet with interested partners to discuss the current status and future steps. Although there is no additional funding for the initiative at this time, some Indigenous partners have utilized carry-forward funding from previous years to support their ongoing participation in engagement and information sharing with their members or citizens.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners are committed to advancing Joyce's Principle as a framework for co-developing distinctions-based Indigenous health legislation that ensures the physical, mental, and cultural safety and well-being of Indigenous peoples. Despite efforts to engage with Government of Canada representatives on this Action Plan measure since July 2024, progress has been limited, and a funding proposal for health transformation was denied. Concerns have also been raised about Jordan’s Principle Funding issues, highlighting the need for culturally safe services and trauma-informed care. Overall, there is an urgent call for attention to UN Declaration implementation in health to address the unique needs of Indigenous communities.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 7

Addressing anti-Indigenous racism in health systems

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Progress has been made in increasing access to quality and culturally-safe health services for Indigenous communities. Over the past year, officials collaborated with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities to implement the Indigenous Health Equity Fund, which provides Indigenous communities with $2 billion over ten years, starting in 2024-2025. This funding represents a long-term commitment to supporting Indigenous self-determination in health, providing First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities with the flexibility they need to address their health priorities, whatever they may be. ISC’s Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism program, which was renewed in Budget 2024, focused on enhancing cultural safety in health systems by supporting Indigenous health navigators and Indigenous patient advocates, and increasing representation in health professions. HC’s Addressingt Anti-Indigenous Racism in the Healthcare System program concluded in 2024, with all projects coming to an end. Examples of HCs finded initiatives include the development of updated cultural standards for nursing education and the creation of an online course aimed at improving healthcare providers' competence in delivering culturally safe care.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The Indigenous Health Equity Fund was developed with input from national and regional Indigenous partners, focusing on objectives and funding distribution influenced by regional leadership. However, challenges related to coordination within governance structures affected timely funding implementation. Additionally, communication was maintained with program recipients to provide updates on funding and timelines, ensuring partners were informed about relevant changes. Overall, these efforts aimed to improve access to culturally appropriate care for Indigenous communities.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners emphasize the need for a long-term national approach to addressing anti-Indigenous racism in health systems to promote health equity and accessibility for Indigenous peoples, particularly those with disabilities. They advocate for the establishment of Indigenous advisory councils and support for capacity building and human resources within health organizations. The inclusion of Elders to provide guidance and facilitate knowledge sharing for healthcare staff is essential. Recent engagement sessions related to health highlighted the persistent barriers faced by women and gender-diverse individuals when seeking support, including a lack of culturally safe services and systemic discrimination. Participants stressed that safety encompasses not only protection from harm but also emotional, spiritual, and cultural well-being, underscoring the importance of culturally competent care that acknowledges their unique experiences and identities.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 8

FPTI collaboration for culturally safe health services

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Over the past year, ISC collaborated closely with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities to implement programs that support Indigenous-led health services, ensuring funding was distributed effectively. ISC continued to advocate for organizations to incorporate Indigenous leadership at relevant decision tables by bringing together Indigenous organizations with relevant FPT departments through groups such as the FPTI Vaccine Preventable Disease Working Group. ISC has also worked closely with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities to implement the Indigenous Health Equity Fund, distributing funding to support Indigenous-led approaches to quality and culturally safe health services. In addition, ISC funded 31 projects in 2024-2025 under the Targeted Initiatives Program, which provides $10 million on an annual basis towards short-term, activity-driven health projects. These projects are intended to support cross-cutting Indigenous health priorities, including Indigenous women's health and 2SLGBTQQIA+.

In addition, HC and ISC have worked together to coordinate a number of successful trilateral meetings between federal and provincial/territorial Ministers of Health and regional Indigenous leadership, including meetings in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories, Yukon, New Brunswick, and Alberta. These trilateral meetings were an integral part of the Working Together to Improve Health Care for Canadians plan and provided important opportunities for all partners involved to reflect on their shared priorities and to discuss how to advance Indigenous health outcomes.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Over the past fiscal year, both HC and ISC contributed to consultation and cooperation efforts to advance the measure. In January 2025, trilateral meetings were held in Alberta with leadership from Treaties 6, 7, and 8, the Métis Settlements General Council, and the Otipemisiwak Métis Nation, to discuss shared health priorities. As a follow up, technicians from Indigenous partners, Alberta's Ministry of Health, ISC, and HC met to plan monthly meetings that would lead to in-person discussions in the Fall. In addition to meetings with regional partners, ISC and HC met with the Assembly of First Nations and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami in November 2024 to further discuss shared health priorities. Over the coming months, ISC will continue to work with national and regional Indigenous partners to schedule more opportunities for trilateral discussions with their respective federal, provincial and territorial Ministers of Health. ISC officials also engaged with Indigenous partners on the design and implementation of the Indigenous Health Equity Fund, with funding distribution decisions influenced by regional leadership. ISC officials will continue to engage with national and regional Indigenous leadership on the implementation of the Indigenous Health Equity Fund, which will include discussions on new terms and conditions and a strategy for reporting on progress. As such, best practices recommend allowing at least two years for the implementation of new initiatives to ensure proper engagement.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners highlighted that safety includes emotional, spiritual, and cultural dimensions emphasizing the importance of being able to express their identity without judgment. Concerns were raised about mental health support and the need for trauma-informed services led by women and gender-diverse individuals. Many Indigenous people feel unsafe in existing shelters and called for services specifically designed for Indigenous people. Additionally, partners noted that the Indigenous Health Equity Fund, which allocates $2 billion over ten years, does not adequately recognize the vital role of Indigenous women’s organizations in urban health care. This points to the overarching issue that Indigenous women’s organizations continue to operate without core and sustainable funding, despite Call for Justice 1.8 continuing to be primarily distinctions-based, ignoring the reality of where Indigenous women live and access services.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 9

Ending systemic violence against Indigenous women, girls and gender-diverse people

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Various departments collaborated with Indigenous organizations and communities to develop culturally appropriate solutions to end systemic violence against Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people, including safe housing, shelters, prevention activities, and support services. Initiatives included the establishment of emergency shelters and transitional homes for Indigenous women, children, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, with 37 shelters and 32 transitional homes selected as of January 2025. Additionally, Indigenous-led projects were funded aimed at preventing family violence, including by targeting youth dating violence, and over 100 organizations received ongoing support to enhance their capacity for gender-based violence prevention programming. Efforts were made to strengthen partnerships with Indigenous groups to address root causes of violence and improve community infrastructure and access to services.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Various departments collaborated on initiatives aimed at addressing violence against Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people and enhancing support services. They engaged with Indigenous partners to develop culturally appropriate solutions for individuals escaping abusive environments, which included access to safe housing, shelters, and counselling services. Regular meetings with Indigenous partners and the establishment of Indigenous Steering Committees facilitated decision-making processes for project selection. The annual National Indigenous-Federal Provincial Meeting took place for the third year; this meeting informs collaboration among governments and partners to end systemic violence against Indigenous women, girls and gender-diverse people.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Persistent barriers are being faced by Indigenous women and gender-diverse individuals in accessing culturally safe services and support. Safety encompasses emotional, spiritual, and cultural dimensions, and concerns were raised about housing insecurity, mental health support, and the need for trauma-informed services. Advocacy efforts called for the inclusion of gender-specific and intersectional considerations in safety initiatives, emphasizing the unique needs of these communities. Additionally, there is concern over the lack of progress in addressing violence against Indigenous women. High rates of violence faced by Indigenous women and girls have been documented, alongside criticism of the slow implementation of the MMIWG2S+ National Action Plan.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: CIRNAC, PHAC, ISC, WAGE

Shared Priority 10

MMIWG and the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence (NAP to End GBV) is a 10-year framework designed to coordinate efforts across federal, provincial, and territorial governments to work together towards a Canada free of GBV that supports victims, survivors, and their families from coast to coast to coast. The NAP to End GBV addresses gender-based violence through five pillars (Support for victims, survivors and their families; Prevention; Responsive justice system; Implementing Indigenous-led approaches; and Social infrastructure and enabling environment) and a Foundation. The Government of Canada has signed bilateral agreements with all provinces and territories to support efforts to end GBV within their jurisdictions through their respective implementation plans. It is led by Women and Gender Equality Canada with other contributing federal departments under It’s Time: Canada’s Strategy to Prevent and Address Gender-based Violence (the Federal GBV Strategy). This past reporting cycle marked the second year of Provincial/Territorial implementation of the NAP to End GBV.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

WAGE collaborated on and continued to advanced the development of the NAP to End GBV in 2024-2025 through five engagement sessions. These sessions were held with a number of Indigenous partners. In developing the NAP to End GBV, WAGE engaged with National Indigenous leaders and representatives, as well as members of the Indigenous Women's Circle (prior to 2024-2025), specifically on Pillar 4: Implementing Indigenous-led approaches. Additionally, provinces and territories engaged their own Indigenous partners on Pillar 4.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

A recent virtual engagement session focused on the safety and well-being of women and gender-diverse individuals revealed persistent barriers to support, including a lack of culturally safe services and accessible crisis resources. Participants emphasized that safety encompasses emotional, spiritual, and cultural well-being. Advocacy efforts have called for gender-specific and intersectional considerations in initiatives to combat gender-based violence, along with long-term investments in support services, underscoring the importance of addressing the unique safety needs of communities in implementing the UN Declaration.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: WAGE

Shared Priority 11

Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Budget 2022 allocated $100 million to WAGE to support the implementation of the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, with $75 million designated for a 2SLGBTQI+ Community Capacity Fund and a 2SLGBTQI+ Projects Fund aimed at supporting community organizations, including those serving Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ people. To date, 19 projects that support Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ individuals and communities were approved for funding through these two funds.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

WAGE has engaged with some Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ community organizations, National Indigenous Leaders and Representatives, and the Indigenous Women's Circle at WAGE, on priority area 3 of the federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, with plans to expand this engagement in the 2025-2026 fiscal year. This included discussions on community priorities, progress on the Action Plan's implementation, and opportunities for collaboration. Input and feedback from Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ partners continue to inform the policy and program advice provided by the 2SLGBTQI+ Secretariat, contributing to broader program and policy decisions across WAGE and other federal initiatives.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

A recent virtual engagement session focused on the safety and well-being of women and gender-diverse individuals revealed persistent barriers to support, including a lack of culturally safe services and accessible crisis resources. Participants emphasized that safety encompasses emotional, spiritual, and cultural well-being. Advocacy efforts have called for gender-specific and intersectional considerations in initiatives to combat gender-based violence, along with long-term investments in support services, underscoring the importance of addressing the unique safety needs of communities in implementing the UN Declaration.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: WAGE

Shared Priority 12

Safe and secure resource development for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ persons

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

NRCan has established a dedicated MMIWG2S+ and Resource Development Policy Team to lead on the consultation and cooperation required to meaningfully address the MMIWG2S+ Calls for Justice on Resource Development (13.1-13.5) and implement UN Declaration Act SP12. In absence of dedicated funding, NRCan has continued to advance foundational work leveraging existing reports, studies and networks to strengthen the Government of Canada’s response and engage with Indigenous and industry partners. This work continues to be guided by elders from NRCan’s Elders-in-Residence Program and grassroots Indigenous women, including matriarchs, elders, families, and survivors.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Led distinctions-based engagement to ground federal policy in lived experience and community-led good practices. NRCan’s work has included:

• a site visit to Fox Lake Cree Nation to deepen our understanding of the historical impacts of hydroelectric projects in northern Manitoba,
• supporting the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee for the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Existing Pipeline (IAMC-TMX) in establishing a new Circle on MMIWG2S+ and Resource Development,
• engaging with Squamish Nation and Woodfibre LNG on community-led good practices,
• initiating collaborative discussions in BC with Women’s Representatives of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs and BC Assembly of First Nations, Tears to Hope Society, the BC First Nations Justice Council and the First Nations LNG Alliance

Challenges to further consultation and cooperation include a lack of dedicated funding to expedite regional engagements, develop toolkits, and pilot MMIWG2S+ safe reporting, monitoring and response mechanisms.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

A recent virtual engagement session focused on the safety and well-being of women and gender-diverse individuals revealed persistent barriers to support, including a lack of culturally safe services and accessible crisis resources. Participants emphasized that safety encompasses emotional, spiritual, and cultural well-being. Advocacy efforts have called for gender-specific and intersectional considerations in initiatives to combat gender-based violence, along with long-term investments in support services, underscoring the importance of addressing the unique safety needs of communities in implementing the UN Declaration.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 13

Ending coerced sterilization

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

While not a Government initiative, Bill S-250, An Act to Amend the Criminal Code (sterilization procedures) was introduced by Senator Boyer on June 14, 2022. The Bill was amended at Committee stage to clarify that coerced sterilization is a form of aggravated assault. The Bill died on the Order Paper when Parliament was dissolved.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

On June 10, 2024, JUS met with the Indigenous Women's Advisory Circle (IWAC) and the Survivor's Circle for Reproductive Justice to discuss the coerced sterilization of Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, gathering their comments and recommendations for legislative reform. Representatives from various organizations, including the National Council of Indigenous Midwives and the Assembly of First Nations' Women's Council, attended the meeting. Additionally, on July 23, 2024, a Justice official visited Tsuut'ina First Nation to discuss the law applicable to coerced sterilization, as well as Senate Public Bill S-250.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

A recent virtual engagement session focused on the safety and well-being of women and gender-diverse individuals revealed persistent barriers to support, including a lack of culturally safe services and accessible crisis resources. Participants emphasized that safety encompasses emotional, spiritual, and cultural well-being. Advocacy efforts have called for gender-specific and intersectional considerations in initiatives to combat gender-based violence, along with long-term investments in support services, underscoring the importance of addressing the unique safety needs of communities in implementing the UN Declaration.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 14

Federal public service training on the UN Declaration

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Departments reported that they engaged in foundational training and building relationships with Indigenous partners, resulting in the development of materials that incorporate diverse Indigenous perspectives. Initiatives included virtual events, newsletters, and cultural competency training to enhance awareness of Indigenous history and culture. Specific strategies were implemented to ensure employees across departments understood their obligations under the UN Declaration Act, with numerous training sessions and resources developed to support this goal. JUS led initial relationship-building with 35 Indigenous partners this past year to lay the groundwork for consultation and cooperation on co-creation of training and educational materials.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Departments reported engagement and collaboration efforts with various Indigenous partners across multiple sectors. Feedback was gathered on training materials related to the UN Declaration and its implementation, with the aim of co-creating culturally relevant learning programs. However, challenges such as funding constraints and differing governance structures impacted participation and timelines. Best practices emphasized the importance of building long-term relationships based on mutual respect and trust, while Indigenous partners played a significant role in influencing decision-making and content development for training initiatives.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners emphasize the importance of public servants critically examining their own practices, including their work, teaching, and decision-making, to identify and address ways they may unintentionally uphold colonial structures, and highlight ongoing efforts and the need to consult on training related to the UN Declaration. In addition, some partners highlighted the need for meaningful co-development from the conception stage, advocating for a specific cultural lens in all interactions. There is an urgent need for culturally grounded solutions led by women and gender-diverse individuals, particularly in education, where mainstream systems often exclude relevant content. Insights gathered from engagement sessions have informed policy recommendations focused on cultural revitalization and language programming. Additionally, some Indigenous partners also note the need for coherent, predictable governance structures that identify how Canada will engage with rights-holders and recognize the roles and responsibilities of regional organizations to support consultation and accountability.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: TC, PHAC, CSPS, CRA, ISC

Shared Priority 15

RCMP Intercultural Learning Strategy

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The Intercultural Learning Strategy (ILS) consultations aimed to gather the perspectives and opinions of RCMP and community partners to inform an Action Plan that outlines concrete activities for improving intercultural learning within the RCMP. To date, the Learning and Development (L&D) team has completed internal consultations and released summary reports of the findings. External consultations with federal government departments and police service agencies have also been conducted, and an environmental scan report is underway to identify intercultural learning tools and resources for integration or adaptation by L&D Although external consultations with National Indigenous Organizations and other community partners were not initiated in 2024-2025 as planned, they are anticipated to occur in 2025-2026.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

External consultation with National Indigenous Organizations did not occur as originally planned for 2024-2025, however they are expected to take place in 2025-2026.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 16

Ensuring inclusive federally regulated workplaces

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The Labour Program engaged with several Indigenous partner organizations to discuss short-term changes to the Employment Equity Act and explore opportunities for long-term collaboration. The Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention Fund supported projects aimed at developing culturally sensitive and sector-specific tools and resources to prevent workplace harassment and violence, promoting safe and healthy work environments. Additionally, through national and regional tables that brought together federally regulated industry partners and unions, efforts were made to raise awareness among employers about their obligations to address barriers to equity and safety for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis employees.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

For the modernization of the Employment Equity Act and the implementation of the Pay Equity Act, a discussion paper and presentation were prepared and shared, followed by bilateral meetings with several key national Indigenous partners, some of whom also provided written submissions. Additionally, there has been direct community engagement related to workplace protections, along with bilateral outreach to First Nations and Métis governments interested in collaborating bilaterally with the Government of Canada. Indigenous partners have identified areas requiring further dialogue, emphasizing the need for these discussions to be part of a long-term collaboration between the Labour Program and Indigenous peoples.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some partners encourage federally regulated employers to work in partnership with their employees and Indigenous communities and organizations to ensure workplaces and practices are equitable and inclusive, this must include hiring Indigenous peoples with disabilities, that workplaces and practices are accessible, and honours land-based knowledge and live experiences.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 17

Judiciary training options on UN Declaration

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The Minister of Justice wrote to the National Judicial Institute (NJI) on March 19, 2024, proposing that it consider developing and offering judicial education on the UN Declaration (understanding that judicial education must be controlled by the judiciary itself). On October 31, 2024, JUS approved funding of approximately $923,000 over four years for the NJI to develop online training in English and French for Canadian judges on the UN Declaration. Training modules will be developed through engagement with Indigenous communities, leaders and Elders, and Indigenous judges. The training will encompass the UN Declaration, Indigenous Laws, and the UN Declaration in relation to criminal law, child welfare, property rights, and self-governance. The NJI has begun work of developing the curriculum, including consulting with Indigenous communities.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

Recognizing that the judiciary must control the development of its own curriculum, JUS has not directly consulted and cooperated with Indigenous partners. However, the NJI, in beginning to develop curriculum on the UN Declaration, participated in a community meeting in Wagmatcook First Nation, Nova Scotia, on November 19, 2024. Over 20 members of the community engaged in a full-day meeting. The community participation reflects the genesis of Wagmatcook Healing to Wellness Court as a product of the community and the ongoing support it receives from the community it serves. Each of the community members spoke to their role in furthering the work of the Court and of the importance of having this unique Court available in their First Nation community. The NJI receive many teachings that will form the core of judicial education materials available to all Canadian judges in French and English.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 18

Public education on UN Declaration and Indigenous human rights

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

JUS focused on building relationships with Indigenous partners to establish a foundation for consultation and cooperation in co-creating educational materials. Indigenous partners identified priority learning topics for the public and shared their ongoing educational initiatives. In collaboration with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, JUS hosted a videotaped hybrid event at the Canadian Museum of History on September 26, 2024, featuring an all-female Indigenous panel discussing community perspectives on the UN Declaration, which attracted over 5,500 attendees.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Throughout the reporting cycle, initial relationship-building with 35 Indigenous partners was facilitated to establish a foundation for collaboration. Insights were gathered on key topics for enhancing public understanding of the UN Declaration and Indigenous human rights, with 54 partners approached about Shared Priority 14 and 18, providing feedback through meetings or written input. Communication lags and funding constraints limited participation in consultation and cooperation, as some organizations needed to prioritize other initiatives. The importance of fostering long-term relationships based on mutual respect and improving initial communication with all potential partners was emphasized.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some partners noted that the development and distribution of educational materials aimed at informing non-Indigenous Canadians about the UN Declaration and human rights of Indigenous peoples should also take into account the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), and the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). Recognizing the interconnectivity of these conventions with UN Declaration is essential, as they collectively contribute to a comprehensive understanding of Indigenous rights and the broader framework of human rights.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 19

Indigenous rights monitoring mechanism(s)

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

JUS is in the early stages of work on this Action Plan measure. A multi-stage consultation and cooperation process is anticipated, aimed at identifying and exploring options with Indigenous partners. Efforts to advance this work have included monitoring ongoing initiatives and mapping existing mechanisms, such as the Council for Reconciliation, reforms to the specific claims process, linkages to work underway to implement the MMIWG CFJs, and the proposed establishment of a Modern Treaty Implementation Commissioner. This work is crucial to ensuring that the mechanisms developed are complementary and do not duplicate other monitoring, oversight, and dispute resolution processes.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Work to advance this Action Plan measure so far has focused on monitoring ongoing work and initiatives and mapping existing mechanisms to shape the consultation and cooperation strategy. This preliminary work is essential to ensuring that the mechanism(s) will be complementary and not duplicative of other monitoring, oversight, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Work has also proceeded on developing a consultation and cooperation strategy with a phased approach.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Discussions with the Government of Canada have emphasized the necessity of this mechanism to address barriers to justice for Indigenous peoples, as the current court system is often too costly and slow. However, there are some concerns about the lack of progress and clarity regarding the mechanism's establishment. There is an expectation that Canada will outline concrete steps and timelines for creating at least an interim oversight mechanism and detail plans for engaging Indigenous partners in developing a permanent solution, highlighting the importance of this mechanism for advancing reconciliation and ensuring timely redress for rights violations.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 20

UNDA Annual Reporting

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The UN Declaration Act Annual Report reflects progress on Indigenous rights and development, as well as gaps that need to be addressed going forward. JUS solicited more feedback this year to ensure Indigenous partners’ voices shape the annual report. A Technical Working Group was formed to begin the work of developing metrics to measure the impact of UN Declaration Act implementation.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

JUS engaged with 17 Indigenous partners through various activities, including lessons learned discussions on the previous year's Annual Report process and guidance on information collection for this year's reporting cycle. A Technical Working Group was established to develop metrics in collaboration with Indigenous peoples and organizations, and over 200 Indigenous organizations were invited to provide input into this year’s Annual Report, either through templates, reports, or meetings. While the objective is to engage Indigenous organizations broadly, limitations exist due to the small number of existing relationships and the lack of funding to compensate partners for their participation.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Partners participated in meetings and information sessions to enhance their Nation's participation in the consultation process for implementing the UN Declaration Act Action Plan. While comments were submitted on the 2024 Annual Report, some partners found it difficult to determine if their feedback was considered due to a lack of follow-up communication. They appreciated the establishment of a solid point of contact for better coordination with federal departments and emphasized the need for accessible and accountable reporting on UN Declaration Act implementation, including a user-friendly online tracker for progress updates. The Technical Working Group aims to improve reporting and engagement with Indigenous partners, calling for ongoing, coordinated government reporting that is transparent and accountable, ensuring clarity on the objectives and resources dedicated to Action Plan measures.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: TC

Shared Priority 21

Updating UNDA Action Plan

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Work on this initiative has not yet started.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

Work on this initiative has yet to begin. Once the work starts, it will be done in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples as required by section 6 of the UN Declaration Act.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners are eager to collaborate further with the Government of Canada on developing and implementing updated Action Plan measures. They specifically seek involvement in amendments related to Shared Priority 21, emphasizing the need for sufficient time for meaningful engagement. Additionally, they wish to remain engaged in the implementation of Shared Priority 19 and the establishment of an oversight and remedy mechanism.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: TC

Shared Priority 22

UNDA Action Plan Advisory Committee (APAC)

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

In July 2024, the Minister of Justice sent letters to 46 key First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners, as well as Modern Treaty and Self-Government partners, seeking nominations for the Action Plan Advisory Committee (APAC). In response, JUS received approximately 30 nominations. In March 2025, the Minister announced ten expert members for the APAC: Tim Argetsinger, Hélène Boivin, Cassidy Caron, Adam Fiddler, Victoria Fred, Lydia Hwitsum, Nibi (Skylar) Louttit, Brennan Manoakeesick, Brandan Macleod, and Naiomi Metallic. JUS expects to support an initial meeting of the Committee in spring or summer of 2025.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

See above.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that, while the committee is advisory, it should not replace existing relationships with Indigenous Nations to ensure ongoing consultation and cooperation in implementing the UN Declaration. Concerns were also noted about the lack of diverse Indigenous voices that could hinder effective implementation. Although the committee's establishment is welcomed, some expressed disappointment regarding the lack of prior notice about its membership and some delay in finalizing their selection.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 23

Withdrawal of Comprehensive Land Claims and Inherent Right Policies

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Internal analysis is underway and early discussions with some Indigenous partners have been initiated to explore the development of a public statement on Canada's rights-based approach for the negotiation of treaties, agreements and other constructive arrangements.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Although there have been early discussions with some Indigenous partner organizations, due to resource constraints it has not been possible to adequately engage in consultation and cooperation.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners have said that there remains some confusion regarding the status of the Comprehensive Claims Policy, with inconsistent messages about its relevance to ongoing negotiations, leading to frustration over the lack of clarity and communication in the negotiation process. Partners recommend a co-development approach that integrates Indigenous legal orders, community perspectives, and place-based realities.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 24

Co-developing approaches to self-determination

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Work to remove and address jointly identifed barriers to settlement and co-develop approaches for the implmentation of the right to self-determination currently remains in the planning phase.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Due to resource constraints, no broad consultation or cooperation with Indigenous partners has started in relation to this Action Plan measure.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that discussions have included proposals for treaty-related provisions and modern implementations, such as the "truck house" provision of the 1760 treaty, aimed at providing the Crown protection for Indigenous fishing rights. However, challenges persist, including the removal of treaty references from draft documents and confusion surrounding the status of the Comprehensive Claims Policy, which complicates negotiations. Additionally, engagement sessions have highlighted the need to reclaim governance systems rooted in Indigenous values and to address systemic barriers that limit participation in leadership roles. Ongoing advocacy emphasizes the importance of creating culturally safe environments and supporting Indigenous-led governance models to ensure that self-determination is genuinely realized, allowing communities to shape their futures on their own terms.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 25

Implementing historic and modern treaties/self-government

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Many steps have been taken to advance this Action Plan measure, as outlined in the responses to First Nations Priority 2 and Modern Treaty Priority 1. The CRA, in partnership with FIN, effectively manages Tax Treatment Agreements for eight Indigenous governments and administers taxes on their behalf through negotiated Tax Administration Agreements. Currently, eight Indigenous governments have adopted the First Nations Sales Tax (FNST), 32 have implemented the First Nations Goods and Services Tax (FNGST), and 14 have established the First Nations Personal Income Tax (FNPIT). Additionally, TC has dedicated resources that conducts Assessments of Modern Treaty Implications for initiatives requiring Cabinet submissions to ensure compliance with Modern Treaty agreements, and has collaborated with CIRNAC to provide training sessions for all TC employees on these matters.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

FIN is the lead with respect to tax agreements with Indigenous governments. In addition, TC noted the Assessment of Modern Treaty Implications is a standardized internal tool across government.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners have highlighted the lack of ongoing financial support and culturally safe environments as major barriers to participation. Confusion remains regarding the status of the Comprehensive Claims Policy, with inconsistent messages about its relevance to ongoing negotiations, leading to frustration over the lack of clarity and communication in the negotiation process.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: CRA, TC

Shared Priority 26

Implementing standalone self-government agreements

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

In April 2024, Self-Government Arrangement Holders, including Whitecap Dakota First Nation, Sioux Valley Dakota Nation, Westbank First Nation, and shishalh Nation, submitted a draft self-government implementation policy for Canada's consideration. In October 2024, CIRNAC informed Holders that, following internal consultations, the department lacked the mandate to co-develop a distinct implementation policy. Since then, CIRNAC has been awaiting feedback from the Self-Government Arrangement Holders on their preferred way forward while continuing to advance the previously co-developed workplan aimed at addressing shared priorities.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Within the reporting year, CIRNAC engaged with Self-Government Arrangement Holders through bilateral discussions, the Self-Government Arrangement Holder Discussion table, and the annual Intergovernmental Leaders' Forum. Together, they worked to identify shared priorities and areas for collective action aimed at removing barriers to implementing self-government arrangements. However, consultations revealed that a lack of common priorities among partners has posed challenges to advancing their collective goals.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Efforts to co-develop solutions for stand-alone self-government agreements have involved engaging Indigenous partners to address barriers to participation and leadership. A virtual engagement session focused on self-determination highlighted the challenges faced by women and gender-diverse individuals. Participants advocated for reclaiming governance systems rooted in Indigenous values and emphasized the need for community-based decision-making. Insights from these discussions were shared with the UN Declaration Act Implementation Secretariat with JUS, stressing the importance of removing systemic barriers and creating supportive spaces for Indigenous leaders. Additionally, capacity to support Contribution Agreement was established to facilitate participation in Regional Table meetings and enhance collaborative governance efforts.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 27

Indigenous Service Transfer Policy Framework

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Due to circumstances outside of ISC's control, implementation of the specific Service Transfer Policy Framework is on hold. However, meaningful work on service transfer continues department-wide. As an essential part of our mandate, more than half of the ISC-led or co-led Action Plan measures listed in the UNDA Report are related to service transfer, including Shared Priority 29 regarding the implementation of the Child and Family Services Act, and Shared Priority 30 regarding supporting Indigenous data sovereignty, and First Nations Priority 15 regarding infrastructure, among countless others. Service transfer is much more that the Policy Framework and continues to be advanced department-wide, with Indigenous partners leading the way. To learn more about what ISC is doing to advance service transfer as well as the UNDA Action Plan, see the ISC Annual Report to Parliament.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

Due to a lack of funding, activity on this Action Plan measure is on hold.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

See input for Shared Priority 26.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 28

Indigenous Justice Strategy and revitalization of Indigenous laws

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

From 2022 to 2024, engagement sessions with Indigenous peoples, individuals with lived experiences, and community organizations informed the development of the Indigenous Justice Strategy (IJS). These sessions resulted in the IJS Key Elements Consultation Draft, which was published for feedback, with key Indigenous partners co-developing the final strategy, released in March 2025. Additionally, initiatives to revitalize Indigenous laws are underway, including negotiating Administration of Justice Agreements that may enforce First Nations laws. The Government of Canada has committed to implementing Call to Action 50 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, with funding of $10 million announced in Budget 2019 and renewed in Budget 2024 for $5.5 million over three years, supporting 20 projects focused on Indigenous legal systems.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The IJS was also developed in broad consultation and cooperation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and was also shaped by feedback from engagement with Indigenous women, youth, Elders, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQI+ persons, as well as urban and other Indigenous organizations and groups and justice system practitioners. The IJS development work was also advanced in collaboration with the provinces and territories, whose continued engagement will be critical given their key role and jurisdiction in relation to the administration of justice.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Indigenous partners have actively engaged in the development of the IJS, emphasizing the need for meaningful consultation and input throughout the process. They have participated in various meetings and workshops to provide feedback on the strategy, advocating for the inclusion of their priorities, such as the establishment of Indigenous courts and the need for training standards that reflect Indigenous realities. Despite their involvement, partners believe that some key priorities were not included in the final IJS, leading to concerns about the adequacy of the strategy in addressing the specific needs of Indigenous communities. Some partners stress the importance of ongoing dialogue and collaboration to ensure that the IJS effectively supports their rights and enhances public safety and community well-being.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 29

Implementation of Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Since An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families came into force on January 1, 2020, a total of 12 coordination agreements and 3 bilateral agreements have been signed, with 446 Indigenous communities or groups expressing interest in exercising jurisdiction under the Act by accessing capacity-building program funding, submitting notices of intent, or requesting coordination agreement discussions. In the 2024-2025 fiscal year, 7 coordination agreements and 2 bilateral agreements were signed, and 4 Indigenous laws were enacted, reflecting ongoing progress in implementing the framework established by the Act.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The Inuit Data Strategy Working Group, co-led by ISC and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, developed a report on Inuit-specific child welfare data, approved by the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee. ISC and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami also began co-developing a long-term Inuit fiscal policy, while the Métis National Council and ISC renewed their Memorandum of Understanding to advance the Canada-Métis Nation Child and Family Services Accord. Additionally, the Assembly of First Nations and ISC worked on revitalizing shared priorities under the First Nations Permanent Bilateral Mechanism, and pre-engagements with with the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and the Métis National Council were conducted for the five-year review of An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families. The funding related to the Act is needs-based, allowing Indigenous partners to identify their needs, with specific profiles established for exercising jurisdiction to ensure equality.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners have stressed the urgent need to reclaim jurisdiction over child and family services. For example, they highlight the overrepresentation of Métis children in the welfare system and the negative impacts of misidentification on their cultural connections. Despite advocacy for self-determination and governance rooted in Indigenous values, barriers such as insufficient financial support and culturally safe environments hinder participation. Recent engagement sessions revealed challenges related to exclusion and the necessity for community-based decision-making models. Efforts to amend some Treaties for governance equality have yet to reach agreement, and some have expressed frustration over the slow progress in implementing the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children, youth, and families. Partners continue to emphasize the need to keep Indigenous children connected to their families and communities.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 30

Supporting Indigenous Data Sovereignty

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

To promote a coordinated approach across federal institutions, TBS and ISC established the Working Group on Indigenous Data Sovereignty, which involves representatives from ten agencies to collaborate on engagements and reduce engagement fatigue. As for specific policy initiatives to further this APM, TBS, in the context of its upcoming 2025 Access to Information Act Review, reached out to over 180 Indigenous partners to hold early discussions on key Indigenous access challenges that could be examined in the review while ISC continues to support Indigenous-led data capacity development through the Transformational Approach to Indigenous Data. Additionally, ISC has enhanced its data governance by engaging with 14 Indigenous organizations on its upcoming Policy on External Data Sharing and administering nearly 40 Information Sharing Agreements. These efforts look to strengthening Indigenous data governance and integrating Indigenous perspectives into data practices.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In June 2024, ISC initiated a multi-stage engagement process and invited 26 Indigenous organizations to provide feedback on its upcoming Policy on External Data Sharing. In the process, ISC gathered feedback from national, regional, rights holding, and service delivery organizations representing First Nations, Inuit, Métis Peoples as well as Indigenous women specifically. The first stage of the engagement concluded in February 2025. This feedback is being used to inform the objectives and principles that will be featured in the Policy and has already been crucial in shaping discussions on improving access to departmental data assets for Indigenous partners. Similarly, TBS reached out to over 180 Indigenous organizations in October 2024 to gather input for the upcoming 2025 Review, validating options to enhance Indigenous access to data while ensuring its protection. Overall, these initiatives demonstrate a commitment to meaningful collaboration with Indigenous partners and integrating their perspectives into policy frameworks.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners emphasize the importance of including Indigenous women’s organizations, beyond distinction-based groups, in Indigenous Data Sovereignty and data strategies. Indigenous women organizations have highlighted the need to access, control, and protect their own data to effectively advocate, deliver services, and share their stories. The complexities of this issue arise from overlapping federal and provincial jurisdictions and multiple pieces of legislation. They have helped identify relevant legislation and issues impacting Indigenous communities, especially those involved in self-governance that require access to information. Successful implementation of data strategies will depend on either standalone legislation or federal legislation that ensures efficient information flow to support self-governing communities. Currently, barriers to accessing information remain due to the federal government’s historical role as the sole administrator of programs and services, which highlights the need for equitable access to information for effective self-governance.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: LAC, PHAC, StatsCan

Shared Priority 31

Ongoing section 35 rights-based policy and program reforms

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

CIRNAC indicated that various elements of this measure are underway, while other aspects remain at the early planning stages, such as the work on Shared Priorities 23 and 24.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

Elements that are related to this commitment are in the planning phase and CIRNAC expects that consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners will occur at an appropriate time in the implementation phase.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Recent virtual engagement sessions focused on self-determination highlighted the importance of collaborating with Indigenous partners to identify opportunities for reforming and strengthening the foundational elements that support rights-based negotiations and approaches. They advocated for reclaiming governance systems rooted in traditional values and knowledge, promoting community-based decision-making models that reflect their identities. Ongoing advocacy aims to ensure that self-determination encompasses not only recognition but also the power and resources necessary for Indigenous communities to shape their futures effectively.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 32

Guidance on engaging on natural resources projects to obtain FPIC

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

NRCan received policy authority to advance work on this priority and established an Interdepartmental Directors Table to develop guidance for engaging with Indigenous partners on natural resource projects. Surveys were conducted with Indigenous and industry partners to refine consultation approaches. In addition, the CNSC prioritized support for implementation by providing information to Indigenous partners regarding the implementation of this Action Plan measure. They have begun coordinating opportunities for engagement between NRCan and key partners and considered responses to recent legal decisions affecting Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC).

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The CNSC, NRCan, and JUS participated in an engagement session with the Michi Saagiig Nations to discuss UN Declaration Act implementation and the principle of FPIC, although the focus was primarily on information sharing. NRCan held a virtual engagement session with Indigenous partners and conducted an online survey that garnered responses from 36 Indigenous partners. These informed options on the development of guidance and a consultation plan. However, NRCan faced challenges such as delayed policy authority, lack of funding, and time constraints due to the prorogation of Parliament, which impacted their ability to engage more broadly over an extended period of time with Indigenous partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners expressed concerns about their exclusion from consultations on resource development projects and emphasized the need for strategies that ensure the safety of Indigenous women. They highlighted the importance of focusing on community objectives and the misunderstanding of treaty relationships, which complicates self-governing authority and recognition of rights. Overall, Indigenous partners stressed the need for true reconciliation through better communication, collaboration, and adequate funding to support their rights and governance models in resource negotiations.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: CNSC, NRCan

Shared Priority 33

Increasing economic participation in natural resources projects

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The National Benefits Sharing Framework (NBSF) aims to enhance the quality and consistency of benefits that Indigenous communities receive from natural resource projects, supported by a total of $12.1 million in commitments from Budgets 2022 and 2023. Engagement activities to inform the NBSF's development with Indigenous partners and industry have been completed, culminating in the publication of a "What We Heard" report on January 9, 2025. Additionally, the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program (ILGP), launched on December 16, 2024, as a result of the NBSF, will provide up to $5 billion in loan guarantees to promote Indigenous ownership in the natural resource and energy sectors, with funding for Investment Analysis and Due Diligence (IADD) capacity set to be available on April 1, 2025. In March 2025, the ILGP was expanded to $10 billion and included additional sectors.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Formal consultation and engagement primarily occurred in 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, with ongoing informal engagement continuing into 2024-2025 regarding the ILGP and the upcoming IADD capacity funding. A "What We Heard" report on the NBSF and the ILGP was published on January 9, 2025. While in-depth discussions on the ILGP's design took place in 2023-2024, 2024-2025 activities focused on sharing information about the program's implementation, with previous feedback from Indigenous partners emphasizing the need for capacity funding to support loan guarantee applications, which influenced the development of the IADD.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that Indigenous women’s organizations were not invited to the Economic Reconciliation Summits held in 2023 and 2024. Engagement efforts have taken place through a Regional Energy and Resource Table with the Government of Canada, supported by a Capacity Support Contribution Agreement that allows for input on Regional Table documents and participation in meetings. The Government of Canada collaborates with Indigenous partners to identify and pursue energy and resource opportunities, and multiple funding agreements have been signed to ensure meaningful consultation with Indigenous citizens regarding these initiatives.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 34

Enhancing participation in natural resource projects regulated by the CER

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

NRCan and the Canada Energy Regulator (CER) reported progress on the four elements of APM 34. First, engaging with Indigenous groups through the launch of Phase 2 of the Indigenous Ministerial Arrangements Regulations (IMARs) engagement process, which involved outreach to over 300 Indigenous groups. To date, 107 groups attended an IMARs engagement session. Feedback from these engagements highlighted the need for a revised approach to enhance understanding of the process and related regulations. NRCan provided funding and resources to Indigenous groups to help build the necessary knowledge to engage effectively in discussions about resource projects that may affect their lands and rights. Second, the review of Onshore Pipeline Regulations and Filing Manuals (OPR/FM) entered Phase 2 of engagement, where the CER sought feedback on various topics, including Indigenous rights and socio-economic effects while providing funding to support Indigenous participation. Phase 2 engagement funding was provided to 52 recipients. Third, the CER held a series of planning workshops for a systemic model for Indigenous oversight, benefiting from early engagement, and developed a project charter and governance model. Work on sub-element 4 is at the very early planning stages, with community input gathered during recent gatherings. In addition, the Action Plan measure Leadership Table consisting of Indigenous Leaders, CER, and NRCan leadership was created to guide overall implementation of the measure.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The collaborative efforts between NRCan and the CER focused on engaging Indigenous groups in the development of proposed regulations through IMARs and the OPR/FM Review, and on getting early guidance for the systemic model and the fourth sub-element of this Action Plan measure. Various engagement sessions were held, including regional engagement sessions, information sessions and community-hosted gatherings, where foundational questions were posed to gather feedback that would inform a Regulatory Proposal. Additionally, the CER organized virtual information sessions and workshops and created a leadership table with Indigenous leaders. Overall, these efforts aimed to ensure that Indigenous voices were integral to the regulatory development process. However, challenges have been encountered, including limited resources among Indigenous partners and the need for educational opportunities regarding the regulatory process.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 35

Harvesting rights and Parks Canada

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

During the reporting period, PC co-developed an Indigenous Stewardship Policy with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle, which mandates the co-development of Indigenous Stewardship Plans in collaboration with Indigenous partners for all heritage places. These plans will identify shared priorities for advancing the UN Declaration and Indigenous Stewardship, detailing how these priorities will be implemented.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PC initiated consultations with Indigenous partners on proposed National Marine Conservation Area General Regulations. Co-development approaches were taken through negotiation of agreements to implement harvesting rights in national parks and historic sites in Eastern Canada, and in developing the Indigenous Stewardship Policy with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle. Work to advance a vision and path forward for cultural competency training for employees was also achieved through collaboration with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle. PC conducts quarterly meetings with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle and bi-weekly meetings with representatives from the Métis National Council and Assembly of First Nations. Funding to support shared priorities with Indigenous partners remains a significant challenge.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some partners noted that a Rights Implementation Agreement (RIA) was established to work on conflict resolution and land stewardship plans co-created with Kouchibouguac National Park. This agreement is significant as it outlines shared principles and processes for stewardship and management planning, with the potential for successful implementation in other jurisdictions and national parks.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 36

Fishing rights – legislative, regulatory, or policy amendments and reforms

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Various fisheries policy projects led by DFO are underway to advance this Action Plan measure, including the Eastern Canada Communal Commercial Licensing Policy Review and the review of the 1993 Policy for the Management of Aboriginal Fishing (1993 Policy). DFO continued its review of existing communal commercial licensing policies, guidelines, and regulations in Eastern Canada, engaging and consulting with Indigenous partners to inform a draft policy. Additionally, early engagement and collaborative planning discussions were held with Indigenous partners to support a planned multi-year review of the 1993 Policy.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

DFO held an engagement session on February 12, 2025, in partnership with the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat, to discuss the draft Communal Commercial Fisheries Licensing Policy for Eastern Canada. This technical workshop allowed DFO to share how previous feedback informed the draft policy while gathering additional input from Indigenous communities and organizations reflecting DFO's commitment to incorporating Indigenous input into its initiatives. DFO also engaged with regional Indigenous organizations on both coasts regarding the initiation of the review of the 1993 Policy.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Funding from a fisheries Rights Reconciliation Agreement has supported discussions on acquiring a vessel for food fishing. However, some Indigenous partners report not seeing much progress on fishery-related APMs nearly two years into the Action Plan. The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans initiated a review of the Fisheries Act but delays due to Parliament's prorogation have prevented Indigenous partners from providing input. There is a call from some partners for the Fisheries Act to recognize multiple governance authorities instead of relying solely on the Minister, as this is inconsistent with treaties and Aboriginal rights. Additionally, some partners identified systemic racism in policies hinders the implementation of the UN Declaration, underscoring the need for education on Indigenous rights and greater inclusion in decision-making processes.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 37

Collaborative fisheries management and fish habitat conservation

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Efforts to develop and implement modern agreements for reconciliation, particularly in the fisheries sector, have included the ongoing implementation of the Coastal First Nations Fisheries Resources Reconciliation Agreement and the signing of a two-year Incremental Reconciliation Agreement for Fisheries Resources (IRAFR) and associated implementation of the community based economic fishery plan for the Five Nuu-chah-nulth Nations. Progress is also being made toward reconciliation agreements with other Nations in the Pacific Region. Renewed funding has been allocated to support moderate livelihood rights, and DFO held workshops in winter 2025 to discuss Ecologically Significant Areas (ESAs) and gather feedback from Indigenous peoples on their involvement in these areas. Additionally, the Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program and the Kitselas First Nation co-developed a consultation protocol in April 2024 to outline the process for activities requiring authorization under relevant acts.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The two-year IRAFR establishes a collaborative framework for the management and planning of the Five Nations' fisheries resources within a community-based economic fishery. Treaties with fisheries chapters were initialed with K’omoks and Kitselas and Kitsumkalum First Nations that also include collaborative arrangements on fisheries. To date, seven Rights Reconciliation Agreements have been signed with 15 of the 35 First Nations in New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Quebec, which establish joint collaborative fisheries management committees that provide advice to the Minister on various fisheries issues.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Same perspectives as for SP 36.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 38

Capacity funding for fisheries, oceans and marine-related services and decision-making

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

DFO's suite of Indigenous Collaborative Programs continues to work closely with Indigenous partners to advance a responsive, long-term approach to the co-design, co-development, and co-delivery of flexible capacity-building programs and services. These initiatives assist Indigenous communities and organizations in developing technical, scientific, and operational expertise for managing and conserving fisheries, aquatic resources, and ecosystems. In 2024-2025, the programs provided over $60 million in contributions to support the monitoring and stewardship objectives of more than 200 Indigenous participants, which included hiring, training, and equipping 184 full-time and part-time Indigenous Resource Management Officer Technicians across 85 communities. Additionally, the programs have strengthened the roles of their joint Indigenous-DFO Management and Steering Committees, as well as the Indigenous-led Capacity Development Team.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Guided by the Collaborative Programs Management Committee (CPMC) and National AAROM Steering Committee, and supported by the Capacity Development Team (CDT), DFO engages Indigenous program participants continuously at the national, regional and area level through executive committees, technical working groups, and direct work-planning and information sharing. However, limited funding and travel constraints have impacted working relationships with Indigenous communities, challenging DFO’s ability to explore complex issues and co-develop effective solutions. Engaging in person with key partners is essential when advancing a truly collaborative governance and financial framework and, cannot be achieved through ad hoc or virtual engagements alone.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners are working with DFO to implement recommendations for sustainable funding to enhance First Nations' participation in ocean management. Despite ongoing collaborations and advocacy for dedicated funding, some partners noted that there remains a lack of clarity regarding available resources for Action Plan measure implementation, and systemic barriers continue to impede progress, particularly in the fishing industry. There is a call for clear, long-term investments and removal of systemic barriers to ensure Indigenous stewardship is central to decision-making.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 39

Support for fisheries Guardians

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

DFO has been collaborating with multiple working groups to establish key components of the Fisheries Guardians program, including defining roles and responsibilities, creating equipment lists, and designing uniforms. Additionally, DFO is working to procure a training curriculum for new Aboriginal Fisheries Guardians (AFG) through a collaborative process that involves Guardians, Indigenous Knowledge holders, and departmental representatives to ensure the curriculum meets the needs of both the department and the various communities with Guardian programs across the country. The initial focus will be on developing the training for newly onboarded Guardians. Furthermore, DFO is taking steps to develop the program into a stand-alone Fisheries Guardians initiative, reducing its reliance on the Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

DFO continues to engage with communities across Canada by responding to requests for presentations and meeting with groups to discuss potential programs. Staff traveled to Haida Gwaii and Esgenoôpetitj to learn about their respective AFG programs, gaining insights into their successes and challenges. This engagement allowed Indigenous voices to inform the development of policies and decisions related to the renewed AFG program. DFO also collaborates with various Aboriginal Fishery Guardians and stakeholders on working groups focused on different aspects of this renewal, ensuring that all members contribute equally to the final outcomes, regardless of their affiliation with DFO or Guardian partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners have noted that they have asked for fully equipped, paid and empowered fishery officers for nearly a decade, with no progress being made.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 40

Incorporation of Indigenous knowledge related to fisheries

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

DFO has been working to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into its programs and decision-making processes, coordinating internally to align with the implementation. The department has engaged with Indigenous organizations to collaboratively build foundations for the co-development of policy and guidance materials supporting departmental respect for Indigenous data sovereignty and the safeguarding of Indigenous knowledge. During the reporting period, DFO established a $5 million Indigenous Fishery Monitoring Fund to support Indigenous groups in sharing best practices and fishery monitoring data to enhance sustainable fisheries management. Additionally, DFO launched the Bridging Indigenous and Science-Based Knowledge (BIAS-K) web portal, an online platform which showcases over 250 projects and case studies that include multiple ways of knowing and was developed in partnership with Indigenous peoples and federal colleagues.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Key activities have included planning meetings and co-designing workshops focused on Indigenous data sovereignty and integrating Indigenous knowledge, along with executing these workshops and discussing next steps. Indigenous partners have played an active role in identifying priorities and guiding the development of departmental policies. However, achieving a distinctions-based approach has been challenging due to outreach primarily targeting First Nations organizations, which limited diversity in representation. Moving forward, there will be a stronger emphasis on distinctions-based outreach. The past year's collaborative efforts have underscored the importance of co-designing engagement strategies with partners from the beginning to effectively communicate goals and intentions.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that their rights and jurisdiction continue to face challenges, and added that while the UN Declaration Act could help address these issues, progress relies on Canada's willingness to cooperate. Although some funding has been used to acquire a vessel for food fishing, nearly two years into the Action Plan, there has been little progress from their perspective on fishery-related measures.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 41

Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The implementation of the Action Plan measure in 2024-2025 centered on engaging with First Nations and advancing collaborative salmon actions, processes, and policy modernization efforts supported under the Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative (PSSI). To date, DFO has engaged with over ten First Nations organizations associated with 125 individual First Nations to seek perspectives on the implemenation of SP41. Collaborative actions included new and ongoing partnerships for salmon enhancement, advancing Indigenous Salmon Harvest Transformation Projects, and collaborative planning and responses to extreme climate events affecting Pacific salmon. DFO also continued to advance implementation of ten key Collaborative Salmon Processes with First Nations, notably signing the new First Nation-BC-DFO Trilateral Salmon Accord on June 21, 2024. Additionally, collaborative salmon policy modernization focused on reviewing and co-developing modernized salmon allocation policies for BC and the Yukon.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Close to 190 First Nations rely on wild Pacific salmon for sustenance and have deep socio-cultural and spiritual ties to the species, the PSSI involves a high degree of consultation and cooperation through a series of collaborative salmon actions, processes, and policy modernization efforts that DFO is advancing in partnership with First Nations. Concurrently, DFO is engaging with First Nations on SP41 implementation by seeking First Nations’ views on examples of current collaborative PSSI activities to ensure the Department is on the right path to implement this action plan measure.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

There have been regular meetings with DFO officials to stay informed about progress on the PSSI. However, some Indigenous partners have expressed frustration over the lack of transparency in the decision-making process regarding projects, funding agreements, and the timing of funding disbursements. Concerns have been raised that most PSSI funding has been allocated for staff retention and operations, with only a small percentage directed to First Nations for partnerships or project-led activities. Successful implementation of the PSSI is defined by the long-term restoration of wild salmon stocks, increased capacity for First Nations involvement in salmon management, and equitable funding distribution consistent with Shared Priority 38. Given the ongoing crisis of many Pacific salmon stocks, there is a pressing need for the renewal of the PSSI and a review of its effectiveness, alongside the development of an Atlantic salmon strategy to address similar challenges in those stocks.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 42

Marine Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

DFO has collaborated with the Water Sector and Marine Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCA) Sub-Working Group to identify opportunities and challenges in policy work by reviewing the Assembly of First Nations' 2023 Recommendation Report on marine IPCAs. In June 2024, 17 Pacific North Coast First Nations, Canada, and British Columbia signed the Great Bear Sea Project Finance for Permanence (PFP) Agreement to advance Indigenous-led conservation including collaborative governance agreements to advance federal and provincial protected and conserved areas and IPCAs in British Columbia's Northern Shelf Bioregion. Additionally, Canada, the Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA), the Pew Charitable Trusts, and the Aajuraq Conservation Fund Society signed the SINAA PFP Agreement in February 2025.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Targeted engagements have included collaboration with the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), workshops in Quebec focused on marine spatial planning and IPCA awareness, and discussions with the Passamaquoddy First Nation in the Maritimes to advance IPCAs around Passamaquoddy Bay. In British Columbia, discussions have centered on implementing the Great Bear Sea PFP Agreement with First Nations and British Columbia while in Nunavut negotiations on the SINAA PFP Agreement with the Qikiqtani Inuit Association and The Pew Charitable Trust have concluded. A joint announcement for the designation of the Tang.ɢwan — ḥačxʷiqak — Tsig̱is marine protected area in June 2024 required more time to ensure meaningful collaboration and clearer communication on this shared initiative. This announcement was supported by a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2023 by the Council of the Haida Nation, the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council, Quatsino First Nation, Pacheedaht First Nation, and Canada outlining how the parties will collaboratively manage the Tang.ɢwan — ḥačxwiqak — Tsig̱is MPA.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some partners noted that two years ago, a request was made to designate a contentious lobster fishing area as an Indigenous Marine Protected Area, but no response was received, and the area was allocated to non-Indigenous fishers. Since then, a report with recommendations for advancing Marine IPCAs was developed by the AFN, DFO and AFN are now actively engaged to review these recommendations and to support further collaboration. There is also advocacy for this Action Plan measure at the First Nations Nature Table, emphasizing the need for consultations, dedicated funding, and collaboration to address challenges in marine conservation. Funding programs support capacity-building and ensure that Indigenous rights and perspectives are integrated into ocean policy and decision-making.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 43

Addressing systemic racism in enforcement of fisheries laws and regulations

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

DFO acknowledges the vital role that robust cultural awareness training and cultural exchange play in combating systemic racism in fisheries management. Indigenous cultural awareness training begins during the Fishery Officer Initial Training program, which includes three days of mandatory training on Indigenous perspectives, and Elders are regularly involved in the graduation ceremonies for new Fishery Officers. Additionally, the Indigenous Fishery Officer Network (IFON) was established to connect Indigenous officers nationwide, focusing on improving mental health awareness, retention, and recruitment, with the second annual meeting held in October 2024 and a third planned for 2025. To further support these initiatives, a short-term assignment was created for Indigenous employees to expand their work experience and collaborate on national Indigenous programs.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Indigenous cultural awareness training begins at the “cadet” stage of the Fishery Officer Initial Training (FOIT) program, which includes three days of mandatory training on Indigenous perspectives. Visits with Indigenous communities have now taken place in collaboration with Abegweit First Nation as well as Lennox Island First Nation, and continue to be included in ongoing training plans for incoming fishery officer cadets. Elders are now regularly included in the graduation ceremonies for new Fishery Officers. Additionally, Indigenous businesses have provided both on-site and virtual experiences, such as blanket exercises and workshops on dreamcatchers and medicine bags. Consultation with Elders and Indigenous Knowledge holders is integral to addressing specific topics and developing relevant policies and programs.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Regular meetings with DFO officials have provided updates on this Action Plan measure, but there is no clear metric for assessing progress, with training and recruitment as the main indicators of success. Successful implementation should reduce conflicts between Conservation and Protection officers and First Nation citizens, as well as fines and equipment seizures, while fostering partnerships for catch monitoring. Some partners believe that reform of the Fisheries Act is needed to recognize First Nations' governance and management roles, including agreements for enforcement and monitoring. Although there is a Fisheries Rights Reconciliation Agreement in place that recognizes Indigenous laws, pushback from the non-Indigenous fishing industry continues to hinder the success of the UN Declaration Act implementation process. This situation is exacerbated by systemic racist policies and legislation, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive campaign to educate about Indigenous rights and sovereignty, particularly within the fishing industry.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 44

National aquaculture legislation

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

In 2019, the Prime Minister directed the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans, and the Canadian Coast Guard to begin work on introducing Canada's first-ever Aquaculture Act, a commitment reiterated in the Minister's 2021 mandate letter. Departmental resources have focused on developing a plan to transition away from open net-pen salmon aquaculture in British Columbia, with the outcomes of this plan informing the proposed federal Aquaculture Act. Given that the proposed federal Aquaculture Act is intended to establish a national, comprehensive framework for aquaculture operations, its development and implementation remains dependent on the outcome of the transition plan in B.C.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

Departmental resources have been focused on the development of a plan to transition from open net-pen salmon aquaculture in British Columbia, the outcomes of which will help to inform the development of the proposed federal Aquaculture Act.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that the proposed Aquaculture Act appears to be stalled, and DFO has not addressed requests for accommodations related to the cumulative impacts of open-pen Atlantic Salmon aquaculture.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 45

Aligning DND and CAF programs with the UN Declaration

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The Government of Canada has prioritized proactive and ongoing relationship-building with Indigenous partners and National and Regional Indigenous Organizations through effective communication, information-sharing, engagement, consultation, and collaboration. This includes engaging Northern Indigenous partners for the co-development of a Northern Engagement and Consultation Framework on a distinctions- and regional-based approach to align Defence cooperation with Inuit, First Nations and Métis partners with the objectives of the UN Declaration. Engagement and consultation in support of organizing and delivering the Operation NANOOK in the North is another example of Defence cooperation with rights-holders, including exchange of knowledgethat facilitates understanding of land-base practices, land management,and addressing concerns. Additionally, Indigenous approaches are being integrated into restorative engagement practices related to the CAF-DND Sexual Misconduct Class Action Settlement, further emphasizing the commitment to collaboration and respect for Indigenous knowledge and rights.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

See above for work related to consultation and cooperation.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

A virtual "open house" series was delivered to share information with Yukon First Nations about key aspects of Canada’s defence and security architecture, aiming to support their self-determined positioning on related policy issues. Also, the first-ever Yukon First Nations Defence and Security Industries Conference took place in April 2025 with support from the Indigenous Reconcilation Program, bringing together Yukon First Nations leaders, Defence participants, industry representatives, and federal officials. Multiple funding proposals have been submitted to DND and other departments to expand these initiatives and support ongoing Indigenous-led defence engagement, particularly in the North. The efforts have been bolstered by additional support from the Mobilizing Insights in National Defence program to facilitate strategic education and relationship-building activities.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 46

Indigenous Climate Leadership Agenda

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

This year marked the conclusion of the co-development process for the Indigenous Climate Leadership (ICL) Agenda, resulting in the submission of a series of region-specific climate recommendations from First Nations, Inuit, and Métis governments and organizations. CIRNAC and ECCC provided funding to support regional partners to lead self-determined engagement processes with communities, rights-holders, and political leaders, and to participate in national dialogues on Indigenous climate leadership. The departments convened national meetings with First Nations, Modern Treaty and Self-Governing First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners, including National Technical meetings with First Nations and Leaders’ Meetings with Ministers and Indigenous leadership on a distinction-basis. Internally, CIRNAC and ECCC convened regular meetings with senior officials across the Government of Canada to advance Indigenous recommendations, provide opportunities for Indigenous partners to present to these fora, and prepare the federal government for systemic change.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Through the Indigenous Climate Leadership (ICL) Agenda, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners led over 100 engagement sessions with their communities. Where invited, CIRNAC and ECCC participated in many of these meetings at the request of partners. Federal officials convened bilateral, national, technical, and Leaders’ Meetings to address and identify national, regional, and local shared priorities and differences. The co-development process was driven by Indigenous partners and resulted in a series of region-specific climate recommendations.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners have actively engaged in the co-development of Canada's First Nations Climate Leadership Agenda, participating in steering committees, bilateral discussions, and technical sessions. Partners received capacity funding to support their climate initiatives and submitted recommendations for streamlined federal funding and governance structures. While efforts have focused on enhancing climate resilience and sustainability, ongoing uncertainty regarding federal commitments and program delays poses significant risks to the continuation of Indigenous-led climate initiatives. Successful implementation will require long-term, flexible funding to advance these priorities in a self-determined manner.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 47

Indigenous leadership in conservation

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Progress has been made by ECCC in various initiatives aimed at supporting Indigenous-led conservation and governance. For instance, a contribution agreement was signed in July 2024 between ECCC and the First Nations National Guardians Network, which enabled the Network to administer funding that resulted in 80 First Nations Guardians initiatives being funded until March 2026. Additionally, the Indigenous Partnerships Initiative invested $13.6 million in 32 projects, benefiting 146 unique species at risk. Furthermore, negotiations for four Protected Areas Framework Agreements advanced, with Indigenous-led governance structures established and final agreements approved for the Great Bear Sea, Northwest Territories, and Sinaa. Overall, these efforts reflect a commitment to enhancing Indigenous participation in conservation and environmental stewardship.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In collaboration with Indigenous partners, ECCC enhanced conservation initiatives and funding mechanisms. Indigenous partners reviewed program evaluations that informed discussions on securing long-term funding for the Indigenous Guardians program beyond 2026. Distinctions-based priorities were the focus of bilateral meetings, including Indigenous Nature Tables that provide a space to discuss shared nature priorities, including but not limited to Indigenous leadership in conservation. The Indigenous-Led Areas-Based Conservation Working Group also addressed conservation challenges through a distinctions approach, supporting Indigenous-led efforts. ECCC involved Indigenous partners in designing the Indigenous Partnerships Initiative to ensure it reflected their priorities, demonstrating a commitment to co-designing programs that respect Indigenous perspectives. ECCC co-developed the distinctions-based Indigenous Nature Tables with First Nations, Métis and Inuit partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

A Contribution Agreement was signed to support an Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas initiative, and participation in a guidance committee for the Canada-Manitoba Nature Agreement has helped identify Indigenous priorities. Funding through the Indigenous-led Area-Based Conservation program will protect up to 350,000 hectares in the Kettle Hills, Manitoba, enabling long-term, flexible funding and technical support from the Government of Canada. Additionally, there is a focus on continued support for Indigenous leadership in conservation through various initiatives, including Indigenous Guardians and the Indigenous Partnerships Initiative. These measures aim to strengthen Indigenous peoples’ participation in decision-making by co-developing consultation arrangements that align with self-determination objectives and establishing a permanent Indigenous advisory committee to guide federal consultation approaches. Overall, these efforts reflect a commitment to enhancing Indigenous involvement in conservation and governance, however some partners noted challenges in securing funding to fulfill their own mandate.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 48

Indigenous science in ECCC scientific inquiry

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The Indigenous Science Division (ISD) was established in 2022 within ECCC as an Indigenous-led team aimed at advancing reconciliation in the department's science and research activities. By integrating Indigenous science and leadership across the entire spectrum of scientific practice, the ISD supports Canada’s commitments to renewing nation-to-nation relationships and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. This approach involves co-determining science priorities, generating hypotheses, developing and implementing policies, and mobilizing and communicating data and knowledge, as outlined in the ECCC Science Strategy for 2024 to 2029. In 2024-2025, efforts to build capacity and initiatives to apply an Indigenous lens to ECCC's science, policy, and program activities are ongoing.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

The mandate of the ISD is collaborative but not directly tied to consultation and cooperation processes regarding initiatives that affect the rights of Indigenous peoples. The ISD's Aki Navigators lead Indigenous community engagement and provide technical guidance to project personnel. Based on shared priorities identified by Indigenous scientists, Knowledge Holders, Elders, and communities, the Weaving section of ISD co-develops research activities. In alignment with its priorities, ISD aims to engage with, build, and maintain long-term partnerships with Indigenous communities, supporting the development of Indigenous-led projects that are meaningful to the community and align with the mandate of ECCC. Although ISD has not conducted formal consultations, it has carried out numerous engagement activities consistent with its mandate.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that they participated in the steering committee, bilateral discussions, and attended in-person technical sessions along with a Leaders' Meeting in June 2024. Partners believe that the successful implementation of this agenda should adopt a holistic, community-led approach that enhances climate resilience, fosters sustainability, and supports the long-term health and well-being of communities and traditional lands. By integrating cultural values, environmental stewardship, and collaborative action, this aims to ensure a thriving, sustainable future, strengthening connection to the land and empowering future generations to lead in climate resilience.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 49

Canada Water Agency and the Canada Water Act

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The CWA was initially established as a branch of ECCC in June 2023. On October 15, 2024, the Canada Water Agency Act came into force, officially creating the standalone agency and completing this component of the Action Plan measure. Since 2020, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners have been engaged in discussions about the CWA's creation, and fiscal year 2024-2025 included meetings to ensure their input was reflected in the legislation, mandate, and priorities of the agency. For the review of the Canada Water Act, the focus has been on pre-engagement with Indigenous partners to determine their preferred methods of involvement in the review process.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

This fiscal year, the CWA focused on pre-engagement with Indigenous partners to gather input on their preferred methods for reviewing the Canada Water Act. The CWA hosted eight group information sessions to discuss engagement strategies, followed by over 30 individual meetings to address funding support and develop contribution agreements for pre-engagement, which became a priority for the remainder of the year. Additionally, the CWA launched the Indigenous Grassroots Water Circle Pilot, a virtual platform for Indigenous grassroots voices, which included 24 participants from various Indigenous distinctions in the initial meeting and 14 returning for a follow-up session to review the input provided. The feedback from these pre-engagement activities will inform the development of detailed engagement plans, ensuring that future consultations reflect the needs and preferences of Indigenous partners. The Indigenous Grassroots Water Circle pilot highlighted lessons learned and the CWA has initiated internal work to simplify administrative processes, reduce technological barriers, address geographical constraints, provide have been noted, better support Elders, and make documents accessible in Indigenous languages.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Agreements were established with the CWA to share priorities and expectations regarding the Canada Water Act review through an engagement plan. Additionally, a red line review of the draft Canada Water Act Discussion Paper was conducted. Funding was received from ECCC to host a one-day pre-engagement meeting focused on the Canada Water Act review. Some Indigenous partners emphasized that a review of the Canada Water Act must directly involve First Nations with lived stewardship of inland water systems. Communities depend on these waters for food, ceremony, and identity. Engagement must go beyond a technical review to include First Nations- led freshwater governance frameworks rooted in Treaty rights, water law, and long-term sustainability.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 50

Federal Sustainable Development Strategy

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The Sustainable Development Advisory Council (SDAC), established under the Federal Sustainable Development Act, reviews and comments on draft versions of the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) and advises the Minister of Environment and Climate Change on sustainability-related matters. The Council includes six Indigenous representatives, including members from National Indigenous Organizations (NIOs). The SDAC met in February and October 2024. The Sustainable Development Office at ECCC held optional meetings in June and July 2024, and distributed a survey to gather feedback on the 2026-2029 FSDS structure. A Notice of Opportunity for ministerial appointments was issued on October 21, 2024, targeting Indigenous organizations and individuals to fill 17 Council seats, including five reserved for Indigenous representatives. Research on the strategic priorities of NIOs regarding sustainable development has guided the FSDS drafting.q

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The Sustainable Development Office at ECCC proposed organizing a roundtable discussion with NIOs to discuss the 2026-2029 FSDS, but this plan did not materialize. The SDAC, which includes six Indigenous representatives, reviews draft versions of the FSDS and advises the Minister on sustainability matters. The SDAC met in February and October 2024, and a survey was conducted in July 2024 to gather feedback on the FSDS structure. Indigenous partners have played a crucial role in informing the priorities for the FSDS and ensuring that Indigenous considerations are included in its drafting. However, one ongoing challenge in engagement activities has been the difficulty in maintaining consistent communication with NIOs due to capacity constraints, which has prompted efforts to explore ways to leverage other relevant federal engagements and NIOs reports to reduce the consultation burden.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners emphasized supporting equitable growth in well-being while respecting the connection of off-reserve Indigenous communities to their land and culture. They highlighted the importance of assessing the social impact of marine conservation efforts on these off-reserve communities in the Maritimes and ensuring their voices are included in discussions about environmental and habitat impacts.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 51

Impact assessments and alignment with UN Declaration

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The Impact Assessment Act (IAA) was amended in June 2024 to align with the Supreme Court of Canada's decision regarding its constitutionality, specifically by anchoring decision-making in areas of clear federal jurisdiction. The IAA maintains explicit commitments to implement the UN Declaration, protect Indigenous rights, and incorporate Indigenous Knowledge. IAAC is dedicated to implementing the IAA in a manner that aligns with the objectives and spirit of the UN Declaration, emphasizing the importance of seeking free, prior, and informed consent while maximizing Indigenous collaboration and partnership. Additionally, IAAC has advanced work on a regulatory and policy framework to facilitate agreements under specific provisions of the IAA, publishing a discussion paper co-developed with a Circle of Experts and initiating a 90-day national engagement period.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

At the end of the 2024-2025 fiscal year, there were 36 designated project assessments underway as well as 2 regional assessments co-led by IAAC and First Nations partners. Over 300 Indigenous communities had been consulted. The IAAC is building relationships with Indigenous Nations during the pre-planning phase and has engaged in national discussions on regulatory initiatives, including Indigenous Co-Administration Agreements and the Project List. The agency emphasizes a collaborative model for consulting Indigenous peoples to secure free, prior, and informed consent, but concerns about consultation fatigue and insufficient timelines for meaningful engagement have been raised. Indigenous partners' input has been crucial in shaping regulatory frameworks, including the Order Designating Certain Excluded Classes of Projects.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Engagement activities included the Physical Activities Regulations and Indigenous co-administration of federal impact assessments and aimed to gather recommendations for options related to the Project List and facilitate co-administration agreements. However, some Indigenous partners noted the Government of Canada has not adopted a regulatory framework to enable these agreements, and the Action Plan measure is viewed as inadequate in meeting Indigenous expectations for implementing the UN Declaration. Key recommendations include ensuring federal assessments for projects impacting Indigenous rights, amending the Impact Assessment Act to align with UN standards, and providing adequate funding for Indigenous participation. Although a discussion paper to support development of co-administration agreements was published in 2024, some partners feel progress has stalled, underscoring the need for better communication and consultation to ensure meaningful Indigenous involvement in decision-making.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 52

Indigenous border mobility

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

To alleviate immediate mobility challenges while seeking the long-term legislative solutions necessary to implement this Action Plan Measure, in 2024 IRCC launched a series of Temporary Measures to facilitate family reunification for Indigenous people separated by Canada's international borders, including those belonging to federally recognized tribes in the U.S. and the Manitoba Métis Federation. Incorporating feedback from Indigenous partners resulted in a wider definition of anchor family members and a streamlined application process for the Temporary Measures.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Over the course of 2024-2025, IRCC and the CBSA continued to engage in discussions about complex border crossing and migration challenges with 17 Indigenous partners. The insights gained from these discussions will be incorporated into policy options, with additional discussions contemplated for next fiscal year. Information on federal commitments was shared through existing forums, including the Jay Treaty Border Alliance–Collaboration Initiative (JTBA-CI), a joint process with First Nations partners to address mobility issues related to the Canada-U.S. border. Related discussions also took place with the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee, Haudenosaunee External Relations Committee (HERC) Working Group, Assembly of First Nations, Manitoba Métis Federation, and Métis National Council.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Yukon First Nations have long stressed the importance of addressing border mobility issues, particularly for Nations whose territories extend into Alaska. They emphasize the need for a clear and respectful approach grounded in their rights, whether affirmed through Modern Treaties or exercised through inherent self-determination outside this framework. Some Indigenous partners noted that the implementation phase has not adequately reflected Yukon’s unique realities. The Whitehorse engagement session was held in mid-January, when many First Nation governments were reopening after their holiday breaks, limiting access. Despite having the highest number of Modern Treaty nations in any province or territory, the dedicated Modern Treaty session was held in Vancouver, reinforcing the perception that the region’s context is not taken seriously. Post-engagement feedback highlighted the absence of references to the Umbrella Final Agreement (UFA) in the engagement report and emphasized Canada's legal obligations under Chapter 16 of the UFA regarding cross-border rights and mobility. Overall, the lack of region-specific engagement and the one-size-fits-all approach contradicted the spirit of both the UFA and the UN Declaration, perpetuating patterns of exclusion that the UNDA aims to address.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 53

Discussions related to R. v. Desautel decision

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Over the past year, Canada has been working on an approach to address the Supreme Court of Canada's decision in R. v. Desautel in a way that respects Canada's commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples and the direction the Court provided.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2024-2025 CIRNAC held initial discussions with key Canadian based Indigenous groups to discuss Canada's approach to implement the Desautel decision. Ongoing discussions with Indigenous partners will continue to take into consideration the perspectives of these partners to inform future approaches.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that this Action Plan measure proposes "exploratory discussions" with section 35 rights-bearing peoples about the impacts of colonialism on the Canada-United States border. Some noted frustrations trying to meet with Canada on this Action Plan measure and a lack of funding to support the work. Nearly four years after the Supreme Court decision, there is skepticism about the effectiveness of these discussions, as Canada may not have meaningful mandates. Additionally, legal action was taken against Canada in Federal Court when DFO allocated a lobster fishing area to non-Indigenous fishermen without prioritizing Indigenous commercial fishers.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 54

First Nations and Inuit Policing Program (FNIPP)

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

PS has undertaken targeted program modernization efforts to updates the First Nations Policing Policy as well as amend the Terms and Conditions of the FNIPP to respond to key irritants and offer greater flexibility. In addition, work began to develop a Community Tripartite Agreement (CTA) resource guide that will facilitate the process of establishing a national approach for agreement implementation. Ongoing efforts continue with the First Nations and Inuit Communities to develop and share tools.

In 2024-2025, the FNIPP funded the following:

• 36 self-administered police services agreements
• 147 community tripartite agreements
• 4 quadripartite agreements, incluing the Ontario First Nations Policing Agreement (OFNPA)
• 10 Community Safety Officer Agreements
• 68 agreements for one-time funding purposes such as Community Consultative Groups, feasibility studies, and acquisition of minor and major capital assets

Overall, the FNIPP policing agreements serve over 425 First Nations and Inuit communities and provide funding for over 1,800 police officers.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Consultation with Indigenous partners, along with federal, provincial, and territorial partners, resulted in the conclusion of approximately 100 contribution agreements and amended contribution agreements. Over the course of 2024-2025, other engagement, including negotiations, with First Nations and Inuit communities, and Indigenous organizations across Canada supported discussions toward renewal of existing Community Tripartite Agreements, current and future policing needs, associated funding, and discussions about feasibility studies and/or associated process to join the FNIPP or to transition from one policing model to another.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 55

Community Safety Officer Programming

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

PS is working to regularize Community Safety Officers from a pilot project to a regular part of the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program via a new stream as part of the updates to the program's terms and conditions. PS aims to implement the new CSO stream in 2025-2026.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Key consultation and cooperation activities involved ongoing discussions between Indigenous partners and federal, provincial, and territorial governments concerning the renewal of policing services contribution agreements. This collaboration will continue to drive the development of tools and information-sharing mechanisms that support informed decision-making. Additionally, as the Community Safety Officer program remains in the pilot phase, reporting and feedback from partners will be crucial in shaping the future direction of these organizations. PS will continue to engage with First Nations, Inuit partners provinces, and territories to better understand their impacts.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that the Action Plan measure does not adequately address Indigenous needs, as communities are seeking recognition for their established safety initiatives rather than new pilot programs. The Government of Canada suggested exploring a trilateral table with Indigenous partners and provincial/territorial governments to address public safety concerns, which Indigenous partners welcomed. Some partners also noted that successful implementation of this Action Plan measure requires a rights-based approach that supports Indigenous-led community safety services, including sustained funding for CSO programs and tailored legislative solutions.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 56

National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

In 2024-2025, the Government of Canada continued to advance the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking (National Strategy) which coordinates federal efforts through a victim-centered, survivor-informed, and gender responsive lens. PS invested in trauma-informed, community-based projects to prevent trafficking and support victims, survivors and those at increased risk. PS also delivered a national public awareness campaign and supported efforts such as the release of police-reported and court-related data on human trafficking. The Government of Canada continued to fund The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline, a confidential, multilingual, 24/7 service connecting victims and survivors to support services, law enforcement, and emergency services. In January 2025, the Government of Canada appointed a Chief Advisor on Human Trafficking to engage with Indigenous partners and stakeholders, and to support the implementation of the National Inquiry into MMIWG’s Calls for Justice related to human trafficking. Finally, PS held targeted engagement sessions with domestic and international partners, including Indigenous organizations, to identify gaps and guide the National Strategy’s renewal.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The Government of Canada has conducted a series of targeted engagement sessions with domestic and international partners to inform the renewal of the National Strategy. These sessions included victims and survivors, Indigenous groups, law enforcement, provinces and territories, and private sector and civil society partners involved in anti-human trafficking efforts. PS and select federal partners gathered input through in-person and virtual consultations, as well as a survey questionnaire. Over 200 groups and/or organizations participated in these engagements or submitted feedback. Fourteen bilateral sessions were held specifically with Indigenous organizations, in collaboration with CIRNAC’s MMIWG Secretariat. These engagements helped identify key gaps, challenges, and priorities, ensuring that the renewed National Strategy is victim-centered, trauma-informed, culturally appropriate and responsive to the needs of those experiencing increased risk. Finally, PS is developing creative campaign concepts to ensure marketing and advertising efforts are culturally appropriate and responsive to specific needs of Indigenous communities. This work builds on previous engagement efforts and reflects the ongoing commitment to inclusive, trauma-informed public awareness.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

PS engaged with Indigenous organizations in the renewal of Canada’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking. One organization delivers the largest Indigenous anti-human trafficking program in Canada, with its advocacy work continually informed by survivors and their healing needs. There is anticipation for the release of the renewed National Strategy and associated investments to advance this Action Plan measure, which calls for funding culturally relevant community-based projects and support for the Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking, which recently received $12.5 million through 2028. Investment in urban Indigenous women-led services for survivors is essential to ensure that Indigenous women, who are disproportionately targeted by traffickers, can access the necessary supports to exit trafficking and begin their healing journey.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 57

Northern and Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Since 2021, a total of 13 projects have been funded under the Northern and Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund (NICPF), amounting to over $33 million. On November 1, 2024, PS announced a call for applications for three programs under the National Crime Prevention Strategy, including the NICPF, with the application period closing on December 20, 2024. The target populations for this year's call included Indigenous youth, racialized youth, youth at risk of committing violence, and youth with repeat contacts with the criminal justice system. There were 12 NICPF projects actively underway in 2024-2025.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In the process of monitoring contribution agreements and developing new projects, PS engages in regular dialogue with Indigenous partners who are funded or seeking funding under the NICPF.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 58

Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative (ACSPI) was established in 2010 as part of the Government of Canada's Concrete Action on Missing and Murdered Aboriginal Women and was renewed in January 2015 through the Action Plan to Address Family Violence and Violent Crimes Against Aboriginal Women and Girls. It received further renewal in December 2020 following the Final Report of the National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and was expanded in December 2021 to include funding for Indigenous policing and community safety. Since its inception, 85 Community Safety Plans (CSP) have been completed with Indigenous communities, including 12 CSPs completed in 2024-2025.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The ACSPI engages with Indigenous communities and partners to deliver the Community Safety Planning (CSP) process. Communities self identify community safety priorities and develop an integrated, comprehensive response to take action and improve community safety and well-being.

We work towards ensuring that participants successfully complete CSPs, that partners are aware and engaged, and communities with completed CSPs are supported to develop feasible project proposals. The intended outcomes are to support collaboration in the implementation of project proposals through coordination with the Northern Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund (NICPF) and other partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that the Thunder Bay Urban Indigenous Community Safety Plan is being advanced in collaboration with Indigenous organizations and the Thunder Bay Police Service, aligning with this Action Plan measure of the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative, which emphasizes support for Indigenous-led efforts and community-based safety solutions. This measure specifically addresses violence against Indigenous women and girls. While there is local leadership in this initiative, some partners are concerned that the project has only received in-kind funding and lacks long-term, sustainable funding necessary for the comprehensive development and implementation of the community safety plan.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 59

RCMP National Office of Investigative Standards and Practices

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

In 2018, the National Office of Investigative Standards and Practices (NOISP) was created to provide expertise and oversight on major case investigations. It directly supports the investigation of unsolved and current homicide investigations involving Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. NOISP funds Corporal-level positions in Saskatchewan and Alberta whose purpose is to advance MMIWG investigations. NOISP is dedicated to promote investigative quality across the organization, which has an impact on, and is of benefit to, all RCMP. Although, NOISP is a National initiative intended to support investigative quality, including investigation of MMIWG cases, all RCMP Divisions have Major Crime Units who dedicate significant time and effort to investigating and supporting the successful prosecution of these cases. Offices of Investigative Standards and Practices and/or other review processes ensure appropriate investigative standards are applied to each case.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

NOISP was established in 2018. This past year, consultations were not required.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 60

Indigenous overrepresentation in correctional facilities

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Elder services were improved through better procurement processes and funding allocation, while the Community Reintegration Fund invested $3.5 million in partnerships with Indigenous communities to aid rehabilitation. Employment programs were expanded to include Indigenous Entrepreneurship Training and transitional employment opportunities. The Foundations of Indigenous Corrections training was reviewed to ensure continued alignment with Indigenous values. Efforts continue to be made to strengthen Section 81 partnerships for Indigenous-led correctional services. The Restorative Opportunities Program facilitated communication between victims and offenders. Lastly, the Anijaarniq Holistic Inuit Strategy was revitalized, establishing a working group to address the needs of Inuit offenders through collaborative efforts with Inuit organizations.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Various collaborative efforts with Indigenous communities have been made throughout the fiscal year. Meetings were held by the National Indigenous Advisory Committee and the National Elders Working Group, which focused on improving Elder services and integrating cultural interventions into case management. Ongoing discussions with Indigenous communities also aimed to enhance rehabilitation and reintegration services, leading to stronger partnerships. The development of training for staff was based on recommendations from Indigenous partners and the operational interactions within existing partnerships. Additionally, the Anijaarniq Strategy Working Group also developed a work plan addressing recruitment and support for repatriation efforts.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted a growing concern regarding the number of Indigenous women in federal corrections and the urgent need for reforms within the justice system. Organizations focused on Indigenous women's issues play a crucial role in addressing the specific needs of incarcerated individuals by providing culture-based reintegration and healing supports. While the release of the Indigenous Justice Strategy is a positive development, there is a pressing need for cross-sectoral engagement and co-development to effectively tackle the over-representation of Indigenous women in corrections.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 61

Indigenous Community Corrections Initiative and reintegration

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The Indigenous Community Corrections Initiative (ICCI) has been renewed and expanded to broaden the reach and scope of the program to create more tailored opportunities for 2SLGBTQQIA+ people and women. Between March 21 and June 12, 2023, the ICCI launched a National Call for Applications, for which the department received 119 applications. Applicants were notified of their assessment results and eligibility for project development in October 2024. Project development with successful applicants is currently ongoing, with implementation of ICCI-funded projects slated to begin in 2025-2026.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

As a result of unanticipated challenges, the Public Safety Canada was unable to put Contribution Agreements in place when originally anticipated. The ICCI has not yet consulted and cooperated with Indigenous partners as successful ICCI applicants are currently in the project development stages, working with ICCI Program Officers to finalize their project work plans and budgets. The implementation of ICCI-funded projects, Indigenous partnership engagement, and consultation and cooperation is will begin in 2025-2026.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 62

Parole and conditional release

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The PBC has been offering Culturally Responsive Hearings for Indigenous peoples, and non-Indigenous people committed to an Indigenous way of life, for over 30 years. PBC provides Indigenous Cultural Responsiveness Training to its Board members, and sessions on culturally responsive decision-making are included regularly as part of the annual training for Board members. Mandatory training on Indigenous cultural competency and cultural bias is provided to all PBC staff through its Learning Roadmaps in response to the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. PBC's Decision-Making Policy Manual for Board Members requires Board members to consider any systemic and background factors that may have contributed to an individual's involvement in the criminal justice system. Board members are required by policy to consider culturally appropriate community alternatives in decision-making for Indigenous peoples.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The PBC engages regularly with the Chairperson's Indigenous Circle, which offers information, insight, and strategic advice to enhance the Board's efficiency and effectiveness in addressing the needs of Indigenous offenders, victims, and communities. Comprising several Indigenous community leaders in an advisory role, the Circle serves as a vital forum for collaboration and learning with government and community partners, contributing valuable perspectives on Indigenous-related policy development and operations.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 63

Indigenous emergency management working group

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Launched in February 2024, the Federal, Provincial, Territorial, Indigenous (FPTI) working group has convened six times and has fostered strong engagement among federal, provincial, territorial, and Indigenous partners, facilitating open dialogue among all participants. A terms of reference has been collaboratively developed with Indigenous partners to establish a foundational framework for the group's operations. Additionally, priorities have been identified with input from all partners, which will inform the creation of a workplan to guide future activities.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The core purpose of the Action Plan measure is to engage with the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and the Métis National Council to identify Indigenous emergency management priorities that enhance emergency preparedness, prevention, response, and recovery, achieved through the Working Group. This group provides a platform for NIOs to voice their priorities and supports the development of long-term solutions. Preliminary engagement has established a foundation for co-development, including the creation of terms of reference. Throughout 2024, the Working Group facilitated discussions to establish priorities, with PS ensuring Indigenous partners were involved in planning and decision-making. Input was gathered through surveys and discussions, leading to a validated priorities list. However, a significant challenge remains the lack of capacity funding for NIOs and Indigenous communities off-reserve, as there is currently no funding to support the implementation of Working Group projects or ongoing participation, highlighting the need for a sustainable funding source to address existing gaps in Indigenous emergency management funding.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Over the past year, Indigenous groups have actively engaged in discussions to advocate for equitable emergency management funding. Despite their efforts, progress has been slow, with delayed responses and occasional lack of communication from the federal government. These challenges have impeded the advancement of this Action Plan measure, yet the ongoing engagement demonstrates a commitment to pursuing necessary changes in emergency management funding. For the successful implementation of the Action Plan measure, meaningful dialogue and collaboration are essential to develop a policy that ensures fair funding for emergency management. This process should create a framework that allows all Indigenous groups to contribute, ensuring resources are allocated equitably to support preparedness, response, and recovery efforts across diverse communities. Prioritizing transparency, inclusivity, and mutual accountability is crucial to ensure that emergency management initiatives are adequately funded and accessible to all.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: ISC, CIRNAC

Shared Priority 64

National security information-sharing

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

CSIS has been actively working to strengthen relationships with First Nations partners through email outreach, participation in events, and regional visits. Although these relationships are not as well-established as those with other groups, positive progress has been made through collaboration with the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) and bilateral activities with First Nations partners in Ontario, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. Additionally, when Bill C-70 was introduced in May 2024, a technical briefing was provided to First Nations partners, including the AFN and the Southern Chiefs Organization, to ensure they were informed about the legislation.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In November 2024, CSIS attended the ISC Ontario Joint Gathering to engage with Ontario First Nations representatives, discussing high-level threat information and proposing bilateral follow-ups. In January 2025, training on open source intelligence (OSINT) was provided to eight of the nine Indigenous Police Chiefs of Ontario. An introductory meeting with the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) in February 2025 focused on informing them about CSIS and exploring collaboration opportunities. CSIS also traveled to the Northwest Territories for engagements with First Nations organizations and governments, presenting a threat overview and identifying follow-up actions. In March 2025, a presentation was made to Yukon First Nations on CSIS's mandate and commitments under the UN Declaration Act. Challenges included limited partner capacity, varying interest in engaging with CSIS, and constraints on the CSIS team's ability to conduct in-person engagements.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 65

Firearms legislation and section 35 Aboriginal rights

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

This APM encompasses firearms policy measures and the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program (ASFCP) and is an ongoing initaitive. For the firearms policy measures, PS conducted outreach to over 50 Indigenous organizations, including the Assembly of First Nations and Modern Treaty and Self-Government Agreement Holders, engaging with those that responded to inform the implementation of new firearms measures in former Bill C-21 and associated regulatory development. Between September 2024 and March 2025, multiple information sessions were held to discuss topics such as red flag and yellow flag laws and enhanced license revocations and ineligibility and to solicit their feedback. Meanwhile, the ASFCP is prioritizing engagement with NIOs to assess the potential unintended impacts on traditional hunting rights, with preparatory work underway before the program opens to individuals.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Between September 2024 and March 2025, PS engaged with a number of Indigenous organizations to share information and raise awareness about new firearms measures in former Bill C-21, including those requiring regulations (for example, “yellow flag” laws, enhanced license revocation and ineligibility). In February 2025, several organizations participated in a virtual webinar on “red flag” laws, and in March 2025, organizations were invited to a technical briefing on the coming into force of the yellow flag laws and enhanced licence revocation and ineligibility. By the end of March 2025, over 50 organizations were invited to provide feedback on proposed regulations pre-published in CG1 intended to support the implementation of the enhanced licence revocation and ineligibility measures. Overall, considerations identified in the engagement activities informed regulatory development; however, limitations such as timelines and the inability for PS to provide funding for participant engagement and Indigenous partner priorities may have hindered uptake in participation.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 66

Participation in decision-making, including articles 18 and 19

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

In addition to efforts described below under Shared Priority measures 67-68, the CRA is implementing the CRA Indigenous Strategy 2024-2027, which includes an initiative to establish systematic engagement with Indigenous partners on areas of common interest. The CRA invited diverse groups, including Indigenous organizations, to participate in Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) sessions held in Yellowknife and Whitehorse in March 2024, and continued across Canada until October 2024. As of March 2025, the CRA is focused on communicating what was heard and the actions taken from these consultations.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The CRA presented to the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and the Métis National Council the Linkage Rate Project results, published in March 2025, which looked at Indigenous people participation in the tax and benefits system. At the same time as an internal governance model was being created to establish a systematic engagement approach, CRA met with Indigenous organizations to better understand how to support them in the CVITP program. With the completion of the engagement sessions, CRA is in the process of following up with participating Indigenous organizations and their volunteers on what we heard and the actions we are taking as a result of these engagements. Now that the formal governance model has been established, CRA will utilize this process for future engagements.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners have advocated for the greater inclusion of Indigenous women’s voices in decision-making related to legislation, policy, and program initiatives, emphasizing the importance of aligning with the UN Declaration. They assert that Indigenous women possess the knowledge and solutions necessary to ensure safety and uphold inherent rights. In addition, some partners noted that the Action Plan measures must account for where Indigenous women reside and how they decide to enact their inherent Indigenous rights. There is a strong call for consultation, cooperation, and co-development frameworks that recognize a Nation-to-Nation and distinction-based approach to effectively address the needs and priorities of Indigenous communities.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: JUS, CRA, TC

Shared Priority 67

Co-development and self-determination

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Work to date has focused on advancing concrete measures co-developed under the Permanent Bilateral Mechanisms (PBMs) process such as the Inuit Nunangat Policy (INP) and distinctions-based co-development principles. Several initiatives undertaken in 2024-2025 enhance Indigenous engagement across multiple sectors. There is an increased importance of developing Indigenous-led solutions and advancing partnerships to address issues affecting Indigenous communities. Efforts have been made to ensure Indigenous voices are integral to the decision-making processes to align government policies with Indigenous rights. Economic development initiatives aim to empower Indigenous communities and promote sustainable growth. Progress has been made in fostering Indigenous partnerships and initiatives through community-driven approaches and collaboration.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In addition to efforts to advance measures co-developed under the PBMs, including the INP and distinction-based co-development principles, there have been many engagements with Indigenous groups to establish the co-developed distinctions-based Indigenous Nature Tables. The tables provide a space for discussions on shared nature priorities. There have also been collaborative engagements to develop the FPTI Tuberculosis Elimination Strategy. There have been challenges, such as funding and varying capacities among Indigenous partners. Departments and agencies implementing this measure emphasize the importance of co-development principles and regular consultations to ensure that Indigenous perspectives are integrated into federal initiatives.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: CanNor, ECCC, PHAC, TC, CED, ACOA

Shared Priority 68

Participation in decision-making related to consultation and accommodation

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

CIRNAC has made progress in advancing Indigenous consultation and accommodation initiatives. For instance, since the creation of the Federal Initiative on Consultation which supports Indigenous groups to enhance their capacity to participate in consultation activities, CIRNAC has successfully co-developed 13 consultation protocols and established five resource centres. CIRNAC worked closely with 35 Indigenous communities to co-develop and validate profiles within the Aboriginal and Treaty Rights Information System (ATRIS), ensuring that the system accurately reflects the communities' consultation needs and governance structures. These initiatives collectively aimed to strengthen relationships and improve federal engagement with Indigenous peoples.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

CIRNAC has engaged in collaborative efforts to co-develop and implement consultation protocols and resource centre’s with Indigenous partners. This work involved extensive discussions to ensure consensus among all parties. The Consultation and Accommodation Unit (CAU) also worked on improving data accuracy and system refinements while responding to community requests for consultation-relevant information. Despite facing challenges such as limited funding and varying community capacities, the CAU remained committed to fostering relationships and supporting Indigenous self-determination through flexible and community-driven engagement.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners are optimistic about their funding to participate in the Indigenous-Crown Steering Committee for renewing consultation and accommodation guidelines. They stress that the duty to consult should include broader discussions on economic development and resource revenue sharing, not just Aboriginal and treaty rights. Through CIRNAC's engagement sessions, they advocated for a Distinctions-based and Nation-to-Nation approach that recognizes Indigenous women’s rights to safety and submitted feedback for new guidelines prioritizing these rights and discussions on gender-based violence.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: TC

Shared Priority 69

Relationship agreements with Indigenous Women’s Organizations

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

During this reporting cycle, CIRNAC funded the Native Women's Association of Canada, Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak, and Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada to support their relationship agreements. This funding helped set internal priorities for a new Strategic Plan and supported a two-year Inuit women's leadership project to strengthen capacity to engage with Inuit women across Inuit Nunangat. CIRNAC also worked with Native Women's Association of Canada to enhance the capacity of grassroots affiliates to participate in discussions informed by Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. Additionally, Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak improved its engagement with Parliamentary committees to provide input to the federal government through the Declaration's implementation.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

There was a significant amount of work completed within Indigenous partner organizations, leading to capacity building, priority setting, and the development of research and policy positions. CIRNAC maintained regular engagement with these organizations through meetings to discuss priorities and facilitate interactions with federal officials on various issues. However, capacity remained a challenge as the organizations faced pressure from multiple departments addressing a wide range of issues, often with limited funding available for national Indigenous women's organizations due to distinctions-based funding allocations. While the federal government has its own mandate priorities, there is a need to explore the diverse priorities and interests of Indigenous partners to foster more effective collaboration.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners are advocating to establish a relationship agreement that would promote the equality of Indigenous women’s rights. Indigenous women organizations represent a significant population of Indigenous women in Canada. This agreement is seen as a crucial step toward ensuring that the rights and needs of Indigenous women are recognized and addressed effectively.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 70

Indigenous women’s and 2SLGBTQI+ grassroots organizations

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

In 2024-2025, over $7.3 million in funding supported 33 projects for Indigenous women’s and 2S+ organizations across Canada. Notable projects included the Community Voices Summit by the Native Women’s Association of the NWT, which united partners to address key issues in Indigenous communities, resulting in a collaboration platform and actionable report. Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada’s Leadership Development Project enhanced Board members’ leadership skills, empowering them to advocate for Inuit women and promote grassroots leadership. Esquao facilitated a meeting with 15 representatives from nine federal departments to share outcomes from the February 2024 Indigenous Women’s Gathering. Additionally, Amautiit conducted food security research in four Nunavut communities, planning policy recommendations for programs like Nutrition North, while the 2 Spirits in Motion Society hosted a national engagement to develop a strategic plan for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals across Canada.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Discussions are planned for 2025-2026.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Funding has been received for a project under the Supporting Indigenous Women’s and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Organizations Program from CIRNAC, which focuses on developing training modules for grassroots Indigenous women’s organizations. The project aims to enhance capacity in community-based participatory action research, with a specific emphasis on data governance and data sovereignty. This initiative seeks to empower Indigenous women in the development of federal policies, programs, and legislation. The goal is to build research capacity among Indigenous women, enabling them to pursue funding opportunities, improve proposal writing, and conduct research projects that center Indigenous knowledge and methodologies, ultimately contributing to the empowerment, healing, and well-being of themselves, their families, communities, and Nations.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 71

Strengthening Indigenous engagement across public health and health care systems

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Over the past year, ISC collaborated closely with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities to implement programs that support Indigenous-led health services, ensuring funding was distributed effectively. In addition, HC enhanced its engagement with Indigenous organizations through bilateral meetings and increased efforts to develop lasting relationships with Indigenous partners. Bilateral engagements focused on discussing and finding opporunities to advance shared priorities, and updating guidance materials to improve engagement efforts Lastly, PHAC strengthened partnerships through the use of intergovernmental mechanisms, notably by engaging with FPTI partners at the Nunavut Partnership Table on Health to collaborate towards improving health outcomes of Inuit. In addition, the terms of reference for the Council of Chief Medical Officers of Health were updated to include distinctions-based representation from Indigenous partners.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

ISC officials held discussions with national and regional Indigenous partners regarding the design and implementation of the Indigenous Health Equity Fund, focusing on funding distribution influenced by regional Indigenous leadership. Also, HC strengthened relationships with existing Indigenous partners and developed new partnerships through ongoing bilateral engagement, which informed initiative development and aligned departmental efforts with Indigenous health priorities. Additionally, PHAC engaged Indigenous experts to identify mental health promotion approaches that include Indigenous frameworks and ensure the five key FPT health data commitments were culturally appropriate. Indigenous representatives contributed to the development of learning opportunities aimed at addressing racism in public health policies and a collaborative strategy aimed at tuberculosis elimination efforts, although challenges such as insufficient funding and resource constraints limited their full participation.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 72

International issues and United Nations system

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

From mid-2024 through December 2024, consultations were conducted with the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and the Métis National Council to develop a questionnaire for a mapping exercise involving 26 structured interviews and focus groups with approximately 80 participants from six government branches and 16 federal departments. This effort aimed to gather input on consultation protocols, cooperative mechanisms, and challenges in engaging Indigenous rights-holders on international matters. The project team analyzed these insights to identify best practices, resource gaps, and policy needs, with findings to be shared in follow-up sessions for co-developing policy guidelines. However, insufficient resources, including staff capacity and funding for travel, hindered meaningful engagement, while limited expertise in distinctions-based co-development complicated coordination. Additionally, the lack of a centralized directory of Indigenous organizations led to reliance on broad national bodies. Finally, it should be noted that work on this Action Plan measure is being carried out in tandem with Inuit Priority 10, as both relate to advancing cooperation with Indigenous rights-holders on international issues and the United Nations system.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

See above.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 73

UN Declaration Act engagement principles in policy and program documents

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

In 2024-2025, PCH launched the Reconciliation Action Plan, a framework for PCH over three fiscal years (2024-2025 to 2026-2027). Pillar One: Relationship Buidling focuses on goal to define Guiding Principles for Engagement. The Reconciliation Action Plan will guide sustained, strategic, and meaningful actions on the part of the department, in alignment with the principles of the UN Declaration and other priorities as identified by Indigenous peoples.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

This Action Plan measure does not require consultation and cooperation: the UN Declaration Act engagement principles were developed with Indigenous partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 74

Advancing economic reconciliation

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Various government departments have been engaged in initiatives aimed at enhancing Indigenous economic development. For example, ISC conducted various engagement sessions focused on developing economic reconciliation policies in collaboration with Indigenous partners. This process emphasized co-development, respecting the self-determination of Indigenous peoples, and resulted in 16 proposals from First Nations and Métis policy leads, with Inuit policy leads planning to submit proposals in the future. Through these engagements, Indigenous policy leads identified key economic priorities, which were summarized into actionable strategies and recommendations for future initiatives.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Various government departments have engaged on a number of initiatives to support Indigenous economic development. For example, ISC provided partners with contribution agreements that included funding for Indigenous-led engagement activities. Budget 2023 provided $5 million to ISC to support the co-development of an Economic Reconciliation Framework. The department contributed an additional $2 million in internal resources to support the process. A short and intensive co-development period took place with Indigenous policy leads. Partners developed their own engagement plans to gather insights from rights-holders regarding economic challenges and priorities, which informed the creation of distinct strategies and policy proposals aimed at fostering economic reconciliation. ISC also conducted separate engagement streams with rights-holders, ensuring a broader understanding of the needs of Modern Treaty and Self-Governing Agreement Nations. This approach emphasized the importance of self-determination and the need for ongoing dialogue to address the diverse interests within Indigenous communities.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: ACOA, CRA, PacifiCan

Shared Priority 75

Poverty Reduction Strategy

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) finalized its report in collaboration with the Institute of Fiscal Studies and Democracy, which was discussed during a leadership meeting with ESDC this fall. The report presents 39 poverty and well-being indicators developed through engagement with First Nations, reflecting their perspectives, and was endorsed during a dialogue session at the AFN's Chiefs Special Assembly in December. Meanwhile, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami partnered with Impact Economics and Two Worlds Consulting Ltd. to research the cost of living and poverty reduction in Inuit Nunangat, contributing to the development of their Inuit Nunangat Poverty Reduction Strategy, which will include an implementation plan and Inuit-specific indicators to monitor progress. For Métis-specific initiatives, additional information is available under Métis Priority 12.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Over the past year, ESDC has conducted regular working-level meetings with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the AFN approximately every six to eight weeks to review progress and address challenges in co-developing Indigenous indicators of poverty and well-being. A leadership meeting was also held with AFN leaders, involving Executive Director and Director General level officials from ESDC. Indigenous partners have played a key role in shaping workplans, agendas, and the frequency of check-in meetings. ESDC recognizes that each co-development process is unique and tailored to the specific needs of Indigenous partners, and as the implementation of the Action Plan Measure advances, the Department remains committed to respecting the distinct experiences of poverty and well-being within their communities.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted they have worked with ESDC to co-develop First Nations-specific indicators of poverty with. The indicators were published following validation by First Nations-in-Assembly via Resolution 91/2024, First Nations indicators of Poverty and Wellness. Additionally, mandates also provided strategic direction as it pertains to using the indicators in the future to ensure measures of poverty are culturally relevant, qualitative and encompass a First Nations-specific data narrative. Conversations are on-going with ESDC to continue advocating for funding, renewed partnership and continuation of the work on First Nations poverty through implementation and/or piloting of the First Nations-specific poverty indicators to develop an evidence-based analysis to inform the development and implementation of a culturally appropriate poverty reduction strategy.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 76

Increased access to federal benefits and programs

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Service Canada’s Community Outreach and Liaison Services (COLS) actively engages with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities to identify community needs and increase access to benefits and services. The relationships built through the COLS network help inform improvements to service delivery, including the modernization of services and benefits. Additionally, the work of COLS is supported by ongoing community services provided through the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) Program Service Delivery Network.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The COLS actively engages with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities to identify their needs through in-person visits and virtual activities aimed at strengthening relationships and improving access to programs and benefits. COLS collaborates with community organizations and various levels of government to deliver bundled services and reaches Indigenous individuals in urban areas by connecting with supporting community organizations. Additional supports from COLS include the Outreach Support Centre and the Service Referral Initiative with community organizations. As of February 14, 2025, COLS teams had reached 675 Indigenous communities to assess needs and deliver outreach activities, while the Outreach Support Centre had responded to calls from 366 Indigenous communities. The relationships established through the COLS network help inform service delivery improvements, including modernization initiatives, and are complemented by ongoing community supports provided through the ISET Service Delivery Network.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that preliminary conversations have been had with the CRA to advance work related to taxation, however the work has been unable to advance due to lack of funding on behalf of the federal government to move the work forward.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 77

Increasing Indigenous women’s entrepreneurship

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

ACOA, playing a supporting role with regards to this Action Plan measure, is implementing the Indigenous Business Development components of the Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation (REGI) program to help Indigenous-owned and led businesses access resources. Additionally, the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) received $22 million in Budget 2021 to expand its Indigenous Women’s Entrepreneurship (IWE) initiative, which launched on March 8, 2022. Since its launch, the program has assisted 280 individuals receive mentorship, delivered over 195 workshops to more than 2,900 participants, and provided advisory services to 2,300 Indigneous women. The program as delivered 330 microloans valued at $6.3 million. The initiative was renewed for five years in Budget 2024 as part of the broader Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The Government of Canada has committed to building meaningful relationships with Indigenous partners. For example, ACOA supports the building of relationships in Atlantic Canada by leveraging its regional presence and established network. This proactive engagement promotes programs tailored to Indigenous communities, including the Indigenous Business Development component of the REGI program, which provides non-repayable loans to support Indigenous-controlled or band-led businesses facing financing challenges. ACOA collaborates with Indigenous individuals and communities to develop economic projects and has consulted with the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) on the Indigenous Women’s Entrepreneurship (IWE) program, ensuring that funding aligns with the needs of Indigenous women entrepreneurs.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that increasing Indigenous women’s entrepreneurship opportunities must also include Indigenous women with disabilities. In addition, implementation should be rooted in authentic collaboration with Indigenous peoples, with particular attention to regional voices whose worldviews and relationships with land and water are central to governance.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: ACOA

Shared Priority 78

Participation in gaming industry

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

In 2021, the Minister of Justice initiated an engagement process to explore the participation of Indigenous peoples in the gaming industry, aiming to understand the perspectives of Indigenous communities as well as provincial and territorial partners. This engagement occurred prior to the development of the UN Declaration Act Action Plan and highlighted the significance of the issue for Indigenous peoples, leading to the creation of this Action Plan measure to enhance consultation and cooperation with Indigenous communities and promote dialogue with provincial and territorial partners. JUS officials continue to engage with interested leaders and organizations, including recent discussions with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

JUS has engaged with representatives from the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs in response to their inquiries on developments related to this Action Plan measure and acknowledges that it has not been in a position to advance work on this measure.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that direction was received to partner with JUS to change the Criminal Code provisions regarding gaming. While there has been communication with JUS, some partners noted frustration with the lack of the necessary mandates to implement this initiative effectively. The UN Declaration Act Action Plan outlines that the Government of Canada will advance discussions on the participation of Indigenous peoples in the gaming industry and its regulation in collaboration with Indigenous, provincial, and territorial partners. Despite multiple attempts, there has been little progress on this initiative.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 79

Minimum federal contracts to Indigenous businesses

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The minimum 5% target for Indigenous businesses in Canada was set to be achieved by March 31, 2025, with Phases 1 and 2 involving 32 out of 96 departments, and Phase 3 encompassing all 96 departments. In 2022-2023, the government awarded $1.6 billion to Indigenous businesses. PSPC led 362 engagement events and organized 10 regional Indigenous Business Information Sessions. Additionally, PSPC hosted a series of speaker sessions featuring Indigenous speakers who shared their perspectives on various Indigenous issues with employees from PSPC, GAC, and the CRA.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PSPC regional offices and Indigenous business associations have developed support for Indigenous businesses through training programs and Indigenous Business Information Sessions. These sessions raise awareness of the Government of Canada's 5% requirement for Indigenous participation in federal procurement, highlight opportunities, and outline support services like Procurement Assistance Canada, while strengthening partnerships and facilitating direct communication with PSPC. Additionally, the Translation Bureau has organized activities to enhance collaboration with Indigenous language service providers and communities, focusing on supporting the linguistic needs of government departments and promoting the preservation and revitalization of Indigenous languages. The Bureau aims to increase the number of language service providers for Indigenous languages. Overall, relationship-building is crucial for successful outreach and consultation, and PSPC is dedicated to maintaining strong relationships based on mutual trust and respect.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 80

New, holistic long-term and continuing care framework

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The development of a new Long-Term and Continuing Care (LTCC) Framework for First Nations and Inuit is progressing, Completed First Nations and Inuit-led engagement activities informed ongoing co-development work on improved LTCC programming and service delivery that promotes client and community centered culturally safe approaches to care. Recent changes in Canadian political leadership caused additional delays in the implementation phase of the new Framework. Métis-led engagement activities have largely concluded, with most summary reports submitted by partners. ISC has begun to review the engagement summary reports to gain insights as to what was heard through the Métis-led engagement process.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Engagement on this shared priority was Indigenous-led and distinctions-based. The results of Métis engagement activities will inform any potential future policy efforts ISC undertakes within the Métis LTCC space. For First Nation and Inuit, the engagement process supported by ISC documented the insights, experiences, and knowledge of over 700 First Nations and 71 Inuit participants. Common themes identified included: Access to quality services closer to home; Equitable funding for Indigenous peoples that is substantively equal compared with those available to non-Indigenous Canadians; Funding that is scalable and sustainable; Culturally safe, community-led programming; Holistic care; LTCC infrastructure support; and Improved service delivery. Work to improve LTCC programming will reflect the perspectives and values of diverse Indigenous partners based on engagement and co-developments to bridge some of these gaps and better align with the needs of First Nations and Inuit. While the ultimate decision-making power rests with the Government of Canada, Indigenous partners will have influenced the outcomes.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that the ability of the government to implement or remove programs and services without consulting those affected raises concerns about enhancing health equity.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 81

Addressing mental health, suicide and addictions

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The Government of Canada has made significant investments to improve mental wellness in Indigenous communities, with an investment of $650 million in 2024-2025. These investments were made to meet the immediate mental wellness needs of communities by supporting Indigenous-led suicide prevention, life promotion and crisis response, including through crisis line intervention services, and enhancing the delivery of culturally appropriate substance use treatment and prevention services in Indigenous communities. This funding also supports the provision of essential mental health, cultural, and emotional support to Survivors, Intergenerational Survivors, family members, and others impacted by Indian Residential Schools, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ People, Federal Indian Day Schools and other colonial sources of trauma. On December 4, 2023, the Council of Yukon First Nations, Government of Yukon and Indigenous Services Canada signed a Letter of Intent outlining a commitment to collaborate towards the creation of a Yukon First Nations-led healing centre. In 2024-2025, an Indigenous-led working group was established to move this work forward.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The Mental Wellness Program regularly engages with Indigenous organizations, including the Assembly of First Nations, and participates in the partner-led First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework Implementation Team. The program is guided by several Indigenous-led frameworks and strategies, such as the First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework, Honouring Our Strengths, and the National Inuit Suicide Prevention Strategy. For policy decisions related to Métis health, the program refers to the Métis Vision for Health developed by the Métis National Council. Regional partnership structures vary across provinces and territories, providing direction and guidance for most mental wellness investments, with some exceptions.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that this Action Plan measure aims to improve equitable access to quality and culturally safe health services. However, some partners believe there have been significant challenges in communication with the Government of Canada, including difficulties in securing meetings related to health APMs and not receiving adequate guidance from federal departments. Some shared that in their view, the Indigenous Health Equity Fund, which allocates $2 billion over ten years, fails to recognize the vital role of Indigenous women’s organizations in providing essential health care services, particularly in urban areas. To ensure equitable access to health care for Indigenous women, it is crucial to include these organizations in the funding model.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 82

Palliative and end of life care framework

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

HC engaged with a wide variety of Indigenous governments and representative organizations on the topic of end-of-life care, including on palliative care and Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). Engagement efforts focused on leveraging existing and new funding for First Nations, Inuit and Métis-led engagement, online public engagement, a national knowledge exchange forum, and convening 21 virtual and hybrid national dialogues across Canada on Indigenous perspectives on end-of-life care and MAID. Additional engagement occurred on the issue of Advance Requests for MAID and further, leading up to the 2023 annual report, where results are being shared for the first time on Indigenous identity. Outcomes of this work will be finalized in 2025-2026 and may include “What We Heard” reports from the engagements.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Consultation and cooperation efforts were focused at the national and regional levels due to budget constraints, with an emphasis on building strong relationships with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis organizations, which was done through early and consistent communication. HC’s efforts involved regular briefings and updates with Indigenous organizations and governments, and funding Indigenous-led engagement on palliative care and MAID. Consultation and cooperation efforts also included online public engagement to gather Indigenous perspectives, partnerships for a national knowledge exchange on end-of-life care, and 21 hybrid dialogues with 471 participants. HC provided a Second Update to Parliament with Indigenous feedback and engaged on the 2023 Annual Report on MAID and data collection. While Indigenous partners led their own initiatives, HC is creating a “What We Heard Report” on MAID and summary reports on palliative care.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 83

Indigenous knowledge and MAID

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

HC is engaging with a wide variety of Indigenous governments and representative organizations on the topic of end-of-life care, including on palliative care and Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). Engagement efforts focused on leveraging existing and new funding for First Nations, Inuit and Métis-led engagement, online public engagement, a national knowledge exchange forum, and convening 21 virtual and hybrid national dialogues across Canada on Indigenous perspectives on end-of-life care and MAID. Additional engagement occurred on the issue of Advance Requests for MAID and further, leading up to the 2023 annual report, where results are being shared for the first time on Indigenous identity. Outcomes of this work will be finalized in 2025-2026 and will may include “What We Heard” reports from the engagements.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Consultation and cooperation efforts were focused at the national and regional levels due to budget constraints, with an emphasis on building strong relationships with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis organizations, which was done through early and consistent communication. Health Canada’s efforts involved regular briefings and updates with Indigenous organizations and governments, and funding Indigenous-led engagement on palliative care and MAID. Consultation and cooperation efforts also included online public engagement to gather Indigenous perspectives, partnerships for a national knowledge exchange on end-of-life care, and 21 hybrid dialogues with 471 participants. Health Canada provided a Second Update to Parliament with Indigenous feedback and engaged on the 2023 Annual Report on MAID and data collection. While Indigenous partners led their own initiatives, Health Canada is creating a “What We Heard Report” on MAID and summary reports on palliative care.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 84

Support for Friendship Centres and urban/off-reserve communities

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

ISC noted that it has accessed $60 million in funding to support Friendship Centres over the next 2 years.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

In February and April 2024, meetings were held in Vancouver and Ottawa to discuss a new framework aimed at providing Indigenous partners with the flexibility to self-determine their objectives based on their unique and evolving priorities. This collaborative effort involved the program offering necessary tools while Indigenous partners articulated how the program could best meet their urban community needs. ISC emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships rooted in trust, cultural appropriateness, understanding, respect, and reciprocity. However, a significant limitation is chronic underfunding for Indigenous partners, despite some capacity-building funding being provided. Additionally, the systemic focus on results-based outcomes can be restrictive. The process requires organization, transparency, and strong listening skills to foster effective collaboration.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners have noted that the Government of Canada has made limited progress on this Action Plan measure. While the Urban Programming for Indigenous peoples (UPIP) provides essential funding to Friendship Centres, some partners believe it has not fully addressed their needs. In particular, partners noted that Indigenous women's organizations continue to operate without core and sustainable funding, despite Calls for Justice 1.8. Additionally, some partners noted jurisdictional barriers hinder implementation, as the provincial government has not committed to supporting Friendship Centres.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 85

Equality rights of Indigenous persons with disabilities

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Since 2020, ESDC has provided short-term funding through Engagement Protocol Agreements to support discussions on Canada’s implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and the Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP), which includes engagement by the PHAC on the National Autism Strategy (NAS). The three pillars of the DIAP (economic security (benefits), labour market outcomes, and accessibility) ensure that engagement with partners addresses various policy priorities, including the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities, and the Accessible Canada Act. This broader collaboration was complemented by focused engagement on the design and development of the Canada Disability Benefit regulations. Additionally, this collaboration and investment contributed to parallel reporting by the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC), Canadian Association of the Deaf (CAD), and British Columbia Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres (BCAAFC) to the United Nations on Canada’s implementation of the UNCRPD in March 2025.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Throughout the year, ESDC engaged with Indigenous partners on the DIAP and the NAS, including specific outreach to Modern Treaty and Self-Governing Agreement holders regarding the CDB and its regulations. ESDC also conducted outreach with Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. in alignment with Article 32 of the Nunavut Agreement. All Indigenous partners were notified of the publication of the final CDB regulations in March 2025. Feedback from on the DIAP has been shared internally, while insights gathered during the CDB engagement emphasized the need to address access barriers for many Indigenous communities. In response, ESDC plans to adopt various approaches to raise awareness and improve access to the CDB, including information sessions, community-based services through Service Canada's Community Outreach and Liaison Service (COLS), and support for organizations that assist individuals in navigating disability benefits and connecting with government programs.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 86

Access to traditional foods and local food systems

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

In 2024–2025, CIRNAC advanced this measure by securing significant new investments through Budget 2024 to expand and sustain both the Harvesters Support Grant (HSG) and the Community Food Programs Fund (CFPF). These programs support Indigenous food sovereignty by enhancing access to traditional and local food systems in 112 eligible isolated communities. CIRNAC continued to administer and deliver the HSG and CFPF using a flexible, distinctions-based approach, co-developed with Indigenous and northern partners. Activities supported through this funding included harvesting, hunting, food sharing, infrastructure (for example, community freezers), and local capacity building. These investments strengthen food security, reduce reliance on southern markets, and reinforce Indigenous self-determination and culturally appropriate food systems.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

Regular engagement with northern and Indigenous partners takes place through formal working groups including the Indigenous Working Group, the Inuit-Crown Food Security Working Group, and the Nutrition North Canada (NNC) Advisory Board, and through regular dialogue with HSG recipient organizations (including all four Inuit Nunangat land claim organizations). A 2 day face-to-face meeting was held in Ottawa in February with Advisory Board members, as well as a Research Symposium in December 2024 to discuss potential improvements to NNC's subsidy.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 87

Indigenous food security, sovereignty and sustainability

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

AAFC is actively working on programming that aligns with the Action Plan measure, including the development of a Programs Guide to Indigenous Inclusion, which will serve as a guidance tool for creating inclusive funding programs for Indigenous peoples. The department has engaged frequently with Indigenous partners, organizations, and governments to address APM-related issues, such as gathering input on priorities during the Indigenous Agriculture Summit and engaging with Indigenous financial institutions to discuss access to capital.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Without funding for the Framework for Indigenous Engagement and Co-Development, AAFC was not in a position to discuss the initiative with Indigenous partners. Doing so would raise unfair expectations should funding not be secured. AAFC also noted that in advance of developing the program proposal in 2023, the department did engage with Indigenous partners. The feedback from those discussions were factored into the program design.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 88

Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

In March 2024, CMHC, ISC, and CIRNAC accessed $4 billion over seven years to implement the Urban, Rural and Northern (U.R.N) Indigenous Housing Strategy. This includes the creation of a National Indigenous Housing Centre (National Centre) through a Request for Proposal (RFP) process and directed funding to distinctions-based groups. The RFP was launched by CMHC for Indigenous proponents to submit proposals to establish a National Centre. Recently, the government made the decision to extend the negotiations on the service agreement to Fall 2025. The National Centre will disburse the majority ($2.5 billion) of U.R.N. funds to Indigenous housing and service providers. The remaining funds ($1.18 billion) will flow to for distinctions-based groups through new or existing funding agreements managed by ISC and CIRNAC. By March 31, 2025, ISC distributed $39.1 million for 2024-2025 to First Nations within provinces, while CIRNAC will have provided approximately $48 million to Inuit, Métis, northern First Nations and Modern Treaty and Self-Governing First Nations.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

CMHC provided funding directly to Indigenous partners to hold their own engagements to inform the U.R.N. Indigenous Housing Strategy, and to gather leadership, members, citizens and beneficiaries to inform their respective implementation plans, priorities and delivery models, and has been holding ongoing meetings to discuss U.R.N. funding and the unique priorities of each Indigenous partner. In addition, ISC has collaborated with First Nations partners in provinces to develop work plans for their distinctions-based funding allocations, while CIRNAC has engaged with Modern Treaty and Self-Governing First Nations, regional Métis organizations, Inuit Treaty Organizations, and northern Indigenous partners on funding allocation methodologies (where necessary) and workplan templates. U.R.N. funding has begun to flow following amendments to, or the establishment of new funding agreements. Indigenous partners can decide how to use U.R.N. funding for their members living away, but some expressed concerns that the less than one-year timeframe to sign their work plans was too short for meaningful engagement.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: CIRNAC

Shared Priority 89

Mental health promotion and prevention initiatives

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

PHAC promotes culturally safe, relevant, and trauma-informed mental health programming by collaborating with Indigenous partners and funding Indigenous-led projects. Through the Youth Substance Use Prevention Program (YSUPP) and Mental Health Promotion Innovation Fund (MHP-IF), PHAC supports community-based initiatives that strengthen protective factors for health and well-being, such as fostering healthy relationships, creating safe environments, and enhancing school and community connectedness. PHAC funds Centre for Addictions and Mental Health (CAMH) to implement and operate the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline and collaborates with the 9-8-8 Indigenous Reference Group to ensure cultural appropriateness and accessibility. This includes exploring the integration of local Indigenous crisis lines and services within 9-8-8.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The Youth Suicide Prevention Program (YSUPP) holds monthly video touch-bases and conducts site visits with funded projects, facilitating information-sharing meetings between Indigenous projects as needed. Feedback from consultations informed the development of the application processes, and YSUPP is open to additional data collection methods suggested by Indigenous partners to strengthen project delivery.

In 2024–2025, the 9-8-8 Indigenous Reference Group provided advice on incorporating local Indigenous crisis lines into the national 9-8-8 network to enhance culturally appropriate support. Indigenous partners have further guided the implementation of 9-8-8, enabling First Nations, Inuit, and Métis individuals to access the Hope for Wellness Helpline. Improvements were made in 2024 to the Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system to better support this access. PHAC recognizes the importance of a distinctions-based approach to engagement regarding 9-8-8.

Ongoing collaboration with Indigenous partners continues to influence policies and funding priorities. However, communication can be challenging at times, particularly during land-based activities, due to limited technology access.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted the impact of land dispossession and displacement on mental health and addictions across generations at the community level. Elders have been engaged to understand the individual, family, community, and cultural effects of disrupting First Nations' inherent rights to their lands and resources. This disruption has led to a loss of hope among Elders, contributing to mental health issues and addictions among Indigenous seniors, as well as the loss of Indigenous youth to mental health challenges, addictions, trafficking, violence, and suicide, perpetuating intergenerational trauma. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the implications of Article 46 of the UN Declaration, which questions how to reconcile the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples over their lands and resources with the territorial integrity of sovereign states.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 90

Addressing gaps and intergovernmental relations consistent with CAP/Daniels decision

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Broad whole-of-government engagement to develop a potential path forward and options that address policy, program, and socio-economic gaps, and strengthen interdepartmental and intergovernmental relations, in full partnership with Métis, non-status, off-reserve, and urban Indigenous peoples, consistent with the CAP/Daniels decision has been limited.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Officials from CIRNAC and a number of other departments have engaged with the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples pursuant to the CAP-Canada Accord, signed by Minister of CIRNAC in 2018. However, formal engagement has not begun with any Métis and Non-Status organizations since the publishing of the UN Declaration Act Action Plan.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners emphasized that engagement must result in meaningful improvements in access to the rights and promises outlined in the UN Declaration, ensuring that all Indigenous peoples benefit. However, very limited progress or engagement has been made regarding this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 91

Strengthening the Indigenous Languages Act

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The Indigenous Languages Act has two review mechanisms, of which the Independent Review process will be used to review and consider amendments to the Act because it requires the reviewer to consult with a variety of Indigenous governments and other Indigenous governing bodies or organizations. While the Independent review has not officially begun, PCH has begun engaging with Indigenous partners on options as to how the independent review can be designed to support the requirements of the Act. This includes the appointment of the person or body who will carry out the review. The Minister of Canadian Heritage is required to consult with the Office of the Commissioner of Indigenous languages in the appointment of the independent reviewer. Under the Act, the review must commence in 2025.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

While the actual review has not yet started, PCH has begun engaging with Indigenous partners on options as to how the independent review can be designed to support the requirements of the Act.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners have noted they have encountered challenges primarily due to a lack of adequate funding and capacity development support. While there is acknowledgment from PCH regarding the importance of language revitalization efforts, the absence of bridge funding hampers meaningful advancement in this area. This situation undermines the commitment to provide sustainable and long-term funding for Indigenous language revitalization as outlined in the Action Plan. Additionally, the requirement to translate documents into French and English further complicates implementation and adds financial burdens to language promotion initiatives. However, advocacy efforts have led to positive outcomes, such as the removal of clauses in agreements that imposed translation requirements, highlighting the potential for policy changes through persistent advocacy.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 92

Indigenous languages revitalization through the Indigenous Languages Act

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

PCH continues to work with Indigenous partners to implement this Action Plan measure. In 2023-2024, the Department introduced new distinction-based funding models for Indigenous languages that moves away from a departmental-led call-for-applications approach that supports short-term projects (1-2 years in length) to new models that provide greater Indigenous autonomy, long-term funding and better responsiveness to First Nations, Inuit and Métis priorities. Budget 2024 announced $225 million over five years starting in 2024-2025 and $45 million ongoing. With these investments, the Government of Canada will have provided important budget investments of over $1.4 billion from 2019-2020 to 2028-2029, and $162.3 million ongoing. These significant investments reflect the Government of Canada's commitment towards Indigenous languages revitalization and contributes to predictability for Indigenous partners.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Technical working tables and bilateral sessions have facilitated the co-development of distinctions-based funding approaches that align with the priorities of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. PCH noted capacity constraints among partners, and that to enable meaningful participation and ownership, it is essential to provide flexibility in timelines and adopt tailored approaches for each distinctions group.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that updates on this Action Plan measure highlight ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting and revitalizing Indigenous languages. Efforts include engaging Indigenous communities to gather input on language preservation strategies and ensuring that their voices are central to policy development. However, challenges such as insufficient funding and capacity constraints have been identified, which hinder the effectiveness of these initiatives. To address these issues, it is crucial to provide adequate resources and support, as well as to adopt flexible and tailored approaches that empower Indigenous communities in their language revitalization efforts. Continued collaboration and commitment to these measures are essential for the successful promotion of Indigenous languages.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 93

Access to federal services in Indigenous languages

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

PCH is actively working to enhance access to federal services in Indigenous languages in accordance with the Indigenous Languages Act. This effort includes the translation of key departmental documents, for instance, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is now available in 11 Indigenous languages, while the Indigenous Languages Act has been translated into four Indigenous languages. For additional information, please refer to the submission on Inuit Priority 11.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2024-2025, PCH collaborated with Indigenous partners through the Joint Implementation Steering Committee (JISC) to enhance access to services in Indigenous languages. The JISC comprises representatives from the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and the Métis National Council. Efforts to improve access to federal services in Indigenous languages are guided by consultations with Indigenous partners, who play a significant role in influencing decision-making throughout the process.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted challenges promoting Indigenous languages include a lack of funding and the requirement to translate documents into French and English, which complicates the implementation of revitalization programs and adds financial burdens. This also speaks to the challenges in the revitalization of Indigenous languages at large. The insufficient funding hinders efforts to maintain and promote these languages within communities. However, advocacy efforts have led to positive outcomes, such as the removal of a clause from an agreement that mandated translation into French and English, illustrating the effectiveness of persistent advocacy in influencing policy change.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 94

Indigenous engagement in arts, culture, commemorations and heritage

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

PCH noted that the implementation of this Action Plan measure is in the preliminary planning stages.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

As this Action Plan measure is in the preliminary planning stage, no consultation and cooperation efforts have been made at this time.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 95

Indigenous-led management of heritage places

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

During 2024-2025, PC co-developed an Indigenous Stewardship Policy with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle, which mandates co-development of Indigenous Stewardship Plans with Indigenous partners for all heritage places. These plans will identify shared priorities for advancing the UN Declaration and Indigenous Stewardship, detailing how priorities will be implemented. In March 2024, PC hosted a legal pluralism dialogue session to explore innovative approaches for applying Indigenous laws and legal authorities in areas managed or co-managed by protected area agencies. The session featured a panel of Indigenous and non-Indigenous experts in Indigenous law and legal pluralism. A follow-up meeting in early April 2024 allowed for deeper discussions on questions raised during the initial session, involving two Indigenous legal experts. During the reporting period, draft models were developed internally to enhance support for Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs), with Indigenous engagement on these models commencing in March 2025. An initial discussion was held with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle, and engagement letters were sent to Indigenous partners, resulting in one engagement session.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PC has shared information with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle, L'nuey, Ditidaht First Nation, Makivvik, Nunatsiavut Government, Qikitani Inuit Association, and Métis Nation-Saskatchewan regarding potential future models for supporting IPCAs. Feedback from these Indigenous partners on the models was sought, but these engagements were not formal consultation sessions and did not qualify as co-development. Initial feedback from the Indigenous Stewardship Circle, L'nuey, and the Qikitani Inuit Association is currently informing PC's approach on the draft models, although no decisions are currently being made. Moving forward, a co-development approach will be adopted for the governance models to support IPCAs, as committed to in the Action Plan measure, through work with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle and site-based negotiation tables.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners have engaged in discussions and meetings with government officials regarding the protection of burial grounds in or near national parks, emphasizing the need to address desecration and co-management issues. Despite the absence of specific references to burial grounds in the Action Plan, this remains a significant concern with PC.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 96

Indigenous cultural connections in heritage places

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

During 2024-2025, PC co-developed an Indigenous Stewardship Policy with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle, which mandates co-development of Indigenous Stewardship Plans in collaboration with Indigenous partners for all heritage places. These plans will identify priorities for advancing the UN Declaration and Indigenous Stewardship, detailing how these priorities will be implemented. These Stewardship Plans encompass various priorities, including on-the-land initiatives, economic and employment opportunities, public education on Indigenous histories, and initiatives that promote cultural continuity. Additionally, PC's Indigenous Guardians Program is ongoing, with funding secured for 2021-2026. A culturally competent workforce is critically important in in advancing efforts to support cultural continuity. In 2024-2025, PC advanced a vision and path forward for cultural competency training, guided by an internal cross-functional working group and the Indigenous Stewardship Circle.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Co-development work has included negotiating agreements to support on-the-land initiatives in national parks and historic sites in Eastern Canada, as well as work with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle to create the Indigenous Stewardship Policy. Ongoing consultation and cooperation occurs through Indigenous guardian programs, and through bi-weekly discussions with the Métis National Council and Assembly of First Nations to advance shared priorities. Feedback from these groups informs strategies related to the Action Plan measure. Sustainable funding to support guardians and ongoing consultation remains a challenge.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 97

Indigenous knowledge and Data Sovereignty in heritage places

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

During 2024-2025, PC co-developed an Indigenous Stewardship Policy with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle, which mandates PC co-development of Indigenous Stewardship Plans with Indigenous partners for all heritage places administered by PC. These plans will identify shared priorities for advancing the UN Declaration and Indigenous Stewardship, detailing how priorities such as inclusion of Indigenous knowledge in decision-making will be implemented. Additionally, work is ongoing to establish respectful payment methods for Indigenous partners and advance Indigenous Data Sovereignty tools.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Consultation and cooperation efforts have focused on working with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle to co-develop an Indigenous Stewardship Policy and establish an approach to s formalize the role of Indigenous knowledge in decision-making within heritage places administered by PC Quarterly meetings with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle, along with sub-circle working groups, provide guidance and feedback on shared priorities. Additionally, PC meets bi-weekly with representatives from the Métis National Council and Assembly of First Nations to inform strategies and initiatives related to advancing the Action Plan measure. However, source funding to support these initiatives remains a challenge.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 98

Returning Indigenous cultural belongings and ancestral remains

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

PCH has engaged in preliminary discussions with the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and the Métis National Council to discuss priorities, next steps and financial needs in order to advance work on this Action Plan measure. While this planning is underway, the department continues its efforts to support repatriation activities, for example by providing funding through the Museums Assistance Program.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PCH has initiated preliminary discussions with National Indigenous Organizations (NIOs) notably the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and the Métis National Council to determine their preferences for consultation and involvement in the co-development process for this Action Plan measure, as well as the support they need to participate effectively. These discussions are expected to continue, with the insights gathered from NIOs informing the design of consultations and the overall co-development process. As implementation is still in the planning stages, PCH aims to ensure meaningful involvement of NIOs from the outset, including understanding their consultation preferences and financial needs for participation. The co-development process is anticipated to be extensive and require significant financial investment, with key challenges including securing resources to support Indigenous participation and ensuring representation from a diverse range of Indigenous peoples, especially given the competing demands faced by Indigenous partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that efforts are underway to repatriate sacred artifacts from various museums back to their respective communities, involving the participation of elders and the conduct of ceremonies to facilitate their return. Ongoing conversations are being held with museums in both the United States and Canada to discuss the repatriation of sacred artifacts and remains that were taken from Indigenous communities. These initiatives aim to restore cultural heritage and strengthen connections between communities and their sacred items.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 99

MMIWG and support for Indigenous-led cultural initiatives

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

PCH has continued to support Indigenous cultural revitalization efforts through existing mechanisms. Programs include the Indigenous Screen Office for Indigenous storytelling (see Shared Priority 105), the Sport for Social Development in Indigenous Communities program which uplifts Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals, and efforts to support Indigenous broadcasters (see Shared Priority 106) and cultural expression (see Shared Priority 101). Despite no new funding being available for additional measures at this time, PCH undertook a number of related actions in support of this Action Plan measure. In 2024-2025, PCH conducted an internal survey as well as with other departments to begin mapping the types of traditional cultural activities currently being funded. The intent of this exercise is to better document the nature of current gaps that exist in federal programming for these types of activities, as well as to identify whether existing flexibilities exist, and, if so, how they could be leveraged. These efforts will help PCH strategically position itself to advance work related to this Action Plan measure, including both advancing work through existing mechanisms and identifying additional opportunities to pursue.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PCH has authority at this time to engage with other federal departments on supports for Indigenous-led cultural initiatives. As federal lead of the culture-theme of the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Individuals, PCH is committed to advancing Indigenous culture-related Calls for Justice and priorities through collaborative efforts with federal, provincial/territorial, and Indigenous partners. While it is currently assessing its existing gaps and barriers to federal programming for traditional cultural activities, PCH continues to engage with Indigenous partners on culture-related work through existing mechanisms, such as for Indigenous cultural heritage and expression (see Shared Priority 101).

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 100

Supporting Indigenous artists and organizations

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

PCH has two initiatives linked to this Action Plan Measure. The first focuses on supporting students through the Canada Arts Training Fund (CATF) and the Indigenous Arts Knowledge Exchange. The Canada Arts Training Fund received targeted funding in Budget 2022, and its implementation is aligned with the full allocation of additional resources. Initially set for completion by 2026-2027, the initiative is now considered fully implemented due to the successful allocation of resources and the addition of four new Indigenous arts training programs, although informal outreach to Indigenous communities will continue to support prospective applicants.

The second initiative involves targeted funding for commercial Indigenous music artists, entrepreneurs, and organizations, with the goal of increasing Indigenous participation in the Canadian music industry. Over the past year, PCH advanced work on this commitment by strengthening relationships with Indigenous music stakeholders to better understand the challenges they are facing. This commitment, however, remains unfunded. FACTOR and Music action, the further distributors of the Canada Music Fund, are required to encourage applications from all regions of Canada, including members of Indigenous communities. Those organizations provide direct financial support to Indigenous artists, music entrepreneurs, and not-for-profit organizations, however, they do not have dedicated annual budgets for those recipients. To fulfill this commitment, additional funding targeting Indigenous-led initiatives would have to be secured.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

For the first initiative, outreach and engagement sessions resulted in the support of two new Indigenous arts training programs. The Indigenous Arts Knowledge Exchange (IAKE) completed a successful pilot project focused on Indigenous arts training methodologies and hosted a land-based residency for learners. Feedback from Indigenous recipients helped revise program criteria and the application processes, although limited in-person engagement due to time and travel constraints made some organizations hesitant to apply for funding. For the second initiative, Canadian Heritage strengthened relationships with Indigenous music organizations, attended the International Indigenous Music Summit, participated in trainings and events, and engaged with various Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs to enhance their understanding of Indigenous peoples and reconciliation.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that these programs and policy measures must include Indigenous peoples with disabilities. In addition, successful implementation requires localized engagement and the recognition of Indigenous knowledge systems.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 101

Indigenous cultural heritage and intellectual property

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

ISED has engaged with Indigenous peoples, including an engagement facilitated by the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business, to inform policy on disclosure requirements for Indigenous Knowledge and Cultural Expression related to international treaties. This included a virtual session with experts and elders. The final report will guide planning for this Action Plan measure. Officials built relationships through the Indigenous Intellectual Property Program grant and engaged with various organizations. PCH gathered an Indigenous Experts Working Group on SP101, focusing on issues of unauthorized copying, offensive use, and inauthentic Indigenous-style arts. This resulted in a “What We Heard Report”, which recommended structural and procedural changes related to Indigenous Intellectual Property.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The Canadian Council for Indigenous Business engaged with Indigenous peoples to inform policy on disclosure requirements for Indigenous Knowledge and Cultural Expression related to international treaties. This included a virtual session with experts and elders, and the findings will guide planning for this Action Plan measure. Officials built relationships through the Indigenous Intellectual Property Program grant and engaged with various organizations, resulting in a “What We Heard” report. Initial sessions focused on issues like unauthorized copying and inauthentic Indigenous-style arts, while challenges included the need for cultural change, building trust, and addressing short timelines due to budget uncertainties. Recommendations emphasized using knowledgeable Indigenous consulting firms and ensuring meaningful land acknowledgments.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 102

Indigenous post-secondary education, skills training, and employment

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Over the last year, ISC focused on enhancing Income Assistance's Case Management and Pre-Employment supports, which aimed to assist individuals aged 18 to 64 in transitioning to training and employment in an effort to reduce reliance on income support. ISC facilitated the transfer of $41.9 million to 91 First Nations funding recipients and prepared for upcoming allocations for 2025-2026. Additionally, ISC continued to implement its three distinctions-based Post-Secondary Education Strategies to support First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation students, engaging with regional offices to refine program guidelines and share best practices. ISC also implements the First Nations and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy (FNIYES), which is a component of the broader Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) led by ESDC. It supports employment and skills development opportunities for youth ages 15 to 30, specifically First Nations youth living on reserve and Inuit youth living outside of their land claim area.

In addition, supported by Engagement Protocol investments, ESDC has continued co-implementation and co-development efforts related to the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program (ISET) through established relationship and governance structures with a particular focus on the design of an interim evaluation approach. The ten-year flexible ISET agreements are complimented by investments in First Nations to design and deliver labour market information solutions in Reserve communities to address data gaps, along with projects through the Skills and Partnership Fund to support Indigenous led collaboration across industry and education partners.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

ISC worked closely with First Nations recipients of Income Assistance's Case Management and Pre-Employment Supports funding, facilitating communication and addressing inquiries while implementing guidelines and reporting templates. Additionally, ongoing consultation with Inuit and Métis Nation partners focused on refining the Terms and Conditions for the Post-Secondary Education program, involving regular meetings to incorporate feedback. In addition, ESDC remains committed to collaborating with partners on the ongoing implementation of the ISET program. as well as ISET organizations contributing to the Indigenous Labour Market Information and Skills Inventory Initiative. ESDC will also engage with Indigenous partners to develop regional approaches to coordinate investment planning and priority-setting for Skills and Partnership Fund.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

There is emphasis on the need for enhanced First Nations control over post-secondary education. Ongoing research and policy analysis aim to amend ISC Grants and Contributions to align with the First Nations Post-Secondary Education Strategy and the funding outlined in Budget 2024. Some partners affirm the inherent and treaty rights of First Nations to lifelong education and self-determination in socio-economic matters, advocating for full funding for all First Nations seeking access to education and skills training. Additionally, some Indigenous partners have concerns regarding ESDCs exclusive responsibility under this Action Plan measure for post-secondary education programs, despite many being managed by ISC. Indigenous partners believe this measure should be a shared responsibility and recognize the Government of Canada’s obligation to support First Nations lifelong learning and Indigenous-run institutions.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 103

Indigenous Early Learning and Childcare Framework

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

ESDC’s Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care (IELCC) investments have helped to enhance programming for Indigenous children by supporting language and cultural revitalization, expanding access through new sites, and improving learning environments through repairs and renovations. Key efforts include co-developing distinctions-based results frameworks, facilitating long-term funding decisions, and fostering collaboration between Indigenous partners and provincial/territorial governments, as seen in a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding in British Columbia. ISC continues to work with ESDC to increase Indigenous control over early learning programs, support community priorities, and promote quality improvement projects to enhance service delivery.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

A partnership model has been established to promote Indigenous-led decision-making and facilitate the transfer of control to Indigenous partners when desired. This model includes regional and national structures that support collaborative planning and priority setting to guide transformation efforts and enhance Indigenous-led approaches. Investments through long-term flexible agreements have expanded and improved programming designed and implemented by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis for children, increasing the number of sites and maintaining existing ones. The signing of a tripartite memorandum of understanding in British Columbia among federal, provincial, and First Nations leadership exemplifies a promising practice in this collaborative effort.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners noted that this Action Plan measure involves federal investments and should include Jordan’s Principle and the Inuit Child First Initiative. Some partners have called for a more transparent funding processes, community-based health governance, and full implementation of health transformation priorities. Some partners also noted the need for specific federal investments for First Nations such as the Income Assistance's Case Managements and Pre-Employment Supports. They also highlighted a need to recognize the importance of the Child Care and the Education Partnership Programs which improves education outcomes for First Nations students.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 104

Options for TRC Call to Action 66

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

In November 2024, CIRNAC sent out letters inviting Indigenous partners to engage on Truth and Reconciliation Call to Action 66 (CTA 66) calling for establishment of “multi-year funding for community-based youth organizations to deliver programs on reconcilation and establish a national network to share information and best practices”. This work includes holding bi-weekly meetings to discuss a CTA 66 pilot project and the engagement to address the Action Plan measure.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

CIRNAC noted that bi-weekly meetings were held to discuss the CTA 66 pilot project. A plan for engagement with Indigenous groups to aid in co-developing options for long-term implementation of CTA 66 is under development.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners have expressed strong support for the inclusion of Call to Action 66 as an individual Action Plan measure. They highlight the importance of ensuring that these policies are culturally relevant and reflect the voices and perspectives of Indigenous communities. Additionally, some Indigenous partners stress the necessity of adequate funding and resources to support the effective implementation of these policies, as well as the need for ongoing engagement and consultation throughout the process. They believe that meaningful collaboration is essential to achieving lasting change and addressing the historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 105

Indigenous Screen Office Program

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

On March 14, 2024, the Minister of Canadian Heritage announced permanent funding for the Indigenous Screen Office to support Indigenous-led storytelling, allocating $65 million over five years starting in 2024-2025, with $13 million per year ongoing. A Treasury Board Submission was prepared to secure this funding, and a new three-year contribution agreement has been signed and implemented between Canadian Heritage and the Indigenous Screen Office Corporation, with funds released for the first year of the agreement. As a result, this action plan measure is considered complete.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

Representatives from PCH held ad hoc meetings with the Indigenous Screen Office (ISO) Chief Executive Officer and staff to facilitate collaboration, including sharing data for reporting templates and coordinating communications plans and social media products. While the ISO Corporation has communicated its funding needs to the Government of Canada, FIN ultimately determines funding levels. For program design amendments, PCH seeks consensus with the ISO Corporation. PCH also strives to implement best practices when working with Indigenous partners, such as using plain language in communications and avoiding government acronyms.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 106

Northern Aboriginal Broadcasting

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

In 2024-2025, the program transitioned internally within PCH to an Indigenous-led team and has continued to operate under the existing framework, with most clients under two-year flexible contribution agreements for 2024-2026. The department drafted a budget proposal for this Action Plan measure and contracted Archipel Research and Consulting Inc., an Indigenous-owned firm, to conduct a survey assessing the needs of Indigenous broadcasters in Canada. Additionally, in late 2024, PCH engaged with broadcasting organizations and partners to discuss support for the Indigenous broadcasting sector.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PCH directly contacted some Indigenous broadcasters to encourage their participation in a survey assessing the current and future needs of Indigenous broadcasters in Canada, while an Indigenous consulting firm reached out to those with whom PCH did not have existing relationships. Data from the survey is expected to inform policy decisions regarding financial needs and program improvements. However, a limitation identified during the survey development was the lack of an up-to-date comprehensive list of Indigenous broadcasters, as many were either not operating or lacked appropriate contact information. Barriers faced by Indigenous peoples include consultation fatigue from simultaneous engagements and a lack of organizational capacity to participate fully. Additionally, the lack of coordination among Indigenous broadcasters complicates engagement efforts.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 107

Special Interlocutor for Missing Children and Unmarked Graves

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

The Special Interlocutor provided her Final Report to Indigenous survivors, families, leadership, and Ministers in October 2024. JUS support for her mandate completed shortly thereafter.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

JUS did not have a consultative role while the Special Interlocutor was fulfilling her mandate, as she was engaged directly in extensive consultation and cooperation with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis residential school survivors, families and communities in order to inform her work and her reports.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 108

Sharing Indian Residential School documents

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

There was limited progress on this measure in 2024-2025 due to challenges in relation to funding, policy authorities and organizational capacity for both government departments and Indigenous partners.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The Chairperson of the Indian Residential School Documents Advisory Committee announced in October 2024 that non-government members of the Committee are suspending their role due to lack of funding support. Work is ongoing to identify, review and collect potentially-relevant documents based on the Committee’s approved board definition of an “Indian Residential School document."

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 109

Participation in processes for implementing international human rights treaties

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

As the Secretariat for Canada's National Mechanism for Implementation, Reporting, and Follow-up (NMIRF) on human rights, PCH engages in outreach with Indigenous representatives on reporting to the United Nations on the domestic implementation of Canada’s international human rights obligations and follow-up to recommendations received from human rights treaty bodies and other human rights mechanisms. Engagement to date has focused on identifying ways to improve inclusive treaty body reporting and follow-up and amplify Indigenous voices in the process. Ongoing dialogue helps PCH ascertain the value of the approach for Indigenous partners and to discuss ways to continuously improve. PCH continues to explore options for distinctions-based approaches to this work while also ensuring broad representation from different Indigenous organizations on human rights issues.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

While PCH does not formally participate in legal consultations regarding the rights of Indigenous peoples, it actively engages with Indigenous partners to seek their input and perspectives. Regular dialogue with Indigenous organizations on human rights reporting ensures their participation in UN human rights treaty review processes, with commitments to ongoing engagement through meetings and discussions. Recent meetings have focused on funding, distinctions-based engagement, and the need for Inuit-specific strategies. Indigenous organizations have helped shape Canada’s human rights reporting and define meaningful engagement, but funding and resource constraints limit their ability to contribute to these processes. Additionally, there are challenges in establishing a distinctions-based engagement process for regular meetings, with partners calling for more structured, Indigenous-led spaces and the varying and disparate ways in which engagement is held across federal departments. PCH is dedicated to respecting the unique needs of Indigenous partners while navigating these engagement processes.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 110

Commitment to redress in Parks Canada heritage places

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

During 2024-2025, PC co-developed an Indigenous Stewardship Policy with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle, which mandates co-development of Indigenous Stewardship Plans with Indigenous partners for all heritage places. These plans will identify shared priorities for advancing the UN Declaration and Indigenous Stewardship, detailing how these priorities will be implemented. The place-based Stewardship Plans will address various priorities, including responding to requests for truth-telling, acknowledgments, apologies, and redress. Efforts are ongoing to finalize guidance for place-based acknowledgments, apologies, and redress, with work advancing on two specific place-based apologies.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Consultation and cooperation efforts have been undertaken with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle to co-develop an Indigenous Stewardship Policy and discuss the PC Guidance for Place-based Acknowledgments, Apologies, and Redress. Ongoing work includes two place-based apologies, one of which involves redress, with these initiatives being developed in collaboration with Indigenous partners, including co-developing the apology text. Initial discussions regarding the Guidance for Place-Based Apologies and Redress have taken place, with plans to re-engage the Circle after further refining initiatives with local Indigenous partners. Throughout the 2024-2025 fiscal year, extensive meetings have been held with Indigenous partners on two initiatives. The Place-based Guidance will continue to be shaped by input from the Indigenous Stewardship Circle and local partners. Decisions on local place-based apology content and the types of redress pursued are made by consensus with local Indigenous partners. Indigenous partners have no formal role in decision-making regarding aspects of redress outside of PC’s authority.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 111

British Columbia Action Plan implementation

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2024-2025

Justice Canada has met on a quarterly basis with BC officials to discuss areas of common interest in respect of Canada’s and BC’s Action Plans, inviting implicated departments to participate where relevant. Justice Canada has also entered into an Memorandum of Understanding with the BC First Nations Leadership Council to establish a leadership-level table and a technical table among officials. TC is looking forward to continued consultation and cooperation with Indigenous Partners and the Province of British Columbia in support the province’s Declaration Act Action Plan.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

See above.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: TC

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