Indigenous leaders in Manitoba demand accountability from the Federal Government, following shortfalls with Jordan’s Principle

Indigenous leaders in Manitoba gathered Friday to condemn Canada for what they say is a failure to implement Jordan’s Principle, citing delays in funding, staff layoffs, and critical service gaps.

Jordan’s Principle, established by the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal was created to ensure First Nations children do not face gaps, delays, or denials in accessing government services.

It was named after Jordan River Anderson, a young boy who died waiting for the government to agree on his care. And now the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs says Indigenous Services Canada has left the program in shambles.

“We are telling Canada to stop what you’re doing, listen to our leadership and what we’re saying today, we will create the guidelines surrounding Jordan’s principle because you will work for us it’s not the other way around,” said Kyra Wilson, the Grand Chief of Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs.

Canada’s recent changes to Jordan’s Principle, include barring funding for non-essential items unless deemed necessary to ensure equality.

The federal government has reported funding was used for a number of non-urgent items including modeling headshots, gaming consoles, bicycles, and a zip line kit.  Leaders don’t deny these purchases were made, but say it doesn’t tell the whole story.

“We were responsible with our funding, everything we denied or was questioned was referred back to ISC and they were the ones who approved those things,” said David Monias, Chief of Pimicikamak Cree Nation.

Cornell McLean, Chief of Lake Manitoba First Nation adds, “Those were requests we have emails, and we are going to use that as evidence against Health Canada”

First Nations leaders say the feds now heightening controls over Jordan’s principle funding, are now creating a shortfall for education, social supports, and health-care.

“We were led to believe that this was something we were allowed to spend money on, the infrastructure, the capital, and all the other resources that were there,” said Monias.