The province is being urged to adopt the United Nations Declaration of Rights for Indigenous Peoples.
The NDP’s Sara Singh says the federal government has already supported the declaration, so it’s the least the Ford government can do.
“Unfortunately the minister has choice words and reaction towards that and I think we need to commit to that framework if we are going to meaningfully work towards Truth and Reconciliation and addressing what we know are fundamental, systemic gaps in the system for Indigenous communities.”
Singh also points out the auditor general’s most recent report suggested a number of problems at the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs, including staff who didn’t know what programs where currently offered.
The report also takes the government to task for the length of time is takes to settle land claims and not consulting first nations about programs in the Ministry.
Singh adds “I think what we’ve seen from this government since it was elected was actually cut and gut programs meant to help address Reconciliation and ensure that infrastructure was put in place for Indigenous communities.”
