For Immediate Release
March 3, 2008 - The federal budget released on February 26, 2008 is extremely disappointing and fails to respond to the crisis situations that are the reality in far too many First Nation communities across Ontario.

This Harper government shows blatant disregard for the most basic health and safety needs of our communities. The Harper government has focused on issues that relate to their own ideologies and conservative voter base in an effort to score political points.

This government continues to ignore fundamental needs such as the severe shortage of housing and infrastructure on reserves, and the funding crises in education and policing.

For years, First Nations have advocated for targeted funding to meet the backlog in housing and to improve educational outcomes for the First Nation population. These basic human rights are being knowingly ignored by the Harper government as it continues to mastermind a political strategy to limit and decrease the resources needed to address aboriginal issues.

The Ontario regional office on Indian and Northern Affairs Canada is forecasting a shortfall of $142 million over the next five years. Clearly, this is a significant concern for the First Nations of Ontario. What this means is that the federal government cannot even maintain the infrastructure that exists in First Nation communities in Ontario. They certainly will not be able to respond to the new and growing list of needs. I am talking about basic infrastructure like safe schools and homes.

The Harper government continually points out that the federal government expends $10 billion annually for Aboriginal programs and services. What the Harper government fails to point out is that the federal, provincial and municipal governments spend more than $500 Billion for the same programs and services for non-Aboriginal Canadians. An examination of per capital spending on aboriginal people versus the general population shows that the expenditure level of First Nations programs and services is wholly inadequate and no where near equitable. For example, First Nation schools receive, on average, $2000 less per student than all over public schools in this country.

This recent budget announced a supposed investment of $660 million for First Nations. When one looks at the fine print, the reality is that $270 million over two year is the true amount. This amount is expected to support needs in child and family services, education, economic development and health. It is simply a drop in the bucket.

When the Conservative government came to power in January 2006, they pledged to "put the wheels on Kelowna" following their refusal to honor the targeted investments for health, housing and education agreed to in the Kelowna Accord. This has not materialized and First Nation citizens continue to be mired in poverty and the highest unemployment rates in the county.

This is disgraceful given the decision of this government to provide $60 billion in broad-based tax cuts over the next five years. This decision has "emptied the cupboards" and essentially has constrained the ability of this government to meaningfully tackle the challenges and needs that exist in First Nation communities.

This is beyond the realm of understanding. If is beyond frustrating. We are a patient people but when is enough, simply enough? I am asking Canadians to stand up with us and support our ongoing efforts. We are not asking for more than any other citizen of this country by seeking equality and a safe and health environment for our children.

For more information please contact:

Pam Hunter (416) 597-1266
Policy Advisor (613) 203-3233