Backgrounder
First Nations Governance Pilot Projects

Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, Robert D. Nault, has launched a series of pilot projects totalling $5 million. These projects will focus on improving and enhancing governance structures in First Nations communities. Ninety-six projects have been approved in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Atlantic and Yukon. Over 200 proposals are being reviewed by INAC from all regions.

In August 2003, First Nations communities were asked to submit proposals aimed at further enhancing or developing good governance practices. Proposals were to include specific governance tools including how tools can be adapted to First Nations traditions and culture. An estimate 200 communities have already submitted proposals for this series of pilot projects. Proposals are being reviewed by the department as they are received.

Projects focus on areas of study such as band government support systems, development of codes and policies, and aggregation. Within each area, the goal of the projects is to produce a number of specific governance tools to enhance the development of First Nations capacity. These projects include developing templates of models relating to leadership selection, administration of government and financial management and accountability, as well as developing and costing local redress mechanisms. Projects will also look at developing policy and procedure manuals on areas such as, conflict of interest and codes of ethics and models on effective community participation in the development of good governance tools and practices.

These projects are built on lessons learned from an earlier series of pilot projects which were conducted by First Nations communities to identify potential projects addressing good governance tools and practices. Results from these projects included current by-laws, proposed methodologies and feasibility studies. One key finding revealed that a number of First Nations communities had already put in place good governance tools and mechanisms. This first phase also revealed general enthusiasm and strong support for good governance and the need for capacity building.

Consultations and recent polling data shows that Canadians (Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal) support improved governance in Aboriginal communities. In addition, a national on-reserve survey indicated that First Nations people believe that good government and strong accountability in their communities is the most effective way to attract business and jobs as well as to improve their standard of living.

The Government of Canada is committed to improving the quality of life for First Nations people by strengthening governance, strategic investments in economic development and education - along with improving housing and providing safe drinking water.

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