Carney announces $2.5 billion for First Nations emergency preparedness, policing and infrastructure

Prime Minister Mark Carney met with First Nations leaders and provincial and territorial premiers on October 26, marking the first meeting of its kind in two decades, according to the federal government.

The meeting focused on economic development, revenue-sharing, emergency preparedness, policing and the future of the federal government's relationship with First Nations.

Carney directed the federal finance minister to work with First Nations leaders on the potential creation of a First Nations Sovereign Wealth Fund, which would give Indigenous communities a direct financial stake in major infrastructure projects.

The federal government also plans to amend the First Nations Fiscal Management Act to expand the lending authority of the First Nations Finance Authority, making it easier for communities to finance investments in major projects.

Ottawa announced $260 million over four years for a new Partnerships for Indigenous Workforce Readiness Fund to connect Indigenous people with jobs created by major projects. The government is also developing an Indigenous-focused stream of its Team Canada Strong initiative to help workers access entry-level trades positions.

Leaders also discussed reforming or potentially abolishing the Indian Act. Carney directed ministers to work with First Nations to develop a path beyond the legislation.

Emergency preparedness and policing funding

The federal government announced more than $2.5 billion over five years, along with nearly $450 million in ongoing annual funding, for First Nations emergency management, wildfire protection and fire services.

The funding is intended to improve evacuation capacity, emergency assistance and the rebuilding of homes and critical infrastructure following disasters.

Ottawa also announced more than $630 million over four years and $250 million in ongoing annual funding to renew and expand First Nations and Inuit policing agreements.

An additional $140 million over four years will support crime prevention and culturally appropriate community safety initiatives in Indigenous communities.

The federal government also highlighted investments in education, housing, health care and drinking water infrastructure, including more than $4.5 billion committed to implementing the First Nations Clean Water Act and supporting water and wastewater systems on reserves.