Details on transfer payment programs of $5 million or more

Grants and Contributions to support First Nations Elementary and Secondary Educational Advancement

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial Information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–18

Link to department's Program Inventory: Education

Description: Elementary and secondary education is one of the essential services that is funded by ISC for First Nation communities. The federal government has provided support to First Nation education for almost 140 years, addressing commitments in the numbered treaties and providing for the delivery of services authorized under the Indian Act and various policy decisions.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no audit was completed nor is there one currently planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: The Evaluation of Elementary and Secondary Education is in progress and is expected to be completed in March 2020.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: In 2018–19, the Department continued to engage with First Nations partners to strengthen elementary and secondary programming. This was done largely through technical tables at the regional level, as well as meetings convened by the Assembly of First Nations.

Together with First Nations representatives, the Department finalized a Treasury Board submission and new guidelines for the Elementary and Secondary Education Program, and continued to develop and negotiate regional education agreements.

The Department also worked with First Nations representatives to improve program delivery, including a new regional approach for the management of Research and Innovation programming.

Grants and Contributions to support First Nations and Inuit Post-Secondary Educational Advancement

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–18

Link to department's Program Inventory: Education

Description: The purpose of these Terms and Conditions is to establish provisions for making grant and contribution payments to Registered Indian (First Nations and Innu) and Inuit students under Post-Secondary Education (PSE) programs. The Department's suite of PSE initiatives consists of 3 program elements: the Post-Secondary Student Support Program, the University and College Entrance Preparation Program and the Post-Secondary Partnerships Program.

Since the early 1960s, the federal government has sought incremental policy authorities to undertake a range of activities to support improvement in the socio-economic conditions and overall quality of life of Indigenous peoples in Canada. These activities include support for First Nations and Inuit access to and participation in PSE programs. They also include support for the inclusion of First Nations and Inuit content, perspectives and related research within Canada's post-secondary environment. The Department's involvement in post-secondary education is a matter of social policy.

Although there have been significant gains since the early 1970s, First Nations and Inuit participation and success in post-secondary education still lags behind that of other Canadians. Increasing First Nations and Inuit participation in, and achievement of, post-secondary education will support the strategic goal of individual, family and community well-being. Specifically, PSE programs will do so by fostering greater self-sufficiency, improved life chances and increased labour force participation.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no audit was completed nor is there one currently planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: The Evaluation of the Post-Secondary Education is in progress and is expected to be completed in March 2020.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: In 2018–19, the Department worked closely with First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nation representatives in developing distinction-based post-secondary strategies. Canada also signed an agreement with the Métis Nation to develop a sub-accord on post-secondary education.

Grants and Contributions to increase First Nations and Inuit Youth Participation in Education and Labour Market Opportunities

For more information on this transfer program: Grants and Contributions to increase First Nations and Inuit Youth Participation in Education and Labour Market Opportunities

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–18

Link to department's Program Inventory: Education

Description: The Department provides a number of special incentives to address the significantly lower rate of educational attainment within the Indigenous population and First Nation and Inuit under-representation in the Canadian workforce. These incentives serve to integrate culturally appropriate content within K-12 education, facilitate student transitions from secondary to post-secondary education and/or from school to the workplace and, ultimately, increase the number of skilled Indigenous youth in the workforce.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no audit was completed nor is there one currently planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: The Evaluation of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Evaluation of Post-Secondary Education are in progress and are expected to be completed in March 2020. The Horizontal Evaluation of the Youth Employment Strategy, led by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), is planned to be completed in February 2020.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: ISC supported efforts led by ESDC to develop and launch a new Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, assisting with specific efforts to align the strategy with the needs and priorities of Indigenous youth.

Grants and Contributions to provide income support to on-reserve residents

For more information on this transfer program: Grants and Contributions to provide income support to on-reserve residents

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2018–19

Link to department's Program Inventory: Income Assistance, Assisted Living

Description: The Department provides funding for social services as a matter of policy.

• Grant and contribution funding for Income Assistance, and Assisted Living is targeted to clients or beneficiaries who are ordinarily resident on reserve or who, for the purposes of these programs, are deemed to be ordinarily resident on reserve.
• Grants and contributions to eligible recipients under the Income Assistance program are intended to provide financial assistance to low-income on-reserve residents to support their basic and special needs and to help them become more self-reliant, in alignment with the rate schedule and eligibility criteria of the reference province or territory.
• Grants and contributions under the Assisted Living program are intended to support the special needs of chronically ill and disabled persons for non-medical personal care services, for non-medical institutional care and for public education, awareness and service coordination.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: The Audit of the Income Assistance Program was cancelled. The ISC Risk-Based Audit Plan has since been updated to reflect the evolving risk landscape.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: The Evaluation of Income Assistance was completed in 2018–19. The Evaluation found that while the program successfully provides First Nations with the means to distribute Income Assistance to eligible band members with rate and eligibility parity with provinces, the goal of rate alignment also leaves First Nations and the Government of Canada out of the decision making process regarding Income Assistance rates thus putting them at a disadvantage in responding to some on-reserve challenges. This evaluation also found that where active measures and case management have been implemented, they have shown considerable promise for success in reducing dependency and strengthening attachment to the workforce.

The Evaluation of Assisted Living was completed in 2018–19. The Evaluation found that the program was generally effective in meeting many of the needs, but that there were concerns of growing pressure and sustainability of the current approach. The evaluation observed:

• growing pressure on the ability to recruit and retain individuals to provide services
• limited merit in requiring adherence to provincial rates and eligibility criteria
• objectives would be better supported by capital funding for minor home renovations and long-term care facilities on-reserve

The Evaluation of Income Assistance is planned to be completed in March 2023.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: In 2018–19, ISC issued a targeted call for proposals to host First Nation-led, regionally specific engagement activities in order to understand how to make the Income Assistance program more responsive to the needs of individuals and families on reserve. The Department funded First Nation organizations to support First Nation-led engagement activities in 6 provinces (Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia), which took place between October 2018 and May 2019.

The Department also issued a targeted call for proposals to continue case management and pre-employment supports for Income Assistance clients (18 to 64 years old). The Department continued to fund existing First Nation communities and organizations across the country that had participated in the initiative and also expanded to additional First Nation communities.

Contributions to provide women, children and families with Protection and Prevention Services

For more information on this transfer program: Contributions to provide women, children and families with protection and prevention services

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2018–19

Link to department's Program Inventory: First Nations Child and Family Services and the Family Violence Prevention

Description: The Department provides funding for social services as a matter of policy.

Contributions to eligible recipients under the:

• Family Violence Prevention Program (FVPP) are intended to fund family violence services responsive to community needs. The primary objective is to support women, children and families living on reserve with family violence shelter services through funding to core shelter operations. The secondary objective is to support family violence prevention activities through funding to Aboriginal communities and organizations.
• First Nation Child and Family Services (FNCFS) are intended to ensure the safety and well-being of First Nations children ordinarily resident on reserve. The FNCFS program supports the delivery of culturally appropriate prevention and protection services for First Nations children and families, in accordance with the legislation and standards of the province or territory of residence within program authorities. All children are protected by provincial or territorial child welfare legislation as child and family services are matters of provincial or territorial jurisdiction. Provinces and territories can delegate authority for child welfare to service providers both on and off reserve and are responsible for ensuring that they comply with provincial legislation and standards.
  • Social Development Program Management Infrastructure Initiative are intended to provide financial assistance to recipients to assist them to identify models of effective management and accountability for social development programs that will lead to more effective, cost-efficient and accountable social development programming.

Contribution funding for both FVPP and FNCFS is mainly targeted to clients who are ordinarily resident on reserve or who, for the purposes of these programs, are deemed to be ordinarily resident on reserve in a province or Yukon Territory. FVPP also funds prevention and awareness activities for Aboriginal communities and organizations (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) off-reserve.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: The Audit of Family Violence Prevention Programming was cancelled. The ISC Risk-Based Audit Plan has been updated to reflect the evolving risk landscape.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no evaluation was completed. The Evaluation of First Nations Child and Family Services is planned for completion in March 2021. The Evaluation of Family Violence is planned to be completed in March 2023.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The Department engaged First Nations representative organizations, and other partners and stakeholders (including, the National Advisory Committee and the Consultation Committee on Child Welfare) to inform the reform of the FNCFS program.

The Department puts out an annual Call for Proposals for family violence prevention projects for organizations off-reserve. Over 300 family violence prevention projects on and off reserve are supported each year.

Grants and Contributions to support Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples

For more information on this transfer program: Grants and Contributions to support Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–18

Link to department's Program Inventory: Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples

Description: The Government of Canada seeks to contribute towards reconciliation with Indigenous peoples through improved coordination, supporting coalitions, and the broadening and strengthening of programming by identifying and addressing local needs of all urban Indigenous peoples.

Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples (UPIP), implemented by the Department, funds and supports activities that allow Indigenous organizations to serve clients, and to deliver effective culturally appropriate programs or services to urban Indigenous peoples as well as invest in local stakeholder coalitions across Canada. It also provides opportunities for greater federal coordination of programming and supports research and pilot projects to better understand the urban Indigenous context.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: The Audit of the Urban Indigenous Participation Program was cancelled. The ISC Risk-Based Audit Plan has since been updated to reflect the evolving risk landscape.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no evaluation was completed. The Evaluation of Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples is planned to be completed in March 2022.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The Department continued ongoing engagement with UPIP recipients, including set aside allocation organizations such as National Association of Friendship Centres, Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres, Métis Nation Governing Members and Inuit organizations. In addition, support will also be provided to solidify the creation of a national entity to allow coalitions to share knowledge and information, to network and build relationships, as well as support the co-development of a national urban Indigenous strategy and possible future policy directions.

Grant for Band Support Funding

For more information on this transfer program: Grant for Band Support Funding

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–18

Link to department's Program Inventory: Indigenous Governance and Capacity

Description: The purpose of the Band Support Funding (BSF) grant is to assist band councils to meet the costs of local government and administration of departmentally funded services. This support is intended to provide a stable funding base to facilitate effective community governance and the efficient delivery of services. BSF allows First Nation communities the flexibility to allocate funds according to their individual needs and priorities and be responsive in an environment of growing complexity and as they move toward self-determination.

BSF recipients under the block funding approach must continue to meet the terms and conditions of the BSF program authority. Also, even if there is no program reporting requirements attached to grant authorities, BSF recipients under block funding must submit an annual Audited Financial Statement, which covers all funding received through the block funding approach, to the Department. The additional requirement is counterbalanced by the fact that block funded BSF recipients have access to multi-year funding.

These terms and conditions are specifically targeted to First Nations.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no audit was completed nor is there one currently planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no evaluation was completed. The evaluation of Indigenous Governance and Capacity is planned to be completed in March 2021.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: No engagement on band support funding was conducted in 2018–19. As the program moves towards modernization, options for engagement will be co-developed with the Governance Capacity Table Working Group, co-chaired by the Assembly of First Nations.

Grant to the Miawpukek Indian Band to support designated programs

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2013

Link to department's Program Inventory: Indigenous Governance and Capacity

Description: This 10-year grant agreement is unique among ISC funding arrangements with First Nations as it provides the Miawpukek First Nation with a high degree of control over the management, administration and operational functions of the community. The grant agreement allows the Miawpukek First Nation to identify and allocate funds to community priorities and enables it to manage its programs effectively while promoting creativity to seize opportunities and maximize efficiency. The grant covers a range of programming including land management and registration, membership management, education, social services, infrastructure, Indigenous government and band support funding, band employee benefits, and community economic development.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no audit was completed nor is there one currently planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no evaluation was completed. The Evaluation of Indigenous Governance and Capacity is planned to be completed in March 2021.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: No specific engagement activities were conducted with Miawpukek First Nation in 2018–19 given that they are currently in a unique 10-year grant agreement. Engagement on a new funding agreement model is planned for 2019–20.

Contributions to supply public services in Indian Government Support and to build strong governance, administrative and accountability systems

For more information on this transfer program: Contributions to supply public services in Indian Government Support and to build strong governance, administrative and accountability systems

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–18

Link to department's Program Inventory: Indigenous Governance and Capacity

Description: The Department's involvement in governance programming is a matter of social policy that included the devolution of programs and services to First Nation and Inuit governments on a gradual basis. Strong governance and accountability of First Nations and Inuit governments and related institutions are fundamental to the prudent use of funds transferred from the federal government. These objectives are advanced by a series of measures: Employee pension and benefits plans to incent recruitment and retention of professional staff; the First Nations Fiscal Management Act institutions that provide fiscal services and products to First Nation communities (these institutions are under CIRNAC responsibility); tribal councils that provide service and program delivery at an aggregated level to communities; and governance capacity development programs that provide training in sound governance.

The following terms and conditions provide the framework under which current and future department contribution programming can be administered to facilitate capacity development in the Indigenous public service; the First Nation and Inuit elected leadership and entities that administer aggregate services and program delivery on behalf of or to First Nations and Inuit governments and their communities.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: The Audit of Department's Capacity Strengthening Supports to Community Governments Program was cancelled. The ISC Risk-Based Audit Plan has since been updated to reflect the evolving risk landscape.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19 no evaluation was completed. The Evaluation of Indigenous Governance and Capacity is planned to be completed in March 2021.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: No engagement on Indigenous Governance and Capacity was conducted in 2018–19. As the program moves towards modernization, options for engagement will be co-developed with the Governance Capacity Table Working Group, co-chaired by the Assembly of First Nations.

Contributions for the purpose of consultation and policy development

For more information on this transfer program: Contributions for the purpose of consultation and policy development

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2014

Link to department's Program Inventory: Indigenous Governance and Capacity

Description: The consultation and policy development contribution program is intended to be a vehicle for a wide range of engagements between the Department and Indigenous peoples for the development and implementation of departmental policy and programming. Eligible activities are those which investigate, develop, propose, review, inform or consult on policy matters within the mandate of the department. Eligible activities include workshops, studies, meetings, and policy development, all of which relate to and are in support of the Department's policies and programming. The funding supports the Department as a whole to collaborate with Status Indians, Innu and Inuit on key policy issues.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no audit was completed nor is there one currently planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no evaluation was completed. The Evaluation of Engagement and Capacity Support is planned to be completed in March 2020. The Evaluation of Indigenous Governance and Capacity is planned to be completed in March 2021.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: No engagement on consultation and policy development was conducted in 2018–19.

Contributions to support the construction and maintenance of community infrastructure

For more information on this transfer program: Contributions to support the construction and maintenance of community infrastructure

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–18

Link to department's Program Inventory: Water and Wastewater, Education Facilities, Housing, Other Community Infrastructure and Activities

Description: The provision of community infrastructure funding to First Nations is based on the Government of Canada's spending power as a matter of social policy. The Department allocates funding for the construction and the maintenance of community infrastructure to First Nations at regional level through formula, proposal based project funding or as a combination of both.

The Other Community Infrastructure and Activities program provides targeted funding for general community infrastructure projects on reserve. The goal of the program is to improve the quality of life and the environment for First Nation communities. The program supports First Nation communities in their efforts to have reliable and sustainable infrastructure by providing funding to plan, design, construct, acquire, operate and maintain community infrastructure assets and facilities, as well as coordinate training and undertake capacity-building activities in this area.

The Department funds 8 types of infrastructure through the Other Community Infrastructure program, including: roads and bridges, connectivity, culture and recreational facilities, fire protection, energy systems, planning and skills, and structural mitigation.

First Nation communities identify priorities and needs in their First Nations Infrastructure Investment Plans and funding is then allocated for projects based on a national priority assessment. Project proposals are submitted by the First Nations communities to the regional offices and evaluated at the national level to determine the priority projects to be funded.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no audit was completed. An Audit of Data for the On-Reserve Housing Program is in progress and is expected to be completed in October 2019.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no evaluation was completed. The Evaluation of First Nations and Inuit Water and Wastewater Activities On-Reserve is planned to be completed in May 2020. The evaluation of Infrastructure is planned to be completed in March 2022.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: in 2018–19, the Department has been supporting the AFN in its' engagement with First Nation partners to co-develop a legislative framework for safe drinking water for First Nations.

ISC has also supported the AFN in its engagement on infrastructure operation and maintenance reform.

The feedback and recommendations obtained from partners during these engagement sessions will be compiled in a report prepared by the AFN and shared with ISC in 2020. These recommendations will be utilized to inform improvements to operation and maintenance funding for community infrastructure on reserve and support the co-development of the Operation and Maintenance Policy Framework.

In 2018–19, ISC supported the Aboriginal Firefighters Association of Canada in its engagement with First Nation groups, across the country, to develop the mandate, scope and governance structure of a proposed Indigenous Fire Marshal Office. A total of 8 engagement sessions were held in Atlantic Region, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia, where valuable input was gathered on what services the Indigenous Fire Marshal Office should provide. Engagement activities will continue in 2019–20.

ISC has also developed strong relationships with First Nation communities involved in school projects. A joint project management structure with groups of First Nation communities ensures the engagement and participation of these communities in the planning and construction of new school infrastructure on reserve. Delivering on these major bundled projects for First Nations is identified as being a high priority by ISC.

These projects are being managed through an "Innovative Project Delivery" approach in the form of bundled school projects that build nation-to-nation partnerships via joint governance models and strengthen self-determination for Indigenous peoples by building knowledge, tools and resources in the community. Community members have direct input into project design, including elders and students. The delivery model is also supporting First Nation owned businesses and corporations, to enhance community capacity. Implementation of these First Nations-led projects will help develop the local community and their economy.

Engagements on housing during 2018–19 further advanced First Nations' dialogue and thinking on their needs and approach to long-term reform for housing. Fourteen sessions were funded and led by First Nations across the country, each building on engagements and themes from previous years in areas of self-governance, capacity, financing, funding and information exchange. Engagements and work done in collaboration with the AFN and federal partners continue to refine the co-developed 10-year First Nations Housing and Related Infrastructure Strategy, endorsed by the AFN in December 2018, and informed steps to build the implementation plan which will chart the path forward to increasing First Nations care, control and management of housing for the long term.

Contributions for emergency management assistance for activities on reserves

For more information on this transfer program: Contributions for emergency management assistance for activities on reserves

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–18

Link to department's Program Inventory: Emergency Management Assistance

Description: The Department works collaboratively with Indigenous peoples and Northerners, as well as with other federal departments and agencies, provinces and territories, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). These responsibilities include supporting First Nation partners to prepare for, mitigate against, respond to and recover from emergency events, which threaten the health, safety and holistic well-being of on-reserve First Nations communities. The assistance, a transfer payment in the form of a contribution, came into effect April 1, 2005.

Local authorities and provincial and territorial governments are responsible for emergency management activities within their respective jurisdictions. Section 91(24) of the Constitution Act, 1867 prescribes the legislative authority of the Government of Canada for "Indians, and Lands reserved for Indians". This authority is delegated to the Minister of Indigenous Services Canada. Under section 6 of the Emergency Management Act (2007), each federal minister is responsible for identifying risks that are within or related to his or her area of responsibility and for preparing, maintaining, testing and implementing emergency management plans to mitigate those risks. The Department supports on-reserve First Nation partners with the 4 basic pillars of emergency management — mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery.

The Department has, since the early 1970s, managed a framework for promoting and supporting First Nations partners with:

• emergency preparedness and non-structural mitigation within on-reserve communities
• emergency response and evacuation during disasters
• remediation of infrastructure and houses after emergencies such as forest fires and floods

The Department had specific Treasury Board authority for forest fire suppression (December 15, 1988), which expired in March 2005. This authority enabled the Department to provide funding to provinces, bands or other emergency organizations for the delivery of fire suppression services. The authority was replaced by the Emergency Management Assistance Program (November 29, 2004) through which the Department makes contributions for emergency management assistance for activities on reserve. The Department also provides financial assistance to First Nations for search and recovery activities based on compassionate grounds. In 2017–18, the Department received policy approval for the Building Back Better Strategy Guide, which increased the access and availability to culturally competent response and recovery supports for on-reserve First Nation partners.

The most common emergencies affecting First Nations are floods, fires, loss of essential services, severe weather, or failure of community infrastructure (i.e., winter roads, bridges, water sources, housing, etc.) due to natural disaster or accident.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no audit was completed nor is there one currently planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no evaluation was completed. The Evaluation of Emergency Management Assistance Program is planned to be completed in March 2022.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The Department is supporting First Nation-led engagement of emergency management services across the regions. This engagement is being led by regional Indigenous representative organizations to gain an understanding of First Nations' emergency management needs and perspectives on service delivery in emergency management within each region. The results of these engagement sessions will support the negotiation and development of multilateral emergency management service agreements that will result in the integration of First Nations as full and equal partners.

(S) Contributions in connection with First Nations infrastructure

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–18

Link to department's Program Inventory: Other Community Infrastructure and Activities

Description: As per the terms and conditions of the First Nations Infrastructure Fund, the Gas Tax Fund can be used to fund "other community infrastructure"

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no audit was completed nor is there one currently planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no evaluation was completed. The evaluation of Infrastructure is planned to be completed in March 2022.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The Program Guide for First Nations Infrastructure funding, available online outlines the program and all application requirements. ISC is available to respond to inquiries on the program delivery.

Departmental staff in each region engages with communities on a regular basis to identify and develop infrastructure project proposals.

ISC presented to First Nation members at the Indigenous Climate Change Adaptation Gathering (link only available in English) in March 2019 on project eligibility and on how to access First Nations Infrastructure Funding, particularly in regards to building community resilience against natural hazards and climate change.

Contributions for First Nations and Inuit Health Infrastructure Support

For more information on this transfer program: Contributions for First Nations and Inuit Health Infrastructure Support

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–18

Link to department's Program Inventory: First Nations and Inuit Health Planning, Quality Management and Systems Integration, First Nations and Inuit Health Human Resources, First Nations and Inuit Health Facilities, First Nations and Inuit e-Health Infostructure and British-Columbia Tripartite Health Governance.

Description: The Health Infrastructure Support Authority underpins the long-term vision of an integrated health system with greater First Nations and Inuit control by enhancing their capacity to design, manage, deliver and evaluate quality health programs and services. It provides the foundation to support the delivery of programs and services in First Nations communities and for individuals, and to promote innovation and partnerships in health care delivery to better meet the unique health needs of First Nations and Inuit. The funds are used for: planning and management for the delivery of quality health services; construction and maintenance of health facilities; research activities; encouraging Indigenous people to pursue health careers; investments in technologies to modernize health services; and integrating and realigning the governance of existing health services.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no audit was completed nor is there one currently planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: The Evaluation of Aboriginal Health Human Resources Initiative is in progress and is expected to be completed in January 2020. The Evaluation of Health Planning, Quality Management and Systems Integration is planned to be completed in December 2020. The Evaluation of e-Health Infostructure is planned to be completed in March 2022. The Evaluation of British Columbia Tripartite Governance is planned to be completed in March 2023.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The Assembly of First Nations and the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami sit on FNIHB's Senior Management Committee, providing a direct opportunity for a voice in all policy matters being considered by FNIHB. The Branch also makes use of jointly developed engagement protocols that ensure relationships are governed by mutual transparency and accountability, regionally or nationally.

In 2018–19, the Department also continued to advance collaborative efforts with provinces, territories, First Nations and Inuit to ensure quality service delivery, build partnerships to advance health service integration, and increase First Nations and Inuit participation in the delivery of health services. Regional tri-lateral discussions continued to take place to identify opportunities for partnerships. Through various existing and new collaborative tables, the Department continues to work with Indigenous partners to identify new health planning requirements and ways to reduce administrative and reporting requirements for recipients.

ISC continued to work with First Nations on infrastructure activities, including the renovation and/or expansion of new and existing on-reserve health facilities. ISC also engaged with partners on demonstration projects involving remote presence technologies to expand access to primary care services.

Contributions for First Nations and Inuit Primary Health Care

For more information on this transfer program: Contributions for First Nations and Inuit Primary Health Care

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–18

Link to department's Program Inventory: First Nations and Inuit Jordan's Principle, First Nations and Inuit Clinical and Client Care; First Nations and Inuit Communicable Disease Control and Management; First Nations and Inuit Environmental Public Health; First Nations and Inuit Healthy Child Development; First Nations and Inuit Healthy Living; First Nations and Inuit Home and Community Care, and First Nations and Inuit Mental Wellness.

Description: The Primary Health Care Authority funds a suite of programs, services and strategies provided primarily to First Nations and Inuit individuals, families, and communities living on reserve or in Inuit communities. It encompasses health promotion and disease prevention programs to improve health outcomes and reduce health risks; public health protection, including monitoring and surveillance, to prevent and/or mitigate human health risks associated with communicable diseases and exposure to environmental hazards, and health-related impacts of climate change; and primary care where individuals are provided diagnostic, curative, rehabilitative, supportive, palliative or end-of-life care, and referral services.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no audit was completed. An Audit of Jordan's Principle Implementation is in progress and is expected to be completed in October 2019.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: The Evaluation of Clinical and Client Care was completed in 2018–19. The Evaluation found that communities are generally satisfied with the services and hospital care they receive. The program has effectively improved clients' access to, and receipt of, quality care. By exploring interdisciplinary models of care, the program has facilitated greater access to a range of health care professionals, including nurse practitioners. However, challenges still vary across regions related to accessibility of physicians, and progress in hiring more nurse practitioners has not reached all communities. The program's expanded use of interdisciplinary models of care have allowed CCC sites to mitigate challenges raised by the 2015 Office of the Auditor General audit that found nurses were providing care that was beyond their legislated scope of practice.

A review of Jordan's Principle was completed in 2018–19. The review found that communities had very limited time to design and implement programs and were required to quickly fund projects with limited guidance on how to design health programming. In communities where there existed a health program infrastructure, including networks of children and youth services, the Jordan's Principle funding served to enhance or expand services. In cases where communities did not have an existing health services infrastructure, and were designing new programs or projects, stakeholders expressed frustration over the lack of support for capacity building, planning and program design activities. Funding support that was provided directly to parents was viewed very positively by parents and stakeholders. The application process was seen to be fair, fast and efficient, and First Nations' communities were very positive about the impacts that the funding has had on the health and safety of youth with complex health conditions.

The Evaluation of First Nations and Inuit Home and Community Care was completed in November 2018. The evaluation found that the demand for services is projected to increase and recommended a strategy to measure demand relative to capacity to provide services. It also found policy and legislative gaps that risk maintaining disparities between Indigenous and non-indigenous Canadians. Communities are supported in their training and capacity building efforts, but personal care providers, particularly in small and remote communities require more support. The evaluation recommended better support for recruitment, retention and training of personal care providers. The quantity and quality of home and community care services was viewed positively, but gaps in service, limited resources and communication issues were seen as barriers to meeting needs. The evaluation recommended developing communications strategies to improve coordination and communication with provincial/territorial/regional health services. The evaluation found that FNIHCC collaborates well with other programs including the Assisted Living program, but also recommended more flexible funding options to cover services offered though both programs to better manage them in the long term.

The Evaluation of Healthy Living Program is planned to be completed in June 2020 and the Evaluation of Communicable Disease Control and Management is planned to be completed in September 2020. The Evaluation of Mental Wellness, the Evaluation of Environmental Public Health and the Evaluation of Healthy Child Development are planned to be completed in March 2021. The evaluation of Clinical and Client Care, the Evaluation of Jordan's Principle and the Evaluation of Community Oral Health Services are planned to be completed in March 2024.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The Assembly of First Nations and the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami sit on FNIHB's Senior Management Committee, providing a direct opportunity for a voice in all policy matters being considered by FNIHB. The Branch also makes use of jointly developed engagement protocols that ensure relationships are governed by mutual transparency and accountability, regionally or nationally.

Furthermore, in 2018–19, the Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Research Network delivered a report on activities for 2018–19 looking at how Jordan's Principle may have improved access to a continuum of care for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder diagnostic and services. The research will be gathered through key informant interviews via telephone as well as in-person visits to communities. Further activities related to this project may be determined in partnership and collaboration with partners.

Discussions with Les Femmes Michif — Women of the Metis Nation, Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, and Native Women's Association of Canada started in 2018–19 (still underway) with respect to the co-development of communications products on the issue of forced sterilization.

ISC continued to support the National Aboriginal Council of Midwives in the development and implementation of in-person and remote Indigenous Midwifery services in Indigenous communities.

The Department continued its engagement and policy co-development with the Jordan's Principle Action Table and consults with the First Nations Child and Family Services Caring Society, the Assembly of First Nations, the Chiefs of Ontario and the Nishnawbe Aski Nation through the Consultation Committee on Child Welfare and the Jordan's Principle Operations Committee. Ongoing work will continue with the Nursing Recruitment and Retention Strategy Oversight Committee and the Canadian Indigenous Nurses Association.

The First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Implementation Team was established in 2015 to support the implementation of the First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework and Honouring Our Strengths: A Renewed Framework to Address Substance Use Issues Among First Nations People in Canada. The Implementation Team supports a whole of government approach across jurisdictions to support community wellness and identify opportunities for systems change.

Contributions for First Nations and Inuit Supplementary Health Benefits

For more information on this transfer program: Contributions for First Nations and Inuit Supplementary Health Benefits

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Transfer payments are voted unless otherwise denoted with an (S) in below Financial information table.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2012–13

Link to department's Program Inventory: First Nations and Inuit Supplementary Health Benefits

Description: ISC's Supplementary Health Benefits (also known as Non-Insured Health Benefits) Program is a national program that provides registered First Nations and recognized Inuit resident in Canada with coverage for a range of medically necessary health related goods and services which are not otherwise available to them through other private plans or provincial or territorial health or social programs. Program benefits include prescription and over-the-counter medications, dental and vision care, medical supplies and equipment, mental health counselling, and transportation to access medically required health services that are not available on reserve or in the community of residence.

Results achieved: Results for ISC's Program Inventory are available in GC InfoBase.

Findings of audits completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no audit was completed nor is there one currently planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2018–19: In 2018–19, no evaluation was completed. The Evaluation of First Nations and Inuit Supplementary Health Benefits is planned to be completed in March 2023.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The Assembly of First Nations and the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami sit on FNIHB's Senior Management Committee, providing a direct opportunity for a voice in all policy matters being considered by FNIHB. The Branch also makes use of jointly developed engagement protocols that ensure relationships are governed by mutual transparency and accountability, regionally or nationally.

The Branch also makes use of the multi-year Joint Review of the Non Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program with the Assembly of First Nations. In 2018–19, the Dental and Vision Care benefit review implementation plans were approved by the Joint Review Steering Committee. The Pharmacy benefit review was also completed and implementation plan approved. The Medical Supplies and Equipment benefit review was completed and an implementation plan is in development. NIHB also hosts regular bilateral meetings with representatives of the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and in 2018–19, the program produced an Inuit NIHB Client Data Report and an NIHB Progress List for the National Inuit Committee on Health.