Departmental Results Report 2023 to 2024

Progress on results

This section presents details on how the department proceeded to achieve results and meet targets for Indigenous Well-Being and Self-Determination. Details are presented by the Health Service Area and departmental results.

Details on results

The following section describes the results for the Health Service Area in 2023–24 compared with the planned results set out in ISC's departmental plan for the year. Seeking to fulfill the Core Responsibility of Indigenous well-being from a health perspective requires taking a holistic approach to improving health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples. This means considering all aspects of health and its determinants, including mental, economic, cultural, and social factors, rather than just symptoms of diseases. The Health Service Area brings together health programs that support mental, cultural and physical well-being including Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Home and Long-Term Care, Primary Health Care, Health Systems Support, Supplementary Health Benefits, Jordan's Principle and the Inuit Child First Initiative.

Although there is still much to do in this area, there are three departmental results in the Health Service Area that worked together to ensure progress was made towards Indigenous Peoples' physical and mental wellness, and access to quality federally-funded health services in 2023-24.

Results of expected performance

ISC tracked progress on access to quality federally-funded health services by assessing self-reports on the quality of clinical and client care in remote and isolated First Nations communities. Positive client experiences are linked to better clinical outcomes, improved patient safety, and reduced healthcare use. The most recent data from the Regional Health Survey shows that as of 2015, 55.2 percent of First Nations on-reserve adults living on reserve rated the quality of healthcare services in their community as "good" or "excellent". This reflects progress toward the 57% target set for March 2028. Supporting this effort, Budget 2019 provided $78.9 million over seven years, with $13.7 million annually ongoing, to fund the Surveys on Indigenous Peoples and the First Nations Regional Health Survey, which are essential for collecting data to enhance service delivery. The program is looking to the next set of survey results to determine if progress has been made in supporting First Nations and Inuit access to quality healthcare.

Additionally, progress on transferring health services to First Nations control was measured by the annual percentage of First Nations under Block or Flex funding agreements or the 10-year New Fiscal Relationship Grant. These funding models empower First Nations to develop and manage community-based health programs with increased flexibility. The results indicated that 93.43% of First Nations had an Indigenous-led plan for health service delivery, just below the 94% target. This funding supports the development of Indigenous-led health governance and enhances capacity for service delivery and management, aligning with the goal of self-determined health care.

Key risks

ISC identified three key risks for 2023-24 that could impact the delivery of health services and programming:

• Health Human Resources Shortages – The risk of Human Health Resources shortages in various professions exists across the country and globally. To mitigate this, ISC continued to implement the Nursing Human Health Resources Framework focused on the retention and recruitment of nursing personnel, and the multi-year Environmental Public Health Officer Recruitment and Retention Strategy to alleviate the ongoing national and global shortage risk of Health Human Resources.
• Mental Wellness Services – The demand for these services continues to grow, straining the capacity of Indigenous and provincial/territorial systems. The department is working with National Indigenous Organizations and other partners to address the need for mental wellness services, particularly in response to the opioid and crystal meth crises, and in response to increased demand for trauma-informed supports seen with the continued announcements of unmarked burial sites connected to former Indian Residential Schools. ISC has supported the ongoing implementation of various strategies and efforts such as harm reduction campaigns, virtual treatment options, and expanding wraparound supports at opioid agonist therapy sites. ISC has also worked to enhance local multidisciplinary community-based mental wellness teams and worked with partners to support the trauma-informed workforce as they, many of whom are Survivors and Intergenerational Survivors of colonial sources of trauma, face challenges such as burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma. ISC is dedicated to adapting these initiatives to meet increasing needs and ensure the well-being of Indigenous communities. However, sustained investment and adaptation are essential to effectively manage this high-risk area and support mental wellness.
• Increased Volume of Health and Social Program Requests – The risk of increased volume of requests was presented as it could affect the department's ability to process requests and make decisions within the compliance timelines for Jordan's Principle ordered by the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal in 2017. To mitigate this, ISC deployed surge teams to manage the increased volume of incoming requests and actively address backlog issues and solutions related to email correspondence.

Resources required to achieve results

Progress on results

This section presents details on how the department proceeded to achieve results and meet targets for Indigenous Well-Being and Self-Determination. Details are presented by the Children and Families Service Area and departmental results.

Details on results

The following section describes the results for the Children and Families Service Area in 2023–24 compared with the planned results set out in ISC's Departmental Plan for the year. The Children and Families Service Area brings together programming related to community safety, family violence prevention, and programming for children, youth and families. It includes activities that relate to income assistance, urban programming, and First Nations, Inuit, and Métis jurisdiction over Child and Family Services that are aligned with the best interests of the child and the integration of future safety and prevention programming (e.g. Pathways Initiative and co-development of policing legislation).

Results of expected performance

To measure progress for decreasing the number of women who report being a victim of intimate partner violence in the previous 12 months, ISC relies on Statistics Canada's Family Violence in Canada: A statistical profile, which is published every 3 to 4 years. The last report was published in 2021 but focused solely on survey results from 2019. Therefore, it is anticipated that a high-level overview of intimate partner violence for Canadian women, with some considerations for Indigenous women, will be tentatively available in 2024-25.

Progress in the Child and Family Services area is assessed through indicators that monitor the proportion of children on reserve in care and children in care who are placed with a family member (kinship care). While results for 2023-24 are not available at the time of publishing, the department will continue to monitor the proportion of First Nations children on reserve in care. Additionally, the department monitors the number of Indigenous governing bodies (IGBs) exercising jurisdiction under the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families. The department had projected that 18 First Nations IGBs, along with at least 1 Inuit group and 1 Métis Nation, would be implementing their own child and family services under the Act by March 31, 2024. However, interest and momentum for Indigenous governing bodies to exercise jurisdiction is self-determined. The projection for Inuit groups was met; however, no Métis Nation and 10 First Nations groups were exercising their jurisdiction. The total number of Indigenous people living under an Indigenous child and family services law with a Coordination agreement in place as of March 31, 2024 was reported to the Department as 24,927 citizens or members including 11,313 who were living within their communities and 13,614 living outside, at the time the agreements were concluded. This suggests that while some progress has been made, further efforts are required to fully support Indigenous communities in exercising jurisdiction under the Act.

Measuring the percentage of residents living on reserve who are supported through Income Assistance helps the department compare ISC's program performance to programs delivered by the provinces and territories and provides information regarding labour force gaps and community self-sufficiency. While results for 2023-24 were not available at time of publishing, ISC will continue to monitor this marker for labour force gaps and community self-sufficiency.

Key risks

In 2023-24, ISC identified five risks that could impact the Children and Families Service area:

• Adequacy of Programs to Meet Needs – ISC identified a risk that due to rising inflation and cost of living, social programs may not be adequate to meet future demands. The department identified and addressed short, medium, and long-term gaps and needs by working with regional partners and a network of emergency shelter providers to ensure emergency shelters could adequately respond to community needs for clients escaping violence. ISC allocated $320 million through the Income Assistance Program in 2023-24 to help alleviate rising costs of living. Additionally, the department engaged with Indigenous communities, groups, and individuals to assess needs and devise strategies to reduce the impact of these costs.
• Long-Term Planning – The risk that communities' long-term planning abilities may be inhibited without access to predictable, sufficient, and sustainable funding remains. The department is in the process of co-developing a new First Nations-led funding methodology, shifting from payment based on actual costs to stable and flexible funding to support long-term needs.
• Final Agreements – ISC had identified the potential risk of not reaching an agreement with the parties to the Canadian Human Right Tribunal complaint related to the First Nations Child and Family Services Program and Jordan's Principle. A final agreement on Compensation was reached on April 19, 2023 and was approved by the Federal Court on October 24, 2023. The parties reached an Agreement-in-Principle on the long-term reform of the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan's Principle on January 4, 2022. In 2023-24, ISC continued to work closely with the parties to seek agreement on the reform of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program and a long-term sustainable approach to Jordan's Principle. On July 11, 2024, the Assembly of First Nations, Chiefs of Ontario, Nishnawbe Aski Nation, and Canada reached an Agreement on the long-term reform of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program.
• Interpretation of the Act – Lack of clarity concerning the interpretation of An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families may generate frustration with Indigenous partners, provinces, and territories and strain relationships. To address this, ISC has actively engaged and consulted with Indigenous groups, communities, and individuals to better understand their needs to support their child and family services vision and service delivery models. Ongoing efforts are underway to alleviate concerns from Indigenous governing bodies, national Indigenous organizations and provinces and territories regarding the implementation of the Act. The upcoming five-year review of the legislation will provide another opportunity to receive feedback regarding the Act and its implementation. The Supreme Court of Canada issued an opinion in February 2024 affirming that the Act was a valid exercise of Parliament's authority. In its opinion, it also stated that providing Indigenous child and family services is "the responsibility of both levels of government, which must act in a concerted fashion." The Court was silent on the division of responsibility, particularly as it relates to cost-sharing. Differences in interpretation will continue to present significant risks for the Act's implementation, particularly as some provinces and territories believe it is solely the federal government's responsibility for providing funding to support the exercise of Indigenous jurisdiction over child and family services using the framework provided by the Act.

Resources required to achieve results

Progress on results

This section presents details on how the department proceeded to achieve results and meet targets for Indigenous Well-Being and Self-Determination. Details are presented by the Education Service Area and departmental results.

Details on results

The Elementary and Secondary Education Program works in partnership, on a nation-to-nation basis with First Nations and First Nations-mandated organizations who are supported to establish education systems over which they will exercise control. The Program supports elementary to secondary education for First Nations students, schools, and communities while respecting First Nations' program delivery. Core education program funding, provided through interim regional funding formulas, supported First Nations elementary and secondary education programming, culturally-appropriate curriculum, language and culture programs, full-day kindergarten, and before- and after-school programs. ISC also funded targeted education programs, including First Nations and Inuit Cultural Education Centres, High-Cost Special Education, Innovation in Education, Research and Learning, and the Education Partnerships Program.

The department recognizes the significant role post-secondary education plays in closing socio-economic gaps for Indigenous Peoples. Distinctions-based Post-Secondary Education strategies increase access and success in post-secondary education for eligible First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation students.

Results of expected performance

Graduation from secondary school is an internationally-recognized measure of elementary and secondary education success, providing insights to monitor whether secondary school graduation rate gaps between First Nations students on reserve and non-Indigenous students are closing. Recognizing that First Nations students may not follow a linear education pathway and take additional years to complete their secondary education, it is more useful to report both on-time and extended-time graduation rates to more accurately measure education attainment. ISC tracked the outcomes using a Grade 10 cohort methodology, aligned with the Canadian Education Statistics Council and recommended by the Office of the Auditor General of Canada. For the 2023-24 period, the on-time graduation rate for First Nations students on reserve increased to 30%, up from 26% in 2022-23. The extended-time graduation rate also improved, rising from 44% in 2022-23 to 49% in 2023-24. These results indicate progress in closing the educational achievement gap for First Nations students on reserve.

Graduation of funded post-secondary First Nations, Inuit and Métis students is a key measurement of post-secondary student success, and the potential impacts on labour force participation. The department tracks data on students who are funded through its programs, and by monitoring the total number of post-secondary degree/diploma/certificate graduates by distinction group, the department can assess the support provided to students year over year. In 2023-24, performance targets were established to maintain or increase results year over year. For First Nations students, the number of graduates with a post-secondary degree, diploma, or certificate increased significantly from 1,148 in 2021-22 to 2,311 in 2023-24. However, the number of funded Inuit students who graduated decreased to 140 in 2023-24 (from 277 in 2022-23). Similarly, the number of funded Métis students who graduated declined from 1,254 in 2021-22 to 515 in 2023-24. The fluctuation in results across different distinction groups does not indicate a decline in student progression or success but rather reflects how recipients may prioritize funding based on their specific community needs.

Key risks

In 2023-24, ISC identified two risks that could impact the Education Service area:

• Future Uptake of Regional Education Agreements – Canada continues to work closely with First Nations partners to meet the educational needs of First Nations students and achieve First Nations-identified educational results. Future uptake may be affected if the department is unable to fund needs-based supports requested through future agreements.
• Supporting Existing and Prospective Students – The department continued to seek additional investments to address the risk that current Indigenous post-secondary education program funding will have a decreasing ability to support existing and prospective Indigenous post-secondary students due to inflation and an expanding Indigenous population, which could in turn continue to cause the Indigenous post-secondary education attainment gap to grow.

Resources required to achieve results

Progress on results

This section presents details on how the department proceeded to achieve results and meet targets for Indigenous Well-Being and Self-Determination. Details are presented by the Infrastructure and Environments Service Area and departmental results.

Details on results

The following section describes the results for the Infrastructure and Environments Service Area in 2023–24 compared with the planned results set out in ISC's departmental plan for the year.

The Infrastructure and Environments Service Area comprises all infrastructure, land, and environmental management programming to reflect the interlinkages between land, environment and natural resource management, resilient infrastructure, climate change-related adaptation and mitigation, and emergency management and preparedness. It also reinforces the importance of these interrelated program areas as the underpinnings of improved health and well-being and socio-economic outcomes. It includes support for land and environmental management capacity building, specialized training, and land use planning. These supports help First Nation communities to effectively manage their own reserve lands, to realize community socio-economic objectives at the pace and level of control of their choosing and to strengthen land governance over reserve lands and natural resources.

Key risks

In 2023-24, ISC identified five key risks that could impact the delivery of Infrastructure and Environment programming:

• Delays and Cost Impacts for Infrastructure Projects – Shortages in supplies, equipment and labour, and pandemic response measures, were identified as potential causes for delays and increased forecasted costs for projects. Weather and labour shortages also were potential factors that could impact surveys and environmental site assessments for developing land codes. ISC worked closely with First Nations communities to prioritize resources, monitor project processes, and allow flexibility in approvals to speed up contracting and maintain stable project costs. Weather and building conditions were considered to minimize impact during design and construction. Financial transfers were standardized for more flexible contracting, and prepayment for materials was encouraged.
• Lack of Predictable and Sustainable Funding — There was a risk that insufficient funding could hinder departmental objectives and infrastructure support for First Nations. To mitigate this, ISC actively worked to secure long-term, predictable funding for First Nations community infrastructure. This included efforts to renew Budget 2023 funding and identify infrastructure gaps with First Nations. Surplus funds were allocated to priority projects and inspections were supported. Established governance structures ensured oversight and accountability. Budget 2023 investments also enhanced operational funding for First Nations with enacted land codes and provided funding to support 50 new signatories to the Framework Agreement on First Nations Land Management by 2027–28.
• Risk-based Approaches — The department addressed the Auditor General's recommendation on Emergency Management to implement a risk-based approach in program planning. Working with First Nations, ISC developed an enhanced risk-based funding formula, including a highest-risk community list and a regional proposal risk matrix. This approach will be used to direct funding to communities most in need, maximizing support for preparedness and mitigation activities. ISC leveraged existing funding and authorities to ensure effective resource allocation to protect and support First Nations communities during emergencies.
• Adequate Capacity for Co-Development — A risk was identified signaling that partner organizations were experiencing staffing capacity constraints, impacting the transfer of services and causing delays in services offered to First Nations. ISC focused on strategic policy and developing multilateral emergency management service agreements with First Nations as equal partners. Region-specific approaches based on First Nations' priorities were initiated to promote the uptake of new multilateral agreements. Internal reforms for engagement, capacity building, and innovative approaches were implemented to strengthen Indigenous partners' skills. ISC co-developed partnerships, adopted mission-oriented program development, and addressed broader operational capacity issues, including developing on new approaches to operations and maintenance with the Assembly of First Nations. Significant investments supported water and wastewater management, covering 100% of operations and maintenance costs.
• Timely and Sufficient Data for Decision-Making — Inadequate data and information could hinder effective decision-making and reporting. ISC worked with partners and regions to increase reporting efforts through regular meetings and quarterly reports. In response to the 2022 Auditor General report on Emergency Management in First Nation communities, ISC completed an evaluation process of its emergency-related performance indicators, reducing them from 60 to 19 to ensure a focused approach. Outcomes, measures, logic models and targets were also developed.

Resources required to achieve results

Progress on results

This section presents details on how the department proceeded to achieve results and meet targets for Indigenous Well-Being and Self-Determination. Details are presented by the Economic Development Service Area and departmental results.

Details on results

The following section describes the results for the Economic Development Service Area in 2023–24 compared with the planned results set out in ISC's departmental plan for the year. The Economic Development Service Area recognizes that economic development cannot be separated from other factors directly impacting socio-economic outcomes, such as education, housing, health, and clean water.

Results of expected performance

The Economic Development Service Area evaluates its performance through three indicators that provide further understanding into a population's economic health: the percentage of the population that lived in a low income situation in the year preceding the Census, employment rate of the working age population (25-64) and median income of the working age population (25-64). ISC established performance targets using Census data to assess poverty levels and economic health within Indigenous populations, helping to address systemic barriers or enduring effects of past injustices.

Key risks

ISC identified three key risks that could impact Economic Development:

• Delay in Indigenous Business Recovery – Delays in the timely delivery of support funding, and multiple applications required to receive funding pose a risk to Indigenous business recovery. The department announced an additional $350 million from Budget 2024 over five years for Indigenous Financial Institutions as part of Canada's commitment to supporting meaningful participation by Indigenous Peoples in the post-pandemic economic recovery in Canada. This will help Indigenous Financial Institutions meet increasing loan demand and work to prevent delays in Indigenous business recovery by ensuring funding is provided promptly, without requiring multiple applications.
• Funding Allocation – The potential for funding to be allocated to more populated communities rather than less populated communities where relative impact could be significant but program success less guaranteed posed a risk. ISC updated the management control framework for the Community Opportunity Readiness program and examined proposal assessment tools to account for the relative impact of projects on communities and their needs. This will help to address the risk that funding might otherwise favor more populated and higher-capacity communities at the expense of less populated ones with significant potential impact.
• Inaccurate Outcome Measurement – Outdated data gathering standards and formulas posed a risk to the department's ability to measure outcomes or produce evidence needed for future program or policy objectives. ISC programs reviewed their data collection practices and reflected these in updated Performance Information Profiles. The department is continuing to work with Indigenous partners to co-develop an updated logic model and expand intersectional data collection, which will support more accurate and comprehensive measurement of outcomes, as well as support an approach for Inuit entrepreneurs.

Resources required to achieve results

Progress on results

This section presents details on how the department proceeded to achieve results and meet targets for Indigenous Well-Being and Self-Determination. Details are presented by the Governance Service Area and departmental results.

Details on results

The following section describes the results for the Governance Service Area in 2023–24 compared with the planned results set out in Indigenous Services Canada's departmental plan for the year.

ISC's efforts to build governance capacity and support Indigenous self-determination highlight the importance of programs and Indigenous institutions, such as the Transformational Approach to Indigenous Data and the co-development of the New Fiscal Relationship. The data generated through these efforts, especially in fulfilling statutory and Treaty obligations, are among ISC's most valuable and have significant implications for First Nations data governance and sovereignty.

Results from Expected Performance

ISC measures the certification of communities by the First Nations Financial Management Board as one method for assessing good governance and financial practices by a First Nations Government. It is part of the eligibility criteria to enter into a Ten-Year Grant with ISC. In 2023-24, 283 communities were certified by the First Nations Financial Management Board. In addition, the department looks at the percentage of First Nations that move to hold their elections under the First Nation Elections Act or their own autonomous election system rather than under the Indian Act. In 2023-24, 79.87% of First Nations adopted alternatives to the Indian Act election system, such as the First Nation Elections Act or their own community election system, meeting the 79% target established for 2023-24. These alternative systems enhance self-determination by eliminating the departmental role in the electoral process, allowing First Nations to exercise greater autonomy and control over their governance.

Key risks

In 2023-24, ISC identified two key risks that could impact the delivery of governance programming:

• Lack of Predictable, Sufficient and Sustainable Funding – There was a risk that insufficient funding would limit the ability of Indigenous governments to carry out the full scope of responsibilities related to governance and core administration. The severity of this risk remains unchanged. Governance program modernization efforts are underway through engagement with Indigenous Partners. The Community Development Wrap-Around Initiative's efforts continue through work with communities and partners to identify and address barriers to community development.
• Responding to Community Development Needs – The severity of the risk that government programming may not adequately respond to community development needs, as identified by Indigenous communities, remains unchanged. The Community Development Wrap-Around Initiative (CDWAI) will bring forward barriers to community development, identified by participating communities to CDWAI National Tables in 2024-25 through 2026-27, to determine how government can better respond to the community development needs identified by Indigenous communities.

Resources required to achieve results

Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action (PDF)

In 2023-24, ISC worked across several service areas to advance the TRC Calls to Action. In the area of Health, ISC worked with Indigenous partners and provincial/territorial governments to explore distinctions-based health legislation and policies, supporting Calls to Action 18, 20, 22, and 23. The department also implemented Jordan's Principle and the Inuit Child First Initiative, ensuring necessary health services for eligible First Nations and Inuit children (Calls to Action 3, 18, and 20). Additionally, ISC co-developed culturally safe long-term care options (Call to Action 22) and provided cultural competency training for healthcare professionals (Call to Action 23).

In support of Children and Families, ISC contributed to Calls to Action 1, 2, and 4 by reforming child and family services on reserves and in Yukon, including implementing the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children, youth, and families. The October 2023 Federal Court approval of the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan's Principle Settlement Agreement marked a significant step toward reconciliation.

For Education, ISC implemented Regional Education Agreements, supporting Call to Action 7 by providing First Nations students with education in their native languages. ISC also expanded access to adult education and post-secondary programs for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students, addressing Calls to Action 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 61.3, and 62.3.

ISC supported Infrastructure and Environments through environmental protection, waste management, and land-use planning initiatives, addressing TRC Calls to Action 42, 45, 53, 56, and 57 by upholding First Nations' rights, laws, and Crown relations in managing their lands and resources.

Under Governance, ISC advanced Call to Action 92(1) by funding initiatives like the New Fiscal Relationship Grant, supporting First Nations' autonomy in designing and delivering culturally appropriate services.

Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) Calls for Justice (PDF)

In 2023-24, ISC's Health activities supported MMIWG Calls for Justice by working on distinctions-based Indigenous health policies that aligned with Calls 3.1, 3.2, and 3.6, aimed at improving health services for Indigenous women and girls. ISC also expanded Early Learning and Child Care services for First Nations and Inuit children, promoting healthy development in line with Call 3.2. Additionally, ISC co-developed culturally safe long-term care options, addressing Call 7.2 by improving access to health services for Indigenous elders and those with disabilities.

For Children and Families, ISC ensured protection against violence and discrimination for Indigenous women and children. This supported Call 4.7 through funding Indigenous-led shelters, safe spaces, and services. ISC also contributed to the Federal Pathway to Address MMIWG and the 2021 National Action Plan under the Comprehensive Violence Prevention Strategy.

In Education, ISC supported adult education for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people, addressing Calls 1.1 and 4.4 by providing equitable access to education and employment opportunities. The modernization of the First Nations and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy supported Call 16.21 by empowering Indigenous youth with skills and training for economic participation.

For Infrastructure and Environments, ISC addressed Calls 4.1, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 13.5, 16.5, and 16.7 by ensuring access to safe, culturally appropriate housing for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. ISC constructed new housing and repaired existing homes, providing shelters for those at risk of violence and abuse. These efforts also supported Call 4.1 by upholding the rights of First Nations peoples to safe housing and essential services.

In Economic Development, ISC's Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship initiatives addressed Call 4.2 by improving economic security for Indigenous women entrepreneurs, providing opportunities for sustainable business development.

Under Governance, ISC supported First Nations-led transitions away from the Indian Act, aligning with Calls 1.2 and 3.1. These efforts promoted First Nations' autonomy and self-governance, contributing to the elimination of violence and discrimination against Indigenous women and girls.

United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UN Declaration) Articles (PDF)

In 2023-24, ISC advanced support for the UN Declaration across various service areas. In Health, ISC's work on distinctions-based health policies aligned with Article 21.1, improving economic and social conditions in healthcare for Indigenous Peoples. The development of culturally safe long-term care options supported Article 24.1, emphasizing the right to traditional medicines and health practices.

For Children and Families, ISC's efforts to protect Indigenous women and children from violence supported Article 22.2, which focuses on the rights and needs of Indigenous women, children, and elders. Child and family services reforms furthered Article 1.29, affirming the right of Indigenous Peoples to enjoy all human rights and freedoms.

In Education, ISC implemented Regional Education Agreements and supported Post-Secondary Education for Indigenous students, advancing Articles 3, 4, 14, 21, and 31. These articles emphasize self-determination, education in one's language, and the preservation of cultural heritage, ensuring Indigenous students have access to culturally relevant education.

In Infrastructure and Environments, ISC provided safe housing, clean water, and health facilities in First Nations communities, supporting Articles 21, 23, and 24.2. ISC's work on environmental protection and land-use planning advanced Articles 5, 18, 20, 21, 23, 26, 32, and 34, recognizing Indigenous rights to their lands and resources and participation in decision-making.

In Economic Development, ISC fostered economic growth and self-determination through initiatives like Indigenous Financial Institutions, aligning with Articles 3 and 21.2, which support the economic participation of Indigenous communities.

ISC's Governance capacity-building investments and support for First Nations-led governance aligned with Articles 3-5, promoting self-determination, autonomy, and the governance of Indigenous institutions and communities.

United Nations Declaration Act (UN Declaration Act) Action Plan Measures (PDF)

The United Nations Declaration Act Action Plan, which was released in June 2023, provides a roadmap of actions Canada needs to take in partnership with Indigenous peoples to implement the principles and rights set out in the UN Declaration and to further advance reconciliation in a tangible way. In 2023-24, ISC aligned its activities with the UN Declaration Act Action Plan, ensuring Canada met its obligations. In Health, ISC's exploration of distinctions-based Indigenous health policies supported Action Plan measures 1.6, 1.7, 3.13, and 4.11, which focus on culturally safe and responsive health services. The department also advanced measures 1.7 and 1.80 by developing culturally appropriate long-term care options and training healthcare professionals in cultural competency.

For Children and Families, ISC contributed to measure 1.9 by securing long-term funding for Indigenous-led shelters and services, protecting Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people from violence. Reforms to child and family services supported measure 1.29, promoting dignity and eliminating discrimination against Indigenous children and families.

For Education, ISC's implementation of Regional Education Agreements and expansion of Post-Secondary Education supported measures 1.102 and 2.19, ensuring Indigenous students have equitable access to culturally relevant education. The modernization of the Youth Employment Strategy also aligned with measure 1.102, providing Indigenous youth with the skills for economic participation.

In Infrastructure and Environments, ISC advanced measures 2.15, 2.16, and 2.17 by ensuring safe housing, clean water, and adequate infrastructure in Indigenous communities, while also supporting environmental protection and land management.

In Economic Development, ISC's support for Indigenous entrepreneurship advanced measure 1.74, increasing economic opportunities. Efforts to foster economic self-determination through financial institutions and entrepreneurship initiatives also aligned with measure 1.77, promoting inclusive economic growth.

Under Governance, ISC's investments in First Nations-led governance processes supported measure 2.8, focusing on transitioning from the Indian Act and promoting Indigenous self-governance, thus contributing to the successful implementation of the UN Declaration Act Action Plan.

Gender-based Analysis Plus

Gender-based Analysis Plus (GBA Plus) is integral to Health programming, helping to identify and address service gaps for Indigenous Peoples, leading to more inclusive health outcomes.

• Mental Wellness – Budget 2021 investments for mental wellness programs were delivered through contribution agreements, allowing partners to tailor support for distinct populations, such as youth, seniors, women, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and people with disabilities. This included expanded access to trauma-informed health and cultural supports, emotional supports, mental health counselling, and substance use prevention.
• Anti-Indigenous Racism – Projects supported by Budget 2021 addressed anti-Indigenous racism in healthcare. These projects benefitted a broad spectrum of diverse Indigenous Peoples, while recognizing that Indigenous Peoples are not a homogenous group, and that intersecting identities present unique interactions within the healthcare system as well as unique challenges associated with cultural and patient safety. Approximately $2.85 million supported three projects primarily benefiting 2SLGBTQI+ Indigenous Peoples, as well as work with the Indigenous Women's Well-Being Advisory Committee on issues intersecting gender and sexuality.
• Jordan's Principle and Inuit Child First Initiative – These initiatives continued to provide tailored support for First Nation and Inuit children, including a wide range of health, social and educational needs. These initiatives take into consideration distinct community circumstances, and includes support for the unique needs of 2SLGBTQI+ children and children with disabilities.

GBA Plus informed ISC's efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of Indigenous children and families.

• Pathways Initiative – Over $100.7 million was committed to projects supporting Indigenous community safety and well-being. This included 66 projects across First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and urban Indigenous communities, addressing the needs of various groups such as women, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, children, families, and Elders.
• Children in Care – ISC monitors the proportion of First Nations children on reserve who are in the child welfare system, highlighting an overrepresented group. While data for 2023-24 is pending, there is a noted rise from 5.95% in 2020-21 to 6.09% in 2021-22. The higher rate for females (6.18%) compared to males (5.94%) in 2021-22 may reflect gender-specific factors influencing these rates.

GBA Plus supported First Nations in taking control of their education systems, ensuring that funding is aligned with unique community priorities and needs.

• Transformative Education Models – As of 2023-24, 207 First Nations operate under a transformative model for education like Regional Education Agreements, reflecting a steady increase from 183 in 2017-18. This shift emphasizes First Nations' control over education, with flexibility in funding allocation to meet specific community needs.

GBA Plus principles guided ISC in promoting healthier communities and sustainable development through reliable infrastructure and environments.

• School Conditions – The educational facilities program tracks the condition of ISC-supported schools nationwide. In 2023-24, 60.55% of schools were rated as "good" or "new." The Atlantic region had the highest rating at 85.71%, followed by Ontario at 76%, Saskatchewan at 68%, Quebec at 55.56%, Alberta at 55%, British Columbia at 54%, and Manitoba at 35.59%. Manitoba's lower rating is due to the high number of schools in remote communities, where construction and repair costs are significantly higher. Based on zone of remoteness, Zone 3 (over 350 km from the nearest service center with year-round road access) had the highest percentage of schools rated "good" or "new" at 75.00%. Zone 1 (within 50 km of a service center) had 63.70%, Zone 4 (no year-round road access) had 63.22%, and Zone 2 (between 50 and 350 km) had 56.44%. Since inspections occur on a three-year cycle and 2023-24 is the start of the current cycle (2023-24 to 2025-26), not all assets have been inspected yet, which may lead to fluctuations in results.
• Housing Crowding – Recent census data shows that from 2016 to 2021, crowding rates in the most remote First Nations communities (remoteness index scores of 0.8–1) decreased by 2.6%, compared to a 0.5% overall decrease. This indicator is tracked every five years.

GBA Plus ensured equitable access to economic opportunities, especially in remote and isolated communities.

• Community Opportunity Readiness Program (CORP) – In 2023-24, CORP supported 19.4% of very remote communities and 11.3% of small communities, up from the previous year (17.5% and 10.3% respectively). Overall, 66.2% of very remote communities benefited from CORP, ensuring fair resource distribution regardless of how far First Nations or Inuit communities are from urban areas.

GBA Plus informed the analysis of governance capacity and economic participation for First Nations communities.

• Salary Benchmarking – A 2023 analysis conducted with Statistics Canada reviewed data from self-government agreements, identifying 21 occupational classes related to governance functions for further exploration. The study compared average salaries of these classes for First Nations on-reserve and off-reserve with the general Canadian population, separated by remoteness. Results showed that average salaries on-reserve were 28% lower than in non-remote Canadian communities and 21% lower than in remote ones. This highlights challenges in hiring and retaining governance and administrative roles in First Nations communities and informs the impact of Indigenous Governance and Capacity programs.

United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals

More information on ISC's contributions to Canada's Federal Implementation Plan on the 2030 Agenda and the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy can be found in ISC's Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy.

Innovation

In 2023-24, ISC focused on enhancing Indigenous well-being and self-determination through initiatives like the transformational approach to Indigenous data and the introduction of a renewed Departmental Results Framework. ISC worked to strengthen Indigenous data capacity, funding projects aimed at increasing disaggregated data. ISC also prioritized digital healthcare advancements and expanding and promoting innovative healthcare technologies such as virtual care platforms and electronic medical records to improve access in remote communities. These efforts align with ISC's vision of supporting Indigenous-led service delivery and measuring progress on long-term objectives through the updated DRF.

• Promoting Innovative Healthcare Technologies - ISC made significant efforts to support front-line nurses by expanding the Nursing Services Response Centre to address safety and security concerns. The department also promoted access to innovative healthcare technologies, enabling First Nations individuals, families, and communities to connect virtually with healthcare services. Key initiatives included enhancing the use of electronic medical records and virtual care platforms, improving healthcare access in remote areas. Collaborations with digital health organizations, such as Canada Health Infoway, alongside First Nations partners and provincial governments, helped ensure the connectivity and interoperability of healthcare systems. To further support healthcare workers, ISC prioritized the development of a Learning Management System (LMS) for front-line practitioners, which was funded in 2021 as part of the Nursing HHR Framework. In March 2024, ISC signed a contract with Edu-Performance to provide a cloud-based LMS, offering resources and courses for healthcare professionals working in First Nations and Inuit communities across Canada.
• Indigenous Homes Innovation Initiative - ISC is also nearing conclusion for the Indigenous Homes Innovation Initiative, which aims to find and support First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation innovators who have housing ideas for rural, urban or remote Indigenous communities. Twenty-six Indigenous innovators were selected to receive funding to develop their ideas into implementable projects during the Initiative's accelerator phase, 19 projects moved onto the implementation phase and 11 projects are nearing completion.
• Service Transfer and Supports - ISC has made significant progress in measuring service transfer and supports for service transfer in the areas of health, children and families, housing and infrastructure, governance, and education. For example, the new DRF incorporates indicators that measures First Nations adopting alternatives to the Indian Act election system, Indigenous Peoples exercising their jurisdiction under the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families, and at the program level, First Nations communities with an Indigenous-led plan for health service delivery, First Nations communities covered by a Memorandum of Understanding that outlines partner intentions and roles and responsibilities towards service transfer and First Nations under transformative education models.
• Transformational Approach to Indigenous Data - Budget 2021 announced $81.5 million to focus on the development and implementation of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis led data strategies to enhance their data capacity. In the long term, this capacity will help ensure that ISC's Departmental Results Framework reflects a shared understanding with Indigenous Partners of how to measure success in a culturally relevant way. In the meantime, ISC has partnered with Statistics Canada to support Indigenous Partners in building Indigenous data capacity and the visibility of Indigenous Peoples in Canada's national statistics. In 2023-24, $4.7 million of Transformational Approach to Indigenous Data funding supported 22 projects focused on increasing the availability of disaggregated data; 21 co-developed projects designed to meet the data needs of Indigenous organizations and communities; and delivery of 35 courses to over 700 participants to expand statistical capacity within Indigenous partner organizations and communities.
• Renewed Departmental Results Framework – In 2022-23, the department engaged with National Indigenous Organizations on the development of a new Departmental Results Framework (DRF) as an important signal check with regard to expected results. In 2023-24, ISC introduced the new DRF, moving to a single Core Responsibility focused on Indigenous Well-Being and Self-Determination. This shift aims to align the department's programs with outcomes for Indigenous Peoples and communities, supporting them to independently deliver services and address socio-economic conditions in their communities. While it is important to maintain a stable performance measurement framework, the new structure will serve as a strong basis for the future.
• The 2023-24 DRF demonstrates the interdependencies between programming across service areas on influencing socio-economic outcomes for Indigenous Peoples. For example, Health Infrastructure, part of the Community Infrastructure program, plays a critical role in the health outcomes of Indigenous Peoples by supporting health service delivery. The DRF aligns with the expectations of both the Government of Canada and Indigenous partners, ensuring clear outcomes from its programs and investments.
• While the performance indicators in the DRF demonstrate overall progress, challenges remain in obtaining reliable data. ISC is working with Indigenous partners to improve data collection and availability. In 2023-24,efforts were made to set targets for all indicators, with interim targets established where precise ones are under co-development with Indigenous partners.
• Co-developing Evaluation Models – ISC is focusing on co-development and co-creation with Indigenous partners. In the short- to medium-term, this involves incorporating Indigenous evaluation expertise, knowledge, and perspectives into evaluations, including planning, methodology, data collection, and reporting. The long-term goal is to support the establishment of Indigenous evaluation functions outside of government.
• In 2023-24, ISC continued piloting evaluation frameworks developed through multi-year partnerships with Indigenous partners. The Awakening the Journey framework, developed with Johnston Research Inc., is being piloted to evaluate the Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples Program, which will be completed in 2024-25. Additionally, the Evaluation of the Economic Development Capacity and Readiness program is the first program evaluation to use the framework and metrics emerging from the Centering Indigenous Worldviews Within Evaluation Frameworks project with the Indigenomics Institute.
• More details on ISC Evaluation, including the department's complete evaluation schedule, are available in the Five-Year Departmental Evaluation Plan, which is updated annually and published on ISC's website.

Program inventory

Indigenous Well-Being and Self-Determination is supported by the following programs in the program inventory:

• Child and Family Services
• Communities and the Environment
• Community Economic Development
• Community Infrastructure
• Elementary and Secondary Education
• Emergency Management Assistance
• Health Systems Support
• Home and Long-Term Care
• Income Assistance
• Indigenous Entrepreneurship and Business Development
• Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports
• Jordan's Principle and the Inuit Child First Initiative
• Post-Secondary Education
• Primary Health Care
• Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
• Safety and Prevention Services
• Supplementary Health Benefits
• Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples

Additional information related to the program inventory for Indigenous Well-Being and Self-Determination is available on the Results page on GC InfoBase.

Table 15: Resources required to achieve results for internal services this year

Table 15 provides a summary of the planned and actual spending and full-time equivalents (FTEs) required to achieve results.

Complete financial and human resources information for the ISC's program inventory is available on GC InfoBase.

Indigenous Services Canada's result for 2023-24:

Budgetary performance summary

Analysis of the past three years of spending

For the Indigenous Well-Being and Self-Determination core responsibility, the 2023-24 actual spending was $46,140.0 million, a net increase of $28,064.1 million compared to 2021-22 actual spending. This increase is primarily due to $23.3 billion for the First Nations child welfare settlement in 2023-24 and an increase in core funding for the continued implementation of Jordan's Principle as well as a net increase in funding for the community infrastructure program. This increase is partially offset by a net decrease in funding for COVID-19 initiatives.

For Internal Services, the 2023-24 actual spending was $337.2 million, a net increase of $61.3 million compared to the 2021-22 actual spending. This is primarily due to the allocation of Treasury Board central votes related to compensation adjustments and the carry forward of eligible operating budget. This increase is partially offset by an allocation of funding to meet other departmental priorities.

More financial information from previous years is available on the Finances section of GC Infobase.

Analysis of the next three years of spending

For the Indigenous Well-Being and Self-Determination core responsibility, spending is expected to decrease by $4,085.1 million between 2024-25 and 2026-27 planned spending. This is primarily due to the one-time investment in the Northern Ontario Grid Connection Project, the sunset (at the end of 2024-25) of funding for implementation reforms to the First Nations Child and Family Services Program and the sunset of top up funding for Jordan's Principle, and where renewal is sought yearly to address the growing demand.

For Internal Services, spending is expected to decrease by $22.8 million between 2024-25 and 2026-27 planned spending. This is primarily due to a net decrease in the approved funding profile for internal support service.

Decisions on the renewal of the sunset initiatives will be taken in future budgets and reflected in future estimates.

More detailed financial information from previous years is available on the Finances section of GC Infobase.

Analysis of budgetary actual gross and net planned spending summary

Revenues mentioned above are for the provision of services or the sale of products related to health protection and medical services; and the provision of internal support services under section 29.2 of the Financial Administration Act.

Information on the alignment of ISC's spending with Government of Canada's spending and activities is available on GC InfoBase.

Graph 1: Approved funding (statutory and voted) over a six-year period

Graph 1 summarizes the department's approved voted and statutory funding from 2021-22 to 2026-27.

Note: Due to rounding, figures may not add to totals shown.

Text alternative for Graph 1: Approved funding (statutory and voted) from 2021-22 to 2026-27

Fiscal Year	Total	Voted	Statutory
2021-22	18,352	18,199	153
2022-23	22,556	22,424	132
2023-24	46,477	46,321	156
2024-25	21,039	20,928	111
2025-26	16,654	16,548	106
2026-27	16,931	16,830	101

Analysis of statutory and voted funding over a six-year period

Table 20 Condensed Statement of Operations (unaudited) for the year ended March 31, 2024 (dollars)

Table 20 summarizes the expenses and revenues for 2023–24 which net to the cost of operations before government funding and transfers.

The 2023–24 planned results information is provided in ISC's Future-Oriented Statement of Operations and Notes 2023–24.

Table 21 summarizes actual expenses and revenues which net to the cost of operations before government funding and transfers.

Expenses

Total expenses were $24.0 billion in 2023-24, representing an increase of <1% ($141 million) from the previous year's expenses. This was mainly due to the increase in transfer payments of $2.0 billion related to Indigenous Peoples for Indigenous well-being and self-determination, offset by a decrease in operating expenditure of $1.9 billion mainly related to a decrease in claims, litigation, court awards and other settlements.

Transfer payments represents 82% ($19.6 billion) of the total expenses; the majority relate to payments to Indigenous Peoples. Operating expenses represents 18% ($4.4 billion) of the total expenses. Significant operating expenses included salaries and employee benefits totaling $1.0 billion (24%), professional and special services totaling $986 million (22%), claims, litigation, court awards, and other settlements totaling $942 million (21%), utilities, materials and supplies totaling $699 million (16%), and travel and relocation totaling $537 million (12%).

Revenues

The department's total revenues for 2023-24 amounted to $55.9 million representing a 15% ($7 million) increase compared to the previous year's revenue, as a result of an increase in cost recoveries for finance and administrative services collected from Other Government Departments.

Liabilities

Total liabilities were $5.7 billion at the end of 2023-24, representing a decrease of 79% over the previous year. This decrease is mainly due to a decrease of $22 billion in contingent liabilities. The accounts payable and accrued liabilities represents the largest portion of total liabilities at $3.3 billion (57%). Other significant liabilities include the provision for contingent liabilities of $1.1 billion (20%), trust accounts of $646 million (11%), and environmental liabilities and asset retirement obligations of $489 million (9%).

Net Financial Assets

Total net financial assets at the end of 2023-24 were $3.8 billion representing an increase of 22% over the previous year. The net financial assets for 2023-24 are mainly comprised of $3.7 billion in Due From the Consolidated Revenue fund (98%). The $670 million increase is a result of timing difference between Payables at year-end for transfer payments and other payables affecting authorities and when the payments are processed out of the Consolidated Revenue Fund.

Non-Financial Assets by Type

Non-financial assets at the end of 2023-24 were $43.5 million and are mainly composed of tangible capital assets totaling $42.9 million, representing an increase of $3.3 million (8%). The increase is mainly due to an increase of $8.5 million in acquisitions of tangible assets offset by a decrease of $4.9 million due to the current year amortization of tangible assets.

The 2023–24 planned results information is provided in Indigenous Services Canada's Future-Oriented Statement of Operations and Notes 2023–24.

Table 23: Actual human resources for core responsibilities and internal services

Table 23 shows a summary of human resources, in full-time equivalents (FTEs), for ISC's core responsibilities and for its internal services for the previous three fiscal years.

Analysis of human resources over the last three years

For the period from 2021-22 to 2023-24, the variance in FTE utilization is mainly due to:

• the allocation of additional resources throughout the year to address the pandemic, to meet program needs and priorities, and to sustain the program's growing operations.
• growth related to the implementation of Long-Term Reform's immediate measures resulting from the December 2021 Agreement in Principle, as well as an increase in First Nations exercising jurisdiction under an Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families;
• additional staffing received related to compensation and for the reforms to the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan's Principle programs.
• incremental funding received through Supplementary Estimates for:
  • the continued implementation of Jordan's Principle;
  • infrastructure in Indigenous communities, funding to improve health outcomes in Indigenous communities, the operations and maintenance of infrastructure in First Nations communities on reserve, and infrastructure projects in Indigenous communities;
  • new funding received for Budget 2022 Health Human Resources;
  • approved funding to advance First Nation self-determination and economic reconciliation in First Nations land management.

The increase is also offset by the variance in FTE utilization due to factors related to turnover in the programs.

Analysis of human resources for the next three years

The variance in FTEs is mainly due to decrease in funding sources and sunsetting items:

• reduction in Funding for the Continued Implementation of Jordan's Principle.
• sunset of funding to support co-development of First Nations policing legislation and administer the Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative; Funding to advance implementation of An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families, including a new grant program (at the end of 2024-25); funding to implement the Cowessess First Nation's child and family services law, "Miyo Pimatisowin Act" and; funding to support the implementation of the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families and ongoing reform of First Nations Child and Family Services (at the end of 2024-25);
• sunset of funding for First Nations Child and Family Services; Canadian Human Rights Tribunal Orders Implementation; and Non-compliance Motion Settlement (at the end of 2025-26).
• sunset of funding to strengthen employment and skills supports for youth.
• decrease in FTEs due to the sunsetting of FTEs previously funded for Additions to Reserve Land for First Nations Economic Recovery (Budget 2021) and the Federal Contaminated Site Action Plan: Phase IV.

Decisions on the renewal of the sunset initiatives will be taken in future budgets and reflected in future estimates.

Departmental contact information

Mailing address:

Indigenous Services Canada
Les Terrasses de la Chaudière
10 Wellington Street, North Tower
Gatineau, Québec
K1A 0H4

Telephone: 1-800-567-9604

TTY: 1-866-553-0554

Fax: 1-866-817-3977

Email: infopubs@sac-isc.gc.ca

Website: Indigenous Services Canada