The federal government is out with $305-million in new funds to support First Nations, Inuit and the Metis during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Minister of Indigenous Services Marc Miller says First Nations are among the most vulnerable groups in Canada, especially those living in remote and fly-in communities.
“These funds will flow directly to Indigenous communities with maximum flexibility to help adapt responses to address local needs. We will do this quickly and with a sense of urgency that this situation obviously necessitates.”
Miller says the funding is being broken up in four different areas.
-The First Nations portion is $215 million. Each First Nation will get a base amount adjusted for population, remoteness and community well-being.
-The Inuit portion is $45 million.
-The Metis portion is $30 million. Money will flow through each governing member.
-$15-million will support regional urban and Indigenous organizations who support those living away from their communities.
Miller says the latest support follows consultations with First Nation leadership on unique and specific priorities facing their people.
He stresses “This is just the beginning. We know that more support will be needed and we will be there to make sure that no Indigenous community is left behind. Our government is here to support you during this time.”
(1/2) The #GoC is providing $305 million in a new, distinctions-based Indigenous Community Support Fund as part of the #COVID19 Economic Response Plan for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. https://t.co/5wNX7wWaLT
— Minister Marc Miller (@Min_IndServ) March 26, 2020
