After nearly two decades of talks, the Chiefs of Ontario have passed a resolution to support and ratify the final agreement on the Long-Term Reform of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program in Ontario, and the Trilateral Agreement in Respect of Reforming the 1965 Agreement.
Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige says it was an honour witnessing the landmark occasion with the passing of the Ontario Final Agreement by the chiefs on Wednesday.
She says the collective decision to advance incremental and tangible change for their children is rooted in the inherent rights and jurisdiction of their communities to take care of their own and is a demonstration of unity and vision.
Debassige says as with any negotiation, the agreement is not perfect, but it does create a pathway forward while allowing leadership to continue to address the outstanding issues that are important to Anishinabek Nation member First Nations.
The Ontario Final Agreement commits Indigenous Services Canada to provide $8.5 billion over nine fiscal years with the intent to address systemic issues, prioritize the welfare of First Nations children, and empower First Nations to determine how best to provide culturally appropriate child and family services.
The Anishinabek Nation is a political advocate for 39 member First Nations across Ontario, including Henvey Inlet, Magnetawan, Moose Deer Point and Wausauksing First Nations.
