Archived - Details of Transfer Payment Programs

Transfer Payments for Governance and Institutions of Government

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: Support good governance, rights and interests of Aboriginal Peoples

Program: Governance and Institutions of Government

Description: The Governance and Institutions of Government Program contributes to The Government Strategic Outcome. This program provides support to First Nation governments, as well as Aboriginal governance institutions and organizations. The intent of this support is to facilitate capacity development in the Aboriginal public service; the elected leadership; and entities that administer aggregate services on behalf of or to First Nation governments and their communities. Transparent and accountable First Nation governments attract investment, create opportunities and effectively support their citizens. Transparent and accountable institutions and organizations strengthen the fabric of Aboriginal governments across Canada, assist Aboriginal communities and their governments in attracting investment and support Aboriginal participation in the Canadian economy. Ultimately, good governance practices are essential for active Aboriginal participation in Canadian society and the economy.

Expected results: Transparent and accountable First Nation governments and institutions

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation coverage of all departmental spending and grants and contributions administered by the Department over a five year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of an evaluation or review of the relevance and performance of these Transfer Payments are available for consideration in decision-making and that appropriate and timely action is taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group: Aboriginal

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: Recipients are engaged through the General Assessment process, and, where appropriate, discussions on potential for longer term agreements are ongoing.

Transfer Payments for Aboriginal Rights and Interests (previously entitled Co-operative Relationships under the 2013–2014 Program Alignment Architecture)

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: Support good governance, rights and interests of Aboriginal Peoples

Program: Aboriginal Rights and Interests

Description: The Aboriginal Rights and Interests Program contributes to The Government Strategic Outcome. It seeks to strengthen collaboration between governments and Aboriginal groups through mutual respect, trust, understanding, shared responsibilities, accountability, dialogue and negotiation concerning the rights and interests of Aboriginal peoples. Partnerships will be established helping to contribute to the strengthening of the social, economic and cultural well-being of Aboriginal communities which in turn conditions more active participation in Canadian society. The program also addresses constitutional and historic obligations and public policy by negotiating agreements that clarify law-making authority and the ownership, use and control of lands and resources; addressing specific claims; developing multi-partner processes in areas identified by Aboriginal groups and the federal government; and supporting effective and meaningful consultation with Aboriginal groups and their representation in federal policy and program development.

Expected results: Strengthened collaboration between governments and Aboriginal groups

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation coverage of all departmental spending and grants and contributions administered by the Department over a five year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of an evaluation or review of the relevance and performance of these Transfer Payments are available for consideration in decision-making and that appropriate and timely action is taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group:

• First Nation, Inuit, and Innu communities, Indian Act bands, Band groupings, (Aboriginal organizations, tribal councils, and treaty, regional or provincial institutions)
• Métis groups north of the 60th parallel
• The British Columbia Treaty Commission (BCTC), as defined in the British Columbia Treaty Commission Act
• First Nations Summit (the Summit), as defined in the British Columbia Treaty Commission Act
• Provincial governments and third parties as identified in the various agreements
• Treaty Commissions established through Orders-In-Council.

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: Recipients will be engaged through the General Assessment process, in the review and approval of funding proposals, as well as in ongoing discussions to determine the potential for longer-term agreements.

Transfer Payments for Management and Implementation of Agreements and Treaties (previously entitled Treaty Management under the 2013–2014 Program Alignment Architecture)

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: Support good governance, rights and interests of Aboriginal Peoples

Program: Management and Implementation of Agreements and Treaties

Description: The Management and Implementation of Agreements and Treaties Program contributes to The Government Strategic Outcome. It aims to create and maintain ongoing partnerships to support both historic and modern treaties to fulfill Canada's legal obligations while considering Aboriginal rights and interests. This program supports Aboriginal communities in articulating their interests, participating in economic activities, and managing and developing land and resources, where applicable. It also helps to demonstrate the importance of treaties and related partnerships between the Crown and Aboriginal people. This is achieved by honouring Canada's obligations as set out in final settlement agreements and improving collaboration between Canada and Aboriginal peoples and between Canada and Historic and Modern Treaty Aboriginal groups. Creating and maintaining partnerships that honour historic and modern treaties contributes to strengthened, healthy, self-reliant and sustainable Aboriginal communities while promoting delivery of programs and services vital to health and advancement of Aboriginal citizens and self-governing communities.

Expected results: Creation and Maintenance of ongoing partnerships to support treaty structure

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation coverage of all departmental spending and grants and contributions administered by the Department over a five-year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of an evaluation or review of the relevance and performance of these Transfer Payments are available for consideration in decision-making and that appropriate and timely action is taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group:

• First Nations communities
• Other Aboriginal recipients and organizations (e.g., Métis, Inuit, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.)

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: Recipients will be engaged through the General Assessment process, in the review and approval of funding proposals, as well as in ongoing discussions to determine the potential for longer-term agreements.

Transfer Payments for Education

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: Individual, family and community well-being for First Nations and Inuit

Program: Education

Description: The Education program contributes to The People Strategic Outcome by supporting First Nation and Inuit students in achieving educational outcomes comparable to those of other Canadians. Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC) has the principal role for elementary and secondary education for First Nation students ordinarily resident on reserve. The Education program also provides financial supports for post-secondary education to eligible First Nation and Inuit students. The overarching goal of AANDC's Education programming is to provide eligible First Nation and Inuit students with quality education, and ultimately, the opportunity to acquire the skills needed to enter the labour market and be full participants in a strong Canadian economy.

Expected results: First Nations and Inuit students enabled through funding to achieve levels of education comparable to other Canadians

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation coverage of all departmental spending and grants and contributions administered by the Department over a five year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of an evaluation or review of the relevance and performance of these Transfer Payments are available for consideration in decision-making and that appropriate and timely action is taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group: First Nations and Inuit

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: In 2014-15 AANDC will continue to implement and deploy the Education Information System (EIS), which will house all reported education-related information to improve results-based program management and facilitate the tracking of education outcomes. On-line training will also be available.

AANDC will also continue in 2014-15 the implementation of the Strong Schools, Successful Students Initiative delivered through two proposal-based programs, the First Nation Student Success Program and the Education Partnership Program. Communities will be informed about the upcoming call for proposals so that they can prepare themselves to apply. Information such as templates, programs guidelines and deadlines for the 2014-15 funding cycle will be posted and available on AANDC's website in fall 2014 and program staff will also continue to be available to provide clarification and answer questions. Other proposal-based programs administered by AANDC, including First Nation and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy, Cultural Education Centres Program, New Paths for Education, Special Education Program and Indian Studies Support Program also operate within structures that maintain ongoing engagement through proposal applications, funding and reporting processes with ongoing communications and feedback cycles.

In support of the Economic Action Plan 2013, which confirmed the Government's commitment to consult with First Nations across Canada on the development of a First Nation Education Act and its commitment to sharing the draft legislation with First Nations communities for their input, AADNC will continue in 2014-15 to work with willing partners on the development and potential introduction and implementation of a legislative proposal on First Nation Education. The draft of the proposed legislation was shared with First Nations and key stakeholders on October 22, 2013 for feedback before making a decision whether to introduce a bill in parliament, in which case the department will work to support the Parliamentary process for the introduction and passage of the proposed bill. Pending the passage of the proposed legislation, the department will work on regulatory development of the next six to eighteen months.

Transfer Payments for Social Development

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: Individual, family and community well-being for First Nations and Inuit

Program: Social Development

Description: The Social Development Program contributes to The People Strategic Outcome by funding five social programs that assist First Nation individuals and communities to become more self-sufficient, protect individuals and families at risk of violence, provide prevention supports that allow individuals and families to better care for their children, and support greater participation in the labour market. The Program assists First Nation men, women and children to achieve greater independence and self-sufficiency in First Nation communities across Canada by providing funds to First Nations, First Nation organizations, provinces and others that provide individual and family services to on-reserve residents (and Yukon First Nation residents). These services help First Nation communities meet basic and special needs, support employability and an attachment to the workforce, and support the safety of individuals and families. Through these five social programs, First Nations are better able to advance their own development, leverage opportunities and actively contribute to the broader Canadian economy and society.

Expected results: First Nations men, women and children are engaged in advancing their development, and take advantage of available opportunities

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation coverage of all departmental spending and grants and contributions administered by the Department over a five-year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of an evaluation or review of the relevance and performance of these Transfer Payments are available for consideration in decision-making and that appropriate and timely action is taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group: First Nations communities

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: Social Policy and Programs Branch will take a three-pronged approach to developing strategies to reduce the reporting burden and improve performance information:

• Engage with recipients to receive their feedback.
• Lead face-to-face meetings with provincial ministries and First Nation agency representatives responsible for child and family services to explore data-sharing arrangements for the First Nation Child and Family Services Program
• Embark on a pilot project with several BC First Nations, the BC government and Health Canada to develop and implement a new data governance model in which First Nations would gather and hold data that funding agencies would access, as required, to manage and report on programs.

Income Assistance will work with ESDC and applicants to implement Enhanced Service Delivery.

Transfer Payments for First Nations Individual Affairs (previously entitled Managing Individual Affairs under the 2013–2014 Program Alignment Architecture)

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: Individual, family and community well-being for First Nations and Inuit

Program: First Nations Individual Affairs

Description: The First Nations Individual Affairs Program contributes to ensuring federal stewardship of the legislative and administrative responsibilities of the federal government pertaining to registration, membership, status cards and estates. Results are achieved through direct client services and partnerships with First Nations to determine eligibility for registration under the Indian Act; issue proof of registration documents, such as the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS); and administer estates under the Indian Act. Through excellence in client-centric service delivery, the sound administration of individual affairs contributes to the well-being of First Nation individuals, families and communities.

Expected results: The Program fulfills the legislative, administrative and treaty obligations for which AANDC is responsible.

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation coverage of all departmental spending and grants and contributions administered by the Department over a five-year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of an evaluation or review of the relevance and performance of these Transfer Payments are available for consideration in decision-making and that appropriate and timely action is taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group: Aboriginal

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: Estate management is a mandatory statutory requirement pursuant to the Indian Act. In support of this statutory requirement, Grants and Contributions (Gs & Cs) will be made available to First Nations to encourage capacity building (wills-writing workshops). A call for proposal provides access to Gs & Cs.

Transfer Payments for Aboriginal Entrepreneurship^{Footnote 9}

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: The Land and the Economy: Full participation of First Nations, Métis, Non-Status Indians and Inuit individuals and communities in the economy

Program: Aboriginal Entrepreneurship

Description: Supporting Aboriginal entrepreneurship leads to greater participation in the economy and improved economic prosperity for Aboriginal Canadians. Guided by the Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development and its vision of strengthening Aboriginal entrepreneurship, AANDC's Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program contributes to The Land and Economy Strategic Outcome. The sub-programs within this program work together to support the creation and growth of viable Aboriginal businesses by providing access to business capital, support services and business opportunities. In playing this key support role, this Program expects to influence longer-term Aboriginal business viability, leading to improved economic prosperity for Aboriginal Canadians.

Expected results: This Program will help create and/or expand viable Aboriginal businesses.

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation and review of all spending and grants and contributions the Department administers over a five-year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of the evaluation or review are available for consideration in decision-making so that appropriate and timely action can be taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group: Aboriginal

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: Through stakeholder engagement, AANDC will:

• work in partnership with Aboriginal Financial Institutions, the National Aboriginal Capital Corporation and other key stakeholders, as required, to implement renovated Aboriginal Business Development Program components;
• develop and implement collaborative approaches, partnerships and frameworks in relation to specific and major business and economic initiatives and opportunities, leading to enhanced Aboriginal participation both inside and outside the federal procurement system; and
• lead various outreach activities to advocate for current and prospective program recipients, and inform them about and connect them with key opportunities, program supports and partnerships.

Transfer Payments for Community Development^{Footnote 9}

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: The Land and the Economy: Full participation of First Nations, Métis, Non-Status Indians and Inuit individuals and communities in the economy

Program: Community Development

Description: Supporting community development leads to greater participation in the economy and improved economic prosperity for Aboriginal Canadians. Guided by the Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development and its vision of Enhancing the Value of Aboriginal Assets, AANDC's Community Development programming, through its sub-programs, contributes to The Land and Economy Strategic Outcome by supporting activities that establish conditions for economic development to take place. In playing this key support role, Community Development programming expects to influence greater self-reliance and participation in the mainstream economy and community well-being.

Expected results:

• Enhanced conditions are in place for First Nation and Inuit communities to pursue greater independence/self-sufficiency and sustainable economic development.
• First Nation land is available for development.

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation and review of spending and grants and contributions the Department administers over a five-year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of the evaluation or review are available for consideration in decision-making so that appropriate and timely action can be taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group:

• First Nations communities
• Other Aboriginal recipients and organizations
• Industry-related entities (for-profit businesses, airport authorities, specific industry sector)
• Municipalities and local organizations (governments at municipal or regional level, cities)
• Non-profit organizations (charities, foundations, NGOs, universities and research institutions, health-related entities)
• Provinces and territories (governments at provincial or territorial level)

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: AANDC will continue to respond to First Nations wishing to explore the application of the First Nations Commercial and Industrial Development Act.

Through Working Groups:

• AANDC will work with the Assembly of First Nations Working Group to improve the Additions to Reserve process.
• AANDC will work with National Aboriginal Land Managers Association and similar organizations to empower First Nations to manage and administer their land, environment and natural resources.

Through Stakeholder Engagement:

• By way of a federal funding arrangement under the Framework Agreement on First Nations Land Management, AANDC collaborates with the Lands Advisory Board and the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre on activities to support First Nations participating in the First Nations Land Management Regime. The Lands Advisory Board and Resource Centre support capacity-building activities pertaining to land and environmental management. They also help First Nations transition from the Indian Act to the First Nations Land Management Act by:
  • assisting developmental First Nations with drafting land laws, rules, procedures, agreements, policies etc.; and
  • assisting operational First Nations with the implementation of their land management systems.
• AANDC will expand and integrate community land and economic development planning, including land use planning and joint economic development planning between First Nations and neighbouring municipalities.

Through Calls for proposals:

• AANDC will support First Nation and Inuit communities' preparations for and participation in large and complex economic opportunities.
• AANDC, in conjunction with the Lands Advisory Board and the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre, will engage interested First Nations in the FNLM Regime.
• AANDC will work with the Assembly of First Nations Working Group on Additions to Reserve and seek further opportunities to improve the process for additions to reserve.
• AANDC will work with the National Aboriginal Land Managers Association to increase the capacity of First Nations to fully benefit from the improvements to the process of adding land to reserves.

Transfer Payments for Strategic Partnerships^{Footnote 9}

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: The Land and the Economy: Full participation of First Nations, Métis, Non-Status Indians and Inuit individuals and communities in the economy

Program: Strategic Partnerships

Description: The Strategic Partnerships Initiative (SPI) is an innovative, horizontal program intended to align federal efforts to support Aboriginal participation in complex economic opportunities, particularly large regional opportunities and major resource developments. Given the nature of these developments, multiple federal departments and agencies have an interest and role with respect to their planning and implementation. There are more than twenty federal departments and agencies delivering programs and services that support Aboriginal economic development. To access support, communities must therefore work with several federal partners each with differing programs, application requirements and approval processes, thereby inhibiting a coordinated, timely and strategic approach to Aboriginal community participation. Recognizing the need to support community participation at the early stages of these developments, the program provides a mechanism for federal partners to collectively identify emerging opportunities, target investment decisions and streamline program application and approval processes. In doing so, the initiative also helps to build closer partnerships with non-federal partners, including provincial and territorial governments, the private sector and Aboriginal communities. The Aboriginal Economic Development Strategic Partnerships Initiative contributes to The Land and Economy Strategic Outcome by aligning federal efforts, leveraging investments from other levels of government and the private sector, and addressing gaps in programming to ensure that Aboriginal Canadians can participate in and benefit from priority regional opportunities and major resource developments.

Expected results: Investments are leveraged from other levels of government and the private sector

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation and review of all spending and grants and contributions the Department administers over a five-year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of the evaluation or review are available for consideration in decision-making so that appropriate and timely action can be taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group:

• First Nations communities
• Other Aboriginal recipients and organizations (Métis, Inuit, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.)
• Industry-related entities (for-profit businesses, airport authorities, specific industry sector)
• International organizations and foreign countries (international organizations, international conventions/for-profit/ non-profit)
• Municipalities and local organizations (governments at municipal or regional level, cities)
• Persons (individual farmers and fishers, veterans, forces members, families, researchers, workers, students)
• Non-profit organizations (charities, foundations, NGOs, universities and research institutions, health-related entities)
• Provinces and territories (governments at provincial or territorial level)

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: AANDC engages applicants and recipients through local governance structures established for SPI initiatives, including Labrador Trough, Ring of Fire, BC Liquefied Natural Gas, Potash Mining, Northern Community Readiness and Lower Churchill.

AANDC is working with the National Aboriginal Economic Development Board through the SPI Investment Committee to engage in opportunities for supporting Aboriginal participation in resource development.

AANDC is continuing to work with the BC First Nations Energy Mining Council, Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs and other organizations to assess the needs and opportunities for existing and emerging major resource development projects.

Transfer Payments for Infrastructure and Capacity (previously entitled Community Infrastructure under the 2013–2014 Program Alignment Architecture)

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: The Land and the Economy: Full participation of First Nations, Métis, Non-Status Indians and Inuit individuals and communities in the economy

Program: Infrastructure and Capacity

Description: This program contributes to The Land and Economy Strategic Outcome by supporting First Nation communities in acquiring, constructing, owning, operating and maintaining a base infrastructure that protects their health and safety and enables their engagement in the economy. The Emergency Management Assistance sub-program supports the four pillars of emergency management on reserve: mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery. Other sub-programs provide funding and advice to support housing, capacity building and community infrastructure, including water and wastewater systems, education facilities, roads and bridges, electrification, and community buildings. Ultimately, this program enables First Nations to participate more fully in the Canadian economy by establishing a base of safe infrastructure that meets established standards, and housing and infrastructure that meets the needs of First Nations communities as well as supporting the four pillars of emergency management.

Expected results: First Nations communities have a base of infrastructure that protects their health and safety and enables engagement in the economy.

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation and review of all spending and grants and contributions the Department administers over a five-year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of the evaluation or review are available for consideration in decision-making so that appropriate and timely action can be taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group:

• First Nations communities
• Other Aboriginal recipients and organizations (Métis, Inuit, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.)
• Industry-related entities (for-profit businesses, airport authorities, specific industry sector)
• Municipalities and local organizations (governments at municipal or regional level, cities)
• Non-profit organizations (charities, foundations, NGOs, universities and research institutions, health-related entities)
• Provinces and territories (governments at provincial or territorial level)

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: Eligible initiatives and projects are those that assist First Nations in acquiring, constructing and operating and maintaining housing and community infrastructure including water and wastewater systems, schools, roads and bridges, electrification, and community buildings.

Transfer Payments for Urban Aboriginal Participation

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: The Land and the Economy: Full participation of First Nations, Métis, Non-Status Indians and Inuit individuals and communities in the economy

Program: Urban Aboriginal Participation

Description: The Urban Aboriginal Participation Program contributes to The Land and Economy Strategic Outcome. The program supports the participation of urban Aboriginal individuals and communities in the economy. Through programs such as, the Urban Aboriginal Strategy; the Aboriginal Friendship Centres Program; the Cultural Connections for Aboriginal Youth; and Young Canada Works for Aboriginal Urban Youth, it provides a vehicle by which the federal government can work with other governments, the urban Aboriginal community and other stakeholders to reduce or remove barriers and enhance the life skills and knowledge of urban Aboriginal individuals and communities. These enhancements provide greater access to economic opportunities. The program allows the federal government to facilitate partnerships with all levels of government to align expenditures directed toward urban Aboriginal individuals and communities in key centres, achieving more substantive outcomes. The program will expand local labour market pools, allowing for increased economic development, and assist in moving urban Aboriginal communities toward increased self-reliance and a reduced dependency on government, thus helping to strengthen Canada's economy as a whole.

Expected results: Urban Aboriginal people have the support to pursue social and economic opportunities.

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation and review of all spending and grants and contributions the Department administers over a five-year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of the evaluation or review are available for consideration in decision-making so that appropriate and timely action can be taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group:

• Aboriginal peoples
• Other Aboriginal recipients and organizations (Métis, Inuit, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.)
• Municipalities and local organizations (governments at municipal or regional level, cities)
• Non-profit organizations (charities, foundations, NGOs, universities and research institutions, health-related entities)

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: The Aboriginal Friendship Centre Program, Cultural Connections for Aboriginal Youth, Young Canada Works for Aboriginal Urban Youth, and the funding element of the Urban Aboriginal Strategy engage recipients through calls for proposals. The Urban Aboriginal Strategy supports urban Aboriginal committees in 15 urban centres to develop strategic investment plans that recommend initiatives to be funded. These intiatives contribute to increased urban Aboriginal economic participation in those communities. Through the Cultural Connections for Aboriginal Youth program, AANDC works closely with the National Association of Friendship Centres, Aboriginal youth committees and Aboriginal organizations to solicit proposals for youth-centred activities that increase the economic participation of urban Aboriginal youth.

The Aboriginal Friendship Centre Program is a third-party program delivered by the National Association of Friendship Centres, which submits a proposal annually.

The Young Canada Works for Aboriginal Urban Youth Program is a third-party program delivered by the National Association of Friendship Centres, which supports urban Aboriginal student employment and skills development by funding student positions in urban Aboriginal organizations.

Transfer Payments for Northern Governance and People

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: Self-reliance, prosperity and well-being for the people and communities of the North

Program: Northern Governance and People

Description: The Northern Governance and People Program supports The North Strategic Outcome. This program strengthens the North's communities and people by devolving to territorial governments responsibilities for lands and natural resources; by fostering effective intergovernmental relations with territorial governments and providing support to Territorial Commissioners; by subsidizing the costs of nutritious perishable foods and other essential items in isolated Northern communities; by providing grants for hospital and physician services in Nunavut and the Northwest Territories; by working with Northern communities to identify the risks and challenges posed by climate change and by advancing interests of Canadians and Northerners through circumpolar forums. Canadians and Northerners will benefit with territorial governments ultimately having more control over their own affairs.

Expected results:

• Northerners have greater control over their economic and political affairs
• Community health and safety in the North is strengthened

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation and review of all spending and grants and contributions the Department administers over a five-year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of the evaluation or review are available for consideration in decision-making so that appropriate and timely action can be taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group: Northerners

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: The Department will fulfill its obligation to provide ongoing funding, as of April 1, 2014, to Aboriginal Parties to the final Northwest Territories Lands and Resources Devolution Agreement. This funding will enable the Aboriginal Parties to participate in the post-devolution lands and resources management regime with the Government of the Northwest Territories. Finance Canada will manage the ongoing funding to the Government of the Northwest Territories as part of Territorial Formula Financing.

The Department will proactively engage with the Government of Nunavut and Government of the Northwest Territories to finalize their annual grant agreements. Under these agreements, the Department will reimburse a portion of the costs each territorial government incurs to provide hospital and physician services to Indian and Inuit residents.

The Department will also continue discussions with both the Government of Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated to advance devolution of responsibilities for lands and resources management in Nunavut.

The Department will proactively engage with Nutrition North Canada (NNC)'s recipients (registered food suppliers and retailers) to strengthen the program's ability to improve access to nutritious food in isolated northern communities. In addition, NNC is engaging with registered retailers as part of an ongoing study of northern retailing conducted by eNRG and the University of Manitoba, which will inform policy making.

Through calls for proposals and funding agreements with territorial governments, AANDC will work collaboratively with other government departments, Aboriginal organizations and communities to promote the Climate Change Adaptation program. It will also help build capacity within communities to carry out vulnerability assessments and adaptation planning exercises.

Transfer Payments for Northern Science and Technology

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: Self-reliance, prosperity and well-being for the people and communities of the North

Program: Northern Science and Technology

Description: The Northern Science and Technology Program contributes to The North Strategic Outcome. It aims to support scientific research and technology in the North by providing researchers and scientists with increased access to programs and infrastructure to further research science and technology. The focus of this program is: researching and monitoring contaminants and their impacts on the ecosystem through the Northern Contaminants Program; supporting initiatives to create, manage and disseminate scientific data and results that help inform public policy making; and supporting work to establish the Canadian High Arctic Research Station (CHARS). Northerners and all Canadians will benefit from a knowledge base that supports health and sustainable development and the positioning of Canada as an international leader in Arctic science and technology.

Expected results:

• Domestic and international policy on health and sustainable development is better informed by a scientific knowledge base.
• Canada is positioned as an international leader in Arctic science technology.

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation coverage of all departmental spending and grants and contributions administered by the Department over a five-year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of an evaluation or review of the relevance and performance of these Transfer Payments are available for consideration in decision-making and that appropriate and timely action is taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group: Northerners

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: Potential recipients of the Northern Contaminants Program (NCP) will be engaged through the annual call for proposals. During the fiscal year, the Department will continue to work with recipients by requesting mid-year and final project reports, asking for their participation at the NCP results workshop and/or regional workshops and integrating their final project results into the NCP annual Synopsis Report.

Transfer Payments for Northern Land, Resources and Environmental Management

Start date/End date: This is an ongoing program

Strategic Outcome: Self-reliance, prosperity and well-being for the people and communities of the North

Program: Northern Land, Resources and Environmental Management

Description: The Northern Land, Resources and Environmental Management Program supports The North Strategic Outcome. It focuses on the management, sustainable development and regulatory oversight of the land, water, natural resources and environment of the North, delivering on the Department's role as the Government of Canada's natural resource manager in Nunavut and the offshore, and its post-devolution responsibilities in the Northwest Territories and Yukon. This program involves: managing oil and gas resources development; supporting the sustainable management of active mineral exploration and development; supporting the sound management of contaminated sites and of Nunavut and the few remaining AANDC-managed land and water areas in the North; and ensuring the completion of territorial land-use planning including zones for conservation, development and other uses. Northerners and Canadians will benefit from economic opportunities and sustainable development.

Expected results: Effective regulatory regimes are established in each of the three territories, which provide certainty to project proponents, Aboriginal organizations and Northerners.

Evaluation Profile: In line with the Treasury Board's Policy on Evaluation (2009) and Policy on Transfer Payments (2008), the AANDC Five-Year Plan for Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategies provides for full evaluation coverage of all departmental spending and grants and contributions administered by the Department over a five-year cycle. The plan is designed to ensure that the results of an evaluation or review of the relevance and performance of these Transfer Payments are available for consideration in decision-making and that appropriate and timely action is taken in response to recommendations. Where appropriate, AANDC will recommend the continuation, amendment or termination of the terms and conditions for these programs.

General Targeted Recipient Group: Northerners

Initiatives to Engage Applicants and Recipients: Aboriginal groups involved in section 35 and/or statutory consultation processes on northern initiatives (e.g., amendment of resource management legislation in the North) are invited and encouraged to respond to calls for proposals to access funding that would help them participate in these consultation processes.

Aboriginal organizations and other recipients of Beaufort Regional Environmental Assessment (BREA) funds participate in the committees and working groups that govern BREA. Inuvialuit organizations and communities are consulted and engaged in BREA activities. BREA fund recipients provide annual progress reports on their contributions, which are presented in a publicly available Beaufort Regional Environmental Assessment.

The Northern Contaminated Sites Program actively engages with Aboriginal and northern communities to ensure community perspectives are considered in planning remediation of contaminated abandoned mine and military sites.

Transfer Payments for Aboriginal Economic Development

Transfer Payments for Federal Administration of Reserve Land

Transfer Payments for Residential Schools Resolution