Archived - Details on Transfer Payment Programs

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Governance and Institutions of Government

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

Description:

The Governance and Institutions of Government Program contributes to The Government Strategic Outcome. This program provides frameworks (legislative and non-legislative) which are consistent with the legal, collective, human, and democratic rights and freedoms of Aboriginal people in Canada, and, where possible, enables and supports First Nation development of policies and programs that embrace these values. It provides funds, legislation and guidelines, certifications, education and training, advice, policies and plans, and implemented changes to support condition and build capacity for Aboriginal governance. Typical activities include but are not limited to providing assistance to establish governance and associated capacities, processes and mechanisms (such as by-law making authority, election processes). Support is provided to First Nation and Inuit governments as well as First Nation institutions. Ultimately, good governance practices are essential for active Aboriginal participation in Canadian society and the economy.

Strategic Outcome(s):

Good governance and co-operative relationships for First Nations, Métis, Non-Status Indians, Inuit and Northerners

Results Achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comments on variances:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending primarily reflects additional resources reallocated during the year for Indian government support activities (including an internal transfer of about $79 million from grants to contributions), consultation and policy development and the basic organizational capacity of Aboriginal organizations.

Audits completed or planned:

Previous audit work has been done in the area of Governance and Institutions of Government through a follow-up Audit of Capacity Development in 2013. In addition, several upcoming audits include the Audit of First Nations Government Programs, and the Audit of Aboriginal Governance Institutions and Organization Programs in 2015–2016.

Evaluations completed or planned:

Three evaluations that were planned for completion in 2013–2014 were changed during the fiscal year for more effective evaluation methodology. The Evaluation of Support for First Nation Governments, Evaluation of the Miawpukek Grant Agreement and the Evaluation of the Inuit Relations Secretariat were planned for 2013–2014 but will now be combined under a comprehensive evaluation of Governance and Institutions of Government in 2014–2015. No evaluation work was completed in 2013–2014 in the area of Governance and Institutions of Government.

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

Professional & Institutional Development – P&ID Program

The Professional and Institutional Development Program (P&ID) engages recipients through call letters for proposals, community capacity development plans and direct outreach by regional staff to communities. The other Indian Government Support Programs, like the Band Support Funding, Band Employee Benefits, Band Advisory Services, and Tribal Council Funding, require completed application forms to be communicated annually through the Recipient Reporting Guide. Regions monitor progress in various ways, such as with the request of deliverables and discussions with First Nations.

Professional & Institutional Development Directorate – Institutions Unit

The General Assessment process and on-going discussions have engaged recipients to determine the potential for longer-term agreements. To promote good governance in First Nations communities, the Department provides core and project-based funding to four First Nations governance institutions, including three established under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act (FNFMA), i.e. the First Nations Tax Commission, the First Nations Financial Management Board, and the First Nations Finance Authority, and the Aboriginal Financial Officers Association of Canada.

Each of these institutions has been engaged by the Department via the General Assessment. Annual requirements for submission of corporate/business plans and reports vary by institution:

• The First Nations Tax Commission and the First Nations Financial Management Board are required under the FNFMA to submit corporate plans and budgets to the Minister for approval before they receive their funding. These two institutions are also required under the FNFMA to submit an annual auditor's report to the Minister.
• As a condition of its funding, the First Nations Finance Authority submits a corporate plan and funding proposal to the Department before it receives its funding. The FNFMA requires the Authority to submit an annual report of its operations to the members of the Authority as well as to the Minister.
• Lastly, the Aboriginal Financial Officers Association of Canada submits a business plan, budget and annual report as a condition of its funding, as well as a number of other reports to the Department provided throughout the year identifying progress against established performance measures.

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Co-operative Relationships

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

Description:

The Co-operative Relationships Program contributes to The Government Strategic Outcome. It seeks reconciliation and the strengthening of the relationship between governments and Aboriginal groups through mutual respect, trust, understanding, shared responsibilities, accountability and dialogue. This program addresses constitutional and historic obligations, as well as good public policy by: negotiating and implementing agreements which achieve clarity with respect to law-making authority and the ownership, use and control of lands and resources; addressing specific claims; developing multi-partner processes in areas jointly identified by Aboriginal groups and the federal government; supporting effective and meaningful consultation with Aboriginal groups and their representation in federal policy and program development. Through relationships built on trust, respectful partnerships will be established which may ultimately help to contribute to the strengthening of the social, economic and cultural well-being of Aboriginal communities and ultimately more active participation and engagement in the broader Canadian society.

Strategic Outcome(s):

Good governance and co-operative relationships for First Nations, Métis, Non-Status Indians, Inuit and Northerners

Results Achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comment on variances:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending primarily reflects incremental funding provided through Supplementary Estimates for the settlement of specific claims and for the continuation of the implementation of Justice at Last: Specific Claims Action Plan.

Audits completed or planned:

Three previous audits have been done in this program area: Audit of Exceptional Contracting Limits Authority in 2011–2012, Audit of AANDC Support to Specific Claims Process in 2012–2013, and the Audit of Negotiation of Comprehensive Land Claims and Self-Government Agreements in 2014. Two audits will be completed for programs in Aboriginal Rights and Interests for 2014–2015. The Audit of Consultation and Accommodation will be completed in September 2014 and the Audit of Métis and Non-Status Indian relations and Métis Rights will be completed in November 2014. Additionally, there are upcoming audits in the 2014–2015 to 2016–2017 Risk-Based Audit Plan (RBAP) for 2015–2016 and 2016–2017 respectively, as well as the Audit of AANDC Support to Specific Claims Process, and the Audit of Negotiation of Comprehensive Land Claims and Self-Government Agreements.

Evaluations Completed or Planned:

In 2013–2014, four evaluations were completed in the area of Co-operative Relationships including Evaluation of the Engagement and Policy Development Authority (February 2014); Summative Evaluation of the Specific Claims Action Plan (April 2013); Evaluation of the Process for Negotiating Comprehensive Land Claims and Self-Government Agreements (November 2013); and Evaluation of the Federal Interlocutor's Bilateral and Tripartite Processes and the Powley Initiative (September 2013). The 2013–2014 planned Evaluation of Consultation and Accommodation is in progress and will be completed in September 2014.

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

Not applicable.

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Treaty Management

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

Description:

The Treaty Management Program contributes to The Government Strategic Outcome. This program aims to create and maintain on-going partnerships to support both historic and modern-treaties to fulfill Canada's legal obligations. This program supports First Nation and Inuit communities in articulating their interests, participating in land and resource development and management, where applicable, and demonstrating the importance of treaties and the treaty relationship between the Crown and Aboriginal people. This is achieved by honouring Canada's obligations as set out in final agreements, improving relationships between Canada and Aboriginal peoples, and improving the relationships between Canada and Historic Treaties First Nations. Creating and maintaining partnerships that honour historic and modern treaties contributes to the strengthened, healthy and sustainable First Nation and Inuit communities and ultimately supports them to optimize their participation in the broader Canadian society, thus benefitting all Canadians.

Strategic Outcome(s):

Good governance and co-operative relationships for First Nations, Métis, Non-Status Indians, Inuit and Northerners

Results achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comment on variances:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending primarily reflects incremental funding provided/reallocated through Supplementary Estimates for the renewal of the Nunatsiavut Government Fiscal Financing Agreement and to fund Nunatsiavut Government health programs, as well as incremental implementation funding for various comprehensive land claim agreements.

Audits completed or planned:

Two previous audits have been completed for Treaty Management Programs and one audit is upcoming in the current RBAP. The Audit of Management of Negotiation Loans was completed in 2012–2013, and the Audit of Implementation of Modern Treaty Obligations was completed in 2013, a follow-up audit is also planned for 2016–2017.

Evaluations completed or planned:

In 2013–2014, one evaluation was completed in the area of Treaty Management: Impacts of Comprehensive Land Claims and Self-Government Agreements (November 2013). A second evaluation was planned entitled Evaluation of Treaty Commissions that will now be included under the 2014–2015 Evaluation of Impacts of Self-Government Agreements.

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

AANDC meets regularly with its Aboriginal and provincial and territorial treaty partners. In 2013-2014, a working group was established with members of the Land Claims Agreement Coalition and AANDC to discuss land claim issues including challenges and successes.

AANDC also engaged pre-1975 treaty partners in the renewal of the Office of the Treaty Commissioner in Saskatchewan and the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba. Both Treaty Commissions were extended for two additional years and will continue to facilitate treaty relations.

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Education

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

Description:

The Education Program contributes to The People Strategic Outcome. It aims to support First Nation and Inuit students in the achievement of education outcomes that are comparable to other Canadians. Such achievement is key to enhancing their participation in the labour market and their future success. AANDC has the principal role for elementary and secondary education for First Nations students ordinarily resident on-reserve. It also provides financial supports to eligible First Nations and Inuit students in Post-Secondary education. The focus of these programming efforts is to support students in their academic progression through elementary and secondary school, to provide appropriate learning environments with culturally relevant education programs and services; and to increase their participation in the labour market. Better outcomes and increased participation in the economy benefits all Canadians.

Strategic Outcome(s):

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

Results achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comment on variance:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending relates primarily to incremental funding provided through Economic Action Plan 2013/Supplementary Estimates to support post-secondary education for First Nations and Inuit students and to promote business studies among Aboriginal students.

Audits completed or planned:

An Audit of Post-Secondary Education will be completed during February 2015. Two more audits are planned in the current RBAP for 2015–2016 in education programs, as well as an Audit of the Education Information System and an Audit of Elementary and Secondary Education Programs.

Evaluations completed or planned:

In 2013–2014, one horizontal evaluation was completed in the area of Education led by Employment and Social Development Canada: Summative Evaluation of the Youth Employment Strategy – Phase I. A second evaluation was planned in 2013–2014 entitled Evaluation of the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation that will now be included under the 2014–2015 evaluation of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

Since December 2012, the Department has consulted First Nations and stakeholders across the country on the development of a proposed legislation currently called Bill C-33: First Nations Control of First nations Education Act.

Since 2008, AANDC has worked with First Nations, provinces and territories to develop and advance tripartite education Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs). In 2013–2014, a tripartite education MOU was signed in Ontario with the Nishnawbe Aski Nation and provincial Ministry bringing the total of Memorandum of Understandings to nine formal partnerships. The Memorandum of Understanding represents a long-term commitment to collaborate and work together to improve First Nation elementary and secondary school student outcomes.

In 2013–2014, the Department engaged recipients through a national Call for Proposals for the Education Partnerships Program, the First Nation Student Success Program and the Indian Studies Support Program. Decisions were made by a National Selection Committee comprised of Regional Director Generals and two external members with experience and expertise in First Nation's education. A total of $14.9 million have been allocated to projects selected by the National Selection Committee.

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Social Development

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

Description:

The Social Development Program contributes to The People Strategic Outcome. Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada funds five social programs that aim to 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. This program assists First Nations men, women and children in achieving greater independence and self-sufficiency in First Nations communities across Canada. It does so by flowing funds to First Nations, provincial representatives and others who provide on-reserve residents and Yukon First Nations with individual and family services that are developed and implemented in collaboration with partners. These services help First Nation communities meet basic and special needs; support employability and attachment to the workforce; and ensure that individuals and families are safe. First Nations that are engaged in advancing their own development are better equipped to leverage opportunities made available by their communities and actively contribute to the broader Canadian economy and society.

Strategic Outcome(s):

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

Results achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comment on variances:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending relates primarily to the re-allocation of resources, mainly from Community Infrastructure, to meet increased demand for social development programs and services. In addition, incremental funding was provided through Economic Action Plan 2013/Supplementary Estimates for the Family Violence Prevention Program and for case-management systems and training for on-reserve Income Assistance clients.

Audits completed or planned:

Social Development programs have previously been subject to an Audit of the Implementation of the Child and Family Services Enhanced Prevention Focused Approach in 2011–2012 and an Audit of Income Assistance Programs in 2012–2013. An Audit will be completed in February 2015 of the National Child Benefit Reinvestment and Assisted Living Programs and two more audits are planned in the current RBAP for 2015–2016: Audit of Income Assistance Programming and Audit of First Nations Child and Family Services Program.

Evaluations completed or planned:

In 2013–2014, two evaluations were completed in the area of Social Development including Evaluation of the Enhanced Prevention Focused Approach for the First Nations Child and Family Service Program in Quebec and Prince Edward Island (September 2013) and Evaluation of the Enhanced Prevention Focused Approach for the First Nations Child and Family Service Program in Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia (April 2013).

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

AANDC has drafted a new Social Programs – National Manual, a Compliance Directive and a Compliance Handbook for social programs and education programs. A feedback mechanism is being developed for recipients, so that questions and answers may be captured and edits made to the manual based on their input.

Through its regional offices, AANDC issued a call for proposals for the Disabilities Initiative, National Child Benefit Reinvestment Projects and Family Violence Prevention Projects. Additionally, the Income Assistance program invited selected recipients to apply for Enhanced Service Delivery (ESD) Projects. This led to a Ministerial announcement on January 31, 2014 of 22 approved ESD and 11 First Nation Jobs Fund proponents. Departmental social development project funding supports recipient-driven activities, further enhancing First Nation approaches contributing to individual, family and community well-being.

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Managing Individual Affairs

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

Description:

The Managing Individual Affairs Program contributes to The People Strategic Outcome by ensuring responsible federal stewardship of the legislative, administrative and treaty obligations of the Federal Government to First Nations that pertain to Estates, Indian Moneys, Registration, Band Membership and Treaty Annuities. This program administers the portions of the First Nations Oil and Gas and Moneys Management Act that relate to Indian Moneys and is critical to ensuring that the provisions of the Indian Act and other statutory obligations are fulfilled. Results are achieved through direct client-services and through partnerships with First Nations directed to: determine eligibility for registration under the Indian Act; issue the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS); ensure responsibility for management of Indian monies and estates under the Indian Act; and, to honour treaty annuity obligations to First Nations. In supporting responsible federal stewardship of historic treaties and Acts, a more respectful and productive relationship is achieved between First Nations, the Federal Government and Canada. A sound administration of individual affairs and moneys contributes to the well-being of First Nation individuals, families and communities, and facilitates their participation in the Canadian society.

Strategic Outcome(s):

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

Results achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comment on variances:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending primarily reflects increased requirements for land and estates management offset by reduced requirements for registration administration.

Audits completed or planned:

Two previous audits have been completed for sub-programs of Managing Individual Affairs. The Audit of the Secure Certificate of Indian Status Expenditure Management and Remediation was done in 2011–2012, and an Audit of the Indian Registration System (IRS) was completed in April 2014. The Audit of Indian Registration (Qalipu Phase II) will be completed in September 2014 and the System Under Development Audit of the Secure Integrated Certification and Registration Unit should be completed by March 2015. There is also an audit planned in the current RBAP for the IRS in 2016–2017.

Evaluations completed or planned:

In 2013–2014, one evaluation was completed in the area of Managing Individual Affairs: Evaluation of Indian Moneys, Estates and Treaty Annuities (April 2013).

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

Contributions to Indian bands for registration administration:

Recipient engagement is initiated by Regional offices based on the number of compensable life events (such as births, deaths, marriages, band transfers, etc.). Working through the Regional offices, these numbers are validated and appropriate funding amounts allocated to each First Nation is determined and flowed in accordance with the process.

Contributions to Indian bands for land and estate management:

The engagement of applicants and recipients under the estates management contribution is carried out at the regional level. Calls for proposals are sent to the regions at the beginning of the fiscal year, upon which regional officials communicate with First Nations to determine their requirement for estates related activities. Through these communications 11 proposals were funded, allowing these First Nations to access the estates portion of the funds.

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Residential Schools Resolution

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

Description:

The Residential Schools Resolution Program contributes to The People Strategic Outcome and aims to support a fair and lasting resolution to the legacy of Indian Residential Schools and to promote reconciliation with former students, their families and communities. In this program, AANDC ensures the successful implementation of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement (IRSSA) by finalizing the Common Experience Payment (CEP) and implementing the Personal Credits strategy; resolving claims of abuse under the Independent Assessment Process (IAP), as per its obligations under the IRSSA; funding and monitoring Commemoration initiatives; and meeting the Government of Canada's obligations vis-à-vis the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). Additionally, AANDC supports complementary initiatives to further reconciliation such as funding and monitoring of the Advocacy and Public Information Program and promoting reconciliation between the Government of Canada and Aboriginal people, as well as between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people through specific reconciliation initiatives. Resolution to Indian Residential Schools ultimately contributes to improved relationships between Aboriginal people and the rest of Canada, and strengthens Aboriginal communities.

Strategic Outcome(s):

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

Results achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comment on variances:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending primarily reflects the reallocation of funding to provide advocacy and public education with respect to the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, as well as additional funding provided through Supplementary Estimates for commemoration projects that address the Indian Residential Schools experience.

Audits completed or planned:

A previous audit was completed of the INAC Adjudication Secretariat Support to the Independent Assessment Process in 2011–2012 and an Audit is scheduled to be completed by November 2014 of the AANDC Support to the Independent Assessment Process.

Evaluations completed or planned:

In 2013–2014, one horizontal evaluation was completed in the area of Residential Schools Resolution led by Employment and Social Development Canada: Evaluation of the Delivery of the Common Experience Payment (July 2013).

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

Commemoration is a component of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement that supports regional and national activities that honour, educate, remember, memorialize and/or pay tribute to former Indian Residential School students, their families and their communities. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) posted the Commemoration call-for-proposals on its website informing applicants of the deadline to apply for funding. This part of the process was completed in 2012–2013. Activity in 2013–2014 involved the funding and completion of projects approved for funding in 2012–2013. To monitor compliance with the terms and conditions, AANDC maintained regular contact with recipients via e-mail and telephone.

The Advocacy and Public Information Program (APIP) is a contribution funding program to support the sharing of information and to ensure that Aboriginal communities, particularly former students and their families are aware of all aspects of the Settlement Agreement.

To invite proposals for 2013–2014, AANDC made contact with potential recipients via e-mail and telephone. As a result, AANDC entered into transfer payment agreements with 13 partners, totaling $1.8 million.

To monitor compliance with the terms and conditions, AANDC maintained contact with recipients via e-mails and APIP Partners Teleconference Calls.

The group under the Independent Assessment Process (IAP) program provides contribution funding for groups of residential school survivors to conduct activities focused on healing or reconciliation.

To invite proposals for 2013–2014, the Secretariat made contact with potential recipients though community outreach initiatives and via e-mail and telephone. As a result, AANDC entered into transfer payment agreements with 14 partners, totaling $2.1 million.

To monitor compliance with the terms and conditions, the Secretariat maintained contact with recipients via e-mails and telephone calls.

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Aboriginal Economic Development

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

Description:

The Aboriginal Economic Development Program contributes to The Land and Economy Strategic Outcome by aiming to build and promote viable Aboriginal businesses and opportunity-ready communities. This program supports the vision of increasing the participation of First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals and communities in the Canadian economy and enables Aboriginal people to pursue the same opportunities for employment, income and wealth creation as other Canadians. These opportunities are initiated by focusing on key areas of the Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development: strengthening Aboriginal entrepreneurship; enhancing the value of Aboriginal assets; working with Employment and Social Development Canada in developing Aboriginal human capital; forging new and effective partnerships; and focusing the role of the federal government in the area of Aboriginal economic development. AANDC can ensure long-term, sustainable economic development by promoting partnerships with provinces and territories and the private sector. Viable Aboriginal businesses and opportunity-ready communities will strengthen and benefit the Canadian economy.

Strategic outcome(s):

Full participation of First Nations, Métis, Non-Status Indians and Inuit individuals and communities in the economy

Results Achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comment on variances:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending primarily reflects reallocations to address pressures in other programs.

Audits completed or planned:

The sub-programs of Aboriginal Economic Development had previously been subject to audits in 2013–2014; the Audit of Economic Development Programs was completed in February 2014 and the Audit of Southern Oil and Gas was completed in 2013. In the current RBAP, another Audit of Economic Development Programs is planned for 2016–2017.

Evaluations completed or planned:

In 2013–2014, no evaluations were completed in the area of Aboriginal Economic Development. The Evaluation of the Procurement Strategy for Aboriginal Business is currently in progress as well as the Evaluation of the Aboriginal Economic Development Framework and Strategic Federal Investments and Partnerships. Both evaluations will be completed in September 2014.

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

Fifty six partnerships are in place of which 40 were newly established in fiscal 2013–2014. The Strategic Partnerships Initiative is an innovative, horizontal program providing a single-window for 15 federal departments and agencies. Depending on the initiative, engagement occurs throughout and as required.

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Federal Administration of Reserve Land

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

Description:

The Federal Administration of Reserve Land Program contributes to The Land and Economy Strategic Outcome by aiming to ensure that the Crown fulfills its statutory and fiduciary obligations as the administrator of reserve lands held in trust for the use and benefit of the First Nation for whom the land was set aside. These obligations are achieved through the timely response to requests for land transactions, the additions to reserve, the clarity of reserve boundaries, the designation of land for economic development purposes and environmental management. Economic benefits accrue to Aboriginal communities and ultimately enhance the Canadian economy, through the activation of reserve lands and the honouring of treaty obligations.

Strategic Outcome(s):

Full participation of First Nations, Métis, Non-Status Indians and Inuit individuals and communities in the economy

Results achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comment on variances:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending primarily reflects: additional funding provided through Supplementary Estimates or re-allocated internally for on-reserve costs incurred by provincial/territorial or other emergency management organizations as required under the Emergency Management Assistance Program; funding provided for the assessment, management and remediation of federal contaminated sites; and, reduced funding requirement reflecting the deferral of activities associated with the implementation of treaty land entitlement in Saskatchewan.

Audits completed or planned:

Under the previous program of Federal Administration of Reserve Land audits had been completed in 2011–2012 of the Environmental Management and Contaminated Sites (south of 60°) and in 2012–2013 of the Additions to Reserve Process Design, and Lands Management (including Land Registry System). Under the Community Development Programs of the 2014–2015 Program Alignment Architecture (PAA) two audits are planned for 2016–2017: Audit of the Additions to Reserve Process and the Audit of Lands Management (including Land Registry System).

Evaluations completed or planned:

The Evaluation of the Federal Administration of Reserve Land is currently in progress and will be completed in June 2015.

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

Not applicable.

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Community Infrastructure

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

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. This program provides 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 a housing infrastructure that meets the needs of First Nations communities.

Strategic Outcome(s):

Full participation of First Nations, Métis, Non-Status Indians and Inuit individuals and communities in the economy

Results achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comment on variances:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending primarily reflects reallocations to address pressures in other programs, notably Social Development and Federal Administration of Reserve Land, as well as the deferral of funding provided through Economic Action Plan 2013 for certain high priority school construction projects. This deferred funding that was not required in 2013–2014 has been reprofiled to 2014–2015 when it will be available for the intended purpose.

Audits completed or planned:

The sub-programs of Community Infrastructure, Infrastructure and Capacity in the 2014–2015 PAA have previously been subject to three audits: the Audit of On-Reserve Community Infrastructure in 2011–2012, as well as the Audit of Water and Wastewater Infrastructure, and the Audit of Emergency Management Assistance Program, both in 2012–2013. An Audit of On-Reserve Community Infrastructure is currently underway and to be completed by November 2014. Two more audits are planned in the current RBAP: the Audit of Emergency Management Assistance Programs in 2015–2016 and the Audit of Water and Wastewater in 2016–2017.

Evaluations completed or planned:

In 2013–2014, two evaluations were completed in the area of Community infrastructure including Evaluation of First Nations Water and Wastewater Infrastructure (September 2013) and Evaluation of the First Nations Infrastructure Fund (February 2014). Two additional evaluations are currently in progress and will be completed in June 2015 including: Evaluation of ecoENERGY for Aboriginal and Northern Communities and Evaluation of the Capital Facilities and Maintenance Program.

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

Resource allocations for the Capital Facilities and Maintenance Program (CFMP) occur on an annual basis from headquarters to regions and then to First Nations to assist in the construction, operation and maintenance of basic community infrastructure. Each year, First Nation communities develop their First Nations Infrastructure Plans with the support of regional offices. Regional offices use the community plans to develop their regional plans, and these regional plans are rolled-up into a National Infrastructure Investment Plan.

The CFMP budget is divided into three funding streams: major capital, minor capital, and operations and maintenance. Major capital projects are projects valued above $1.5 million and require that a formal proposal be submitted by the First Nation. Minor capital projects are projects valued under $1.5 million. They can either be proposal-based for specific projects, or be allocated on a formula basis to assist First Nations with the management of their AANDC-funded assets. Operations and maintenance funding is formula-based, with funding levels based on formulae that estimate the cost of operating and maintaining assets.

AANDC approves proposal-based major capital and minor capital projects based on available funding and highest priority. Formula-based funding is allocated directly to the First Nation, giving them discretion on how they apply the funds to meet their infrastructure and housing needs.

Regional offices engage with First Nations and/or Tribal Councils to develop funding agreements and ensure that recipients comply with terms and conditions. First Nations and/or Tribal Councils are responsible for the planning, design, tendering, and construction of specific major capital projects, and are also responsible for meeting the reporting requirements as set out in their funding agreement. Funding recipients primarily use Data Collection Instruments (DCIs) and audited financial statements to report on activities, deliverables and/or results of expenditures.

Through a call for proposal process the ecoENERGY for Aboriginal and Northern Communities Program focused exclusively on supporting the development and implementation of renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in Aboriginal and northern communities, with an emphasis on off-grid communities.

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Urban Aboriginal Participation

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

Description:

Urban Aboriginal programming contributes to the Land and Economy Strategic Outcome by supporting the participation of urban Aboriginal individuals and communities in the economy. Through programs such as the Urban Aboriginal Strategy, the Aboriginal Friendship Centers Program, the Cultural Connections for Aboriginal Youth, and Young Canada Works, 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 allow them to access 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 resulting from strength in numbers. The program will expand local labour market pools, allowing for increased economic development, and assist in moving urban Aboriginal communities towards self-reliance and a reduced dependency on government, thus helping to strengthen Canada's economy as a whole.

Strategic Outcome(s):

Full participation of First Nations, Métis, Non-Status Indians and Inuit individuals and communities in the economy

Results achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comments on variances:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending primarily reflects incremental funding provided through Economic Action Plan 2013 and Supplementary Estimates for the Urban Aboriginal Strategy.

Audits completed or planned:

No previous audit work has been completed in this program area. There is an Audit of the Urban Aboriginal Strategy planned in the current RBAP for 2016–2017.

Evaluations completed or planned:

In 2013–2014, no evaluation work was completed in the area of Urban Aboriginal Participation.

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

In 2013–2014, AANDC engaged the Friendship Centre Movement which is made up of 115 Friendship Centres, 7 Provincial Territorial Friendship Centre Associations and the National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC) to support the provision of a wide range of culturally appropriate programs and services and support Aboriginal students explore career choices and gain employment skills through summer work experiences. The Department also engaged NAFC and 73 other Aboriginal organizations through proposal solicitation for the Cultural Connections for Aboriginal Youth program to support urban Aboriginal youth make better life choices and participate fully in the Canadian economy. The Department further engaged Urban Aboriginal Strategy (UAS) steering committees and other partners to developed community strategic plans to coordinate efforts and investments toward increasing the participation of urban Aboriginal people in the economy.

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Northern Governance and People

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

Description:

The Northern Governance and People Program contributes to The North Strategic Outcome. This program strengthens the North's communities and people by devolving to the governments of the North province-like responsibilities for land 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.

Strategic Outcome(s):

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

Results Achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comments on variances:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending primarily reflects additional funding provided through Supplementary Estimates to meet the Government of Canada's obligations under the Northwest Territories Lands and Resources Devolution Agreement. In addition, funding was re-allocated internally to support the operation of the Nutrition North Canada program.

Audits completed or planned:

Under the program area Northern Governance and People an Audit of Nutrition North Canada was completed in 2013. Another audit of this sub-program is planned in the current RBAP for 2016–2017.

Evaluations completed or planned:

In 2013–2014, one evaluation was completed in the area of Northern Governance and People: Evaluation of the Implementation of Nutrition North Canada (September 2013).

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

In 2013–2014, the Department concluded the process to fulfill its obligation to complete Section 35 Crown Consultations. Prior to signing the final Northwest Territories Lands and Resources Devolution Agreement and again before tabling the Northwest Territories Devolution Act in Parliament, Aboriginal groups and First Nation communities in the Northwest Territories along with trans-boundary groups were consulted to ensure Aboriginal and Treaty rights were not adversely affected by the devolution of land and resource responsibilities to the Government of the Northwest Territories. The Department also provided funding to the Government of the Northwest Territories and Aboriginal groups participating in the process to undertake one-time transitional activities set out in the final Northwest Territories Lands and Resources Devolution Agreement.

In Nunavut, the Department continued 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 also signed a five-year agreement with the Government of Nunavut to continue to strengthen the Government of Nunavut's financial management capability.

Proactive engagement with the Government of Nunavut and the Government of the Northwest Territories was undertaken in order to finalize the annual grant agreement with each of these territorial governments for reimbursement of a portion of the costs they incur to provide hospital and physician services to Indian and Inuit residents of their respective territory.

Involvement with Nutrition North Canada's (NNC) recipients (registered food suppliers and retailers) is on-going. This continuing engagement is strengthening the program's ability to improve access to nutritious food in isolated northern communities. In addition, NNC is cooperating with registered retailers as part of a major study of northern retailing conducted by the consulting firm eNRG and the University of Manitoba, which will inform further policy making.

Through a call for proposal process and funding agreements with territorial governments, AANDC worked collaboratively with other government departments, Aboriginal organizations and communities to promote the Climate Change Adaptation Program and build capacity within communities to carry out vulnerability assessments and adaptation planning exercises.

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Northern Science and Technology

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

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 as carried out through the Northern Contaminants Program; supporting initiatives including the creation, management and dissemination of scientific data and results that contribute to informed public policy making; supporting the work to establish the Canadian High Arctic Research Station. 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.

Strategic Outcome(s):

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

Results Achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comments on variances:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending primarily reflects reduced requirements for the northern contaminants program.

Audits completed or planned:

One previous audit has been completed in this program area; the Audit of Project Management of the Canadian High Arctic Research Station (CHARS) was completed in February 2014. As part of the current RBAP, another audit of the Project Management of CHARS is planned for 2016–2017.

Evaluations completed or planned:

In 2013–2014, one evaluation was completed in the area of Northern Science and Technology: Evaluation of the Northern Contaminants Program and Northern Scientific Training Program (September 2013).

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

Potential recipients of the Northern Contaminants Program (NCP) are engaged through the annual call for proposals. During the fiscal year, continuous dialogue with recipients included mid-year and final project reports, participation at the NCP 20^th Results Workshop and the integration of final project results into the annual NCP Synopsis Report.

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Transfer Payments for Northern Land, Resources and Environmental Management

Start date/End date:

This is an on-going program

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 North of 60°. 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 land and water in the North; and ensuring the identification of territorial land use zones for conservation, development and other uses. Northerners and Canadians will benefit from economic opportunities and sustainable development.

Strategic Outcome(s):

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

Results achieved:

Please refer to Section II

Comments on variances:

The difference between 2013–2014 Planned Spending and 2013–2014 Actual Spending primarily reflects incremental requirements for care and maintenance, remediation and management of the closure of contaminated sites in Yukon.

Audits completed or planned:

In 2012–2013, a Value for Money Audit of the Giant Mine Remediation Project was completed. Two audits are underway in this program area: the Audit of Northern Contaminated Sites Program to be completed by November 2014, and the Audit of Northern Oil and Gas to be completed by September 2014. As part of the current RBAP, an Audit of Contingent Liabilities (including contaminated sites) is planned for 2015–2016.

Evaluations completed or planned:

In 2013–2014, one horizontal evaluation was completed in the area of Northern Land, Resources and Environmental Management led by Environment Canada: Evaluation of the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan (September 2013). The Evaluation of Environmental Sustainability and Contaminated Sites on Reserve is currently in progress.

Engagement of 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) were invited to respond to calls for proposals to access funding that would assist them in participating in these consultation processes. These funds were provided to assist with travel to meetings and with legal and consultant fees.

Communication of priorities and outcomes to stakeholders of the Beaufort Regional Environmental Assessment continued throughout 2013–2014. Program applicants and recipients from government, Inuvialuit, academic and private sector organizations were involved through the program Steering Committee and working groups in designing and implementing program components. A tour of communities in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region in March 2014 reported on interim outcomes at the local level and sought feedback on the program.

The Northern Contaminated Sites Program actively engages, via community meetings, with Aboriginal and northern communities to ensure community perspectives are brought to bear in planning remediation activities for contaminated and abandoned mines and military sites. Funding was also provided to the Government of Yukon to ensure human health and safety is protected at abandoned mines including Faro, Clinton Creek and Mount Nansen. In addition, funding is transferred to the Government of Yukon for the assessment and remediation of the Marwell Tar Pit.