Archived - Details of Transfer Payment Programs of $5 million or More

Transfer Payments for Governance and Institutions of Government

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Strategic outcome: Support good governance, rights and interests of Indigenous peoples

Description: This Program provides support to First Nation governments, as well as Indigenous governance institutions and organizations through core and targeted programming. The intent of this support is to facilitate capacity development in the Indigenous 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 Indigenous governments across Canada, assist Indigenous communities and their governments in attracting investment, and support Indigenous participation in the Canadian economy. Ultimately, good governance practices are essential for active Indigenous participation in Canadian society and the economy.

Repayable contributions: Repayable contributions do not apply to Band Support Funding. However, it is possible to have recoveries under the contribution programs.

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: An Audit of the Governance and Institutions of Government Program (replaced the Audit of Aboriginal Governance Institutions and Organizations Programs and the Audit of First Nations Government Programs) was completed in December 2015.

Evaluations completed or planned: There were no evaluations completed in this area in 2015–2016. The Evaluation of Governance and Institutions of Government began in 2015–2016 and is expected to be completed and approved in December 2016. The evaluation includes First Nations Governments and Aboriginal Governance Institutions and Organizations.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: On July 31, 2015, Canada signed a Consultation Agreement with the Métis Nation of Ontario. This agreement is the first of its kind to be reached with a Métis group in Canada. This historic consultation agreement creates a one-window process, through which Canada can consult with the Métis Nation of Ontario's 29 Community Councils through nine Regional Consultation Committees in Ontario. This clear and efficient process is now in place for Canada to consult the Métis Nation of Ontario and its member communities on proposed activities or projects in their region. The agreement not only brings clarity on how consultations are to take place, but also will help promote relationship-building and clarify consultation roles and responsibilities between federal departments and the Métis Nation of Ontario.

The Department also drafted a Performance Measurement Strategy for Consultation & Accommodation. Pending approval, it will be posted online.

Comments on variances: The difference between 2015–2016 Planned Spending and Actual Spending primarily reflects additional resources reallocated during the year for Indian government support activities (including an internal transfer of about $73 million from grants to contributions).

Transfer Payments for Rights and Interests of Indigenous Peoples

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Strategic outcome: Support good governance, rights and interests of Indigenous peoples

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

Repayable contributions: None

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: No audit work was completed in this program area in 2015–2016.

Evaluations completed or planned: One evaluation was completed in this program area in 2015–2016: the Evaluation of the Consultation and Accommodation Unit (April 2015).

Engagement of applicants and recipients: Recipients were engaged through the negotiation and implementation processes, development of joint work plans, the review and approval of funding proposals, and in ongoing discussions supporting effective and meaningful consultation in federal policy and program development.

Comments on variances: The difference between 2015–2016 Planned Spending and Actual Spending primarily reflects the deferral of certain specific claims for which negotiations were not concluded during the fiscal year; this deferred funding that was not required in 2015–2016 has been re-profiled to future years when it will be available for the intended purpose. This reduction in specific claims is partially offset by incremental funding provided through Supplementary Estimates for the proactive reconciliation and management of Métis Aboriginal Rights as well as funding reallocated internally, primarily between basic organizational capacity of representative Aboriginal organizations and consultation and policy development.

Transfer Payments for Management and Implementation of Agreements and Treaties

Start date/End date: Ongoing

Strategic outcome: Support good governance, rights and interests of Indigenous peoples

Description: This Program aims to create and maintain ongoing partnerships to support both pre- and post-1975 treaties to fulfill Canada's legal obligations while considering the rights and interests of Indigenous peoples. This program supports Indigenous 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 Indigenous peoples. This is achieved by honouring Canada's obligations as set out in final settlement agreements, and by improving collaboration between Canada and Indigenous peoples, and between Canada and pre- and post-1975 Treaty Indigenous groups. Creating and maintaining partnerships that honour pre- and post-1975 treaties contributes to strengthened, healthy, self-reliant and sustainable Indigenous communities while promoting delivery of programs and services vital to the health and advancement of Indigenous citizens.

Repayable contributions: None

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: No audit work was completed in this program area in 2015–2016.

Evaluations completed or planned: One evaluation was completed in the area of Management and Implementation of Agreements and Treaties: the Evaluation of the Impacts of Self-Government Agreements (January 2016).

Engagement of applicants and recipients: Within the Eastern region, Quebec has a funding agreement model that best fits recipients with modifications made to policies around transfer payment terms and conditions to the agreement. Progress was made on a Northeastern Quebec Agreement (NEQA) formal process for a land transfer, and on the signing of the 2016–17 Nunavik Housing Agreement, along with preliminary discussions with Makivik on the renewal of a 5-year agreement and regular tripartite meetings of the Nunavik Housing Committee held to monitor the implementation of the Nunavik Housing Agreement. Progress was also made on the implementation of the Canada-Naskapi Interdepartmental Committee and Operational Table as well as in finalizing the renewal of the economic development annex of the 190 Canada-Inuit Implementation Agreement between Canada and the Kativik Regional Government.

As for the Nunavut region, the Branch engaged treaty partners in regard to transfer payments through requests for submission of budgets and work plans, consultation and review of the budgets, and collaboration to finalize all requirements in time to meet departmental deadlines.

As for the Western regions, BC has engaged recipients in the funding allocation process and in the preparation of the financial transfer agreements. Recipients were also involved in the review and approval of supplementary funding proposals. Additionally, recipients participated in the 1-year extension of their current financial transfer agreements and continued to be engaged in discussions concerning upcoming funding renewals and longer-term agreements.

Comments on variances: The difference between 2015–2016 Planned Spending and Actual Spending primarily reflects incremental funding provided through Supplementary Estimates and reallocated internally for the implementation of comprehensive claims, as well as additional funding reallocated internally for education under the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement.

Transfer Payments for Education

Start date/End date: Ongoing

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

Description: This Program supports First Nation and Inuit students in achieving educational outcomes comparable to those of other Canadians. Education is generally a provincial/territorial responsibility but, as a matter of policy, INAC funds elementary and secondary education for First Nation students ordinarily resident on reserve. The Education Program also provides financial support for post-secondary education to eligible First Nation and Inuit students. The overarching goal of INAC'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.

Repayable contributions: None

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: Follow-up Audit of the Education Information System was completed in March 2016.

Evaluations completed or planned: Two reviews were performed in this program area in 2015–2016. This included a Review of Federally Managed Schools on Reserve in Ontario (April 2015) and a Review of the Implementation of the Tripartite Education Framework Agreement that was presented for approval in June 2016.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: In 2015–2016, the Department engaged recipients through various calls for proposals, including national calls for the Education Partnerships Program and the First Nation Student Success Program through the Strong Schools Successful Students Initiative. Decisions were made by a National Selection Committee comprised of a Regional Director General and three external members with experience and expertise in education. A total of 75 proposals from First Nation organizations were successful in receiving funding. The Department also launched the Post-Secondary Partnerships Program call for proposals and 211 proposals were received. Proposals will be considered in June 2016, so that funds can flow to recipients to support students in September 2016.

Comments on variances: The difference between 2015–2016 Planned Spending and Actual Spending primarily reflects incremental funding provided through Supplementary Estimates to support the First Nation Student Success Program, the Education Partnerships Program, and for Indspire (Budget 2015), partially offset by reduced funding requirements for Elementary and Secondary Education and Post-Secondary Education.

Transfer Payments for Social Development

Start date/End date: Ongoing

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

Description: This Program funds five social programs (Income Assistance, Assisted Living, National Child Benefit, Child and Family Services, and Family Violence Prevention) 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.

Repayable contributions: None

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: An Audit of the Income Assistance Program was completed in March 2016.

Evaluations completed or planned: There was one evaluation completed and approved in this program area: the Joint Evaluation of the On-Reserve Income Assistance Reform (January 2016).

Engagement of applicants and recipients: In 2015–2016, INAC issued calls for proposals for the Disabilities Initiative, National Child Benefit Reinvestment Projects, Income Assistance Reform and Family Violence Prevention Projects. Departmental social development project funding supported recipient-driven activities, enhancing First Nation approaches contributing to individual, family and community well-being. Funding recipients were monitored through various mechanisms including on-site visits, desk reviews, financial audits, evaluations, and ongoing communications.

Income Assistance continued to implement sound program management through program compliance, supports and monitoring, as well as by the First Nations Child and Family Services Program, which conducted several pilot projects to further refine compliance tools for the implementation of a national compliance review requirement.

Comments on variances: The difference between 2015–2016 Planned Spending and Actual Spending relates primarily to incremental funding provided through Supplementary Estimates to address family violence and violent crimes against Indigenous women and girls, as well as the reallocations of resources to meet increased demand for social development programs and services.

Transfer Payments for First Nations Individual Affairs

Start date/End date: Ongoing

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

Description: This 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; issuing proof of registration documents, such as the Secure Certificate of Indian Status; and administering estates under the Indian Act. Through client-centric service delivery, the sound administration of individual affairs contributes to the well-being of First Nation individuals, families and communities.

Repayable contributions: None

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: The System Under Development Audit of Secure Integrated Registration and Certification is expected to be completed in the Fall 2016.

Evaluations completed or planned: No evaluation work was completed in this program area in 2015–2016.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: In 2015–2016, the Indian Moneys, Estates and Treaty Annuities Program made a call for proposals through INAC Regional offices to provide First Nation communities and recipients access to contribution funding, in order for them to undertake a variety of initiatives related to estates. These initiatives included capacity building activities related to estates administration, which promoted awareness of estates management among First Nation individuals and communities.

Recipients of contribution funding were asked to provide a project proposal including the objective(s), activities, budget and deliverables for department officials to evaluate against program objectives, criteria on eligibility, and expenditures.

Comments on variances: The difference between 2015–2016 Planned Spending and Actual Spending primarily reflects reduced requirements for registration administration.

Transfer Payments for Residential Schools Resolution

Start date/End date: Ongoing

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

Description: This Program supports a fair and lasting resolution to the legacy of Indian Residential Schools and promotes reconciliation with former students, their families and communities, and other Canadians. INAC implements the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement (IRSSA) — a multi-party negotiated settlement monitored by the courts — by resolving claims of abuse under the Independent Assessment Process and meeting the Government of Canada's obligations vis-à-vis the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. In addition to its legal obligations under IRSSA, INAC promotes reconciliation between the Government of Canada and Indigenous peoples, as well as between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, through specific reconciliation initiatives. A fair resolution of the legacy of Indian Residential Schools contributes to improved relationships between Indigenous peoples and other Canadians, and strengthens Indigenous communities.

Repayable contributions: None

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: No audit work was completed in this program area in 2015–2016.

Evaluations completed or planned: One evaluation project began in 2015–2016 and was completed in September 2016: Lessons Learned: Personal Credits.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: Group Independent Assessment Process (IAP) is a contribution program delivered by the Indian Residential Schools Adjudication Secretariat designed to facilitate healing and reconciliation activities for groups of IAP claimants. Groups receive funding via an annual call for proposals.

Twelve contribution agreements (for 19 groups) totaling $654,500 were signed for 2015–2016 under the Group IAP program (this represents the total contribution funding available). Funded activities this year include workshops on learning and understanding the impacts of Residential Schools; wellness planning; intimate partner abuse; nutrition; parenting skills; financial management; post-traumatic stress disorders – how to recognize them and ask for help; and cultural activities including Sunrise ceremonies, pow-wows, and sweat lodges. The Groups range from 2 to 3 members to 55 members, and are from five provinces (BC, AB, SK, MB and ON) and one territory (NWT).

The 2016-17 Call for Proposals for new Group IAP projects was launched in September 2015, and submissions closed December 1, 2015. Over 100 inquiries were received, and 37 proposals were submitted prior to the deadline. Initial screening has been completed, and assessment and selection of proposals is underway.

Comments on variances: The difference between 2015–2016 Planned Spending and Actual Spending primarily reflects incremental funding through Supplementary Estimates for gestures of reconciliation and public education initiatives and for the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, as well as reallocations of funding for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's closing event.

Transfer Payments for Indigenous Entrepreneurship

Start date/End date: Ongoing

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

Description: Supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship leads to greater participation in the economy and improved economic prosperity for Indigenous Canadians. This Program is guided by the Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development and its vision of strengthening Indigenous entrepreneurship. The sub-programs within this Program work together to support the creation and growth of viable Indigenous businesses by providing access to business capital, support services and business opportunities. In playing this key support role, the Program expects to influence longer-term Indigenous business viability, leading to improved economic prosperity for Indigenous Canadians.

Repayable contributions: Contributions under the Indigenous Entrepreneurship transfer payment program may be conditionally or unconditionally repayable, as well as non-repayable. For more information, see the terms and conditions for Contributions to support Land Management and Economic Development.

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: No audit work done in this program area in 2015–2016.

Evaluations completed or planned: There was one evaluation in this program area completed and approved in 2015–2016: the Evaluation of Access to Business Capital and Support Services Program (January 2016).

Engagement of applicants and recipients: Throughout 2015–2016, the Department maintained dialogue with recipients through a variety of means to monitor compliance with program terms and conditions. This included attendance at events if feasible, telephone calls, emails, report reviews and meetings held at headquarters if the recipient was in Ottawa.

In 2015–2016, the Indigenous Entrepreneurship Program issued one funding agreement with a total value of $30,200,000 to the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association to advance Indigenous business and financial institutions. This development sought to expand the Indigenous economy and promote job creation across Canada.

Through stakeholder engagement in 2015–2016, INAC has:

• Worked in partnership with Aboriginal Financial Institutions, the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association and other key stakeholders to look at new ways to continue to provide business support and financing for Indigenous entrepreneurs, evolve the scope of services and program delivery by the Aboriginal Financial Institutions network as well as seek out opportunities to increase access to capital for the Aboriginal Financial Institutions network;
• Developed and implemented collaborative approaches, partnerships and frameworks in relation to specific and major business and economic initiatives and opportunities, contributing to enhanced Indigenous participation both inside and outside the federal procurement system. Examples of such initiatives are the National Shipbuilding and Defense Procurement committees;
• Led various outreach activities to advocate for current and prospective program recipients. These outreach activities informed program recipients about key opportunities, program supports and partnerships; and
• Worked in partnership with key federal departments and agencies on priority areas such as women entrepreneurship and tourism in order to leverage funds, strengthen partnerships, and collaborate and cooperate on government-wide initiatives for strategic planning and policy development.

Comments on variances: The difference between 2015–2016 Planned Spending and Actual Spending primarily reflects reallocations of funding to other departmental priorities.

Transfer Payments for Community Economic Development

Start date/End date: Ongoing

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

Description: Supporting community development leads to greater participation in the economy and improved economic prosperity for Indigenous Canadians. This Program is guided by the Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development and its vision of Enhancing the Value of Indigenous Assets, and supports activities that promote conditions for economic development. In playing this key support role, Community Economic Development programming expects to promote greater self-reliance and participation in the mainstream economy, and community well-being.

Repayable contributions: Contributions under the Community Development transfer payment program may be conditionally repayable. For more information, see the terms and conditions for Contributions to Support Land Management and Economic Development .

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: The Audit of Additions to Reserves Process was postponed to 2016–2017

Evaluations completed or planned: There were three evaluations completed and approved in this program area: the Evaluation of Lands and Economic Development Services Program (June 2015), the Evaluation of Administration of Reserve Land (September 2015) and the Evaluation of Contaminated Sites On-Reserve (South of 60th Parallel) Program (January 2016).

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

• INAC funded and worked with the Lands Advisory Board (LAB) and the Lands Advisory Board Resource Centre (LAB-RC) to support First Nations in the First Nations Land Management Regime by: providing support to developmental First Nations communities^{Footnote 11} to develop and draft land laws, rules, procedures, agreements and policies; facilitating community ratification votes on land codes and individual agreements; and providing advice to operational First Nations^{Footnote 12} on their land management systems.
• INAC continues to support the National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association (NALMA) and the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (CANDO), and other Indigenous organizations, to empower First Nations to manage and administer their land, environment and natural resources and to strengthen their economic development. In 2015–2016, 12 students became certified land managers through NALMA, and Economic Development Officers across Canada benefitted from training programs and services provided by CANDO.
• INAC partnered with the National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association and the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers to empower First Nations to manage and administer their land, environment and natural resources and to strengthen their economic development through training and capacity development activities.
• INAC continued to implement activities to support increased land-use planning to promote community economic development.
• INAC continued to partner with the Assembly of First Nations to develop a new Addition to Reserve Policy Directive. These efforts aim to clarify and streamline the key steps of the Additions to Reserve process.

Comments on variances: The difference between 2015–2016 Planned Spending and Actual Spending primarily reflects additional funding provided through internal reallocations for the assessment, management and remediation of federal contaminated sites, and the Community Opportunity Readiness Program. These increases in actual spending were partially offset by a reduced funding requirement reflecting the deferral of activities associated with the implementation of treaty land entitlement in Saskatchewan. Specifically, payments to the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities and to the Province of Saskatchewan for compensation for the loss of their tax base as a result of the settlement of treaty land were not required in 2015–2016 due to delays in the transfer of lands to reserve status; this deferred funding that was not required in 2015–2016 has been re-profiled to 2016–2017 when it will be available for the intended purpose.

Transfer Payments for Strategic Partnerships

Start date/End date: Ongoing

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

Description: The Strategic Partnerships Initiative (SPI) is an innovative horizontal program intended to align federal efforts to support Indigenous participation in complex economic opportunities, particularly large regional opportunities and major resource developments. SPI provides a mechanism for federal partners to collectively identify emerging opportunities, target investment decisions, and streamline program application and approval processes to support Indigenous communities at the early stages of large and complex economic opportunities. In doing so, the initiative also helps build closer partnerships with non-federal partners, including provincial and territorial governments, the private sector, and Indigenous communities. SPI 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 Indigenous Canadians can participate in, and benefit from, priority regional opportunities and major resource developments.

Repayable contributions: Repayable contributions exist for Strategic Partnerships. See the terms and conditions for Contributions to support the Aboriginal Economic Development Strategic Partnerships Initiative.

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: No audit work was completed in this program area in 2015–2016.

Evaluations completed or planned: No evaluation work was completed in this program area in 2015–2016.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The Strategic Partnerships Initiative continues to support community economic readiness activities that enable participation in major economic development opportunities. In 2015–2016, SPI's budget of $14 million supported 15 initiatives under the program, including the Ring of Fire in Northern Ontario, the Labrador Trough mining development in Quebec, biomass projects in the North, shipbuilding in Atlantic Canada, and significant opportunities in forestry and aquaculture. SPI also provided support to increase Indigenous participation in West Coast Energy infrastructure developments in response to the recommendations on West Coast Energy Infrastructure. Working with interested federal departments, the program made investments of $15.7 million to support projects centered on engagement and awareness, environmental participation, jobs and growth, and fish habitat restoration.

Comments on variances: The difference between 2015–2016 Planned Spending and Actual Spending primarily reflects reallocations of funding to other departmental priorities.

Transfer Payments for Infrastructure and Capacity

Start date/End date: This is a combination of sunsetting and ongoing

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

Description: This Program supports 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 Nation communities as well as supporting the four pillars of emergency management.

Repayable Contributions: Repayable contributions exist for the Capital Facilities Maintenance Program, the principal program through which the Government of Canada funds on-reserve community infrastructure. See the terms and conditions for Contributions to support the Construction and Maintenance of Community Infrastructure, Section 14.0 Repayable Contributions.

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: The Audit of the Operation Return Home Project was completed in December 2015. The Audit of the On-Reserve Housing Program was completed in June 2016.

Evaluations completed or planned: There were two evaluations completed in this program area in 2015–2016: the Evaluation of Education Facilities and Community Infrastructure (June 2015) and the Evaluation of the EcoEnergy for Aboriginal and Northern Communities Program (June 2015). The Evaluation of On-Reserve Housing began in 2015–2016 and is expected to be completed in December 2016.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: 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 Indigenous and northern communities, with an emphasis on off-grid communities.

In 2015–2016, engagement occurred through the development of First Nations Infrastructure Investment Plans by First Nation communities in collaboration with regional offices. Regional offices used community plans to develop their regional plans, and these regional plans were rolled-up into a National Infrastructure Investment Plan.

Regional offices engaged with First Nations and/or Tribal Councils to develop funding agreements and ensure that recipients complied with the terms and conditions. First Nations and/or Tribal Councils were responsible for the planning, design, tendering, and construction of specific major capital projects, and were also responsible for meeting the reporting requirements set out in their funding agreement. Funding recipients primarily used data collection instruments and audited financial statements to report on activities, deliverables and/or results of expenditures.

Comments on variances: The difference between 2015–2016 Planned Spending and Actual Spending primarily reflects additional funding provided through Supplementary Estimates to reimburse First Nations and emergency management service providers for on-reserve response and recovery activities; to support the repair and construction of on-reserve schools, and for Operation Return Home: Manitoba Interlake Flood Remediation and Settlement, offset by funding reallocations to other departmental priorities.

Transfer Payments for Urban Indigenous Participation

Start date/end date: Ongoing

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

Description: This Program supports the participation of urban Indigenous individuals and communities in the economy. The Program is comprised of two streams: Community Capacity Support and Urban Partnerships. Community Capacity Support provides funding to urban Indigenous community organizations to establish a strong and stable base from which to deliver initiatives that increase the participation of urban Indigenous people in the economy. Urban Partnerships encourages partnership development and community planning, making investments in projects that increase the participation of urban Indigenous people in the economy. In order to achieve more substantive outcomes in urban Indigenous communities, the program collaborates with key stakeholders to undertake strategic planning, articulate outcomes for communities, identify priorities, and jointly implement initiatives. In its approach, the program provides a vehicle by which the federal government can work with other governments, urban Indigenous organizations, and other stakeholders to support urban Indigenous individuals and communities in pursuing social and economic opportunities.

Repayable contributions: None

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: No audit work was completed in this program area in 2015–2016.

Evaluations completed or planned: No evaluation work was completed in this program area in 2015–2016.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: In 2015–2016 the Government of Canada provided funding to the National Association of Friendship Centres for the delivery of Community Capacity Support and Urban Partnerships programs, which aim to increase the participation of urban Indigenous peoples in Canada's economy. The National Association of Friendship Centres provided funding to 175 urban Indigenous organizations for 316 investments in projects and service delivery programs that support the increased participation of urban Indigenous peoples in the economy.

INAC provided Urban Partnerships funding for 37 projects to complete 8 Regional Strategic Plans. The plans will help guide funding investments made by the National Association of Friendship Centres in 2016–2017.

Comments on variances: The difference between 2015–2016 Planned Spending and Actual Spending primarily reflects reallocations of funding to other departmental priorities.

Transfer Payments for Northern Governance and People

Start date/End date: This is a mix of sunsetting and ongoing

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

Description: 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.

Repayable Contributions: None

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: No audit work was completed in this program area in 2015–2016.

Evaluations completed or planned: There were two evaluations underway in 2015–2016 in this program area: the Evaluation of Climate Change Adaptation (led by Environment Canada) is expected to be approved in 2016, and the Evaluation of Northern Governance – Support for Territorial Relations and Northern Organizations, which is expected to be completed and approved in September 2016.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: INAC fulfilled its obligation to provide ongoing funding, as of April 1, 2014, to Indigenous parties as per the final Northwest Territories Lands and Resources Devolution Agreement. This funding enabled the Indigenous parties to participate in the post-devolution lands and resources management regime with the Government of the Northwest Territories. Finance Canada managed the ongoing funding to the Government of the Northwest Territories as part of Territorial Formula Financing.

The Department engaged with the Government of Nunavut and Government of the Northwest Territories to finalize their annual grant agreements. Under these agreements, the Department reimbursed a portion of the costs each territorial government incurred to provide hospital and physician services to Indian and Inuit residents. Additionally, the Department continued to provide a funding agreement to the Government of Nunavut to support the strengthening of the territorial government's financial management capacity.

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

Comments on variances: Variance is not material.

Transfer Payments for Northern Science and Technology

Start date/End date: Ongoing

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

Description: This Program aims to support scientific research and technology in the North through programs and infrastructure to ensure domestic and international policy on key issues for the North is better informed by a scientific knowledge base. The focus of this program is: researching and monitoring contaminants and their impacts on the ecosystem and human health through the Northern Contaminants Program; assessing, managing and communicating scientific data and results, and contributing expertise to help inform public policy making and international controls on certain contaminants; and supporting 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.

Repayable contributions: None

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: No audit work was completed in this program area in 2015–2016.

Evaluations completed or planned: No evaluation work was completed in this program area in 2015–2016.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: In 2015–2016, the Northern Contaminants Program engaged potential recipients through the annual call for proposals, seeking proposals that were aligned with its strategic documents. To monitor progress and compliance with the terms and conditions of funding, the Program worked with recipients by requesting and reviewing mid-year and final project reports, and integrating their final project results into the Northern Contaminants Program annual Synopsis of Research Report.

Comments on variances: Variance is not material.

Transfer Payments for Northern Land, Resources and Environmental Management

Start date/End date: Ongoing

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

Description: This Program 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, Nunavut and the few remaining INAC-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.

Repayable contributions: None

Results achieved: Please refer to Section III of the 2015–16 Departmental Performance Report.

Audits completed or planned: No audit work was completed in this program area in 2015–2016.

Evaluations completed or planned: There was one evaluation completed in this program area: the Evaluation of Petroleum and Minerals in the North (January 2016).

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The Northern Contaminated Sites Program actively engaged with Indigenous and northern communities to ensure community perspectives were considered in the planning and remediation of contaminated sites across the three Territories. Funding was also provided to the Government of Yukon to ensure that human health and safety are protected at abandoned mines, including Faro, Clinton Creek, Ketza and Mount Nansen.

Indigenous organizations and the territorial governments participated in a committee that steered research priorities, issued calls for research proposals and allocated funding for the Nunavut General Monitoring Plan (NGMP). NGMP-funded recipients provided summary reports with results that will be shared on the NGMP website.

Comments on variances: The difference between 2015–2016 Planned Spending and Actual Spending primarily reflects deferral of activities associated with federal contaminated sites and reallocations of funding to other departmental priorities.