INAC On Campaign To Decrease Welfare Dependency

INAC On Campaign To Decrease Welfare Dependency

Monday, December 06, 2010 at 14:58

Indian Affairs is ramping up efforts to wean able-bodied people on reserves off of social assistance.

The department is forging ahead with its Active Measures program.

Spokesman Trevor Sutter says the whole idea is to identify barriers that are keeping many First Nations residents from attaining meaningful jobs — and then help those residents get off the cycle of dependency.

Sutter says the department has addressed the issue before on a piecemeal basis, but this approach is more complex.

He says this is not simply about finding a quick job — it is aimed at a full transition into meaningful employment.

Sutter also says Indian Affairs is not looking to cut people off from their assistance before they are ready.

He adds INAC is hoping to develop a memorandum of understanding with various tribal councils and the provincial government early in the New Year.