The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations says the federal government is effectively trying to muzzle the voice of First Nations people with recent funding cuts.
Earlier this week, it was learned the federation was having its core funding slashed from $1.6 million to $500,000 in the 2014-2015 fiscal year.
The FSIN says it’s not clear how badly the province’s 10 tribal councils were cut, but the clawback will restrict its ability to work with bands in socials areas, economic development and health.
Vice Chief Simon Bird says slashing funding to tribal councils will affect education on reserves, and it comes at a time when real gains were being made in the graduation rate:
“In spite of underfunded schools, our students are graduating at the highest rates in history. Slashing the funding eliminates the supports that have been producing these results.”
The FSIN says it doesn’t anticipate any immediate cuts to services or staff.