The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations says yesterday’s provincial budget made some good investments, but is a move in the wrong direction for First Nations.
In a media release, FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron says he was glad to see investments in health, education and justice, but says he wants the province to “step up” to improve the quality of life for First Nations.
“We need to see… greater investments in areas that are affecting the quality of life for our people,” said Cameron in the release.
The province made investments in justice to improve policing and corrections, however, Cameron feels these investments should have been made in programs to reduce and divert crime.
The FSIN chief was also disappointed to see a cut of $3.1 million dollars for education programming specific to First Nations.
“We have long been advocating for our children to be on par educationally with the rest of the Province. We still are not seeing that,” said Cameron.
Vice-Chief Heather Bear was also glad to see investments in mental health, but feels more should be done to ensure these supports have a further reach into the north.
“Increased funding in mental supports is welcomed, but it needs to reach areas like northern Saskatchewan, where we have seen mental health emergencies in the past year,” she said.
Bear also noted it was good to see the province fully cover treatments for HIV patients, but feels more should be done for prevention.
Yesterday’s budget saw pretty much the same investments in First Nation and Metis programs as year’s prior with around $200 million available for targeted First Nations and Metis program. The only change this year was the $3.1 million in decreased funding for the First Nation specific education programs.
The province says the $200 million does not include other non-targeted investments that will benefit First Nation and Metis people.
“The Government of Saskatchewan remains committed to the province’s First Nations and Métis people,” Government Relations Minister and Minister Responsible for First Nations, Métis and Northern Affairs Warren Kaeding said in a media release. “With this budget, we will stay on track with our economic recovery, while continuing to provide services and programs and economic opportunities for all Saskatchewan residents.”