Canada’s Aboriginal population is becoming more engaged in the workforce and their standard of living is improving.
The findings are contained in a national report that shows the economic gap between Aboriginals and non-Aboriginals is narrowing, but it is still substantial.
The exception is reserves, where unemployment is high and incomes are low.
But one First Nations leader is predicting a major turnaround in the next decade.
Chief Clarence Louie is the chair of the National Aboriginal Economic Development Board.
He predicts that over the next 10 years, First Nations will make more money and create more jobs than they have in the last 100 years.
Louie has been the chief of the Osoyoos First Nation in B.C. since 1985.
It is widely considered the most economically successful First Nation in Canada.
The report has been presented to the federal government, which will use it draw up economic programs and policies for Canada’s aboriginal community.