DISCONNECT BETWEEN FIRST NATIONS AND GOVERNMENT GROWING AS CUTS MOUNT
“Aboriginal people face unique and serious health challenges linked to traumatic effects of residential schools – yet this government has slashed funding to the few organizations in the country that specifically address challenges faced by our Aboriginal communities.” said Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing MP Carol Hughes.
OTTAWA, ON – On the final day for residential school survivors to apply for compensation, Carol Hughes is worried that mounting cuts to First Nations organizational bodies will only hamper the ability to focus at the local level and deliver appropriate health services.
“The Conservatives like to talk about partnership,” said Hughes. “But First Nations in my constituency and throughout Canada feel ignored by this government.” Hughes, in her role as NDP deputy critic for Aboriginal Health, says the government’s cuts in the omnibus budget were already severe especially when considering the unparalleled situation many these communities face. She is worried that additional cuts to tribal councils will only make things worse.
“Aboriginal people face unique and serious health challenges linked to traumatic effects of residential schools – yet this government has slashed funding to the few organizations in the country that specifically address challenges faced by our Aboriginal communities.” said Hughes.
Hughes is worried that health concerns are not being considered when groups that can help focus delivery based on need see core funding dry up. She stresses that residential school survivors provide a good example but notes there are many challenges that tribal councils help frame.
“How can the Minister think that the best way to solve this problem is to reduce resources for these organizations working to address it?” concluded Hughes.
