(Ottawa) The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs is criticizing the federal government for cutting funding for research on former residential school grounds, saying it is deeply disappointed and outraged.
Communities could previously receive up to $3 million through the Missing Residential School Children Community Support Fund, but funding will now be capped at $500,000.
Deputy Grand Chief Betsy Kennedy says the decision to cut funding is not only disheartening, but also disrespectful to survivors and affected families.
Ottawa says the funding adjustment was made to adopt a “sustainable approach” that provides money to as many community projects as possible.
In a statement, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada said the funding adjustments will not apply to previously signed agreements and highlighted the $216 million made available since 2021 through the Community Support Fund for Missing Residential School Children.
Mme Kennedy says the decision to cut funding without first discussing it with First Nations leaders is a “missed opportunity” for Canada to strengthen its relationships with Indigenous peoples and respect their rights.