17 First Nations Given Control of Revenues

Summary#

This is the Order amending the Indian Band Revenue Moneys Order (registration SI/2021-34). It adds 17 First Nations to the list of bands that can manage their own band revenue moneys under section 69 of the Indian Act. The Order took effect on July 7, 2021.

What it does#

• Adds the following First Nations to the schedule of the Indian Band Revenue Moneys Order:
  • New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador
    • Glooscap First Nation
  • Quebec
    • Communauté anicinape de Kitcisakik
  • Saskatchewan
    • Ahtahkakoop
    • Big River
    • Carry the Kettle
    • Clearwater River Dene
    • Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation
    • Nekaneet
    • Pelican Lake
    • Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation
    • Pheasant Rump Nakota
    • Witchekan Lake
  • Alberta
    • Fort McKay First Nation
    • Loon River Cree
  • British Columbia
    • Lhoosk’uz Dene Nation
    • Tl’etinqox Government
    • Tsay Keh Dene
• Grants those bands the authority under section 69 to more directly manage and use their band revenue moneys (for example, to securitize or invest revenue).
• The Order was registered and came into force on July 7, 2021.

Who's affected#

• The 17 First Nations listed above and their band members.
• Indigenous Services Canada, which administers band moneys on behalf of the federal government, because some administrative responsibilities and accounts will shift to the bands.
• The Government of Canada’s finances in a small way, since the department expects fewer administrative costs and potentially less interest paid on funds held in trust.
• Local communities and businesses in and around those First Nations may notice effects if the bands use the funds for local projects or economic development.

Why it matters#

• It gives the named First Nations more control over their own revenue moneys. That can let them spend or invest money faster and pursue local economic opportunities without waiting for federal approvals.
• The change may make it easier for those bands to use their revenue as security or capital for projects, which can help with housing, infrastructure or business development.
• The federal government expects lower administrative costs and possibly smaller interest payments because less money may remain held in the Consolidated Revenue Fund.
• This is presented as a step toward shifting financial responsibility from the federal government to band councils, which supporters say supports greater self-determination.