OTTAWA, ONTARIO (June 20, 2012) – The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, announced today that the Schedule to the First Nations Fiscal and Statistical Management Act (FNFSMA) has been amended to include an additional five First Nations who have opted to participate in the regime. This tenth amendment brings the number of First Nations scheduled under the Act to a total of 84.
I am pleased that more First Nations from across the country have requested to opt into the FNFSMA in order to take advantage of the economic and governance benefits it offers their communities,
; said Minister Duncan. This initiative is just one of the many ways in which our Government is working with First Nations to create the conditions for them to participate more fully in Canada's vibrant economy.
Over the last year we have seen unprecedented interest in the fiscal powers afforded to First Nations through the FNFSMA. Today's announcement means 25 more First Nations have accessed the Act in the past year. This demonstrates how much the FNFSMA has been a 'game-changer'. First Nations are transforming their economies, and becoming more self-sufficient in the process,
said Mr. C.T. (Manny) Jules, Chief Commissioner of the First Nations Tax Commission .
The FNFSMA came into force on April 1, 2006. It has provided First Nations with the access to private capital enjoyed by other governments, strengthened the First Nations real property tax system and encouraged the use of higher financial management standards.
The five First Nations added to the Schedule to the Act include Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek (ON), Lheidli T'enneh (BC), Millbrook Band (NS), Obashkaandagaang (ON) and Saulteaux First Nation (SK).
Jan O'Driscoll
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
819-997-0002
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
Tina Pelletier
Public Affairs Officer
First Nations Tax Commission
613-789-5000
