THUNDER BAY — Acting Ontario Regional Chief Alvin Fiddler isn't completely satisfied, but says the federal government's announcement of $112 million to support the First Nations education community will help ensure a safe return to school for students attending class on reserves.
Prime Minister Trudeau announced the funding Wednesday.
In a statement in Thunder Bay, Fiddler welcomed the announcement.
However, he also expressed some concerns.
"The delay in addressing the ongoing funding requests to ensure the health and safety of First Nations children returning to school on-reserve has been very distressing to leadership across the region," Fiddler said.
He called on the government to immediately disclose how the funds will be distributed, but stated "we have heard clearly that First Nations in Ontario do not want a proposal-based funding approach, especially given this funding commitment was made so close to the start of the school year."
Fiddler said First Nations "have long been planning for the safe reopening and return to school despite the lack of committed funds, and I am sure that communities will put this much-needed additional funding to work as soon as it is available."
Nishnawbe Aski Nation Deputy Grand Chief Derek Fox echoed Fiddler's concern about the tardiness of the announcement and the lack of detail.
Fox acknowledged the federal support, but said "we are discouraged the announcement doesn't provide details on specific resources, timelines, how to access the funding or how it will be allocated."
He added that NAN worries that proposal-based funding will cause significant delays.
Fiddler said the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the reality that First Nations communities experience regarding accessibility to online learning and educational resources, and exacerbates the widening educational achievement gap.
"This additional funding will help offset COVID-19 disruptions and help communities properly prepare for a safe reopening of schools," Fiddler said.
He also acknowledged the federal government for an additional $381 million being provided to Ontario, which he said will help off-reserve First Nations students gain greater protections against the virus as well, through the use of adapted learning spaces and the purchase of PPE and cleaning supplies.
