Harper Government Delivers on Commitment to First Nations Financial Accountability and Transparency
MEADOW LAKE, SK (NOVEMBER 29, 2012) – The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development was pleased to announce that Bill C-27, the First Nations Financial Transparency Act, was passed by the House of Commons and has moved on to the Senate.
“I am pleased that the bill has been passed by the House of Commons, and that First Nation community members are another step closer to enjoying the benefits of transparency and accountability,” said Minister Duncan. “If passed, this legislation will contribute to greater investor confidence which will lead to economic development opportunities, jobs and the kind of growth that creates healthier, more self-sufficient communities. This is an objective we all share.”
The bill now moves to the Senate for review. If passed, the First Nations Financial Transparency Act will provide First Nation community members with the information they need to make informed decisions about their communities.
“In 2006, the Harper government introduced the Federal Accountability Act to strengthen accountability and increase transparency and oversight of federal government operations,” said Rob Clarke, MP, Desnethé-Missinippi-Churchill River. “This landmark bill builds on that commitment and asks no more of First Nations leaders than Canadians ask of their Parliamentarians.”
The First Nations Financial Transparency Act responds to demands from First Nation community members for access to basic financial information about their band and its leadership. Currently, First Nation governments are the only governments in Canada that do not have legislated requirements to make basic financial information available to the public. Once it receives Royal Assent, the First Nations Financial Transparency Act will ensure that First Nation leaders are held to the same standard of accountability and transparency as other levels of government in Canada. | 
