Feds Unveil $40-Billion to Compensate First Nations Children and Families harmed by Child Welfare System

The federal government has unveiled its $40-billion agreement in principle to compensate First Nations children and families harmed by the notoriously underfunded child welfare system, this funding will also help establish long-term reform.

As a result of the largest class action lawsuit in Canadian history, Ottawa will provide $20 billion to children on reserve and in the Yukon who were unnecessarily removed from their homes between April 1, 1991 and March 31, 2022. This extends to their parents and caregivers.

Compensation will also be provided to those impacted by the narrow definition of Jordans Principle between Dec. 12, 2007 and Nov. 2, 2017.

Children who didn't receive essential public services between April 1, 1991 and Dec. 11, 2007 will also be eligible for monetary reparations.

The second half of the funding will go towards reform of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program, which will be spread out over five years.

Approximately $20 billion will support First Nations young adults transitioning out of the child welfare system, as well as bolster prevention mechanisms to keep children at home, in their communities work thats expected to start in April, 2022.

This preliminary agreement hinges on the approval of the Federal Court and the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT), which have both ruled that the federal government discriminated against First Nations children.