REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN–(EMWNews – July 22, 2008) – The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Metis and Non-Status Indians, together with the Honourable Donna Harpauer, Saskatchewan Minister of Social Services and Vice Chief Guy Lonechild, Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations today announced an historic framework for First Nations child and family services in Saskatchewan.

“The agreement we are signing today is an example of our government’s commitment to work with stakeholders to build healthier, stronger First Nations communities,” said Minister Strahl. “This new approach will help to ensure First Nations families in Saskatchewan receive the support and services they need before they reach crisis.”

The Government of Canada has invested $104.8 million in new funding to the Saskatchewan child and family services framework over five years. This investment provides First Nations agencies with new resources that identify a family’s need before a child is removed from the family home.

“Together with our federal and First Nations partners, we share a commitment to ensuring Saskatchewan children grow up happy and healthy in a safe, nurturing environment,” said Minister Harpauer. “This investment will allow us to support families at-risk by providing services and tools to help them to care for their children.”

“Now with the announcement of prevention funding the First Nations Child and Family Service Agencies can start to work towards a truly positive change,” said Vice Chief Lonechild. “And will finally be able to look at other answers beside apprehension services to support children and families.”

This framework with the province and First Nations in Saskatchewan is an effective model for other provinces and First Nations agencies that may wish to discuss similar arrangements for an enhanced prevention-focused approach. It shares the vision of the Alberta Response Mode. The tripartite agreement signed in Alberta last year ensures First Nations families receive appropriate child and family services in a timely manner.

This news release and backgrounder is also available on the Internet at www.inac.gc.ca