Jordan's Principle funding increase helps for now, say Manitoba First Nation leaders

Manitoba First Nation leaders welcomed a federal pledge of $1.55 billion for Jordan's Principle but said long-term system changes are needed while a backlog of applications remains.

First Nation leaders in Manitoba responded to a federal pledge of $1.55 billion for Jordan's Principle operations over the next year. Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak and other leaders said the increase from $1.03 billion provides short-term help but that long-term changes are needed to address systemic problems and delays. Jordan's Principle is a legal responsibility intended to ensure First Nations children receive timely social and health services when governments disagree about responsibility. Indigenous Services Canada reported in 2024 a backlog of about 140,000 Jordan's Principle applications, including roughly 25,000 marked urgent. Reported facts: - The federal government pledged $1.55 billion for Jordan's Principle for the next year, up from $1.03 billion budgeted for the current fiscal year. - Manitoba First Nation leaders said the funding "helps for now" but stressed that systemic, long-term fixes are required. - Indigenous Services Canada reported a 2024 backlog of about 140,000 applications, with approximately 25,000 labelled as urgent. - There was no government commitment announced to clear the backlog, and last year's narrowing of eligible requests remains in place. Summary: Leaders describe the new funding as temporary relief that does not by itself resolve delays, eligibility changes, or broader system issues affecting children's access to services. Ottawa has said it will work with First Nations to make Jordan's Principle more responsive, but specific timelines and whether the backlog will be reduced remain undetermined at this time.