2023 to 2027 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy (Updated January 2025)

Departmental actions: Address poverty on reserves by providing essential support, including funding for basic needs like food, clothing, rent, and utilities allowance.

Assist with special needs, including essential household items, personal incidentals, and doctor-recommended diets.

Offer pre-employment and employment support, including life skills training and job training, to empower individuals towards self-sufficiency.

• Program: Income Assistance
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of residents living on reserve who are supported through Income Assistance
  • Starting Point: 26.6% (2020 to 2021)^{Footnote roman numeral 1i}
  • Target: Decrease year over year^{Footnote roman numeral ii}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Low-income individuals and families living on-reserve and Status First Nations in Yukon can receive support through the Income Assistance program as a last resort where all other sources of funds have been exhausted. The Program provides funds for First Nations to cover the essential living expenses of eligible individuals and their families (i.e., those ordinarily resident on-reserve or Status Indians who live in Yukon). This supports Canada's efforts by acting as a social safety net and providing these essential supports on-reserve, providing a level of stability to participants with no other means, which also makes a clear correlation with UN Declaration article 21 and supports United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) Action Plan measure 2.14.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Reduce poverty in Canada in all its forms
  • CIF Indicator: Poverty rate, as measured by Canada's official poverty line
  • GIF Target 1.3: Implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, including floors, and by 2030 achieve substantial coverage of the poor and the vulnerable
  • GIF Target/SDG 1.2: By 2030, reduce at least by half the proportion of men, women and children of all ages living in poverty in all its dimensions according to national definitions

Departmental actions: Fund non-medical, social support services to seniors, adults with chronic illness, and children and adults with a disability (mental and physical) on-reserve to help them maintain their independence within their home communities.

• Program: Assisted Living
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of cases where a resident on reserve was assessed for services from the Assisted Living Program and received those services
  • Starting Point: 95% (2021 to 2022)
  • Target: 99% per year

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

The Assisted Living program provides in-home care, adult foster care, and institutional care for seniors, individuals living with chronic illness, or those with cognitive and/or physical disabilities. These supports are accessible to eligible low-income individuals to help maintain their independence for as long as possible. This program provides funding to First Nations who ordinarily reside on-reserve or Status First Nations in the Yukon Territory on an annual basis through negotiated funding agreements for non-medical social supports, as well as training and support for service delivery so that seniors and persons with disabilities can maintain functional independence within their home communities.

The program supports Canada's efforts by providing essential services to clients with no other means, and is also clearly aligned with UN Declaration articles 21.1, 21.2, 22.1, and 24.2.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Reduce poverty in Canada in all its forms
  • CIF Indicator 1.3: Implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, including floors, and by 2030 achieve substantial coverage of the poor and the vulnerable
  • GIF Target/SDG 1.2: By 2030, reduce at least by half the proportion of men, women and children of all ages living in poverty in all its dimensions according to national definitions

Departmental actions: Support community-based nutrition education activities in isolated northern communities to increase knowledge of healthy eating and to develop skills in selecting and preparing healthy store-bought and traditional or country food, and to improve healthy food access.

• Program: Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of First Nations and Inuit communities offering nutrition education activities
  • Starting Point: 97% (2021 to 2022)
  • Target: 100% by March 31, 2025^{Footnote roman numeral 3iii}
• Performance Indicator: Number of participants taking part in nutrition education programs and activities
  • Starting Point: 32,528 (2021 to 2022)
  • Target: At least 30,000 annually

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

ISC's continued support of Nutrition North Canada contributes to ensuring community-based nutrition education activities are available in isolated northern communities to increase knowledge of healthy eating and skill development in selecting and preparing healthy store-bought and traditional or country foods, and to improve healthy food access. When communities deliver nutrition education initiatives or activities, they are helping to enhance Indigenous and northern food security.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to sufficient, affordable and nutritious food
  • GIF Target/SDG 2.1: By 2030, end hunger and ensure access by all people, in particular the poor and people in vulnerable situations, including infants, to safe, nutritious and sufficient food all year round.

Departmental actions: Continue to work closely with Indigenous partners to support distinctions-based, Indigenous-led, culturally-relevant and community-based approaches to mental wellness for First Nations, Inuit and Métis. This includes continuing to be guided by Indigenous-led frameworks such as the First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework, Honouring Our Strengths, the National Inuit Suicide Prevention Strategy and Pathfinding Towards a Flourishing Future Awareness and Advocacy Guide: Addressing the Need for Improved Services for Indigenous Children and Youth, Including 2SLGBTQQIA+ Young People.^{Footnote roman numeral 4iv}

• Program: Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of First Nations and Inuit communities with access to mental wellness team services
  • Starting Point: 81% as of March 2023
  • Target: 95% by March 2029

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Mental health and wellness is related to the overall health status of Indigenous individuals and communities. Indigenous Peoples in Canada experience inequities in mental wellness outcomes when compared to non-Indigenous people due to historical and ongoing impacts of colonization - that is, racism, discrimination, systemic violence, and intergenerational trauma. The Mental Wellness Program promotes Indigenous mental health and well-being by supporting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis-led approaches to mental health and wellness which can supplement and offset the lack of culturally safe and competent, community-grounded components in prioritized mental wellness programs and services offered by Provinces and Territories.

ISC is active in bringing together Indigenous mental wellness experts and communities on the issue, such as through the National Summit on Indigenous Mental Wellness where best practices are shared with the goal to improve mental wellness services to First Nations, Inuit and Métis.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canada prevents causes of premature death
  • GIF Target/SDG 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being (3.4.2 Suicide mortality rate)
  • GIF Target/SDG 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol

ISC's health programs aim to improve Indigenous well-being and contribute to SDG 3 by focusing on healthy living and eliminating tuberculosis in Inuit Nunangat by 2030.

ISC collaborates with Inuit partners, and provides ongoing support through Budget 2018 and Budget 2023 for tuberculosis elimination. The department supported Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, through the Inuit Public Health Task Group, to develop the Inuit Tuberculosis Elimination Framework, which guided the development of four Inuit-led regional action plans. ISC's Public Health Surge Team offers in-person and virtual support during tuberculosis outbreaks, including in Inuit Nunangat. Efforts are underway to address delays in accessing tuberculosis drugs not yet approved in Canada through alternative access pathways.

• Program: Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

Associated domestics targets or ambitions and/or global targets:

• CIF Ambition: Canada prevents causes of premature death
• CIF Target 3.11: Eliminate tuberculosis across Inuit Nunangat by 2030, and reduce the incidence of active tuberculosis by at least 50% by 2025
• CIF Indicator 3.11.1: Tuberculosis incidence per 100,000 population in Inuit Nunangat

Departmental actions: Sustain support for First Nations' educational autonomy, fostering high-quality, culturally relevant education on-reserve. This involves collaborative initiatives, like regional education agreements, and partnerships with First Nations to address educational disparities between First Nations students and their Canadian counterparts.

• Program: Elementary and Secondary Education
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of First Nations on reserve students who graduate from secondary school (On-Time and Extended-Time)^{Footnote roman numeral 5v}
  • Starting Point:
    • On-Time: 26% (2022-23)
    • Extended-Time: 44% (2022-23)
  • Target (On-Time and Extended-Time): Maintain or increase results year over-year.
• Performance Indicator: Number of First Nations under a transformative model^{Footnote roman numeral 6vi}
  • Starting Point: 206 (2022 to 2023)
  • Target: Maintain or increase results year-over-year^{Footnote 1}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

In April 2019, Canada launched a new policy and funding approach co-developed with First Nations partners, to support elementary and secondary school education for students ordinarily resident on-reserve with funding that is comparable to funding in provincial education systems, plus additional funding for language and culture, full-day kindergarten for children aged 4 and 5, before- and after-school programming, adult education and school food programming for students on reserve.

The number of First Nations signing transformative education agreements has been steadily increasing since Education Transformation began in 2019-2020, going from 177 to 207 in 2023-2024.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to inclusive and quality education throughout their lives
  • CIF Target 4.1.1: High school completion rate
  • GIF Target 4.1: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes
  • GIF Target/SDG 4.2: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys have access to quality early childhood development, care, and pre-primary education so that they are ready for primary education.

Departmental actions: Enhance economic and infrastructure capacity by supporting Indigenous organization-led training and post-secondary success for students which will enable communities to excel in infrastructure planning, management, and green economy prospects.

• Program: Post-Secondary Education
• Performance Indicator: Number of funded First Nations, Inuit and Métis students who graduate with a post-secondary degree/diploma/certificate
  • Starting Point: 2022 to 2023 fiscal year (2021-2022 data):
    • First Nations: 1,664^{Footnote 2}
    • Inuit: 277^{Footnote 3}
    • Métis: 713
  • Target:
    • First Nations: Between 4,110-4,494 by March 31, 2025
    • Inuit: 50 students by March 31, 2025
    • Métis: Maintain or increase results year over year

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Post-secondary student success is a key element in closing the socio-economic gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, and improving capacity in Indigenous communities to support and administer their economic, infrastructure and environmental needs.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to inclusive and quality education throughout their lives
  • CIF Target 4.2.1: Post-secondary education attainment rate
  • GIF Target/SDG 4.3: By 2030, ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational and tertiary education, including university
  • GIF Target 4.4: By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs and entrepreneurship.
  • Given the time of reporting, and the fact that the school years and the departmental fiscal years do not align, results can only be reported from the previous fiscal year. This means results reported in 2022-2023 refers to the 2021-22 school year.^{Footnote roman numeral 7vii}

Through the Capital Facilities Maintenance Program, ISC invests in education facilities in First Nations communities, including new constructions as well as additions, renovations and major repairs to existing schools. Investments in education facilities support the creation of quality learning environments that are safe and healthy, promoting better educational outcomes for students living on reserves. Schools are often the cornerstone of First Nations communities, providing students with a safe place to learn and grow, and acting as a gathering place for community events and cultural activities.

• Program: Community Infrastructure

Associated domestics targets or ambitions and/or global targets:

• GIF Target 4.a: Build and upgrade education facilities that are child, disability and gender sensitive and provide safe, non-violent, inclusive and effective learning environments for all

Departmental actions: Fund and support Indigenous women entrepreneurs through funding for the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association's (NACCA) Indigenous Women's Entrepreneurship Initiative.

• Program: Indigenous Entrepreneurship and Business Development
• Performance Indicator: Number of micro-loans provided to Indigenous women entrepreneurs
  • Starting Point: 164 (2022 to 2023)^{Footnote roman numeral 8viii}
  • Target: 200 micro-loans annually^{Footnote roman numeral 9ix}
• Performance Indicator: Percentage increase in number of Indigenous women entrepreneurs accessing financing through Aboriginal financial institutions and Métis capital corporations
  • Starting Point: 310 Indigenous women entrepreneurs received financing from National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association's network in 2020-2021. This includes businesses owned 100% and partially by women.
  • Target: Increase of 50% by 2025

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: ISC funds the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association's Indigenous Women's Entrepreneurship Initiative under the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program (AEP). The Initiative supports Indigenous women in various stages of engagement with entrepreneurship and invests in their skills, employment, and leadership to address the barriers Indigenous women entrepreneurs face. The initiative also provides anti-bias training to Indigenous Financial Institutions and business support officers to ensure the services and environment are inclusive and supportive of women entrepreneurs. The aim is to increase women's participation in entrepreneurship and increase women's financial independence. This in turn will hopefully contribute to increased socio-economic security and gender equality in the long term, and to advancing economic reconciliation.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls
  • CIF Ambition 5.2: Gender equality in leadership roles and at all levels of decision-making
  • CIF Target 5.2.1: Proportion of leadership roles held by women
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.1: End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.c: Adopt and strengthen sound policies and enforceable legislation for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls at all levels

Departmental actions: Collaborate with Canada Mortgage Housing Corporation on the implementation of the Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative to support victims of violence

• Program: Safety and Prevention Services
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of Indigenous women who report being a victim of intimate partner violence in the previous 12 months.
  • Starting Point: 17% (2018)
  • Target: Decrease in results year over year^{Footnote 4Footnote roman numeral 10x}
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of requests for overnight residence in ISC-funded shelters by women, children and 2SLGBTQI+ people that are met
  • Starting Point: 78% (2020 to 2021)^{Footnote 5}
  • Target: Maintain or increase results year over year^{Footnote 6}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

The Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative develops and funds shelters and transitional housing for those escaping gender-based violence including Indigenous women and their children, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

The Initiative will result in a minimum of 38 emergency shelters and 50 transition homes across Canada, including in urban areas and the North. This work supports the distinctions-based programming to safeguard Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQI+ people from gender-based violence as outlined in the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Eliminate gender-based violence and harassment
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation

Departmental actions: Support services for Indigenous communities, women, children, and families across Canada, including First Nations, Inuit, Métis, urban, and gender diverse people through the Pathways Initiative, targeting the specific safety and well-being needs of the communities.

• Program: Safety and Prevention Services
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of recipient communities or organizations reporting that their project has improved community safety and well-being.
  • Starting Point: To be determined (new program)^{Footnote 7}
  • Target: 90% per year

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

The Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative develops and funds shelters and transitional housing for those escaping gender-based violence including Indigenous women and their children, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

The Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative funds projects that support holistic Indigenous community safety and well-being initiatives that prioritize and address the safety and well-being of Indigenous women and girls.

Funding provided through the Pathways Initiative aims to:

• Support Indigenous-designed interventions and Indigenous definitions of safe, secure and resilient communities;
• Support programs, services and interventions that address existing and emerging needs relating to the safety and well-being of Indigenous women and girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People; and address community safety and well-being needs that support reconciliation, resiliency, and capacity of Indigenous communities/organizations and their members, contribute to and promote a sense of belonging of community members.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Eliminate gender-based violence and harassment
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.

Departmental actions: Implement culturally competent GBA Plus (CCGBA Plus), an impacts-focused form of intersectional analysis that has reconciliation at the core and is informed by the work of National Indigenous Women's Organizations and Indigenous Peoples more broadly.

• Program: Internal Services
• Performance Indicator: Increase quality and consistency of GBA Plus across all sectors and functional areas.
  • Starting Point: Inconsistent application and quality of CCGBA Plus across and between sectors and functional areas.
  • Target:
    • Completion of CCGBA Plus strategy implementation plan, including logic model and indicators, by March 31, 2025.^{Footnote roman numeral 11xi}
    • Support sectors to apply CCGBA Plus by developing ISC-specific and function-specific CCGBA Plus guidance, guidelines, training, and other resources (2025 and ongoing).

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Notable in the ISC context, GBA Plus goes beyond gender to think about all elements of individual and community identity. ISC's GBA Plus Responsibility Centre provides capacity building supports, advice, and challenge function/review of all ISC programs and internal services. This is meant to ensure ISC programs and services are inclusive for diverse subpopulations of Indigenous Peoples, that barriers to accessing programs or services are anticipated and mitigated, and to support inclusive advancement of the department's mandate and goals, including SDGs. ISC has recently established a GBA Plus working group with Indigenous partners to further decolonize the approach.

CCGBA Plus requires consideration of real and potential barriers and impacts, and pushes for mitigation measures to ensure equitable access and benefit for and between diverse groups of individuals, and communities.

Key activities include advice on collecting, using, and reporting on disaggregated data and qualitative evidence to assess and demonstrate impact on diverse subpopulations of Indigenous Peoples, capacity building activities to support programs and internal services throughout the department, and challenge function to advise on all major initiatives requiring senior executive approval.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Gender equality in leadership roles and at all levels of decision-making
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.1: End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.5: Ensure women's full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision making in political, economic and public life
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.6: Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform for Action and the outcome documents of their review conferences
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.A: Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as access to ownership and control over land and other forms of property, financial services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national laws
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.B: Enhance the use of enabling technology, in particular information and communications technology, to promote the empowerment of women
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.C: Adopt and strengthen sound policies and enforceable legislation for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls at all levels

The vision for ISC's Quality Improvement & Accreditation program is that First Nations and Inuit individuals, families and communities access and manage accredited health services that meet their needs. It is a continuous process that facilitates access to culturally safe, high-quality health services that meet evidence-based standards and increases credibility and partnerships with regional health systems and peers.

Through investments in the Quality Improvement and Accreditation Program, ISC advances accreditation of health organizations, which can play a pivotal role in mitigating systemic barriers to gender equity by implementing standards that address the following issues identified in research findings:

• Multiple studies have indicated that individuals feel unsafe within the healthcare system due to anti-LGBTQI+ bias, resulting in delays in seeking necessary care and treatment.
• Many two-spirit and LGBTQ Indigenous Canadians have expressed concerns about discrimination based on factors such as HIV status, sexual orientation, or identity, which has deterred them from accessing healthcare services.
• Additionally, alarmingly high rates of lifetime suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among two-spirit and LGBTQ Aboriginal populations underscore the urgent need for action.
• Privacy and confidentiality concerns have been raised in small rural and on-reserve community health settings, particularly impacting two-spirit individuals.
• Finally, a Trans research project discovered that 61% of Indigenous respondents had unmet healthcare needs, emphasizing the importance of addressing these disparities through accreditation standards.

• Program: Health Systems Support

Associated domestics targets or ambitions and/or global targets:

• CIF Ambition 5.1: Eliminate gender-based violence and harassment
• CIF Target 5.1: Fewer women are victims of intimate partner violence and sexual assault
• CIF Ambition 5.2: Gender equality in leadership roles and at all levels of decision-making
• CIF Target 5.2: Greater representation of women in leadership roles
• CIF Ambition 5.3: Canadians share responsibilities within households and families
• CIF Target 5.3: Equal sharing of parenting roles and family responsibilities

Departmental actions: Work with First Nations to take action in support of the commitment to eliminate remaining long-term drinking water advisories on reserves and increase efforts to ensure that long-term investments and resources are in place to prevent future ones.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of on-reserve public water systems financially supported by ISC that have a low risk rating
  • Starting Point: 57% (2019 to 2020)
  • Target: At least 70% by March 2026^{Footnote 8}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

ISC takes measures to support First Nations-led engagement processes, co-develop long-term strategies for sustainable drinking water and wastewater, and invest in water and wastewater assets, including their operation and maintenance. Ongoing support is provided to First Nations to lift all long-term drinking water advisories affecting on reserve public First Nations drinking water systems financially supported by ISC.

The performance of public water systems on reserve is assessed annually and includes a risk assessment that evaluates an extensive set of factors that could lead to problems with the wastewater systems. Low risk ratings indicate that the systems operate with minor or no deficiencies.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to drinking water and use it in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Target 6.1: All of the long-term drinking water advisories on public systems on reserve are to be resolved
  • CIF Indicator 6.1.1: Number of long-term drinking water advisories on public systems on reserves
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.1: By 2030, achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.5: By 2030, implement integrated water resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.b: Support and strengthen the participation of local communities in improving water and sanitation management

Departmental actions: Support all First Nations communities in ensuring they have ongoing access to a trained Community Based Drinking Water Quality Monitor or an Environmental Public Health Officer to sample and test the drinking water for potential bacteriological contamination in order to minimize potential negative health impacts.^{Footnote roman numeral 14xiv}

• Program: Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention / Community Infrastructure^{Footnote roman numeral 15xv}
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of First Nations drinking water systems that meet the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality
  • Starting Point: 94% (2019-20)
  • Target: 97% of ISC-funded First Nations water systems meet bacteriological quality standards by March 2026
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of First Nation communities that have access to a Community-based Water Monitor or an Environmental Public Health Officer to sample and test drinking water quality at the tap
  • Starting Point: 100% (as of March 31, 2009)
  • Target: 100% by March 31, 2025^{Footnote roman numeral 16xvi}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

The Environmental Health Officers and the Community-Based Water Monitors ensure proper sampling and testing procedures are undertaken in First Nations communities to determine whether or not water is suitable for consumption by identifying the presence of potential pathogens.

ISC collaborates with First Nations communities and provides funding for community-based water monitoring. By ensuring technical support and expertise, potential concerns can be identified, and recommendations can be provided to the Chief and Council for action. ISC also assists First Nations in monitoring drinking water quality, providing advice on safety and wastewater disposal, and reviewing infrastructure project proposals from a public health perspective. These measures contribute to understanding drinking water quality issues and their resolution.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to drinking water and use it in a sustainable manner
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.1: By 2030, achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.5: By 2030, implement integrated water resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.b: Support and strengthen the participation of local communities in improving water and sanitation management

Departmental actions: Support First Nations communities to assume control and delivery of water and wastewater services, including by transferring water and wastewater services in communities to the Atlantic First Nations Water Authority.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• Performance Indicator: Number of co-developed service delivery models based on community engagements within three years of initial investments
  • Starting Point: 0 (as of March 31, 2021)
  • Target: 2 by March 31, 2025^{Footnote roman numeral 17xvii}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

In alignment with Article 23 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, ISC is supporting First Nations and First Nations-led organizations to assume control of infrastructure service delivery.

These actions will strengthen local and regional capacity for water and sanitation management and contribute to the goal of safe and clean water for all Canadians.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to drinking water and use it in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator 6.b.1: Proportion of local administrative units with established and operational policies and procedures for participation of local communities in water and sanitation management
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.b: Support and strengthen the participation of local communities in improving water and sanitation management

Departmental actions: Implement the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations mandatory minimum effluent quality standards through secondary wastewater treatment and other federal activities.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of on-reserve public wastewater systems financially supported by ISC that have a low risk rating
  • Starting Point: 48% (2019 to 2020)
  • Target: 69% by March 2026^{Footnote roman numeral 18xviii}

Departmental actions: Support First Nations to design, plan, construct, operate and maintain wastewater systems that meet Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations requirements on reserve.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of wastewater systems on reserve where effluent quality standards are achieved.
  • Starting Point: 59.8% (2021 to 2022)
  • Target: 85% by March 2030

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Untreated and undertreated wastewater (sewage) in waterways is an environmental, human health and economic issue. The Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations include mandatory minimum effluent quality standards that can be achieved through secondary wastewater treatment and are intended to help keep water clean for both human consumption and animals that live in or near the water.

By supporting First Nations to ensure that wastewater systems on reserve meet Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations, Indigenous Service Canada will contribute to the goal of ensuring that water is safe and clean for all Canadians.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.5: By 2030, implement integrated water resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.b: Support and strengthen the participation of local communities in improving water and sanitation management.

Departmental actions: Advance development of clean and renewable energy through collaboration with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs (CIRNA), Infrastructure Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and the Indigenous Council formed under Wah-ila-toos.

• Program: Communities and the Environment
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of Indigenous clients reporting easier access to clean energy programming
  • Starting Point: 0% in 2021 when Wah-ila-toos was launched
  • Target: 90% by 2027
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of Indigenous Peoples participating in engagement sessions that say it was meaningful and inclusive
  • Starting Point: 0% in 2021 when Wah-ila-toos was launched
  • Target: 70% by 2027

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

As part of the Wah-ila-toos initiative (an initiative administered by Natural Resources Canada, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, and ISC), ISC is contributing to SDG 7 by working with Wah-ila-toos to reduce dependence on diesel-powered electricity on reserve, stemming from Budget 2021's $300 million in Off-Diesel funding.

This interdepartmental initiative was gifted the name Wah-ila-toos following a sacred name gifting ceremony held by Grandmothers and Elders. The name Wah-ila-toos represents our collective responsibility to uphold our good relations with each other.

The Wah-ila-toos initiative was established to streamline coordination of federal departments implementing funding programs for the reduction of diesel fuel use in Indigenous, rural, and remote communities. This single-window approach to federal funding to support capacity building and clean energy projects includes the participation of NRCan, CIRNAC, and ISC, as well as ECCC and HICC. A distinctions-based Indigenous Council was established to provide guidance and advice on programs and policy development. The Indigenous Council recently finalized recommendations to support the clean energy transition in Indigenous, rural and remote communities through their report Kinship & Prosperity. As of the end of 2023-24, the Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities Program had signed 187 agreements (grants and contributions); of which, 49 under the Bioheat stream, 11 for the Deployment stream, 31 for the Demonstration stream, 66 for Capacity Building stream, and 30 co-delivered agreements with the Strategic Partnership Initiative at ISC and the Indigenous Off-Diesel Initiative at NRCan.^{Footnote roman numeral 21xxi}

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians reduce their energy consumption
  • GIF Target/SDG 7.1: By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services
  • GIF Target/SDG 7.2: By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix

Departmental actions: Work with partners to advance the Indigenous Climate Leadership Agenda to support the clean energy transition for diesel-reliant remote and Indigenous communities, support capacity and development of economically sustainable clean energy projects.

• Program: Communities and the Environment
• Performance Indicator: Number of projects funded to support First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities' clean energy capacity and readiness
  • Starting Point: One regional clean energy initiative stood up in British Columbia started in 2016, with renewal in 2021
  • Target: Five (5) new regional Indigenous clean energy initiatives by March 2027^{Footnote roman numeral 22xxii}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

With this Clean Energy funding, the Strategic Partnerships Initiative has stood up clean energy initiatives in Atlantic Canada, Quebec, Manitoba, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia (renewal), as well as entered into a partnership with Indigenous Clean Energy social enterprise. Future work will focus on developing a Clean Energy Regional Initiatives in Ontario.

This indicator captures new programming under the Strategic Partnerships Initiative from 2021 to 2024. Budget 2024 renewed the Strategic Partnerships Initiative program's clean energy funding of $36 million over three years starting in 2024. This funding will help to build capacity for local, economically sustainable clean energy projects in First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities and support economic development opportunities. Additionally, the Community Opportunity Readiness Program has recently provided funding for First Nation and Inuit communities to invest in clean energy projects, as one of the eligible types of economic opportunities. The program funds a portion of the project budget for communities to plan and implement economic and business investments in development opportunities. These community-owned businesses generate jobs, own-source revenues, and provide goods and services to benefit their community members.^{Footnote roman numeral 23xxiii}

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians reduce their energy consumption
  • GIF Target/SDG 7.1: By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services
  • GIF Target/SDG 7.2: By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix

Departmental actions: Invest in clean and efficient energy projects in First Nations communities.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• Performance Indicator: Number of efficiency or clean energy related projects completed
  • Starting Point: 32 projects as of September 30, 2020^{Footnote 9}
  • Target: 82 projects by March 2028^{Footnote 9}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

ISC is supporting projects to facilitate First Nations efforts to transition from diesel to clean, reliable and affordable energy systems through a combination of alternative energy projects featuring solar, hydroelectric, wind and others clean energy. These projects aim to reduce communities' use of diesel for heat and power so that a greater proportion of their energy consumption comes from non-fossil fuel sources. Diesel can remain available as a backup power and heat generation source. The Department is also supporting First Nations communities to improve and optimize energy systems through upgrades and energy efficiency projects.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition 7.3: Canadians have access to clean and renewable energy (no associated targets or indicators)

Departmental actions: Collaborate with provinces and territories through Regional Energy and Resources Tables to implement a mines-to-mobility supply chain strategy, increase the labour market participation of Persons with Disabilities, and adopt a sector-specific approach to workforce support. Additionally, ISC will test community-based solutions for national and regional priorities.

• Program: Indigenous Entrepreneurship and Business Development
• Performance Indicator: Number of Indigenous-owned and controlled businesses being created or expanded in Canada
  • Starting Point: 914 (2021 to 2022)^{Footnote roman numeral 25xxv}
  • Target: 1,000 by March 31 of each year

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

As part of our commitment to inclusivity and economic growth, we actively support the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program (AEP), which seeks to increase the number of viable businesses in Canada owned and controlled by Indigenous Peoples. The AEP funds a broad range of entrepreneurial pursuits and aims to build capacity, reduce barriers, and increase access to capital through strategic partnerships that will enhance economic opportunities for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people.

The AEP provides $34.5 million in annual funding to support economic development for First Nations, Inuit and Métis entrepreneurs by offering non-repayable equity contributions to support entrepreneurs to start, expand or acquire a business, as well as diverse business services. It also supports loan interests, capacity building and training for Indigenous Financial Institutions.

Through collaboration with communities, Indigenous economic development organizations (such as the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association), and other internal and external partners, improvements are being made to accessing capital, promoting a climate of economic development within communities; and, ensuring full economic participation of Indigenous communities and entrepreneurs in the Canadian economy, according to community vision and needs.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition 8.1: Canadians have access to quality jobs
  • CIF Ambition 8.5: Canadians contribute to and benefit from sustainable economic growth
  • CIF Indicator 8.1.1: Unemployment rate
  • CIF Indicator 8.5.1: Gross domestic product per capita
  • GIF Target/SDG 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities, decent job creation, entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation, and encourage the formalization and growth of micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises, including through access to financial services
  • GIF Target/SDG 8.5: By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value.
  • GIF Target/SDG 8.10: Strengthen the capacity of domestic financial institutions to encourage and expand access to banking, insurance and financial services for all.

ISC invests in connectivity projects in First Nations communities through the First Nation Infrastructure Fund and collaborates with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on the Universal Broadband Fund. Ensuring that First Nations have access to internet speeds comparable to those of other Canadians is a major step towards delivering on key government priorities, such as reliable public infrastructure and reconciliation.

Reliable high-speed internet is an essential tool for everyone. Increased internet speeds will facilitate First Nations communities' participation in the modern digital economy, allow for effective operation and maintenance of vital community infrastructure, and enhance the delivery of important socio-economic services, such as healthcare, education, and emergency and public safety services.

Program: Community Infrastructure

The eHealth Infostructure Program aims to improve the efficiency of health care delivery to First Nations individuals, families, and communities through the use of digital health technologies. This facilitates data collection, communication, management, and utilization, and enables front-line care providers to better deliver health services. The eHealth Program supports and enables public health surveillance; health services delivery (primary and community care included); health reporting, planning and decision-making; and, integration/compatibility with other health service delivery partners.

Through investments in the eHealth Infostructure Program, ISC also aims to improve connectivity for healthcare facilities in remote First Nations communities. It aligns with Canada's Connectivity Strategy's objectives of "broadband speeds of at least 50 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload" and "mobile wireless coverage is available where Canadians live and work, and along major road corridors". The program funds broadband connectivity installations, and works to increase and sustain better access to healthcare services in these communities.

Planned activities involve expanding connectivity deployments using newer technologies such as Low Earth Orbit Satellites (LEOs) where alternative means (e.g., fibre optics) are limited or not feasible.

Program: Primary Health Care

Associated domestics targets or ambitions and/or global targets:

• CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to modern and sustainable infrastructure^{Footnote roman numeral 26xxvi}

The Land Use Planning Initiative supports First Nations communities in building capacity for effective land management, including the development and implementation of a land use plan that defines a clear vision for the community based on their priorities and strategies for the use and development of their lands and resources in accordance with their aspirations, needs and interests. First Nations supported under this initiative are acknowledging the importance of integrating climate change considerations and effective infrastructure planning into their land use plans. For example, land use plans may include the construction of green energy infrastructure like wind and solar farms on reserves as well as policies designed to reduce or minimize greenhouse gas emissions in existing infrastructure and in construction, transportation, and industry activities on reserves.

Program: Communities and the Environment

Departmental actions: Contribute to the development of indicators and targets towards the implementation of Action Plan measures for which ISC has accountability, in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners, through Justice Canada's whole-of government, co-developed process, according to timelines and results to be co-determined. This includes measures related to the obligation to ensure bills and regulations are consistent with the UN Declaration.

Consult and cooperate with Indigenous Peoples on the review of and development of new/amended legislation, and regulations.

• Program: All
• Performance Indicator: Number of laws and regulations that have been developed, or amended for consistency with the UN Declaration in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous Peoples^{Footnote roman numeral 28xxviii}
  • Starting Point: New legislated obligation – June 2021
  • Target: 100% annually

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

The department supports the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act by building foundational pieces to support community-led control of programs and services and through the ongoing co-design and transfer of programs and services. All of these are critical to advancing self-determination and increasing equity—key objectives of the Act and of the reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities.

The Action Plan released in June 2023 provides a roadmap of actions Canada needs to take in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to implement the principles and rights set out in the UN Declaration and to further advance reconciliation in a tangible way.

The Plan also commits to engage and consult with Indigenous partners to establish various implementation, monitoring and oversight processes.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced
  • GIF Target/SDG 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard

Departmental actions: Provide financial support, business advisory services, mentorship, and training opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs.

• Program: Indigenous Entrepreneurship and Business Development / Internal Services^{Footnote roman numeral 29xxix}
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of federal contracts awarded to certified Indigenous businesses
  • Starting Point: 17.68% (2022 to 2023)
  • Target: 5% by March 2026

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

ISC works in collaboration with First Nations to ensure an enabling regulatory and legislative environment for economic development on reserves. The department uses federal programming to advance economic opportunities in Indigenous communities, and increase economic capacity supports, including specialized training opportunities delivered by Indigenous-led organizations. By supporting a new Indigenous Tourism Fund, ISC aims to help the Indigenous tourism industry recover from the pandemic and position itself for long-term, sustainable growth. The department also aims to continue implementing the first Social Innovation and Social Finance Strategy to support social purpose organizations - including Indigenous economic actors - to access flexible financing opportunities that enable them to grow and enhance their impacts.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced
  • CIF Indicator 10.1.1: Gini Coefficient
  • CIF Indicator 10.4.1: Median household after-tax income
  • GIF Target/SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
  • GIF Target/SDG 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard

Departmental actions: Continue to implement Additions to Reserves as they advance reconciliation, fulfill legal obligations, improve treaty relationships, and foster economic opportunities. Additions to Reserve also allow First Nations to leverage their lands to attract investment, create employment and generate own source revenue.

• Program: Communities and the Environment
• Performance Indicator: Number of Additions to Reserves completed annually
  • Starting Point: 40 (2022 to 2023)
  • Target: 70 by March 2026^{Footnote roman numeral 30xxx}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

An Addition to Reserve is a parcel of land added to the existing reserve land of a First Nation or that creates a new reserve. Additions to Reserve also allow First Nations to leverage their lands to attract investment, create employment and generate own source revenue.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition 10.4: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced
  • GIF Target/SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status

Supporting the advancement of self-determination with Indigenous partners is essential to reducing socioeconomic inequalities.

Identifying and closing gaps requires capacity and expertise on the part of Indigenous governments, in areas such as strategic planning, results-based management, and the interpretation of socioeconomic data.

The Indigenous Governance and Capacity programs provide funding to support the core operations of First Nation governments and governance capacity building initiatives. ISC plans to continue its ongoing collaboration with Indigenous partners to understand the programs' limitations and to explore potential reforms. Program reform would seek to ensure that these programs provide First Nations governments with sufficient, predictable and flexible funding to attract and retain the appropriate representative leadership and administrative staff to support good governance, plan for the future, and advance their visions of self-determination.

Closing socioeconomic gaps is a central goal of economic reconciliation.

Program: Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports / Community Economic Development / Indigenous Entrepreneurship and Business Development

Associated domestics targets or ambitions and/or global targets :

• CIF Ambition/Target: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced
• CIF Indicator 10.1.1: Gini Coefficient
• GIF Target/SDG 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard

ISC's continued efforts to co-develop separate First Nations, Inuit and Métis health policy and/or legislative options will advance work towards improving access to high-quality, culturally-relevant, and safe health care for Indigenous peoples. ISC continues to facilitate discussions with First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners on this important initiative.^{Footnote roman numeral 31xxxi}

Program: Health Systems Support

Building on the successes from Budget 2021, the Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism (AAIR) program was renewed through Budget 2024 for $167.6 million over five years, starting in 2024-25, to continue addressing anti-Indigenous racism in health care and implementing Joyce's Principle. The program will help to ensure that Indigenous Peoples have access to high quality, culturally-informed health services and that health systems are free of racism and discrimination. The renewed funding will maintain support for direct health service delivery such as patient advocates, health system navigators, midwives, and birth support workers, as well as initiatives to increase Indigenous representation in health professions. ISC will continue to work closely with Indigenous and health system partners to ensure that the implementation of these investments are informed by the lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples, and based on the recognition of Indigenous rights.

Program: Health Systems Support

The new Long-Term and Continuing Care Framework aims to improve long-term and continuing care services in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities by meeting needs identified through engagement and co-development as well as supporting partnerships between communities, governments, and the private sector to improve access to care.

ISC will participate in building more equitable access to high-quality and culturally safe care and support First Nations, Métis, and Inuit control and autonomy over their health care by:

• Continuing to work with First Nations and Inuit partners on advancing the development and implementation of the Long-Term and Continuing Care Framework.
• Beginning engagement work on the Métis Long-Term Continuing Care Framework,
• In addition to the existing home care services, working with federal partners and First Nations and Inuit organizations to build capacity within communities to plan, develop and deliver comprehensive, culturally sensitive, accessible and effective assisted living and long-term care services.

The Home and Community Care program is a coordinated system of health care services that enable First Nations and Inuit people of all ages with disabilities, chronic or acute illnesses and the elderly to receive the care they need in their homes and communities. It is provided primarily through contribution agreements with First Nation and Inuit communities and Territorial governments and strives to be equal to home and community care services offered to other Canadian residents in similar geographical areas. Home and Community Care is delivered primarily by home care registered nurses and trained and certified personal care workers. Service delivery is based on assessed need and follows a case management process. Priority service elements include client assessment; home care nursing; palliative and end of life care: case management; home support (personal care and home management); in-home respite; linkages and referral, as needed, to other health and social services; provision of and access to specialized medical equipment and supplies for care; and a system of record keeping and data collection. Additional supportive services may also be provided, depending on the needs of the communities and funding availability. Supportive services may include, but are not limited to: rehabilitation and other therapies; adult day care; meal programs; in-home mental health; and specialized health promotion, wellness and fitness.

Program: Home & Long-Term Care

Jordan's Principle and Inuit Child First Initiative (ICFI) addresses gaps for eligible First Nations and Inuit children in Canada in accessing needed products, supports and services. The two initiatives respond to the unmet needs of First Nations and Inuit children no matter where they live in Canada by providing funding to eligible children to access a wide range of health, education and social services, products and supports they need.

These initiatives aim to take into account the best interest as well as the historical, geographical and cultural needs and circumstances of First Nations and Inuit children. Jordan's Principle and ICFI fund a significant number of individual and group requests in urban areas, as well as on and off reserve for First Nation children, on a wide range of requested products, services and supports for First Nation and Inuit children.

Through Jordan's Principle the Government of Canada contributes to reducing inequalities by providing funding for services and supports through a lens of substantive equality, cultural appropriateness and safeguarding the best interests of the child.^{Footnote roman numeral 35xxxv}

Program: Jordan's Principle and the Inuit Child First Initiative

Departmental actions: Work to ensure long-term, sustainable and predictable funding to support affordable housing and related infrastructure and accelerate work to close gaps in Indigenous housing and infrastructure.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of First Nations housing that is adequate as assessed and reported by First Nations communities.
  • Starting Point: 75%
  • Target: 75% by March 2025

Through a national process, $277.8 million out of a total funding amount of $281.5 million is being distributed to 75 projects across the country aimed at building more than 3800 units. This funding was provided to Indigenous Services Canada through Budget 2022 and was distributed by the National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated (NICHI), applying its "For Indigenous, By Indigenous" approach. NICHI brings together Indigenous-led housing, homelessness, and housing-related service delivery organizations to provide lasting solutions that address diverse housing inadequacies including homelessness for Indigenous Peoples living in urban, rural and northern areas.

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Through a "For Indigenous, By Indigenous" approach to Indigenous housing that recognizes Indigenous organizations are best placed to understand the needs of their communities, Indigenous Services Canada is striving to close this gap by 2030.

This delivery of immediate funding will proceed on a separate but parallel track to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's co-development work towards an Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy and Housing Centre.

Access to adequate housing and infrastructure is essential to developing healthier and more sustainable Indigenous communities. ISC will continue to support the construction and renovation of housing and infrastructure on-reserve, including supporting First Nations to eliminate all remaining long-term drinking water advisories on reserve and working with First Nations to establish legally enforceable safe drinking water protections, comparable to those in place in provinces and territories. The Department will also continue to support innovation and capacity-building in First Nations to support the gradual transfer of housing and infrastructure service delivery, aligned with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Since 2016 and as of June 2024, $13.8 billion in targeted funds have been invested, supporting 10,369 infrastructure projects in First Nations, including:

• 358 water and wastewater projects;
• construction, renovation or retrofit of 19,646 housing units;
• 320 schools projects, including 74 new schools;
• 650 health projects, including construction or renovation of 99 health facilities; and,
• 1,836 projects to support other community infrastructure, including everything from roads and bridges to fire protection to cultural and recreational facilities.^{Footnote roman numeral 37xxxvii}

A further $5.3 billion of targeted infrastructure funding will be invested from 2024-2025 onward.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition 11.1: Canadians have access to quality housing
  • CIF Target 11.1: By 2028, reduce chronic homelessness by 50% compared to 2016^{Footnote roman numeral 38xxxviii}
  • CIF Indicator 11.1.1: Growth rate of people experiencing chronic homelessness
  • GIF Target/SDG 11.1: By 2030, ensure access for all to adequate, safe and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums
  • GIF Target/SDG 11.2: By 2030, provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all, improving road safety, notably by expanding public transport, with special attention to the needs of those in vulnerable situations, women, children, persons with disabilities and older persons

Departmental actions: Ensure construction project general contractors track and disclose the amount of construction and demolition waste generated, as well as the amount diverted from landfill.

• Program: Internal Services
• Performance Indicator: Percentage by weight of construction and demolition waste diverted from landfill in Crown-owned buildings
  1. Mass of construction and demolition waste generated in the year = [X] tonnes
  2. Mass of construction and demolition waste diverted in the year = [Y] tonnes
  3. Percentage (%) of construction and demolition waste diverted = [Y/X] %
     • Starting Point: 0^{Footnote 10}
     • Target: Divert at least 90% by weight of non-hazardous operational waste from landfills annually by 2030

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Actions that reduce the generation of constructions and demolition waste will help to reduce Scope 3 emissions for the production, transport and disposal of material. Diverting waste from landfill reduces landfill gas and transport hauling emissions. Material recovery via recycling reduces emissions for the extraction and production of virgin materials.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition 12: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator 12.3.1: Total waste diversion per capita
  • GIF Target: 12.5 By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse

Departmental actions: Purchasing zero emission vehicles to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from conventional fleet operations.

• Program: Internal Services
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of annual new vehicle purchases that are ZEV
  • Starting Point: 0% ZEV and 60% hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles in 2023 to 2024^{Footnote roman numeral 39xxxix}
  • Target: 100% of new light-duty vehicle purchases will be zero-emissions vehicles (ZEVs) starting in 2025^{Footnote roman numeral 40xl}
• Performance Indicator: Percentage change in Scope 1 GHG emissions from conventional fleet, relative to fiscal year 2005-06 levels
  • Starting Point:
    • 2.247 kilotonnes of CO₂ equivalent (kt CO₂e) in 2005-06
    • 1.742 kt CO₂e in 2022-23 (22.5% decrease since 2005-06)
  • Target: 40% reduction by 2025 and by at least 90% below 2005 levels by 2050^{Footnote roman numeral 41xli}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

ISC's annual vehicle procurement strategy is committed to sustainability, with a focus on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Each year, all new purchases of light-duty fleet vehicles will be either zero-emission vehicles or hybrids. This commitment is part of our broader effort to significantly cut GHG emissions originating from our conventional light-duty fleet. Furthermore, we are actively collaborating with Natural Resources Canada to carry out a comprehensive Fleet Electrification Study, which will play a pivotal role in advancing our sustainable transportation initiatives.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition 12.1: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator 12.1.1: Proportion of new light duty vehicle registrations that are zero-emission vehicles
  • GIF Target/SDG 12.1: Implement the 10-year framework of programmes on sustainable consumption and production, all countries taking action, with developed countries taking the lead, taking into account the development and capabilities of developing countries

Departmental actions: Ensure all procurement and materiel management specialists are trained in green procurement (such as, the Canada School of Public Service course on green procurement, or equivalent) within one year of being identified

• Program: Internal Services
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of procurement and materiel management specialists trained in green procurement within one year of being identified
  • Starting Point: 100% (2022 to 2023)
  • Target: 100% of procurement officers and material management specialists receive training within one year of being identified

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Green procurement incorporates environmental considerations into purchasing decisions and is expected to motivate suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of the goods and services they deliver, and their supply chains.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator 12.2.1: Proportion of businesses that adopted selected environmental protection activities and management practices
  • GIF Target/SDG 12.7: Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities

Departmental actions: Improve the environmental condition on reserve lands by reducing contamination through remediation and risk management of contaminated sites

• Program: Communities and the Environment
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of high-risk contaminated sites on-reserve where remediation activities are being undertaken
  • Starting Point: 18% (2022 to 2023)
  • Target: At least 29% by March 2025^{Footnote 11Footnote roman numeral 42xlii}
• Performance Indicator: Number of contaminated sites that have completed remediation/risk management activities
  • Starting Point: 0 sites (April 1, 2020)^{Footnote roman numeral 43xliii}
  • Target: 25 sites by March 2025 (end of FCSAP Phase IV)^{Footnote 11}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

The Contaminated Sites on Reserve Program works directly with First Nations communities to assess and remediate contaminated sites for which a Crown liability has been established and documented. The Program reduces environmental impacts, makes previously unusable land available for community or economic development, and provides economic benefits and opportunities for First Nations.

Remediation and risk management of contaminated sites contributes to source water protection by eliminating groundwater contamination pathways which could impact drinking water sources. This contributes to the sustainable management of lands and the environment and safeguards human health and safety.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator: 12.2.1 Proportion of businesses that adopted selected environmental protection activities and management practices
  • GIF Target/SDG 12.4: By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water and soil in order to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment

Departmental actions: Support First Nations communities through the First Nations Waste Management Initiative in undertaking new waste diversion approaches that meet community needs

• Program: Communities and the Environment
• Performance Indicator: Number of waste sites cleaned up, decommissioned or closed
  • Starting Point: 17 (2022 to 2023)^{Footnote roman numeral 44xliv}
  • Target: 60 by March 2028

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Supporting First Nation communities to clean up, decommission and close waste sites and existing assets enables sustainable management of land and the environment. This allows the land to be utilized for future solid waste management systems or other land uses. Improved solid waste management helps protect the environment, safeguard human health and safety, and improves land management in communities. The First Nations Waste Management Initiative supports communities to undertake new waste diversion programs like recycling and composting. These efforts reduce the amount of waste going to landfill, thus lengthening the lifespan of these facilities.

While communities have had opportunities to access the First Nations Waste Management Initiative since 2016, there still remains a significant challenge in bringing some communities up to the waste management standards of comparable municipalities. Remote access, past substandard waste disposal, and lack of available services are still challenges that communities face. Supporting First Nation communities to clean up, decommission and close waste sites protects community water resources from contamination. This enables the sustainable management of land and the environment and safeguards human health and safety.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator 12.3.1: Total waste diversion per capita
  • GIF Target/SDG 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse

Departmental actions: Work with First Nations to develop solid waste management approaches that meet individual community needs. Activities will include:

• supporting recycling, composting, and hazardous waste diversion programming
• increasing community awareness

• Program: Communities and the Environment
• Performance Indicator: Number of First Nations communities with diversion programs (e.g. recycling, composting, waste reduction, etc.)
  • Starting Point: 36 (2022 to 2023)
  • Target: 60 by 2027 to 2028
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of First Nations communities with adequate solid waste management systems
  • Starting Point: 40.5% (2022 to 2023)
  • Target: 65% by 2027 to 2028

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Supporting First Nation communities to reduce waste through education, awareness and capacity building activities. Funding supports communities to divert various streams (including recycling, household hazardous waste, compost, scrap metal, e-waste, etc.), and utilize a properly constructed waste facility.

Adequate solid waste management is defined as the ability of a First Nation community to divert household hazardous waste, divert other waste streams (i.e. paper, plastic, tires, electronics, etc.) and ensure all remaining residual waste is disposed into a properly constructed, managed and maintained waste facility.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator 12.3.1: Total waste diversion per capita
  • GIF Target/SDG 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse

Departmental actions: Ensure all relevant employees are trained on assessing climate change impacts, undertaking climate change risk assessments, and developing adaptation actions within one year of being identified

• Program: Internal Services
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of relevant employees involved in the management of facilities and conventional fleets trained on assessing climate change impacts, undertaking climate change risk assessments, and developing adaptation actions within one year of being identified
  • Starting Point: 100% (2023 to 2024)^{Footnote roman numeral 45xlv}
  • Target: 100% trained by 2024 to 2025

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Trained staff can identify risk to critical program delivery, and develop responses to increase the resilience of operations to impacts of climate change.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition/Target 13.3: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of Climate change
  • CIF Indicator 13.3.1: Proportion of municipal organization who factored climate change adaptation into their decision-making process
  • GIF Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries
  • GIF Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning

Departmental actions: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from departmental operational facilities

• Program: Internal Services
• Performance Indicator: Percentage change in GHG emissions from real property from fiscal year 2005-06
  • Starting Point:^{Footnote roman numeral 46xlvi}
    • 0.417 kt CO₂e in 2005 to 2006
    • 0.042 kt CO₂e in 2022 to 2023 (90% decrease from 2005-06)
  • Target: 40% reduction by 2025 and by at least 90% below 2005 levels by 2050^{Footnote roman numeral 47xlvii}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Actions that simplify the portfolio, share facilities, reduce the demand for energy or switch to lower carbon sources of energy will lead to reductions in GHGs from real property operations.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians reduce greenhouse gas emissions
  • CIF Indicator 13.1.1: Greenhouse gas emissions
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning

Departmental actions: Assess the risk of climate change impacts at mission critical assets and where there are moderate to high risks, develop plans to reduce the risk

• Program: Internal Services
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of mission critical assets where the risk of climate change impacts is assessed
  • Starting Point: 0% (2022 to 2023)
  • Target: 100% by 2024 to 2025

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

By assessing the risks of climate change impacts at mission critical assets, and developing plans to reduce the risks, the risk of disruption of critical service delivery to Canadians is reduced.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition/Target 13.3: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of Climate change
  • CIF Indicator 13.3.1: Proportion of municipal organization who factored climate change adaptation into their decision-making process
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning

Departmental actions: Collaborate with 23 vulnerable programs identified in the ISC Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment (2021) to proactively identify, prioritize, and manage climate risks, ensuring the resilience and delivery of critical services through the development of targeted Climate Risk Management Action Plans.

• Program: ISC Climate Policy Hub
• Performance Indicator: Number of Climate Risk Management Action Plans developed and tailored for vulnerable programming and services.
  • Starting Point: 3 (2023-2024)
  • Target: 23 (2026-2027)

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

By collaborating with vulnerable programs at risk of service disruption and developing program specific management options to strengthen operations, the department will be better equipped to ensure the delivery of high-quality services amidst increasing climate uncertainty.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition/Target 13.3: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of Climate change
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning

Departmental actions: EMAP (Emergency Management Assistance Program) actively collaborates with First Nation communities, provincial/territorial governments, and third-party organizations to deliver comprehensive emergency assistance services to on-reserve First Nation communities.

• Program: Emergency Management Assistance
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of evacuees that have returned to their community within 3 months
  • Starting Point: 82% (2022 to 2023)
  • Target: 95% per fiscal year

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

EMAP is designed to be adaptive to the evolving challenges resulting from emergency events, including those intensified by climate change. The program aims to be flexible, culturally sensitive, and responsive to the unique strengths and customs of First Nation communities. By recognizing and addressing the unique needs of these communities, EMAP helps build their capacity to adapt and cope with the impacts of climate change and natural hazards.

This includes offering funding for a wide spectrum of activities, encompassing mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery measures. The program's design is rooted in flexibility, cultural sensitivity, and a responsiveness to the distinctive requirements of First Nations communities. EMAP not only provides financial support to provinces, territories, and non-governmental organizations involved in on-reserve emergency management but also supports diverse initiatives such as training, emergency planning, hazard assessment, and fire prevention. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in response and recovery efforts for a range of emergencies, including wildfires, floods, storms, and earthquakes, as well as public health emergencies. This comprehensive approach not only enables communities to address immediate emergency needs but also supports them to "build back better" and proactively plan for risk mitigation, ensuring a more resilient and sustainable future.

The performance indicator "percentage of evacuees that have returned to their community within 3 months" supports Canadians to be well equipped and resilient to face the effects of climate change as well as strengthening resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and disasters by reflecting both on the speed and effectiveness of emergency management through response and recovery efforts. A higher percentage signifies that the community's response and recovery mechanisms are efficient and well-equipped to handle the impacts of climate change-related emergencies. It demonstrates the community's resilience, indicating that they have resilient preparedness and mitigation measures and have necessary resources and support systems in place for a swift and smooth return. Timely recovery enables individuals to be repatriated back to their communities in a timely manner after an evacuation, which contributes to their overall resilience in the face of climate change challenges.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition/Target 13.2: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of climate change
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries

Departmental actions: Invest in structural mitigation projects to protect First Nations communities from natural disasters.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• Performance Indicator: Number of ongoing and completed structural mitigation projects
  • Starting Point: 45 projects ongoing or completed as of December 31, 2018^{Footnote 12}
  • Target: 200 by March 31, 2028^{Footnote 12}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Through the First Nations Infrastructure Fund, ISC supports First Nations communities, band councils, tribal councils and Indigenous organizations in their efforts to implement structural mitigation projects, which will reduce the impacts of natural disasters and climate-related extreme weather on First Nations communities (e.g., through construction of dykes).

Using funding from the First Nations Infrastructure Fund, First Nations communities can remove, reduce or eliminate hazards; segregate hazards by keeping them away from people and assets; and alter asset design and construction to make them resilient to potential hazards.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition 13.2: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of climate change

Departmental actions: Provide funding for community-driven projects in First Nations communities south of the 60th parallel, and northern First Nations and Inuit communities. Funding will support the development of adaptation plans and actions that identify and prioritize the health impacts of climate change.

• Program: Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of First Nation and Inuit communities covered by climate change health adaptation funded projects
  • Starting Point: 43% (as of March 31, 2023)
  • Target: 61% by March 2027

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Environmental Public Health Services also support SDG 13 – Climate action via the Climate Change and Health Adaptation Program which is designed to build capacity for climate change and health adaptation by funding First Nations and Inuit communities' efforts to identify, assess, and respond to, and take action to minimize, the health impacts of climate change.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition/Target: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of climate change
  • CIF Indicator 13.3.1: Proportion of municipal organization who factored climate change adaptation into their decision-making process
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning
  • CIF Ambition/Target 13.2: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of climate change
  • GIF Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning

Departmental actions: In partnership with communities, review proposed projects on reserve and contribute as a federal authority to impact assessments of designated projects to ensure projects do not cause significant adverse environmental effects or adverse impacts on Indigenous peoples' health social and economic conditions.^{Footnote roman numeral 50l}

• Program: Community Economic Development / Communities and the Environment
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of designated project impact assessments for which ISC provides input within established timelines.^{Footnote roman numeral 51li}
  • Starting Point: 100% (as of 2019)
  • Target: 100% annually
• Performance Indicator: Percentage of projects on reserve for which the required environmental review is complete.
  • Starting Point: 100% (as of 2019)
  • Target: 100% annually^{Footnote 13}

How the departmental action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:

Designated Project Impact Assessments: Through the provision of specialist or expert information or knowledge related to ISC's mandate, in keeping with the requirements of the Impact Assessment Act, ISC supports the assessment of impacts to Indigenous peoples' health, social, and economic conditions and the assessment of impacts to rights.^{Footnote roman numeral 52lii}

Environmental Reviews: The review of physical activities and works occurring on reserve lands ensures environmental law requirements are met and address community needs. When potential adverse effects are identified, the Environmental Review Process ensures that appropriate mitigation measures and best management practices are considered in order to eliminate or reduce impacts on lands, waters, and communities. Engaging Indigenous communities in these processes further supports this goal in a meaningful way.

• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition/Target 16.7: Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions
  • CIF Indicator 16.7.1: Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions
  • GIF Target/SDG 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels
  • GIF Target/SDG 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels

ISC supports CIRNAC in its role as horizontal lead to advance the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals' core theme of reconciliation by providing input for Canada's Sustainable Development Goals Annual Report.

ISC works collaboratively with CIRNAC on shared interests to advance reconciliation and renew relationships with First Nations, Inuit and Métis by providing policy and program advice through joint committees at the Director General-level, Assistant Deputy Minister-level and Deputy Minister-level. Joint committee work is focused on intersecting policy and program areas including: closing the infrastructure gap; negotiating and implementing regional education agreements; addressing Indigenous community health care and mental wellness; advancing economic reconciliation with Indigenous partners; working with Provinces and Territories to advance reconciliation; and the United Nations Declaration Act Action Plan.

Program: All

Associated domestics targets or ambitions and/or global targets:

• CIF Ambition: Canada fosters collaboration and partnerships to advance the SDGs
• CIF Indicator 17.2.1: Total official support for sustainable development
• SDG 17: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development