AMC Commends AFN Infrastructure Report and Highlights Manitoba-Specific Alternative Budget

November 27, 2024

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) extends its commendations to the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) and the Conference Board of Canada on the release of their report, Benefits for All Canadians: Economic Impact of Closing the Infrastructure Gap. This analysis highlights the transformative potential of a $350 billion federal investment to address critical infrastructure needs in First Nations, with a projected $635 billion economic output, the creation of over 338,000 jobs annually, and $87 billion in government revenue by 2030.

“The report underscores a powerful truth: investing in First Nations infrastructure is not only an act of reconciliation—it is a national economic imperative,” said Acting Grand Chief Betsy Kennedy, “For decades, First Nations in Manitoba have led with this vision, and it is time for the Government of Canada to act decisively and honour its commitments.”

The AMC recognizes this as a pivotal call to action for meaningful federal investments. The infrastructure deficit in First Nations in Manitoba is among the harshest in Canada, manifesting in inadequate housing, unsafe drinking water, and the lack of essential community facilities. These deficiencies are not just a failure of reconciliation but a barrier to equitable economic growth.

AMC’s Alternative Federal Budget: A Manitoba-Specific Approach

In March 2024, AMC presented its 2024-25 Alternative Federal Budget (AFB) for First Nations in Manitoba, a comprehensive fiscal plan reflecting the priorities and self-identified needs of First Nations in Manitoba. This AFB outlines an immediate need for $35 billion in investments for health, housing, education, clean water, child and family services, and economic development for First Nations in Manitoba.

Key recommendations include:

• $10.1 billion for on-reserve housing to address unsafe and overcrowded living conditions.
• $4.2 billion for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure to ensure safe and reliable water access.
• $813.9 million for child and family services, transitioning to a prevention-based approach led by First Nations.
• $10.1 billion in K-12 education infrastructure to close the education gap.
• $738.7 million for digital infrastructure to expand broadband access and connectivity in First Nations.
• $5.608 billion for general community infrastructure to support safe and sustainable development in First Nations.

“These numbers are not just projections—they are the baseline of what is owed,” Acting Grand Chief Kennedy stated. “Canada’s fiduciary obligations are clear. The AMC’s Alternative Budget lays out a roadmap for investments that honour Treaty relationships, advance self-determination, and deliver economic and social justice to First Nations in Manitoba.”

The Path Forward

The AFN’s report and AMC’s AFB reinforce the critical need for a sustained and equitable federal response to First Nations’ infrastructure and economic priorities. Each dollar invested generates $1.82 in economic output, affirming that closing the infrastructure gap benefits all Canadians.

“The time for rhetoric has long passed. Canada must now act in the spirit of a true Nation-to-Nation partnership, honouring Treaties to ensure the prosperity of First Nations and the nation as a whole,” Acting Grand Chief Kennedy concluded.

The AMC calls on the federal government to align its policy and funding commitments with the urgent recommendations outlined in the AFN report and Manitoba’s Alternative Federal Budget, ensuring investments prioritize First Nations-led solutions.

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For more information, please contact:

Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email:  media@manitobachiefs.com

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