AMC Highlights Opportunity for Partnership in Advancing First Nations Budget Priorities

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) is reaffirming its commitment to working in partnership with the Government of Canada to ensure First Nations in Manitoba are supported through stable, responsive, and forward-looking investments. With the federal government opting not to table a spring budget, the AMC is focused on continuing its proactive work to ensure that First Nations priorities are reflected in upcoming federal planning processes.

“First Nations in Manitoba are doing the work to build strong, healthy communities,” said Grand Chief Kyra Wilson. “To support that work, we are finalizing the Alternative Federal Budget for 2026 – 27 that reflects our Nation’s current needs, long-term goals, and our shared commitment to reconciliation and Treaty implementation. We have asked to meet with various Cabinet Ministers over the coming weeks to discuss these funding priorities. ”

While planning for the future, the AMC is also emphasizing the need to urgently address a number of critical and time-sensitive priorities. These include outstanding legal obligations related to Jordan’s Principle, the implementation of a regional education agreement to ensure quality education for First Nation students, and the ongoing states of emergency in a variety of areas impacting several First Nations communities across the province.

“These are not theoretical needs—they are real and pressing issues that impact the daily lives and well-being of our citizens,” Grand Chief Wilson said. “We believe that working together in a spirit of partnership is the best way to ensure that these urgent matters receive the attention and resources they require.”

The AMC’s budget work reflects priorities identified by First Nations leadership across Manitoba and includes key areas such as housing, infrastructure, health care, education, emergency response, and economic development. Predictable, sustained investments are essential to moving forward.

“We understand the challenges that come with economic uncertainty, and we appreciate the federal government’s careful approach,” said Grand Chief Wilson. “At the same time, we see this as an opportunity to strengthen Nation-to-Nation relationships and co-develop solutions that meet both immediate and long-term needs.”

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For more information, please contact:

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

NT4