Chiefs vote for financial transparency

Assembly of First Nation chiefs voted Dec. 14 to lead by example by committing to transparent and accountable decision-making structures in their communities.
“I applaud the chiefs who demonstrated that, despite unfounded and alarmist attacks by our critics, First Nations fully believe in accountability and transparency and are dealing with this issue head-on,” said AFN National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo during the
Assembly of First Nations Special Chiefs Assembly, which is being held from Dec. 14-16 in Gatineau, Que. “Chiefs spoke passionately today about the many efforts and initiatives across the country that provide full accountability and transparency for their people. I know myself that chiefs have a multitude of roles and responsibilities and work hard. We stand strong and united to say that First Nations are not only not afraid of change and transparency -– we are blazing the trail forward.”
The chiefs voted to re-affirm their commitment to maintaining transparent and accountable decision-making structures in their communities, including clear and timely access to audits and public accounts; itemizing and publicly disclosing salaries, honoraria and expenses and ensuring information about community finances and decision-making are easily accessible and available via the Internet where applicable.
Auditor General of Canada Sheila Fraser also attended the Assembly Dec. 14, where she urged the federal government to find new ways to work with First Nations.
“First Nations citizens have waited far too long to have a level of services that other Canadians receive every day and take for granted,” Fraser said.
Atleo said First Nations fully support the call for partnership with Canada as the path to progress.
“This is consistent with the principles and articles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples which Canada endorsed last month,” Atleo said. “The AFN initiated work on accountability with the Auditor General, Treasury Board Secretariat and Indian and Northern Affairs - an initiative terminated by the federal government in 2006. First Nations are doing their part and we call on Canada to work with us on a new, better approach to accountability.”