First Nation leaders in Saskatchewan are pressing for clarity from the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations regarding accusations of financial mismanagement and a forensic audit that identified $34 million in questionable expenses. A gathering of First Nation chiefs and councillors in Saskatoon on Friday criticized the federation’s leadership for not addressing the allegations and the findings of the audit.
Chief Mark Arcand of the Saskatoon Tribal Council emphasized the significance of the funds in question, stating that they are meant to benefit the people and calling for immediate accountability and transparency. He urged for prompt action to implement the audit’s recommendations to enhance the credibility of the FSIN.
Indigenous Services Canada recently disclosed a summary report of a forensic audit initiated in response to concerns about transparency and inappropriate spending within the federation, which represents 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan. The audit was conducted by the firm KPMG on behalf of Indigenous Services.
The audit highlighted a major issue involving $30 million in COVID-19-related funding received by the federation between April 1, 2020, and March 31, 2023, with $23.5 million of the related expenses deemed questionable. Chief Kelly Wolfe of Muskeg Lake Cree Nation expressed dismay over the timing of these transactions during the pandemic’s peak impact on Indigenous communities.
Apart from the pandemic spending, the audit report identified eight other instances of inappropriate transactions, including travel expenses and the use of administration fees. The report recommended that the federation review and strengthen its policies on procurement, hiring, accounting practices, and expense approvals.
Chief Wolfe raised concerns about the lack of response from the federation’s executive leadership and questioned the need for further investigation by the RCMP. He emphasized the importance of the leadership taking responsibility, acknowledging their mistakes, and committing to increased transparency.
The executive leadership of the federation includes Chief Bobby Cameron, First Vice-Chief David Pratt, Second Vice-Chief Dutch Lerat, Third Vice-Chief Fabian Head, and Fourth Vice-Chief Craig McCallum. Wolfe highlighted previous warnings from female leaders within the federation regarding financial mismanagement, which went unheeded.
Coun. Savannah Standingready from White Bear First Nation emphasized the need for Indigenous youth and women to have a stronger voice in First Nations politics, urging for inclusivity and empowerment. Coun. Desiree Dreaver from Mistawasis Nêhiyawak First Nation lamented the setback caused by the spending scandal and called on the federation’s leadership to demonstrate courage, apologize, and commit to accountability to move forward positively.
