DIA to provide extra funds for Bill C-31

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OTTAWA - Approval of funds over a period of five years commencing in 1985-86, to accommodate projected additional costs resulting from changes to the Indian Act, has been announced by Indian Affairs Minister David Crombie.

"Bands will now be able to access funds required to provide additional services to their new band members," Crombie said.

In June, 1985, the government, through Bill C-31, amended the Indian Act to eliminate unfair and outdated provisions. These changes ended discrimination against Indian women, restored Indian rights to those who had lost them and significantly enhanced the jurisdiction of Indian community governments.

Crombie had announced at that time that additional resources would be provided to ensure programs and benefits available on reserve would not deteriorate as a result of the anticipated influx of new residents. "The overall intent," he reiterated in announcing the funding, "is that no community will be worse off as a result of the enactment of Bill

C-31." The additional funding will serve to alleviate some of the pressures expected by bands due to increased population.

Bands affected by the changes to the Indian Act will have an opportunity to apply to the department for this special funding with the proviso that funds incurred as the direct result of reinstatements or registrations under Bill C-31. This community-oriented approach is designed to meet specific needs and will involve some negotiations with each band.

Crombie stated that his department is currently developing procedures to explain to bands how to apply for and obtain the special funding.

Individuals registered under the provisions of Bill C-31 who choose to live off-reserve will be entitled to benefits in the area of post-secondary education and uninsured health services through Health and Welfare Canada. Other programs within the jurisdiction of provincial governments will continue to be delivered by the provinces, according to the rules established by each province.