(May 1, 2026) – On March 30, 2026, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT) approved the Final Agreement on Long-Term Reform of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program (Ontario Final Agreement or OFA) in Ontario. Canada has decided to file a limited judicial review of the Tribunal’s decision with the Federal Court of Canada, asking the court to review the decision to exempt Georgina Island First Nation and Taykwa Tagamou First Nation from the OFA.

The Chiefs of Ontario (COO) and Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) will evaluate their position on Canada’s judicial review in the coming weeks. However, COO and NAN are calling on Canada to implement the full scope and funding of the OFA starting May 29, 2026, and to release the remoteness funding under the Remoteness Quotient Adjustment Factor (RQAF). While a judicial review could delay implementation of the OFA, Canada has stated it will proceed, and COO and NAN are calling on Canada to uphold this crucial commitment.

“This is an unfortunate setback in a process that has already spanned two decades,” said Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict. “We are pleased Minister Gull-Masty has committed to the implementation of the OFA and proceedings as planned. We will continue to navigate these challenges and hold the Minister accountable to ensure the OFA is implemented for the benefit of our children and families.”

Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler of Nishnawbe Aski Nation stated: “We are disappointed with the decision to move forward with a judicial review, but it is encouraging that Minister-Gull Masty has affirmed her commitment to move forward with the OFA implementation immediately. We must ensure this includes the full implementation of the historic remoteness adjustment funding that is essential to improving outcomes for our children, our families, and our communities.”

The CHRT’s decision confirms that the OFA is sufficient to address and eliminate systemic racial discrimination in First Nation Child and Family Services in Ontario. The Chiefs of Ontario and Nishnawbe Aski Nation are steadfast in advocating for the implementation of the OFA and promoting substantive equality for First Nations children in Ontario. We encourage First Nations to stay engaged and informed as we move toward implementation. For updates, documents, and further information, please visit: https://www.fncfsreform.ca/.

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Media Contact:

Isak Vaillancourt
Communications Manager
Chiefs of Ontario
Telephone: 416-819-8184
Email: isak.vaillancourt@coo.org

Michael Heintzman
Communications Director
Nishnawbe Aski Nation
Telephone: 807-621-2790
Email: mheintzman@nan.ca