AMC: Funding Announcement on Jordan’s Principle Must Lead to Real Reform, Not More Delays

Press Release

February 26, 2026

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB (February 26, 2026)- The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) is responding to Thursday’s federal announcement of $1.55 billion in funding for Jordan’s Principle, emphasizing that funding levels alone will not fix a system that continues to fail First Nations children.

While the federal government has framed the announcement as stability for the year ahead, serious questions remain about whether this represents a reduction from previously planned spending and whether it addresses the operational barriers that Manitoba First Nations have consistently challenged.

“Jordan’s Principle is not a discretionary program. It is a legal obligation grounded in human rights and the rulings of the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal,” said Grand Chief Kyra Wilson. “Our children cannot be asked to wait while governments debate numbers. Any funding approach must be child-first, rights-based, and designed with First Nations at the table.”

AMC has repeatedly raised concerns about growing backlogs, inconsistent decision-making, and an operational bulletin that narrows eligibility and increases procedural burdens on families. The announcement does not repeal or correct those operational directives. Jordan’s Principle exists because Jordan River Anderson of Norway House Cree Nation waited for equitable care while governments disputed responsibility, and he passed away before those barriers were resolved. It was meant to end jurisdictional delay, not entrench it

“Announcements do not clear backlogs. Partnership does,” said Grand Chief Wilson. “Manitoba First Nations have already advanced a Manitoba-specific implementation framework through our Memorandum of Understanding. We expect Canada to work with us to operationalize that agreement in a way that reflects Manitoba realities and delivers measurable results for children.”

AMC Leadership, including the Chiefs-in-Assembly, Women’s Council, and the Chiefs Task Force on Jordan’s Principle, will continue to monitor implementation closely.

Transparent reporting on backlog reduction, timely approvals, and meaningful co-development is essential. Jordan’s Principle was created to ensure First Nations children receive the services they need when they need them.  Compliance must be real, measurable, and focused squarely on the best interests of the child.

For more information, please contact:
Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email:  media@manitobachiefs.com

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