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Just one day after the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) issued a statement downplaying an audit that flags over $30 million dollars in spending, there appears to be some division with respect to how the elected leaders actually feel about the report.
According to an open letter to Saskatchewan’s Chiefs that was obtained by paNOW, FSIN 4th Vice-Chief Craig McCallum states he cannot, in good conscience, stand behind the statement released by the other executive of the FSIN.
Read more:
- FSIN audit questions over $34 million in expenses
- ‘One of the biggest scandals in First Nations history’: Arcand
- Audit of Saskatchewan First Nations group questions millions of dollars in spending
“It is true that I held office for only five months of the five-year review period. I cannot speak to the decisions made before my term, but I can speak to the need for change going forward. Denial and deflection will not restore trust. Only transparency, humility, and the wisdom to listen to our people will heal the wounds caused by secrecy.”
The finalized report covering the period from April 1, 2010 to March 31, 2024 was conducted by Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and administered by KPMG.
Up until Wednesday, the FSIN had ignored calls for comment, but in their statement, the governing body for 74 Saskatchewan First Nations stated it was hard to respond to the findings without first getting a copy of the full report.
The organization also said its staff and management spent “thousands of hours collectively to respond to the audit,” and is confident that ISC “will conclude that all expenditures are eligible with the exception of minor administrative errors that have since been corrected” after it reviews the documentation the FSIN provided in response to a lengthy list of questions and data items.
“These findings cannot be dismissed or minimized. If we expect Canada to respect our Nations and uphold its fiduciary obligations, then we must also hold ourselves to the highest standards of accountability,” McCallum wrote. “The teaching of honesty reminds us that we must face the truth, even when it is difficult. Truth requires us to acknowledge what has gone wrong, so that we can find solutions and walk in a better way.”
Going forward, McCallum said he is committed to ensuring all financial decisions are documented and reported in writing, so that there is a clear and honest record for the Chiefs, who are the rights holders.
“I will continue to uphold integrity, transparency, and accountability, even if it means standing apart, because our people deserve leadership that reflects our values and teachings. This time should be used as a turning point.”
