FNEC Seals Regional Education Agreement

Quebec City, November 7, 2022 – The First Nations Education Council (FNEC) is proud to have concluded the ratification of the Regional Education Agreement. Chief Tony Wawatie and Councillor Norman Matchewan, from the community of Barriere Lake, have joined the signatories of the agreement between Indigenous Services Canada, the FNEC, and its 22 member communities. This five-year $1.1 billion agreement will enable the communities to implement effective education strategies that will increase First Nations student success. This agreement is the first one of its kind to be based on a funding formula developed entirely by and for FNEC member First Nations, which will adequately meet the real needs of K—12 students.

This historic First Nations education agreement was signed by the majority of FNEC member community chiefs and grand chiefs and the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Indigenous Services minister, at an official ceremony held on Kahnawà:ke Mohawk territory on July 14 in the absence of Barriere Lake representatives who were unable to attend.

This additional funding will be used by the community of Barriere Lake to implement its own education system founded on curriculum based on their values, traditions, culture, and the Anishinaabemowin language.

“I am honoured to be part of this major step. We succeeded in establishing common goals and a shared view of First Nations education. This agreement will finally enable our community to support our children’s academic aspirations with a new school building and a curriculum based on our history and identity. It is time for us to take control and fill the education gap. There is still a lot of work to do, but we are ready and committed to making it happen,” said Chief Wawatie.

The signature of this agreement by all 22 FNEC member communities is the fulfillment of an over 35-year-old vision held by the FNEC’s founding members, and is a clear demonstration of the organization’s determination and expertise in education.

About the FNEC

The FNEC has been working for over 35 years on behalf of 22 First Nations in Quebec to fulfill their right to have complete authority over their education through the implementation of an education system that has adequate resources, and that is developed and managed according to their values and cultures. Further information is available at www.cepn-fnec.com.

-30-

Source and information:

Francis Verreault-Paul
Government Relations and Communication Services Director
1-855-842-7672
fverreault@cepn-fnec.com

NT5