Question Period Note: Huu-ay-aht First Nations Specific Claims Research Funding

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• The Specific Claims Research program provides funding to assist First Nations in researching and developing their specific claims.
• In 2025-26, Huu-ay-aht First Nation received $90,000 in funding which was based on the application for funding received December 19, 2024.
• In 2024-25, Huu-ay-aht First Nation requested $80,000 in funding to support specific claims development. This request was not granted because the expense reports required by the contribution agreement were not submitted. However, the First Nation was permitted to use $47,293 in surplus funds carried forward from the previous year.

The program received applications totaling $26.8M in 2024-25 and $34.5M in 2025-26, indicating that demand significantly exceeded available funding. The number of applications increased proportionally, from 130 in 2024-25 to 192 in 2025-26.
Several First Nations and First Nation organizations (65) have written to the Minister and Prime Minister to request an increase in the funding envelope, and a Resolution was passed this fall by Chiefs-in-Assembly on which underscores ongoing concerns over specific claims research funding for First Nations.
In the letter sent in response, the CIR Minister acknowledged the seriousness of the concerns raised and assured them that the message had been heard. The Department recognizes that addressing specific claims is essential to upholding the honour of the Crown, strengthening relationships with First Nations, and advancing reconciliation.
First Nations and Claim Research Units have been encouraged to lobby their elected representatives for increased funding. M.P. Gord Johns submitted a letter to Minister Alty expressing support for Chief Councilor John Jack of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations regarding concerns in crisis-level shortfall in federal funding for Specific Claims Research and development.

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