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Accountability First Nations and Inuit Communities

March 2001

Since 1997, Health Canada has been actively working to enhance its financial accountability and to strengthen its ability to monitor grants and contributions as well as to respond to overall accountability issues.

Recent Auditor General's reports (1997 and 2000) have stressed the need for improved accountability within First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB) programs. The Department, in partnership with First Nations and Inuit, has developed an Accountability Framework which clearly outlines roles and responsibilities with all parties.

In November 2000 an Accountability Implementation Office was established within FNIHB to oversee the main components of the framework. These components are designed to result in more transparent accountability processes and include the compendium of programs, a community health plan, as well as reporting, evaluation and audit elements. The Accountability Framework will also improve information collection for better data access to support evidence-based decision making.

The Accountability Framework will enable First Nations and Inuit and the Department to better demonstrate results on investments in programs and services, identify gaps in service, improve the capacity to deliver services, measure performance and improve overall management practices. The work on the Accountability Framework began as a result of the recommendations contained in the 1997 Auditor General's Report on First Nations Health. The Framework continues to be refined by a Departmental Committee which includes participation by First Nations and Inuit. Notable Committee progress includes the development of a community health plan, a planning model, an automated work planning tool and a program accountability structure. A number of FNIHB programs were also restructured to each reflect a clear objective, program reporting requirements and program indicators.

The review of all contributions and transfer agreements and the subsequent adoption of new standardized agreements is just one part of the comprehensive Accountability Framework. Several more new accountability initiatives will be rolled out over the next few months. Health Canada continues to work closely with First Nations and Inuit communities in all aspects of the Accountability Framework.