The federal agriculture department has set up a new direct line of support to assist Indigenous peoples and communities to access its programs and services.
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) said it offers many programs and services to First Nations, Inuit and Métis who have projects or opportunities they would like to pursue in the agriculture and food sector, including under the new Canadian Agricultural Partnership - a five-year, $3-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) governments to strengthen the sector.
“The Indigenous Pathfinder is a one-on-one service which connects Indigenous peoples with AAFC staff who will listen to project ideas and suggest next steps, discuss available agriculture-related programs, services and funding, provide referrals to an industry, trade or scientific expert and make connections with other federal, provincial and territorial support across the country to help move the idea or project to reality,” the department said.
Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay said “the Government of Canada is committed to supporting economic development opportunities and growth by providing the right tools for Indigenous farmers and communities.
“The new Indigenous Pathfinder service will help connect individuals with the programs, services and information that they need to fully participate in, and benefit from, Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector.”
On a per capital basis, $3 billion seems to be generous. Maybe non-indigenous people would like a similar service.
