Unit 4
Intergovernmental Relations

Learning Objectives

When you have completed Unit 4, you should be able to achieve the following learning objectives.

1. Discuss what is meant by the “jurisdictional limbo” in which Aboriginal peoples often find themselves.
2. Define the phrase “fiduciary responsibility,” and how it relates to the relationship between the Canadian government and Aboriginal peoples.
3. Discuss and evaluate changes over the past four decades in the policies of the federal government regarding Aboriginal peoples, their rights, and their governance.
4. Outline and discuss the relations between Aboriginal peoples and the provincial and territorial governments.
5. Discuss reasons why municipal governments may have an interest in Aboriginal self-government issues.
6. Discuss the findings of past studies regarding the effectiveness of existing programs and services in addressing the needs of Aboriginal people, and identify the arguments put forward for a transfer of control of services to Aboriginal governments.
7. Describe how a transfer of social service delivery or of health care might relate to issues of self-government.
8. Identify the potential benefits, as well as possible challenges, associated with a transfer of responsibilities for service delivery.
9. Discuss the importance of fiscal arrangements to issues of governance, and describe and assess the alternative fiscal arrangements being developed.
10. Discuss the significance of the Kelowna Accord.