Mi’kmaw chiefs call on Ottawa to address income assistance disparity on reserves

Mi’kmaw leaders in Nova Scotia are urging the federal government to address a significant income assistance gap that they say is trapping on-reserve families in deep poverty. Ta’n Etli-tpi’tmk, representing 12 of the 13 Mi’kmaw First Nations in the province, says people living on reserves receive far less financial support than those off reserve — a disparity of over $25 million annually. Current federal rates can be as low as $13 per day for a single person, which leaders argue is not enough to meet basic needs like food or housing.

James Michael, a lead negotiator, called the situation “humbling” and emphasized that the demand is not for a handout but for equitable support to help lift people out of poverty. Comparatively, off-reserve Nova Scotians receive $644–$726 per month depending on housing circumstances. Negotiations for a self-governing social assistance agreement with Ottawa and Nova Scotia stalled in 2024 when the Mi’kmaq pushed for funding levels aligned with provincial standards.

Legal counsel Vince Calderhead called the current system a “huge human rights violation,” while Senator Paul Prosper and Chief Leroy Denny of Eskasoni First Nation echoed calls for justice, dignity, and an end to the harm caused by decades of underfunding and neglect.