Beneficiaries of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement are experiencing delays in the approval of applications for services and supports under the Inuit Child First Initiative (ICFI). This is due to a backlog and a change in approach made by Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) ISC in October 2024. ISC funds the ICFI, and the funding flows to the Nunatsiavut Government (NG).

NG can only administer the services and supports as the funding is allocated. If Beneficiaries have questions or concerns about the long wait times, please reach out directly to ISC.

NG is working in partnership with the other three Inuit regions and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) to get answers and provide timely service for the ICFI. This is an issue across Canada, and the NG will continue to lobby ISC on behalf of Beneficiaries.

Of notable mention, Inuit are in the last year of a five-year proposal to ISC for the administration of the ICFI. It is uncertain what the ICFI will look like after March 31, 2025, until there is a commitment from the Government of Canada. However, the NG is actively working toward a plan that addresses gaps in services and supports, and unique determinants of health Labrador Inuit.

Beneficiaries who are concerned or have questions regarding the status of their application, or the process in general, are urged to reach out to ISC for more information.

Jordan’s Principle and Inuit Child First Initiative
First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, Atlantic Region
Indigenous Services Canada / Government of Canada
[email protected]
Toll Free: 1-833-652-0210
Fax: 1-866-963-7700