Northern First Nations Leaders Sign Historic Resolution
for Health Transformation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 22, 2025
Winnipeg , MB – On February 6, 2025, at the Annual General Meeting of Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin Inc. (KIM Inc.), the Keewatinohk Inniniw Okimowin Council (KIOC) of First Nations elected leaders passed a historic resolution in support of moving forward with the signing of an Agreement-in-Principle for Health Transformation with the Government of Canada.
The support from KIOC was overwhelming. The 23 First Nations represented through KIOC made it clear that this next step is not only necessary but urgent. This resolution affirms the commitment of northern First Nations to create a new, First Nations-led health-care system that reflects their needs, priorities, and inherent rights.
Agreement-in-Principle Signed by Northern First Nations Leaders and Minister of Indigenous Services Canada: A Turning Point for First Nations Health
The Agreement-in-Principle represents a non-legally binding, shared understanding between First Nations and Canada on the path forward. It provides the foundation for negotiating a legally binding Health Transformation Framework Agreement that will solidify the potential transfer of control over health services to a First Nations-designed and governed system. The Province of Manitoba has also expressed its support through a formal letter committing to the Framework Agreement process.
KIM Inc. CEO Dr. Barry Lavallee emphasized the power of this collective action:
“The fear about our future is lifting, not because we have all the answers, but because of the faith and determination of First Nations people. This is not just about health-care systems; it’s about sovereignty, self-determination, and ensuring that future generations have the care they deserve. First Nations are leading the way, as they should. KIM Inc. exists because of their leadership. Their faith in KIM is humbling and our efforts will continue to support their individual and collective vision.”
The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services, emphasized the importance of self-determination:
“Today marks a historic step forward in our partnership with First Nations in Northern Manitoba as they take their rightful place in designing and delivering health services for their communities. This Agreement-in-Principle recognizes First Nations’ inherent right to self-determination and that First Nations are best placed to decide how best to deliver high-quality, culturally-informed health care across Northern Manitoba that meets their unique needs and circumstances. By working together, we’re building a better system that will benefit families and communities for generations to come.”
The Minister of Indigenous Services Canada and the Chair of the KIOC signed the document, making the Agreement-in-Principle official on March 17, 2025.
KIM Inc. will engage with each of the 23 First Nations to ensure they continue to guide transformation.
This is a defining moment for northern First Nations. The commitment shown by the KIOC and its leadership makes one thing clear: change is coming.
-30-
About Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin (KIM Inc.)
Established in December 2019, Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin (KIM Inc.) is a northern First Nations-led aggregate
health organization that works to transform health and wellness services and improve health outcomes for First Nations
people