A member of the executive board of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) has expressed disagreement with his fellow executives’ response to a recent forensic audit that raised concerns about $34 million in expenses. Craig McCallum, who assumed the role of 4th vice-chief of FSIN in October 2023, penned an open letter to Saskatchewan First Nations leaders this week.
In his letter, McCallum stated that he could not support the statement issued by the other FSIN executives and emphasized the importance of transparency, humility, and attentiveness to the community to address the repercussions of secrecy. This declaration followed FSIN’s initial public reaction to the audit, which was conducted by KPMG LLP at the request of Indigenous Services Canada (ISC).
The audit scrutinized expenditures over a five-year period from April 2019 to March 2024, including funds allocated for COVID-19 relief amounting to $30 million. ISC’s overview categorized $23.5 million of the COVID-related expenses as “questionable.”
FSIN asserted that it adhered to its financial protocols, provided documentation for all outlays, and operates under a comprehensive financial oversight mechanism. The federation also highlighted its inability to provide a comprehensive response due to the unavailability of the complete KPMG report, which ISC declined to disclose citing confidentiality constraints.
McCallum, who served during a portion of the audit period, acknowledged his limitations in addressing past choices but affirmed his commitment to instigate reforms going forward. He stressed the need for accountability and transparency to rebuild trust, emphasizing that the industry, Canada, and their constituency are closely observing FSIN’s actions.
McCallum pledged to meticulously record and disclose financial decisions, advocate for independent supervision, and promote a culture within FSIN that encourages open dialogues and disallows suppression of voices.
FSIN represents 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan and was established under the Convention Act to advocate for Indigenous Nations’ collective interests and safeguard Treaty and Inherent rights. McCallum underscored the importance of remaining true to this founding purpose, emphasizing the need for humility and service to the Indigenous communities.
He viewed the current situation as an opportunity for FSIN to embark on a new path towards enhanced governance and ethical conduct. McCallum stressed that embracing the audit findings could pave the way for increased credibility and responsible stewardship, while denial and evasion would only erode further trust with the people and the country at large.
CBC News has contacted FSIN leadership and ISC for additional comments on the matter.
