As a Pediatrician, I am dedicated to the wellness of children and families living in remote First Nations communities in northern Ontario. Their health and well-being depend on multiple essential services, many of which are at risk due to Jordan’s Principle funding ending on April 1, 2025. 

Jordan's Principle is a child-first principle and legal rule recognized by the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal and the Supreme Court. However, funding delays tied to the prorogation of Parliament, a substantial backlog of approximately 135,000 outstanding claims, and eligibility changes threaten the continuity of essential programs in these vulnerable communities. It will take time for programs in these communities to organize sufficiently to meet the new eligibility requirements, sometimes beyond the March 31, 2025 deadline. I can attest to the critical role these services play in the lives of marginalized children and families.

Critical infrastructure and services such as healthcare, education, and social services could be severely impacted, disproportionally affecting these equity-seeking First Nations communities. These remote areas in Northern Ontario often lack the necessary support and resources to protect their citizens adequately, and any more disruptions in funding would be devastating.

The Canadian government must recognize the urgency of this situation and take immediate action to prevent the potential loss of vital services. Anything less would be a federal abdication of the responsibility to protect the rights of all Canadian citizens, particularly our most vulnerable.

Let’s unite to urge the Government of Canada to fund Jordan’s Principle programs without disruption, ensuring that our children and families in remote First Nations communities continue receiving the care they need and deserve. Sign the petition today to support their well-being and human rights.

Sean Alan Bryan, MD FRCPC FAAP
Developmental Pediatrician

Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority
Box 1300, 42 King Street, Sioux Lookout, ON, P8T 1A5
Phone 807-737-4797 | Secure fax 807-737-3734