Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde today called for immediate action to close the gap in the quality of life between First Nations people and Canada, in a pre-budget address to the Economic Club.

Bellegarde said Canada needs to make immediate investments into First Nations communities across the country, in the upcoming federal budget.

The National Chief set out key areas for investment including education, health, housing, water and capital infrastructure, child and family services, environmental stewardship, economic development and social development.

Calling for the elimination of the 2% cap on funding increases for First Nations, National Chief Bellegarde proposed it be replaced by a new fiscal framework based on fairness, sustainability and predictability.

He emphasized that investments are important, but action to honour and implement First Nations rights must be part of the agenda to ensure strong First Nations and a stronger Canada.