The First Nations Tax Commission (FNTC) and the Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) signed an MOU on September 18, 2019 in Winnipeg, Manitoba; as part of the Chiefs-in-Summit meeting, to formalize a partnership to work on developing a tax framework that will lead to more self-governance. The MOU was signed by SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels and FNTC Chief Commission Manny Jules.
“Business is happening all around us and we are not involved. They are operating in our territories and should be paying a tax. This agreement allows the SCO to access the FNTC’s expertise to help facilitate investment in our communities,” said Grand Chief Daniels.
The FNTC first began working with the SCO in the fall of 2018, and this MOU formalizes their working relationship.
“The FNTC, through this MOU, is committed to working with the Southern Chiefs Organization, in a cooperative and mutually supportive manner, to help grow SCO First Nation economies, jurisdictions and fiscal powers and establish an improved First Nation fiscal relationship,” said Chief Commissioner Jules.
This MOU establishes a work plan and strategy including:
- Developing a taxation framework
- Training for designated SCO staff at the Tulo Centre of Indigenous Economics
- Increase economic benefits before lands are added to First Nation jurisdiction
- Maximize fiscal benefits through efficient ATRs
- Infrastructure capital and financial planning
- Implement FMA powers
- Work with other governments
- Work with other FMA institutions
The SCO represents 34 First Nations in Southern Manitoba. The SCO was established by the Chiefs of Southern Manitoba to protect, preserve, promote and enhance First Nation’s people’s inherent rights, languages, customs and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process.