In response to a recent forensic audit highlighting $34 million in questionable expenses, a member of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) executive, Craig McCallum, has expressed his disagreement with his colleagues’ official statement. McCallum, who assumed the role of 4th vice-chief of FSIN in October 2023, penned an open letter to Saskatchewan First Nations leadership, emphasizing the importance of transparency, humility, and listening to the community to address the repercussions of secrecy.
The audit, carried out by KPMG LLP at the request of Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), scrutinized expenditures over a five-year period, including $30 million allocated for COVID-19 relief. ISC’s overview indicated that $23.5 million of the pandemic-related spending was flagged as “questionable.”
FSIN has asserted its adherence to internal financial protocols, claiming that all expenses were supported by receipts and were subject to a stringent financial control framework. However, FSIN has expressed its inability to provide a comprehensive response without access to the complete KPMG report, which ISC has declined to disclose due to confidentiality regulations.
McCallum, who was in office for a brief period during the audit review, refrained from commenting on past decisions but emphasized his commitment to instigating positive change going forward. He stressed the necessity of transparency in documenting financial decisions, endorsing independent oversight, and fostering a culture within FSIN that promotes open dialogue and condemns censorship.
The FSIN, representing 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan, was established to serve as a collective voice for Indigenous Nations and safeguard Treaty and Inherent rights. McCallum emphasized the enduring significance of this mission, emphasizing the importance of humility and service to the Indigenous communities.
McCallum called for the ongoing situation to serve as a pivotal moment for FSIN, advocating for a shift towards enhanced governance and spiritual integrity. He warned that denial and deflection could erode trust and credibility with both the represented people and the broader Canadian population.
CBC News has sought comments from FSIN leadership and ISC regarding the matter.