A member of the executive team of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) has expressed his disagreement with his colleagues’ reaction to a recent critical forensic audit pointing out $34 million in questionable expenses. Craig McCallum, who assumed the position of 4th vice-chief of FSIN in October 2023, has penned an open letter to Saskatchewan First Nations leaders, stating his inability to support the statement issued by the rest of the FSIN executive. McCallum emphasized the importance of transparency, humility, and listening to the community to address the impact of secretive actions.
The open letter from McCallum comes on the heels of FSIN’s initial public response to the forensic audit, which was carried out by KPMG LLP at the request of Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). The audit scrutinized a five-year span from April 2019 to March 2024, encompassing $30 million allocated for COVID-19 relief. ISC’s summary of the audit highlighted $23.5 million in related expenditures as “questionable.”
In its defense, FSIN asserted compliance with its financial protocols, stating that all expenses were supported by receipts and that the organization operates under a stringent financial control system. FSIN also mentioned its inability to provide a comprehensive response as ISC declined to share the complete KPMG report due to confidentiality regulations.
McCallum, having served for only five months during the audit period, refrained from commenting on past decisions but expressed a commitment to instigating positive changes going forward. He stressed the need for accountability, independent oversight, and fostering an environment within FSIN that encourages open discussions and discourages suppression.
FSIN, representing 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan, was established under the Convention Act to act as a unified advocate for Indigenous Nations and safeguard Treaty and Inherent rights. McCallum emphasized the importance of staying true to this fundamental purpose and serving the nations and their people with respect and humility.
Regarding the current situation, McCallum urged for a transformative moment for FSIN, emphasizing that taking the audit seriously could lead to enhanced governance and moral principles. Conversely, denial and evasion would only erode trust and credibility with the constituents and the broader Canadian audience.
CBC News has sought comments from FSIN leadership and ISC for additional insights.
[End of rewritten article]