Pivot to ‘economic reconciliation’ risks ‘squandering’ political goodwill as Indigenous social programs face funding gaps: observers

First Nations and Inuit leaders say the 2025 budget is a ‘missed opportunity’ with financial sunsets looming for critical education, health-care, and urban programs.

Prime Minister Mark Carney's focus on nation-building projects and infrastructure funding demonstrates 'reconciliation means something very different' to his government than that of his predecessor, say strategists.The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

News

BY STUART BENSON

November 19, 2025

The Liberal government’s “pivot to economic reconciliation” framed around national projects and infrastructure investments risks sidelining core commitments to Indigenous Peoples and creating friction with the nations with which it hopes to partner, observers say.

To keep reading, subscribe and become a political insider.

Only $7.76 a week for an annual subscription.

Enjoy unlimited website access and the digital newspaper.

Cancel anytime.

Already a Subscriber?

Get Today’s Headlines Newsletter

Your quick scan of the news you need each weekday to be the smartest person in the room.

By entering your email address you consent to receive email from The Hill Times containing news, analysis, updates and offers. You may unsubscribe at any time. See our privacy policy