National Council for Reconciliation Act officially becomes law

The National Council for Reconciliation Act officially became law following Royal Assent, establishing the framework for the National Council for Reconciliation.

Bill C-29 aims to fulfill several calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), particularly calls to action 53, 54, 55, and 56.

The TRC, informed by testimony from survivors, envisioned an independent, Indigenous-led council to monitor Canada's long-term progress toward reconciliation. The act mandates that the council monitor, evaluate, and report on reconciliation efforts while representing the diversity of indigenous peoples across Canada. It also ensures the council will receive nominations from National Indigenous Organizations.

The new legislation requires the council to develop a multi-year action plan to promote reconciliation, advocate for reconciliation across Canadian society, and assess federal laws, policies, and programs impacting indigenous peoples. An annual progress report will be tabled in both the House of Commons and the Senate, requiring a formal response from the prime minister, as outlined in call to action 56.

Gary Anandasangaree, minister of crown-indigenous relations, praised the council's creation, stating, “The National Council for Reconciliation will hold our feet to the fire as we continue to walk the path of reconciliation in this country. The road ahead requires hard work from all levels of government, businesses, civil society, and more. Many voices have strengthened this legislation, and I thank them for their contributions. More to do.”

The legislation gained strength through extensive parliamentary discussions, including input from survivors and Indigenous organizations. Édith Cloutier, a member of the Transitional Committee, called it a "great moment" in Indigenous relations, representing a hopeful future.

As stated in call to action 54, the council will also receive multi-year funding, including a National Reconciliation Trust. Governments across all levels will provide data and annual reports to assist in tracking progress towards reconciliation.

The council's transitional committee, which includes Dr. Mike DeGagné, Édith Cloutier, Rosemary Cooper, and Mitch Case, will now oversee the formation of the council's first board. The council will soon be formally incorporated under the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act.