Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ministry's commitment to consultation?

Ontario is committed to meeting its consultation obligations related to Aboriginal and treaty rights under Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.

Several Supreme Court of Canada decisions also guide Ontario's commitment to consultation. Since the Supreme Court decisions of:

Haida Nation v. BC (Minister of Forests),
Taku River v. BC in November 2004, and
Mikisew Cree First Nation v. Canada (Minister of Canadian Heritage) in November 2005.

Aboriginal communities have become an important group to consult with before exploring and developing on Crown lands.

Under Haida and Taku, federal and provincial governments have a duty to consult when they have "knowledge, real or constructive, of the potential existence of [an] Aboriginal right or title and contemplates conduct that might adversely affect it."

More information is available in our Draft Guidelines for Ministries on Consultation with Aboriginal People.

How can I get funding for my post-secondary education?

If you are a Status Indian, contact your Band council office. If you are Métis, contact the Métis Nation of Ontario. Information about education funding is also available on our education web page.

Where can I find information on hunting and fishing?

Visit the Ministry of Natural Resources' Fish and Wildlife in Ontario web page.

How do I apply for a job at the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs?

Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs jobs are listed on our job opportunities web page.

You can search for jobs on the Ontario Public Service Careers website. New positions are posted every Friday. Visit our jobs web page for career resources.

Where can I get free legal help if I can't afford a lawyer?

Contact Legal Aid Ontario or Aboriginal Legal Services of Toronto.

Where can I get maps?

We do not produce or distribute maps of reserves or land claims. We do have an online map of First Nations.

Natural Resources Canada makes topographic maps that show Indian reserves. You can order topographic maps from a distributor.

Visit Indian and Northern Affairs Canada for information about First Nations and reserves.

Where can I get information about non-insured health benefits, or medical and dental forms?

Non-insured health benefits are provided by Health Canada. Visit our health services web page for information, forms and office locations.

Where can I find information on mining and forestry?

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines has information about:

Ministry of Natural Resources has information about:

Forests in Ontario

How do I get a status card?

Status cards are issued by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada. Visit our status services for information, forms and office locations.

Where can I find information about Status tax issues?

Contact the Ontario Ministry of Revenue or the Canada Revenue Agency. The following links have information about tax issues specific to First Nations: