Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs

Kathleen Wynne
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs

Overview

In June 2007, the stand-alone Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs was created to replace the Ontario Secretariat of Aboriginal Affairs. This was a significant and symbolic step that reflected the importance of developing a stronger, broader partnership with Aboriginal people in Ontario.

Our Mandate:

promote collaboration and coordination across ministries on Aboriginal policy and programs;
set priorities for and track the progress of Ontario's Aboriginal agenda;
enhance government's awareness of Aboriginal people, issues and best practices for consulting and engaging with Aboriginal people;
work with the federal government to find ways to make the most of federal funding;
help Aboriginal people to access Ontario government programs, services and information;
reform the land claims process to help address historical grievances; and,
encourage diversity, especially representation of Aboriginal people, in the Ontario Public Service.

The Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs has four key areas of responsibility: