I, like some of my colleagues, find some elements of this report devastating. I have a few questions about this.
We are dealing with 8,300 children taken into care. We hear that regular investigations are being carried out on 297 persons, to be specific, and this affects more than 103,000 persons inside. Is there any estimation of the cost of these investigations? Is it or is it not a part of the sum of $270 million committed to the program?
We note that the birth rate among aboriginal peoples is increasing much more rapidly than the birth rate in Canada in general. The funding formula is based on the fact that 6.6% of children live on-reserve, whereas the true figure could be as high as 28%. Therefore, the allotted budgets may well have to be substantially adjusted.
I have other concerns about this. We hear that funds committed to community infrastructure and housing were taken and transferred to the child care program. This is significant, in view of the fact that the entire current program is not monitored in any way and has practically no accountability. As we look at this program, we note that it is a kind of free-for-all. What will finally come out of all this for the children?
There is no analysis with specific figures to inform us of the impact on children. As we heard, there are no evaluation indicators either. This is worrisome. A great deal of money is involved, whereas, on the other hand, very little information is forthcoming from the department.
Finally, I would like to discuss the connection between Health Canada and yourselves. This seems to give rise to serious disputes that have a significant impact on the children. I would like to have some examples of the impact of these kinds of problems when they arise. If there are disputes or issues that last for years, what will happen to the children's health? The whole picture of governance that involves Health Canada and yourselves, with regard to health, is a major issue.
I just put several questions to you all at the same time.