Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC) former known as Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) supports Aboriginal people (First Nations, Inuit and Métis) and Northerners in their efforts to:

•improve social well-being and economic prosperity;

•develop healthier, more sustainable communities; and

•participate more fully in Canada’s political, social and economic development – to the benefit of all Canadians.

AANDC is one of the federal government departments responsible for meeting the Government of Canada’s obligations and commitments to First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and for fulfilling the federal government’s constitutional responsibilities in the North. AANDC’s responsibilities are largely determined by numerous statutes, negotiated agreements and relevant legal decisions.

Most of the Department’s programs, representing a majority of its spending – are delivered through partnerships with Aboriginal communities and federal-provincial or federal-territorial agreements. AANDC also works with urban Aboriginal people, Métis and Non-Status Indians (many of whom live in rural areas) through the Office of the Federal Interlocutor.

AANDC’s mandate and wide ranging responsibilities are shaped by centuries of history, and unique demographic and geographic challenges. AANDC is one of 34 federal departments and agencies involved in Aboriginal and northern programs and services.

For more information about AANDC please visit their website at: http://www.aadnc-aandc.gc.ca/