OTTAWA — A forensic audit of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) has raised serious questions about over $34 million in spending from April 2019 to March 2024. The audit, conducted by KPMG for the federal government, scrutinized federal funds allocated by Indigenous Services Canada to the FSIN, which represents 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan.

The audit revealed that $25 million of the $30 million designated for COVID-19-related expenses was spent in a manner deemed "questionable." KPMG reported that it could not verify whether any personal protective equipment purchased with these funds was distributed to the communities represented by the FSIN.

Additionally, the audit identified over $50,000 in travel expenditures that were labeled as "questionable" or "ineligible." Another $265,000 in travel spending was noted as potentially violating the FSIN's own travel policies. The audit also suggested that there may have been an overpayment of nearly $250,000 in salary and contract payments to a former employee.

The FSIN has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the findings of the audit. Meanwhile, the James Smith Cree Nation, also located in Saskatchewan, has expressed support for a separate forensic audit of its operations, which was announced by Indigenous Services in July. Chief Kirby Constant of the James Smith Cree Nation previously raised concerns about discrepancies in pandemic funding that was intended for the community through the FSIN.

The audit for the James Smith Cree Nation will cover funding received from April 2018 to July 2025. In a statement on Facebook, Chief Constant emphasized the importance of the audit, stating, "This forensic audit is a necessary and welcome step. I support it fully and will ensure that everyone tasked with working on your behalf for the Nation co-operates fully."

The findings of the FSIN audit highlight ongoing concerns regarding financial oversight and accountability within organizations managing federal funds for Indigenous communities.