Driftpile Cree Nation in Canada has signed a service delivery agreement affirming its right to self-governance over child and family services.

The agreement, signed on Thursday by Chief Dwayne Laboucan, the elected Council of Driftpile Cree Nation, and the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Federal Minister of Indigenous Services, supports the implementation of Mihtatakaw Sîpiy Awasak Wiyasiwêwin (Driftpile River Children's Law).

It follows the framework set by An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families.

The agreement recognises Driftpile Cree Nation's jurisdiction over programs and services that ensure the safety and well-being of its children and families.

A cultural ceremony is planned in the coming months to mark the occasion.

Chief Laboucan said the agreement reflects the Nation's commitment to protecting its children.

"Family is at the heart of Driftpile Cree Nation," he said.

"We embrace and endorse our journey to implementing Mihtatakaw Sîpiy Awasak Wiyasiwêwin and asserting our inherent Rights respecting our children, youth, and families in a profound way.

"We will provide our own services—designed and developed by us, and for us—that put families first and ensure that our children are always connected to their families, language, culture, and community."

Through the Chief Kinosêw Awasak Mîkiwâhp (CKAM) Children's Lodge, Driftpile Cree Nation will provide prevention, protection, and support services to its approximately 3,237 members living in Driftpile Cree Nation and across Alberta.

The agreement ensures that children remain connected to their families and culture, guided by Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and the wider community.

The Canadian federal government will provide C$16.4 million annually over four years, with funding adjusted for inflation and population growth.

Additional funding will support facility development and, in the absence of provincial support, Canada will provide funding for children living outside Driftpile Cree Nation for two years.

Driftpile Cree Nation will begin implementing its law on 17 March.

CKAM will oversee a service model developed in consultation with the community, ensuring wraparound support for families.

Minister Hajdu said the agreement affirms the community's long-standing role in caring for its children.

"Today's signing affirms what Driftpile Cree Nation has always known—that their children thrive best when cared for through systems designed by their own community, rooted in ancestral wisdom and collective identity," she said.

"The leadership shown by Driftpile Cree Nation demonstrates how Indigenous-led approaches create stronger supports for children, youth and families."

Since An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families came into effect in 2020, the federal government has committed over $1.8 billion to support Indigenous communities in exercising jurisdiction over child and family services.

This agreement is the third in Alberta and the twelfth nationwide under the Act.