Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta

BILL C-3

Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Gender Equity In Indian Registration Act

The Gender Equity in Indian Registration Act (Bill C-3) received Royal Assent on December 15, 2010 and came into force on January 31, 2011. It is sometimes referred to as the McIvor case.

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What is the purpose of Bill C-3?

Bill C-3 ensures that eligible grandchildren of women who lost status as a result of marrying non-Indian men are entitled to registration (Indian Status).

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How does someone apply for Indian Status under Bill C-3?

Individuals who want to register must submit an application to Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) and must meet all of the following three criteria:

• The applicant's grandmother lost her Indian status as a result of marrying a non-Indian;
• One of the applicant's parents was registered, or was entitled to be registered, under sub-section 6(2) of The Indian Act;
• The applicant or a sibling was born on or after September 4, 1951.

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Will clients be reimbursed for past health expenses/ benefits?

Clients become eligible for non-insured health benefits as of their registration date as a Status Indian. This date is indicated on their registration confirmation letter from INAC.

NIHB will not reimburse clients for benefits/services received before that date.

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Where can clients get INAC registration forms?

INAC registration forms are available on the INAC Website, the INAC Call Centre, and at Regional Offices.

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For more information contact:

Phone: (toll-free) 1-800-567-9604

Email: InfoPubs@ainc-inac.gc.ca

Fax: 1-866-817-3977

NIHB-Bill C-3 Question and Answers