An Assessment of First Nations Economic and Social Performance in New Brunswick

Abstract

This report presents an analysis of a series of economic and social indicators for the First Nations population in New Brunswick using data from the 2016 and 2021 Population Censuses. The variables used include demographics, income and income composition, labour market outcomes, and educational attainment. Comparisons are made between First Nations and nonIndigenous people at the provincial and national levels, as well as between reserves in New Brunswick. Particular attention was given to the four largest reserves in New Brunswick (Elsipogtog, Esgenoopetitj, St. Mary’s and Tobique). There have been large relative improvements for First Nations people in New Brunswick from 2016 to 2021 compared to the non-Indigenous population trends over the same period. However, First Nations people still perform below the non-Indigenous averages. First Nations individuals off reserve have faired better than First Nations individuals on reserve. Finally, the report presents policy recommendations to increase First Nations economic and social performance in New Brunswick.

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