That's what the auditor general Sheila Fraser concluded after studying the federal government's reporting requirements of First Nations.

The study estimates the federal government requires 168 reports annually from First Nations. It says that since most First Nations are small and often located in remote areas, this is a significant burden.

According to the report, the government often asks for the same information more than once and doesn't keep track of past reports. It also makes limited use of the information it collects.

According to First Nations studied, the federal government does not provide good feedback on performance and results. And the consequences of not reporting can be severe. If reports aren't filed on time, First Nations risk losing federal funds.

"There's not much point in First Nations exchanging data for dollars with the federal government when the information is of no real benefit to either party," said Fraser in a press release.

"The present crazy quilt of reporting requirements shows an unacceptable lack of co-ordination between federal organizations. Reporting requirements must be overhauled so they support meaningful accountability and serve the real needs of First Nations communities and government."

DIAND let-down

Deh Cho Grand Chief Michael Nadli said the federal government's has tightened reporting requirements because of cases of mismanagement and abuse of funds by First Nations.

He said the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development is notorious for handing down very clear directives on accountability. However, it doesn't keep up its end of the bargain by transferring funds efficiently.

"The federal government is very slow, cumbersome, very bureaucratic and frustrating," said Nadli.

"There are expectations placed on First Nations," he said. "But First Nations need to place some expectations on DIAND, too."

Nadli added they often get calls from both Yellowknife and Ottawa offices asking the exact same thing.

"These kinds of incidents confuse people at the local level," he said.

"It seems like their left arm doesn't know what their right arm is doing."

Four First Nations and two tribal councils from Saskatchewan participated in the study.

The study was not intended to provide a complete view of national reporting.

However, the same reports are required in every region of the country. According to the auditor general's report, the results "shed light on issues relevant across Canada."

The government tacked a response onto the end of the auditor general's findings.

"Caution must be exercised in generalizing results based on only four First Nations and two tribal councils," it stated.

"However, the desire to reduce the reporting burden on First Nations is accepted."