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Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) participated in a high-level summit hosted by Prime Minister Mark Carney this week, reaffirming the need for distinctions-based consultation and respect for Métis rights as Canada moves forward with Bill C-5,The One Canadian Economy Act.
During the Summit, Glen McCallum, President of the Métis Nation – Saskatchewan, told Prime Minister Carney Métis rights are non-negotiable.
“Our Nation will always support projects that deliver economic growth—so long as they are developed responsibly and in close partnership with our citizens,” said President McCallum. “While the lack of consultation surrounding the tabling and passage of this legislation remains a concern, today’s summit gives me cautious optimism that Canada will meaningfully come to the table to engage with us as the sole representative of the Métis Nation within Saskatchewan.”
The President clearly stated the Saskatchewan Métis Nation will not and cannot be represented by any other government or advocacy body. The MN–S government has the jurisdictional right and the knowledge of its citizens to effectively move forward in a fair and equitable way on developments that will be mutually beneficial.
“Canada and the MN–S government have been actively engaged in strengthening our nation-to-nation relationship since 2015 with the signing of several agreements, including the Self-Government Agreement in 2019,” said the President. We have also made significant strides in our partnerships with industry who continue to include MN–S in project consultations that directly affect our citizens and their communities. We are confident both fronts will continue to gain momentum.” The President added that when Métis people achieve success, Saskatchewan and Canada are richer.
In June of 2023, MN–S reached an historic Impact Benefits Agreement with NexGen Energy Corp. to advance development at the Rook I mine in the northern region affecting 7 Métis Locals in Northern Region II (NRII). The MN–S government continues to engage with new industry partners, ensuring that Métis rights and citizen interests remain central to all development discussions.
About Métis Nation–Saskatchewan:
Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) is built on a foundation of Métis identity, culture, values and language. Empowered by the Métis citizens of Saskatchewan, MN–S works to advance Métis rights and strengthen capacity. MN–S represents the political, socioeconomic, cultural and educational interests of Métis in the province through an elected representative system at local, regional and provincial levels.