Call Made to Address Metis Health Issues

Call Made to Address Metis Health Issues

Monday, January 26, 2004 at 13:05

The mayor of Ile-a-la-Crosse says it’s time for both Ottawa and the provincial government to get serious about Metis health issues.

Max Morin says Metis people in northern communities experience significant challenges in health services and often don’t have the appropriate health coverage to get the services they need.

Morin says he often receives calls from people in his community who can’t afford medication or to travel south for medical services in larger centres. Morin says he knows of at least one instance where an elder had to hitchhike to get the care he needed.

Morin says Metis people as Canadian citizens have the right to accessible health coverage, and feels it’s time both levels of government acted on that.

Morin also feels the Aboriginal rights of Metis people that were re-affirmed in last year’s landmark Powley decision should pave the way for health coverage that is at least on par with First Nations health coverage.

Morin plans to discuss his concerns with the federal minister responsible for Metis issues, Denis Coderre, who will be visiting Ile-a-la-Crosse later this week.

In the meantime, Morin hopes that elected leaders at every level will help purchase Blue Cross coverage for Metis elders that really need specialized care.