Future Of METSI Funding In Doubt

Future Of METSI Funding In Doubt

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 at 15:18

 

 

The federal government is refusing to say whether or not it will re-commit funding to Metis Employment and Training of Saskatchewan in 2006-2007.

 

Several sources are telling MBC that layoff notices have been issued to METSI staff, effective May 22nd.

 

They also indicate that staff members have been told the organization might not be able to meet payroll next payday, and that the education of between 600 and 700 Metis students might be affected by the financial uncertainty.

 

Metis Nation of Saskatchewan president Dwayne Roth says the original agreement for METSI was scheduled to be renewed at the end of March, but nothing has happened yet.

 

Roth says Ottawa is still withholding money from last year, as well.

 

He admits the organization will be unable to accept any more students until it receives new funding.

 

HRDC spokesman Craig Henry says the situation is being studied carefully, but wouldn’t say more due to today’s release of federal budget.

 

He says he hopes to issue a statement in the days to come.