Metis Leadership Change May Affect Hunting Talks

Wednesday, November 26, 2003 at 13:03

 

 

Saskatchewan’s new Aboriginal Affairs minister admits the uncertainty over who will lead the Metis Nation of Saskatchewan several months from now could hamper discussions about Metis hunting rights.

 

Meadow Lake MLA Maynard Sonntag was named to his new post in last Friday’s cabinet shuffle.

 

He says he has already had preliminary discussions with MNS president Clem Chartier, who will be resigning his position in January to take on similar duties with the Metis National Council.

 

Sonntag says the issue of Metis hunting rights came up in that discussion, and both men agreed the MNS and the province would have to continue talks about how Metis hunting rights will be enforced in Saskatchewan.

 

However, Sonntag says because he will likely be dealing with a new MNS president in January, and possibly another new face in the role in May — that may get in the way of any meaningful discussions over the next few months.

 

The MNS is expected to decide the interim presidency issue at its January 17th general assembly in Saskatoon.

 

The organization’s general election is scheduled for May 26th.