Photo courtesy of crwflags.com
Metis Nation-Saskatchewan is putting the final touches on a memorandum of understanding between them and the Government of Canada.
In the historic Daniels decision, the Supreme Court of Canada redefined Metis standing in the country. Among many things, the decision came with the requirement to resolve outstanding claims under section 35 of the Constitution Act.
In light of this, other Metis organizations have signed agreements with Ottawa to ensure parties work toward just and lasting settlements.
MN-S President, Glen McCallum, says the organization is finalizing agreeable terms for their own MOU with the Government of Canada.
“This MOU is very important,” said McCallum. “For many years, I have seen many politicians representing the Metis have always fought for the right for land, and this MOU really opens the door for conversation, but more importantly, to implement some sort of idea on how we deal with our land across Saskatchewan.”
The impending MOU has also garnered support from northern Saskatchewan Metis leaders as well.
“I am ecstatic of the impending signing of the MOU between the Metis Nation of Saskatchewan and the Government of Canada. This will set the foundation for much needed programs and services for Metis communities such as Pinehouse,” said Kineepik Metis Local Executive Director, Vince Natomagan, in a statement provided to MBC.
In order to help them with this process, the MN-S has partnered with an experienced lawyer to provide expertise on Metis land claims.
The organization announced that Indigenous legal expert Tom Isaac will help them on matters like the North West Metis Land Claim, as well as the Ile-a-la-Crosse Boarding School.
Isaac has an extensive history in Aboriginal law, and has been part of treaty and land settlement negotiations across Canada.
McCallum believes having Isaac at the table will be a “big asset” for them.
“Anything you do, you want the best people with you, and that is the same for negotiations,” said the MN-S president. “Tom Isaac has proven the point that Metis has the right to land.”
The Metis Nation-Saskatchewan recently held a leadership retreat in Manitou Lake. McCallum say the retreat provided opportunity for the Provincial Métis Council to assess its governance structures.
“It’s all about accountability and transparency,” said McCallum. “We need to establish ourselves as who we are as Metis.”