Minister Scott, MNC Presiden Chartier, Prime Minister Paul Martin sign the Canada-Metis Nation Framework Agreement

Métis Nation and Government of Canada Sign Historic Framework Agreement

(Ottawa) June 1, 2005 – MNC President Clément Chartier and the Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians Andy Scott signed the Canada-Métis Nation Framework Agreement in Ottawa yesterday defining a new nation to nation relationship between Canada and the Métis Nation. The agreement was signed during a Policy Retreat between the federal Cabinet Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and Aboriginal leaders.

MNC Vice President and Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) President Audrey Poitras describes the agreement as historic because it translates into a remarkable improvement in how Canada deals with the Métis Nation. ”The Framework Agreement affirms Canada’s recognition of the Métis Nation as a distinct Aboriginal people. This is very important to our people. Further, it recognizes the Métis Nation and the national governance structure of the Métis National Council, along with the Métis Nations regional government,” says Poitras.

One of the objectives of the Métis Nation Framework Agreement is to develop and establish negotiations processes to address the Aboriginal rights of the Métis Nation.

Poitras says, “This will allow us, Canada and the Métis Nation, to develop a relationship together rather than using the courts to define the relationship. Frankly, this is in the best interest of the Government of Canada, the Métis Nation, and all Canadians. It is in the tradition of Canadian values.”

Another objective of the Agreement is to identify and implement initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for Métis people within Canada. MNC Vice President Poitras says, “These are achievable objectives. They are real commitments for federal support in areas such as the devolution of suitable programs and services. It’s a commitment for support in areas such as housing, health, education, and economic development.”

The Agreement will also address the implementation of the Powley decision, including Métis harvesting; providing support for enhancing the electoral and governance capacity of the Métis Nation and its Governing Members.

“We are truly committed to building upon the new relationship the Prime Minister has initiated with the Métis Nation and will work diligently to ensure our mutual objectives within the Métis Nation Framework Agreement are realized for the benefit of our people.”