BATOCHE, SK, July 20, 2018 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada and Métis Nation-Saskatchewan are working together through a respectful and co-operative dialogue to advance reconciliation and renew their relationship for the benefit of Métis in Saskatchewan and all Canadians.
Today, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Glen McCallum, President of Métis Nation-Saskatchewan marked a key milestone on the road to reconciliation by signing a historic Framework Agreement. The signing took place at the Back to Batoche Festival.
Under the Framework Agreement, the parties will begin negotiations toward shared and balanced solutions that promote a lasting and meaningful reconciliation and enhance the well-being of Métis Nation-Saskatchewan citizens.
The Framework Agreement establishes a process for discussions about developing a government-to-government relationship between the Crown and Métis Nation-Saskatchewan. It also sets out key priorities and topics for future negotiations, including self-government and self-determination.
Quotes
"Today we are celebrating a key step to strengthen our government-to-government relationship with Métis Nation-Saskatchewan. With this framework in place, we are set to move ahead together to find shared solutions that will help close socio-economic gaps and advance our journey toward reconciliation for everyone's benefit."
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations
"The framework provides meaningful recognition that Métis people in Saskatchewan have been a part of this land and have contributed to the development of Canada over the past 150 years. This is a historic day and from this framework, we can move forward together to address the issues that affect Métis people and Canada: specifically to advance outstanding Métis claims, support for our government and ensuring our people are supported properly."
Glen McCallum, President
Métis Nation-Saskatchewan
Quick Facts
- Métis Nation-Saskatchewan represents the Métis people of Saskatchewan and is affiliated with the Métis National Council.
- On February 22, 2018, Canada and Métis Nation-Saskatchewan signed a Memorandum of Understanding for exploratory talks on reconciliation.
- These discussions led to today's signing of the Framework Agreement.
- The rights and interests of third parties, other Indigenous peoples and all Canadians will be respected and addressed during the negotiations.
Associated Links
Métis Nation-Saskatchewan
Exploring New Ways of Working Together
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SOURCE Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
Media may contact: James Fitz-Morris, Director of Communications and Issues Management, Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, 819-997-0002; Media Relations, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, 819-953-1160; Bonnie Leask, Creative Fire, 306-202-7572
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