MN–S and NWSMC file notice of intention to proceed with the Northwest Land Claim to Saskatchewan and Canada

– The Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S), including the North West Saskatchewan Métis Council (NWSMC)1, announces it has served Canada and Saskatchewan with notice of its intention to proceed with and advance the

Northwest Land Claim (the “Land Claim”) on behalf of the citizens of the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan. This marks a significant and historic milestone for MN–S and NWSMC.

Former MN–S Vice President Gerald Morin was instrumental in pursuing the Land Claim. Of this week’s action he said, “We have always tried to do things in a good way and outside of the courts but we have been forced into this position. We are proud to have the full support of leadership at all levels within Métis Nation Saskatchewan.”

Although pursuit of the Land Claim has been under a stay order since December 23, 2005, MN–S and NWSMC have not wavered in asserting the Métis Nation’s rights to the land and resources within the claim area.

“MN–S has consistently challenged Crown policies and conduct that have negatively impacted these rights – including, most recently, before the Supreme Court of Canada, where the Court affirmed that MN–S has the right to challenge Saskatchewan’s refusal to consult on impacts to Aboriginal title and commercial harvesting rights. The resilience of the North West has been the driving force behind our government’s perseverance in this matter,” said MN–S Minister of Justice and Lands and Environment, Vice President Michelle LeClair.

“Métis are patient people,” said MN–S President Glen McCallum. “After failed attempts to negotiate with the Saskatchewan government we need to take this

1 The purpose of the NWSMC is to promote the political, legal, economic, social, civil, linguistic, and cultural rights of the Métis of Northwest Saskatchewan. This includes pursuing the right to self-determination and a land base. The NWSMC is comprised of regional and local leadership.

action to ensure our Métis’ rights to possession, occupation, and use of the northwest lands are recognized and can finally be of benefit to our people.”

MN–S has sought to have its rights and title recognized through honourable negotiations and agreements. However, it has become increasingly apparent that the clearest path forward for the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan is to pursue and advance the Land Claim before the Courts.

Elder Max Morin is a plaintiff in the case and lives in the northwest region of Saskatchewan. He said, “Our traditional way of life has always been in this part of the province. Our people established themselves and welcomed others to the region for 250 years. For this to be in dispute is both offensive and frustrating.”

Mervin ‘Tex’ Bouvier and Leonard Montgrand are MN–S Regional Directors and Chairpersons of the NWSMC. “We have Constitutionally recognized rights as Métis people, which we assert includes a right to our traditional land. It’s something our region has been fighting for and we are pleased to see our MN–S government support us and take the next steps,” said MN–S Northern Region III Director Bouvier. “Further to that,” added MN–S Northern Region II Director Montgrand, “we have always maintained our right to the North West and continue to do so until proper recognition and entitlement are granted.”

Throughout this process, MN–S will remain committed to safeguarding the interests of all Citizens of Métis Nation within Saskatchewan and will provide further updates on the status of the Land Claim in due course.

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About Métis Nation–Saskatchewan:

Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) is built on a foundation of Métis identity, culture, values and language. Empowered by the Métis citizens of Saskatchewan, MN–S works to advance Métis rights and strengthen organizational capacity. MN– S represents the political, socioeconomic, cultural and educational interests of Métis in the province through an elected representative system at local, regional and provincial levels.

For media inquiries:
Rena Montgomerie – MN–S Senior Communications Officer

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