Spring 2026 MNLA ends with Unified Front

Press Release

May 24, 2026 – Heartland of the Métis and Treaty 6 Territory, Saskatoon, SK – The Spring 2026 Métis Nation Legislative Assembly (MNLA) has wrapped up in Saskatoon following two days of progressive discussions focused on self-governance and the needs of Métis citizens, Locals, and Regions.

First elected in 2017, President Glen McCallum delivered an emotional State of the Nation address to begin the MNLA. The President reflected on his time in office and how much has been accomplished for Métis citizens. Following some internal unrest, the President said it’s time for change.

“It’s a hard thing when we push forward our Métis identity, culture, values, language. But we can’t call ourselves a Métis government unless we do. Now it’s time for a reset. We need to actively actively build up our legislative and institutional capacity needed to self-govern effectively. We’ve managed to accomplish a lot with the capacity we have, making strategic investment in education, infrastructure, and social programs.”

With that, MNLA delegates passed the comprehensive $258 million 2026-27 Operating Budget. MN–S Treasurer Jeremy Denomie said, “Our budget must reflect the people we serve. It’s not just numbers on a page it’s a statement of priorities that show we are listening and making disciplined decisions for our Locals and citizens.”

Outgoing MN–S Finance Minister Marg Friesen echoed those comments, saying, “While this is an austerity budget, it also includes $61 million for citizens which represents a 10% increase for Regions and Locals of $15.8 million. The Ministry of Finance is to be commended for its hard work and supporting the development a budget that signifies the priorities of our government and its citizens.”

MNLA delegates moved through some key pieces of government business this session including:
⦁ The ratification of Ministerial Portfolios

⦁ The swearing in of 18 new Local Presidents

⦁ The return of MN–S Regional Directors Sherry McLennan and Wendy Gervais

⦁ The affirmation of Métis harvesting rights

⦁ Prioritizing Child and Family Services Legislation
⦁ Committing to an Annual General Assembly
⦁ A focus on distinctions-based Constitutional and Governance alignment

⦁ Approving long-awaited amendments to the MNLA Act
⦁ Strengthening Locals by connecting them to MN–S citizens

And, recognizing his years of dedication to our Saskatchewan Métis Nation, MN–S Northern Region 3 Regional Director and Minister of Self Determination and Self Government, Brennan Merasty, announced Elder Max Morin the newly appointed northern MN–S Senator to the Assembly. The Minister also requested MNLA recognition of the 250th anniversary of Île-à-la-Crosse, coming up this summer.

Without skipping a beat, the full complement of MNLA delegates moved through two days of jam-packed agenda items in a positive and unified manner. The next scheduled MNLA is this fall.

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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 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. Social Media Links: @MNSask, @metisnationsask

For media inquiries:

Rena Montgomerie – MN–S Media Relations Manager r.montgomerie@mns.ca or 306-250-1092 or 1-877-MétisSK

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