Historic Cooperation Agreement Signed Between Métis Nation–Saskatchewan and Métis Nation British Columbia

Press Release

April 8, 2025

SURREY, BC – Today, the governments of Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) and Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) signed an historic cooperation agreement. This mutual recognition and cooperation agreement recognizes that both MN–S and MNBC are the inherent Métis rights holders in Saskatchewan and British Columbia respectively. More importantly, it deepens the relationship between the two governments as they seek to improve the health and well-being of Métis communities and their Citizens in both provinces.

“As the recognized voice for Métis people in Saskatchewan, our MN–S government has proven itself to be an effective advocate outside a national body,” said Glen McCallum, President MN-S. “Today’s agreement with MNBC unites our efforts and shows that our provincial governments can work together toward the preservation of Métis identity, culture, values, and language , strengthening our Métis Nation.”

With the withdrawal of both governments from the Métis National Council (MNC) in 2024, this agreement articulates a path forward and underlines the following:

• That MN–S and MNBC holds separate and distinct jurisdictions and responsibilities towards their Citizens, including citizenship registries
• That both MN–S and MNBC have agreed to work in a government-to-government relationship to promote the respect and observance of all Métis rights, including joint advocacy with the Government of Canada, where it is identified as mutually beneficial

“The Métis National Council no longer speaks for us, nor does it represent our Citizens,” said Walter Mineault, President MNBC. “Our two governments represent the interests of a large number Métis across the homeland. This agreement gives them a voice again nationally and we will work hard together to make sure that voice is heard.”

MN–S and MNBC represent the collective inherent Métis rights recognized, affirmed, and protected by Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 of the Métis Nation within Saskatchewan and the Métis Nation within BC.

–30–

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

About Métis Nation British Columbia

Métis Nation British Columbia represents the section 35 rights of approximately 28,000 Métis Citizens who are registered with MNBC and advocates for the over 98,000 self-identified Métis in British Columbia. MNBC represents thirty-nine (39) Métis Chartered Communities in British Columbia. MNBC’s mandate is to develop and enhance opportunities for Métis communities by implementing culturally relevant social and economic programs and services. MNBC is recognized by the Government of British Columbia, and the Government of Canada. MNBC is the government for Métis in BC.

For more information please contact: r.montgomerie@mns.ca or media@mnbc.ca

ILR5