PCMNO Recap Report – March 17, 2025
Press Release
President’s Update
President Froh provided an overview of key MNO initiatives and engagements. On the national and international front, the MNO participated in Métis National Council (MNC) events, the Supreme Court appeal of Roger Bilodeau, and the UN Commission on the Status of Women. Discussions also covered King Charles III’s coronation medals and upcoming announcements.
Leadership and citizen engagement efforts are expanding with “Town Hall Tuesdays,” alternating between leadership and citizen town halls. The PDAC Conference participation was reviewed with strategies for improvement. The Housing Team was commended for launching the Housing and Homelessness Action Plan. Additionally, the “Telling Our Stories” Initiative was emphasized as a way to strengthen Métis narratives and combat misinformation.
Community Relations Updates
- Community Relations proposed amending the Council Charter Agreements to allow email versus facsimile as the official means of document transmission.
- In February, the Superior North Shore Métis Council held a special meeting and passed a motion to update their boundary description.
- Most Councils have responded to clerical edits in their governing documents, with updates posted online.
- Delayed Council elections, partly due to the Canada Post strike, are expected to conclude by June 2025.
- Region 9 Councils have synchronized their election cycles to occur every three years, beginning in November 2025.
- The Moon River Métis Council investigation is nearing completion, with discussions on procedural improvements to the Code of Conduct.
Chief Electoral Officer Appointment
Community Relations recommended appointing Paul DeVillers as the Chief Electoral Officer for 2025-26, as he was the sole applicant. Concerns were raised about the cost and the need for a succession plan, given DeVillers’ prior indication of stepping down. The possibility of transitioning the role in-house was discussed. A motion to appoint DeVillers was passed by consensus, with one abstention.
Health Equity Fund Pilot Project
Shelley Cripps presented on the Indigenous Health Equity Fund (IHEF) Pilot Project, which aims to support vulnerable Métis citizens through an expanded $2.6 million annual fund. The program includes extended health benefits and virtual care for citizens lacking a family doctor. Key discussion points included income eligibility criteria, household definition, program uptake, inflation considerations, and the need for data-driven decisions. The team will refine program details and present updates to PCMNO before finalizing.
Statement of Principles & Self-Government Updates
Brian Black provided an update on the draft Statement of Principles, outlining 27 guiding values for Métis governance. The principles focus on governance structure, decision-making, and citizens’ rights while affirming Section 35 rights under the Constitution Act, 1982. Citizen consultations are ongoing to refine the document. Key discussion topics included engagement strategies, educational tools, government funding, and youth involvement.
MNC Reform & National Updates
The update emphasized that MNC is not a Métis government but serves as a facilitator for national discussions, policy development, and advocacy. With a reduced governing membership, federal funding is expected to decline. Efforts continue to strengthen relationships with provincial parliamentarians and stakeholders. Additionally, the MNC litigation trial is nearing its conclusion, and the judge’s decision is expected soon.
The webinar concluded at 2:26 PM, followed by an in-camera session at 3:00 PM.
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