Communication Raised At Metis Cultural Gathering

Communication Raised At Metis Cultural Gathering

Tuesday, July 22, 2008 at 15:09

 

 

This week’s gathering of Metis citizens near Ile-a-la-Crosse is being described as a success.

 

For three days, Metis leaders met with grassroots citizens at South Bay about a number of issues and topics affecting the Metis Nation.

 

All four executive members of Metis Nation – Saskatchewan were in attendance, as well as

Manitoba Metis Federation president David Chartrand.

 

Northwest Metis Council co-chair Louis Gardiner says many of the issues raised centred around development on traditional land and the government’s duty to consult and accommodate.

 

Gardiner says many elders voiced concerns the land could suffer environmental problems similar to Alberta’s if not handled correctly.

 

However, he says the overall tone of the meeting was very positive — and grassroots citizens told the leaders they enjoyed the chance to communicate with them.

 

Gardiner says they emphasized the need to know what is happening at the national, provincial and regional level — and a communication plan has to be put in place.

 

Another meeting is set to take place in South Bay on August 23rd.

 

That’s when survivors of the Ile-a-la-Crosse boarding school will discuss their next step in the fight for compensation.