The current chief of Buffalo River Dene Nation has been elected as the next Dene Vice-Chief for the Meadow Lake Tribal Council.
Norma Catarat was selected for the executive role at the MLTC’s election assembly at Dakota Dunes on Wednesday.
She defeated challenger Brian Morin by a vote count of 28-17.
During her victory speech, Catarat says it was a difficult decision to move on from her leadership role at Buffalo River.
“This decision was tough to make, but I love to help people succeed in life, no matter who they are,” said Catarat. “The elders that are here, I am asking you, if I ever step out of the line and lose that vision that we have for the tribal council, you tell me.”
In recent months, the executive of the Meadow Lake Tribal Council has been dealt with tragedy as two of three executive members passed away.
Former Dene Vice-Chief Lawrence McIntyre passed away in August while former tribal chief Richard Ben passed away in October. Jeremy Norman would be chosen as Ben’s successor by acclamation in October while Catarat won the election take over for McIntyre.
During her speech, Catarat addressed her predecessor.
“I got big shoes to fill,” she said. “The person who had the spot before me was a very humble man. He respected everyone and anyone he saw, he never looked down on anyone.”
Catarat will serve a three-year term in the role.
In the meantime, Dallas Billette will serve as Buffalo River Dene Nation’s acting chief until an election in February.
(TOP PHOTO – Norma Catarat addresses the MLTC assembly following her election as Dene Vice-Chief. Photo by Joel Willick.)