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MN–S and the North West Saskatchewan Métis Council (NWSMC) filed formal notice on April 17 of their intention to proceed with the Northwest Land Claim against both the federal and provincial governments.
“We have always tried to do things in a good way and outside of the courts, but we have been forced into this position,” said former MN–S Vice-President Gerald Morin.
“We are proud to have the full support of leadership at all levels within Métis Nation–Saskatchewan.”
“The resilience of the northwest has been the driving force behind our government’s perseverance in this matter,” said MN–S Minister of Justice and Vice-President Michelle LeClair, pointing to a recent Supreme Court ruling that affirmed the organization’s right to challenge Saskatchewan’s consultation practices.
MN–S President Glen McCallum said the decision to proceed through the courts follows years of unsuccessful attempts to negotiate with the province.
“After failed attempts to negotiate with the Saskatchewan government, we need to take this action to ensure our Métis’ rights to possession, occupation and use of the northwest lands are recognized and can finally be of benefit to our people,” McCallum said.
Elder Max Morin, a plaintiff in the case and a long-time resident of the northwest, said the dispute over Métis land is both “offensive and frustrating,” given the community’s 250-year history in the region.
MN–S regional directors and leaders from NWSMC also expressed support for the claim.
“We have Constitutionally recognized rights as Métis people, which we assert include a right to our traditional land,” said Northern Region III Director Mervin ‘Tex’ Bouvier.
MN–S says it will continue to safeguard the interests of all its citizens as the land claim advances and has committed to providing updates as the process unfolds.
