Latest news with #RedRiverMétis
Global News
5 days ago
- Politics
- Global News
Manitoba Indigenous groups agree to work together on major infrastructure projects
Two Indigenous groups in Manitoba have agreed to work together on major infrastructure and development projects. It comes as the federal government looks to fast-track projects across the country. The Southern Chiefs' Organization, which represents 32 Anishinaabe and Dakota First Nations in the province, and the Manitoba Métis Federation have signed a five-year agreement. It outlines their shared commitment to ensure First Nations and Red River Métis voices are included in the approval of any project proposed by the Manitoba government and supported by federal legislation. A new federal law gives Ottawa sweeping powers to speed up permits for what it calls 'nation-building projects.' The controversial legislation has faced pushback from Indigenous groups that argue elements of it could be used to undermine their rights. Story continues below advertisement The Southern Chiefs' Organization and the Manitoba Métis Federation say they'll work together to pursue Indigenous-led developments in areas including forestry, harvesting and traditional economies. The Manitoba government is also exploring how it would create and operate a proposed Crown-Indigenous corporation. Get breaking National news For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen. Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy 'This agreement sends a message to all governments, partners and industry that First Nations and the Red River Métis are working together to shape a future that is led by Indigenous nations,' Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs' Organization said Wednesday. 'We are forging a path towards economic independence and sustainability, ensuring the voices of First Nations and Red River Métis are integral to the design, approval and implementation of nation-building projects across this province.' Prime Minister Mark Carney has said the legislation is needed to shore up Canada's economy during the trade war with the United States. Ottawa has also promised to build up northern infrastructure, in part, to meet a NATO military alliance spending target for critical infrastructure. It's unknown which projects could be fast-tracked, but the government has pointed to ports, railways and pipelines. Carney recently met with First Nations, Inuit and Métis groups to discuss how best to build projects in partnership with Indigenous Peoples. Story continues below advertisement The Manitoba Métis Federation turned down Carney's invitation to discuss the legislation, after Ottawa invited another Métis group the federation claims has no reason to exist. Other Métis groups and First Nations say communities represented by the Métis Nation of Ontario have no claim to Métis heritage and that Ottawa and Ontario have no right to recognize them. Manitoba Métis Federation president David Chartrand said the legislation must move forward, as Canada deals with ongoing threats from U.S. President Donald Trump. 'There's not a doubt it must arrive, because the danger that Trump imposes on all of us is very scary … this is an economic war, and people should not take it lightly,' he said Wednesday. He added any nation-building projects approved in Manitoba must be done in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples in the province.
Winnipeg Free Press
5 days ago
- Politics
- Winnipeg Free Press
Manitoba Indigenous groups agree to work together on major infrastructure projects
WINNIPEG – Two Indigenous groups in Manitoba have agreed to work together on major infrastructure and development projects. It comes as the federal government looks to fast-track projects across the country. The Southern Chiefs' Organization, which represents 32 Anishinaabe and Dakota First Nations in the province, and the Manitoba Métis Federation have signed a five-year agreement. It outlines their shared commitment to ensure First Nations and Red River Métis voices are included in the approval of any project proposed by the Manitoba government and supported by federal legislation. A new federal law gives Ottawa sweeping powers to speed up permits for what it calls 'nation-building projects.' The controversial legislation has faced pushback from Indigenous groups that argue elements of it could be used to undermine their rights. The Southern Chiefs' Organization and the Manitoba Métis Federation say they'll work together to pursue Indigenous-led developments in areas including forestry, harvesting and traditional economies. The Manitoba government is also exploring how it would create and operate a proposed Crown-Indigenous corporation. 'This agreement sends a message to all governments, partners and industry that First Nations and the Red River Métis are working together to shape a future that is led by Indigenous nations,' Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs' Organization said Wednesday. 'We are forging a path towards economic independence and sustainability, ensuring the voices of First Nations and Red River Métis are integral to the design, approval and implementation of nation-building projects across this province.' Prime Minister Mark Carney has said the legislation is needed to shore up Canada's economy during the trade war with the United States. Ottawa has also promised to build up northern infrastructure, in part, to meet a NATO military alliance spending target for critical infrastructure. It's unknown which projects could be fast-tracked, but the government has pointed to ports, railways and pipelines. Carney recently met with First Nations, Inuit and Métis groups to discuss how best to build projects in partnership with Indigenous Peoples. The Manitoba Métis Federation turned down Carney's invitation to discuss the legislation, after Ottawa invited another Métis group the federation claims has no reason to exist. Monday Mornings The latest local business news and a lookahead to the coming week. Other Métis groups and First Nations say communities represented by the Métis Nation of Ontario have no claim to Métis heritage and that Ottawa and Ontario have no right to recognize them. Manitoba Métis Federation president David Chartrand said the legislation must move forward, as Canada deals with ongoing threats from U.S. President Donald Trump. 'There's not a doubt it must arrive, because the danger that Trump imposes on all of us is very scary … this is an economic war, and people should not take it lightly,' he said Wednesday. He added any nation-building projects approved in Manitoba must be done in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples in the province. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 13, 2025.
Cision Canada
5 days ago
- Business
- Cision Canada
SCO and MMF Sign Historic Memorandum of Understanding to Advance Economic Reconciliation in Manitoba
"Today's signing marks a powerful moment of unity and purpose between our Nations." – Grand Chief Daniels "The Red River Métis were once called the economic engine of the West, and we stand ready to play that role again alongside our First Nations relatives." – President Chartrand WINNIPEG, MB, Aug. 13, 2025 /CNW/ - The Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) and the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), National Government of the Red River Métis, are proud to announce the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that formalizes a shared commitment to advance economic reconciliation, protect Indigenous rights, and collaborate on major infrastructure and development projects across Manitoba. Signed at The Forks, a traditional gathering place for Indigenous Nations, this historic agreement sets out a five-year framework for cooperation between SCO and MMF as they work to ensure that First Nations and Red River Métis voices are respected and included in the design, approval, and implementation of "Nation-building" projects being proposed by the Manitoba government and supported through federal legislation, such as Bill C-5. Bill C-5, which enacts the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act, includes commitments to consult Indigenous Peoples, strengthen trade corridors, expand clean energy and resource infrastructure, and support regional economic growth – all priorities that intersect with federal portfolios such as Indigenous Services Canada, Crown-Indigenous Relations, and Infrastructure Canada. "Today's signing marks a powerful moment of unity and purpose between our Nations," said Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs' Organization. "Together with the MMF, we are asserting our rightful place in the decisions that shape this land, and we are ready to work with both the Manitoba government and the Government of Canada to deliver projects that respect our rights and benefit our people. This MOU is about protecting our inherent, constitutionally enshrined Aboriginal and Treaty rights, preserving the land and water for future generations, and turning economic reconciliation into tangible results – housing for our families, clean energy for our communities, and transportation networks that connect us to opportunity." The MOU confirms the shared intention of SCO and MMF to work together in pursuit of Indigenous-led economic development in areas such as jobs, trade, sustainable forestry, harvesting practices, and traditional economies. Central to the agreement is shared engagement with the Manitoba government in the creation and operation of a proposed Crown-Indigenous Corporation. This proposed entity, which is intended to oversee permitting and regulatory frameworks for major infrastructure projects, is expected to incorporate a co-development approach with Indigenous Peoples. Meaningful representation from First Nations and the Red River Métis is expected in the review and approval of Nation-building projects within traditional Indigenous territories of what is now known as the Province of Manitoba. This Crown-Indigenous Corporation's intent and execution will benefit from partnership between First Nations and Red River Métis, as signalled by the MOU. "This MOU represents the modern continuation of a historic relationship between First Nations and the Red River Métis, here in the territory we share responsibility for, now called Manitoba," said David Chartrand, President of the MMF. "The Red River Métis were once called the economic engine of the West, and we stand ready to play that role again alongside our First Nations relatives. Together, I know we will bring prosperity, voice, and strength to our respective Citizens, while delivering on economic benefits for our people and all Manitobans. As in the past, the Indigenous people of this province are poised to set an example of cooperation and collaboration, showing what Bill C-5 can mean for Indigenous economic reconciliation across Canada. We are proving what is possible with this historic agreement between our peoples." The agreement emphasizes the protection of land, water, and the environment while ensuring that benefits from major projects are directed toward critical community infrastructure, including programs and services, like housing. SCO and MMF are united in our shared interest in Bill C-5 and its potential benefits for our respective citizens. Together, will ensure that mutual trust and respect are key principles that guide and shape nation-building projects that engage our interests. KEY FACTS Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO): Represents 32 Anishinaabe and Dakota First Nations and more than 87,000 citizens across southern Manitoba. Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF): The National Government of the Red River Métis, representing their Citizens across the Métis Homeland and advancing their collective rights and interests. Bill C-5: Federal legislation that enacts the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act, requiring consultation with Indigenous Peoples before major "Nation-building" projects are designated, and supporting trade corridors, clean energy, natural resource development, and infrastructure. Proposed Crown-Indigenous Corporation: A Manitoba government initiative that will work with governments on permitting and regulatory frameworks for major infrastructure projects. SCO and MMF expect it be co-developed and include equal representation from First Nations and the Red River Métis. Economic Reconciliation Goals: Direct project revenues to housing, clean energy, transportation networks, and other critical community infrastructure while protecting land, water, and the environment. The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) is the democratically elected National Government of the Red River Métis, also known as the Manitoba Métis. The Red River Métis are a distinct Indigenous Nation and People and Canada's Negotiating Partners in Confederation and the Founders of the Province of Manitoba. The Southern Chiefs' Organization represents 32 First Nations and more than 87,000 citizens in what is now called southern Manitoba. SCO is an independent political organization that protects, preserves, promotes, and enhances First Nations Peoples' inherent rights, languages, customs, and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process. SOURCE Manitoba Métis Federation
Toronto Star
06-08-2025
- Politics
- Toronto Star
Manitoba Métis Federation turns down Carney's invitation to talk major projects
OTTAWA - The Manitoba Métis Federation is turning down Prime Minister Mark Carney's invitation to discuss his government's controversial major projects legislation, saying it won't attend the meeting alongside another Métis group it says has no reason to exist. The federation, which represents Red River Métis, says Carney's decision to include the Métis Nation of Ontario in Thursday's meeting undermines the integrity of the gathering and puts the government's plans for major projects at risk.
Winnipeg Free Press
06-08-2025
- Politics
- Winnipeg Free Press
Manitoba Métis Federation turns down Carney's invitation to talk major projects
OTTAWA – The Manitoba Métis Federation is turning down Prime Minister Mark Carney's invitation to discuss his government's controversial major projects legislation, saying it won't attend the meeting alongside another Métis group it says has no reason to exist. The federation, which represents Red River Métis, says Carney's decision to include the Métis Nation of Ontario in Thursday's meeting undermines the integrity of the gathering and puts the government's plans for major projects at risk. Federation president David Chartrand says Ottawa is also propping up the Métis National Council by including it in the meeting, despite the fact that it has only two provincial members left due to conflicts related to the Métis Nation of Ontario. Carney promised meetings with First Nations, Inuit and Métis after Indigenous leaders said they were not consulted adequately on the major projects legislation and they fear projects will move forward without their input. While the Manitoba Métis Federation has been generally supportive of the legislation, it now says that Ottawa's push to approve major projects is at risk if Ottawa negotiates with 'illegitimate bodies.' Monday Mornings The latest local business news and a lookahead to the coming week. First Nations and other Métis groups say the communities represented by the MNO have no claim to Métis heritage and Ottawa and Ontario have no right to recognize them. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 6, 2025.
