Question Period Note: Métis Self-Government in Alberta

• Métis are one of the three recognized Indigenous peoples in Canada and they have always sought recognition from the Crown as distinct rights-bearing collectivities.
• On February 24, 2023, Canada signed a self-government agreement with the Métis Nation of Alberta to promote reconciliation and advance their vision for self-determination.
• The agreement focuses on internal matters such as citizenship, leadership selection and internal operations.

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If pressed on the recent decision in the judicial reviews filed by the Métis Settlements General Council and Fort McKay
• The Métis Settlements General Council and Fort McKay Métis Nation each filed an Application for Judicial Review regarding the 2023 Agreement between Canada and the Métis Nation of Alberta.
• In its decision on March 28, 2024, the Federal Court of Canada found that Canada had a duty to consult the Applicants, and that this duty was not fulfilled. As a result, the Court quashed elements of the Agreement.
• Our Government is now engaging in renegotiations of the 2023 Agreement with the Métis Nation of Alberta and is consulting potentially impacted Indigenous groups.
If pressed on Bill C-53
• Bill C-53 affirms and recognizes the Métis Nation of Alberta, Métis Nation - Saskatchewan and Métis Nation of Ontario as Indigenous Governments, and as the representative Governments for the section 35 rights of their respective Métis collectivities.
• The Act provides a legislative framework to give legal force and effect to future core governance treaties.
• In February 2024, Bill C-53 was adopted with amendments by the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs, but has not yet proceeded to third reading in the House.
• On April 17, 2024, Métis Nation – Saskatchewan announced that it is withdrawing support for Bill C-53. Canada is considering next steps.
If pressed on reconciliation
• The February 2023 Agreement signed with the Métis Nation of Alberta is the culmination of over seven years of collaboration, co-development and negotiations.
• The Government of Canada is committed to recognizing and affirming the rights of all Indigenous peoples in Canada in an atmosphere of mutual respect, cooperation, and full partnership.
• The Government of Canada will continue to work with all Indigenous partners to advance reconciliation and their vision for self-determination.