Question Period Note: Métis Self-Government in Ontario

• 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.
• The February 2023 Agreement signed with the Métis Nation of Ontario does not address harvesting or land-related matters, but focuses on internal matters such as citizenship, leadership selection and internal operations.
• Métis identity and Métis internal governance matters are for the Métis to determine.
• The Government of Canada will continue to work with all Indigenous partners to advance reconciliation and their vision for self-determination.

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If pressed on the historical existence of distinct ‘Métis communities’ in Ontario
• The Supreme Court of Canada affirmed section 35 Métis rights and established a test for verifying these rights in the 2003 Powley decision.
• Canada and the Métis Nation of Ontario are advancing reconciliation in a manner consistent with the direction of the Supreme Court of Canada in Powley.
• The Agreement does not address harvesting or land-related matters or rights.
• Should other self-government arrangements or areas of jurisdiction be negotiated, there will be consultations with First Nations who may have an interest in such matters.
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 amendment 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 the judicial review filed by the Wabun Tribal Council
• The Wabun Tribal Council filed an Application for Judicial Review with respect of the February 2023 Agreement reached between Canada and the Métis Nation of Ontario.
• 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.
• As this matter is currently before the Court, we are not in a position to comment further at this time.
If pressed on reconciliation
• The February 2023 Agreement signed with the Métis Nation of Ontario 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.