Canada’s new Government Congratulates the Metis Nation – Saskatchewan on Completion of Fair and Democratic Election

OTTAWA, June 28 – The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians today congratulated the Métis Nation – Saskatchewan (MNS) community on a fair and democratic election on June 27, 2007.

Unofficial results show that Robert Doucette was elected president of the Metis Nation – Saskatchewan and will lead the executive provincial governing body. “Canada’s New Government is pleased to have partnered with the government of Saskatchewan in supporting the work of the Independent Oversight Committee and the Chief Electoral Officer to deliver a fair and democratic election for the citizens of the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan. We look forward to working with the new leaders”, said Minister Prentice.

The 2007 MNS election took place following the efforts and help of a number of parties, including the federal and provincial governments; the Métis Electoral Consultation Panel, appointed by the Province of Saskatchewan and; the Independent Oversight Committee and Chief Electoral Officer appointed by the Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan.

These fair and democratic elections were crucial in restoring the confidence of the Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan so that a stable relationship could be established with the Métis Nation – Saskatchewan.

Upon confirmation of the election results from the Chief Electoral Officer, the Government of Canada will meet with the new leadership to begin discussions on renewing relations.

This release is also available on the Internet at www.inac.gc.ca .

Full details of the electoral process can be viewed at : www.metiselectionsk.ca

For further information: Deirdra McCracken, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Jim Prentice, (819) 997-0002; Media Relations, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, (819) 953-1160