The IBA Congratulates the Métis on the Signing of Historic Self-Government Agreements with Canada
by pmnationtalk on July 9, 2019813 Views
The IBA Congratulates the Métis on the Signing of Historic Self-Government Agreements with Canada
OTTAWA, ON – The Indigenous Bar Association (the “IBA”) congratulates the Métis Nation of Alberta, the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan, and the Métis Nation of Ontario on the signing of historic Métis Government Recognition and Self-Government Agreements with the Government of Canada on June 27, 2019.
These agreements mark the first time the Government of Canada has signed a self-government agreement with a Métis government. This is a monumental achievement for the Métis in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario and the result of generations of struggle and advocacy by the Métis to have their inherent rights of self-determination and self-government recognized and respected. The IBA applauds the Métis on cementing the recognition of their rights to self-determination and self-government through these agreements.
These agreements also represent a significant step for the Government of Canada in advancing reconciliation with the Métis. Despite being one of the three Indigenous peoples included in section 35 of Canada’s Constitution Act, 1982, the federal and provincial governments have too often refused to recognize Métis rights, claims, or enter into negotiations with Métis governments. In 2016 the Supreme Court of Canada described the Métis as existing in a “jurisdictional wasteland” where federal and provincial governments played “political football – buck passing practices” (Daniels v. Canada, 2016 SCC 12). The IBA commends the Government of Canada for taking steps to reverse this pattern of denial and demonstrating their commitment to an approach founded on the recognition of Métis rights, respect, cooperation and partnership through these agreements.
The Indigenous Bar Association is a national association comprised of Indigenous lawyers (practicing and non-practicing), legal academics and scholars, articling clerks and law students, including graduate and post-graduate law students. We are mandated to promote the advancement of legal and social justice for Indigenous Peoples in Canada and the reform of laws and policies affecting Indigenous Peoples.
For further information about the IBA please contact Scott Robertson, President of the Indigenous Bar Association at srobertson@indigenousbar.ca or visit our website at www.indigenousbar.ca.
Clients: | Indigenous Bar Association |
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Categories: | Indigenous, Law |
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