A proposed treaty that would grant the Red River Métis greater self-governance is moving through Parliament, but First Nations leaders are urging Ottawa to halt the legislation, warning it could infringe on existing treaty rights.
The Manitoba Métis Federation said the Red River Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Treaty reached second reading in the House of Commons this week, marking a significant step forward.
However, the Assembly of First Nations is opposing the bill, saying First Nations were not adequately consulted and that no new treaties should be established on their traditional territories.
National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak said the proposed legislation lacks clarity around territorial scope.
“The undefined territorial scope of the Red River Métis within the bill would set the stage for expansive Métis jurisdiction over areas that conflict with the existing rights and jurisdiction of First Nations,” she said.