Assembly of First Nations Calls for Withdrawal of Red River Métis Self-Government Bill

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) has called for the withdrawal of a federal bill that would recognize self-government rights for the Red River Métis. The bill, known as C-21, is currently in its second reading in the House of Commons. According to reports, the AFN stated that the proposed treaty could affect First Nations treaty rights.

Woodhouse Nepinak told CBC Indigenous that Canada has engaged in actions that divide First Nations and Métis on land issues. She emphasized the need for discussions between First Nations and Métis without external interference. Woodhouse Nepinak also stated that the land in question is traditionally First Nations land.

Background on the Bill A Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Agreement was signed in 2021, recognizing the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) as the governing body for the Red River Métis. If passed, Bill C-21 would replace this agreement with a self-government treaty, marking the first such agreement between a Métis government and Canada.

The bill was introduced to Parliament on February 12 and began second reading on Wednesday. MMF President David Chartrand, present in the House during the reading, responded to the AFN's position. He stated that the MMF has supported treaty land entitlement expansions for First Nations and rejected the idea of a hierarchy of rights.

Chartrand invited Woodhouse Nepinak and others opposing the bill to debate at any time or voice concerns during the House Committee stage.

The Métis Nation-Saskatchewan (MN-S), which is pursuing its own self-government agreement with the federal government, issued a statement congratulating the MMF on the bill's second reading. MN-S President Glen McCallum stated that Métis peoples in all jurisdictions have a right to self-governance and self-determination.

In the House of Commons, Morin noted hearing serious concerns from First Nations in the last 48 hours. Conservative MP David McKenzie stated there has been a failure to consult, adding that the treaty does not exist in a vacuum.

and Northern Affairs Canada

spokesperson Anispiragas Piragasanathar stated that the government conducted consultations with potentially impacted groups from August 2023 to October 2024. Further debate on Bill C-21 has not been scheduled and will be determined later. The bill's progression depends on parliamentary proceedings, including committee reviews where additional input can be provided.