Moving Forward --- Together

Ottawa (May 6th, 2008) --- Today the newly acclaimed Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) President Gary Lipinski officially assumes his role following his election to Office of the President April 22nd, 2008. As a first order of business President Lipinski provided MNO Elected Officials and Staff with the ambitious agenda for the next four years.

“The MNO has, over the years, put into place a democratic and strong governance structure in order to implement Métis self-government, and the momentum needs to continue. Empowerment, communications and sustainable capacity are a few of the areas that the MNO will focus on strengthening, specifically for the MNO’s Chartered Community Councils which operate solely on a volunteer capacity.” Lipinski stated.

President Lipinski identified the need for the development of an overall, long range strategic plan for the MNO which would result in the engagement of all Métis citizens, Community Councils, the Provisional Council of the MNO (PCMNO), and the MNO Annual Assembly.

“From these discussions, we can develop a blueprint that will not only guide us, but will also grow and evolve as we do. It will also allow us to set targets and goals, to evaluate our progress and refine our plans as we go. I look forward to engaging in this process over the next 6 to 8 months with Métis citizens and fellow Métis leaders.” added Lipinski.

Another area identified was the enhancement of the ability to further assist Métis people in areas of mental health, justice, education, child and family services, housing, culture and heritage, as well as economic development.

“To better support Métis children, families and communities, the MNO must be able to offer a holistic approach to addressing Métis needs. Currently, the MNO does not have all of the tools and supports our citizens need from their government. I am committed to expanding discussions with the provincial and federal governments to assume Métis jurisdiction in areas which are essential to improving the quality of life of Métis people in the province.” said Lipinski.

“A strong team has been elected and brings an exciting mix of experience, energy, talent and ideas. With France Picotte as Chair of the Provisional Council, Tim Pile as Secretary/Treasurer, a new Co-chair, and, an enthusiastic blend of returning and first term Councillors, I look forward to capitalizing on our strengths, while immediately addressing those areas where we must be stronger.” Lipinski stated.

The MNO held Ballot-box elections yesterday, May 5th, 2008, for the contested positions of the Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO Vice-Chair, Region 1 & 7 Councillors) and the Chief Electoral Officer will announce the results on May 12, 2008. For more information on the elections please visit www.metisnation.org.

President Lipinski started his political career as a councillor on the Sunset Country Métis Council Gary expressed his vision for Métis people within Ontario and gradually progressed through the political structure becoming Region 1 Councillor and in 1999 was elected as Chair of the Métis Nation of Ontario of which he held until this current election. In addition to the elected positions that Lipinski held, he also sits on various Provincial and National Committees representing the Métis People of Ontario and was an integral part of the battle for Métis Rights including the landmark Powley case concerning the right to hunt.

The Métis are a distinct Aboriginal people with a unique culture, language and heritage, and with an ancestral Homeland that centres around Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, parts of the Northwest Territories, as well as the northwestern United States. The Métis played an instrumental role in the shaping of Canada, and work tirelessly to share their culture, music, traditions and knowledge of the environment with their fellow Canadians. Today, the Métis live, work, raise their families and pay taxes in communities all across Canada.