PCMNO Meeting Summary
Monday, May 15th, 2025
At the May 15, 2025, PCMNO meeting, President Froh provided an update on the wildfires across Ontario and MNO’s coordination with regional leadership in response efforts. She also celebrated the conclusion of the King Charles III Coronation Medal ceremonies, with special mention of Senator Marlene Greenwood, and reaffirmed MNO’s commitment to the MMIWG2S movement.
Mental Health Month was marked by the release of a “What We Heard” report, underscoring the pandemic’s effects on Métis citizens’ mental health and the need for strengthened support. Youth programming remains a key focus, with the Summer Youth Program underway and the President commending its role in fostering future Métis leaders.
PCMNO members provided regional updates which included efforts to promote self-government, build community partnerships, and deliver cultural programming. Community Relations updates included Oath of Allegiance discrepancies at the Northwest Métis Council, bylaw changes at the Ottawa Region Métis Council, and efforts to finalize Region 9 boundary adjustments.
PCMNO passed a resolution to direct the MNO to utilize the Indigenous Health Equity Funding to provide services and supports through the Métis Health Equity Program (MHEP).
The Self-Government team presented a plan to pilot regional bank accounts. The initiative aims to strengthen fiscal autonomy at the regional level.
A legal tax opinion is being sought to clarify the Canada Revenue Agency’s (CRA) requirements around the taxation of gift cards. As an alternative, the MNO is encouraging the use of subsidies or direct payments, which are easier to manage and are already being used.
The MNO Secretariat intends to advance funds to the Métis Nation of Ontario Cultural Commission (MNOCC) to support the hiring of an Executive Director. This initiative is part of a broader effort to operationalize the MNOCC as an independent entity with its own dedicated staff. The MNOCC’s corporate objects have recently been updated to reflect its expanded priorities, which now include oversight of land trusts and the Powley Institute. A recruitment process for a new MNOCC board is underway, with the goal of providing updates at the August Annual General Assembly (AGA).
PCMNO passed a resolution to accept a grant application to support renovations and accessibility upgrades at the Burk’s Falls ELCC camp property.
The PCMNO meeting moved into an in-camera session at 12:30 PM.