Métis Nation–Saskatchewan Transforms Federal Investments into Economic Growth

The recent socio-economic impact assessment reveals that Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) has successfully transformed federal investments into significant economic activity over the past seven years. The independent report, titled MN–S invests in Métis citizens, provincial economy benefits two-fold, was released on November 22, 2023, by the national accounting firm MNP and presented at the MN–S Legislative Assembly in Saskatoon. This assessment marks the first comprehensive evaluation of its kind since 2017.

According to the findings, investments made by the MN–S have generated approximately $740 million in economic activity across Saskatchewan, stemming from $486 million in spending since 2017. These initiatives have supported 15,178 jobs and created an estimated $26.5 million in tax revenue. The report underscores that funding directed towards Métis citizens contributes to both economic growth and improved social outcomes for all Saskatchewan residents.

Housing and Community Initiatives Drive Growth

Housing programs emerged as a key driver of economic activity, with MN–S completing 818 urgent home repairs and assisting 729 first-time home buyers. These actions generated $20.6 million in local consumer spending and created 197 jobs. Additionally, early learning and cultural initiatives reached over 10,000 Métis children, while health programs provided assistance to around 14,000 citizens through medical travel and related supports.

MN–S Chief Operating Officer Matthew Vermette emphasized the importance of the analysis, stating that it reinforces the internal data collected by the organization. “When the federal government invests in MN–S, it’s not just dollar for dollar. When $1 is put into MN–S, it actually generates $2 in economic output,” he noted.

Public services have also expanded significantly, increasing from 164 employees in 2022 to 374 employees projected for 2025. This growth reflects ongoing efforts to address disparities in health, income, and access to services, and the workforce now prominently features Indigenous and women leaders.

Negotiations for Self-Government and Future Prospects

As MN–S continues discussions with the Government of Canada regarding a self-government treaty, the progress outlined in the report is particularly timely. Formal recognition between 2017 and 2019 established MN–S as the political representative for Métis citizens in Saskatchewan, paving the way for the current negotiations. Vermette described the self-governance framework as a transformative shift for MN–S, attributing this development to the recognition of its inherent right to self-governance.

Vermette emphasized that meaningful self-government requires comprehensive engagement from community members and adequate support from the federal government. “Success will involve engagement and the support of the community at all levels, paired with resources and capacity from the federal government,” he stated.

The Nation is also positioning itself to engage in significant infrastructure projects, including potential pipeline and resource developments. Vermette articulated MN–S’ position on equity stakes, asserting that any large-scale project on Métis territory should involve equity participation from the Nation. He pointed out that true economic reconciliation with Indigenous peoples necessitates their involvement in projects at all levels.

Access to capital remains a challenge for MN–S, as Vermette noted the constraints that limit participation in larger projects. He acknowledged the importance of initiatives like the Saskatchewan Indigenous Investment Finance Corporation and the National Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program but stressed the need for additional resources to enable full participation.

In addition, MN–S is engaging with citizens about taking jurisdiction over Child and Family Services, a shift that Vermette believes will have lasting impacts. “We can’t think about the future without thinking about our kids,” he said, highlighting the importance of investing in the next generation.

The momentum reflected in the MNP assessment is attributed to several years of stable funding and the growing capacity of MN–S, which has been shaped directly by the input of Métis citizens. Vermette expressed pride in the accomplishments of the government and emphasized a commitment to building on this success. “We’re going to continue to grow on that success and build on the lessons we learned,” he stated.

For further details, the full report can be accessed through the MN–S digital library at https://metisnationsk.com/.