FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Surrey, B.C. – As global economic conditions continue to change, Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) is aligned with the Government of Canada’s focus on advancing what is within our control through the implementation of Bill C-39, the Building Canada Strong Act. MNBC has demonstrated its capacity to be an effective partner in strengthening our national economy in response to U.S. tariffs.
The Government of Canada has commenced its second reading of the Building Canada Strong Act, which has the potential to affect Métis rights and the pursuit of shared priorities. Canada must ensure that its consultation on the new legislation meets the standards set out in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. MNBC looks forward to working directly with Canada through meaningful engagement as the legislation advances.
Canada has set out an ambitious nation-building agenda, and MNBC is prepared to contribute through initiatives that support workforce development, Indigenous participation in major projects, and long-term economic growth, including:
- Métis Prosperity Group, which serves as MNBC’s economic development arm to build Métis-owned assets and businesses and attract both public and private investment.
- Métis Training Facility, a skills training institution for Métis and other Indigenous learners in areas such as health, early childhood education, and green economy jobs.
Métis people helped build Canada, and MNBC is well-positioned to help build a stronger and more prosperous future for Canada. Our priorities and investments in services across British Columbia are responsive to the needs of Métis people while creating lasting opportunities for all Canadians.
MNBC is prepared to undertake this work alongside the Canada and fellow Métis governments to advance projects of national significance while ensuring that Métis rights, interests, and economic opportunities are meaningfully reflected throughout the process.