Author(s):
Richard J. King, Ankita Gupta
June 27, 2023
The 2023 Métis self-government recognition and implementation agreement is being challenged by six First Nations based on a lack of ancestral connection to any historic communities, a point that was highlighted during the June Indigenous Law Insights webinar. Presenters were partner and Co-Chair of the Regulatory, Indigenous and Environmental Group, Richard King and Litigation associate, Ankita Gupta.
The 2023 agreement was signed in February by the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) and the federal Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, recognizing the MNO as the Indigenous governing body of the Métis communities represented by the MNO, with law-making powers. The six First Nations are challenging the federal Minister’s decision to enter into the agreement as an existential threat to the constitutionally protected rights of the First Nations who have used, occupied and stewarded their territory since time immemorial. Their argument is that the Minister’s decision is incorrect and unreasonable. As the case currently stands, the MNO has made a motion for an order striking the Notice of Motion.
Watch the full webinar