March 4, 2022 (Surrey BC) – In advance of the 2022 Métis Nation Governing Assembly (MNGA), held on March 4-6, Métis Nation British Columbia’s (MNBC) Cabinet has voted to approve $70,000 in funding to be included in Budget 2022 for Regional Governance Council Meetings.
“We know how important of a role our Regional Governance Councils play in bringing forward issues of importance to our Métis Citizens,” says Lissa Dawn Smith, MNBC President. “This funding will allow for greater capacity at the local level to host meeting and planning sessions.”
MNBC has also committed $70,000 in funding to provide cellphones for Métis Chartered Communities. Over the COVID-19 pandemic, and the numerous natural disasters that have occurred recently, there has been an identified gap in MNBC and Chartered Communities to communicate seamlessly in times of need. Many lack office space or consistent phone numbers. MNBC has purchased cell phones and pre-paid 2-year plans that include data and voicemail.
“As a former Community President, I appreciate the value and insight that our Community Presidents bring forward to us Regional Directors,” says Patrick Harriott, MNBC Minister of Community Services. “Our Chartered Communities play an integral role in our Métis governance, and it is important that we have the resources available to help meet regularly and plan for our regions appropriately, and that resources are available to ensure we are able to meet their needs in times of crisis."
Details on the on the distribution of cellphone and funding will be released in the coming weeks. The funding reflects a commitment from MNBC to provide greater support in grassroots led governance.