News Release – For Immediate Release
Victoria, B.C. - Today, the Province of British Columbia delivered Budget 2026. In response to the recent events that have shaken the province, the budget prioritizes strengthening health-care services, supporting child care and K-12 education, and building safer communities.
Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) acknowledges the provincial government’s focus on core services such as health and education, as well as its efforts to protect public finances during a time of economic uncertainty. However, the budget does not include meaningful, targeted economic development investments that reflect the priorities of Métis people throughout the province.
MNBC’s budget request sought $19.3 million to support child welfare services for Métis children and families, establish Métis-specific foundations within the K–12 education system, and advance self-sufficiency through culturally grounded economic development initiatives. These investments are essential to improving the quality of life for Métis people in British Columbia.
The proposed budget includes $634 million in new funding to support teachers, enhance student services, and advance inclusive learning. MNBC supports these investments in the provincial education system. We remain steadfast in our commitment to collaborate with educational partners across British Columbia to nurture the healthy growth and development of Métis children and families. This commitment is rooted in our culture, language, and community values.
Advancing Métis education is a collective responsibility that requires collaboration at all levels of government. MNBC must be actively involved in discussions and decision-making processes to ensure Métis students are recognized, valued, and supported within the education system.
We recognize the ongoing economic and social challenges facing the province. Yet now, more than ever, reconciliation must move beyond rhetoric toward tangible, measurable action. Without clear commitments and equitable investments, Métis Citizens risk being left behind during one of the most volatile and transformative periods in British Columbia’s history. It is imperative that the government adopt a Métis-specific approach that respects our Nation’s interpretation of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) as it pertains to the rights of our registered Citizens.
“We will continue to fight on behalf of all Métis in B.C. to ensure our socio-economic rights are recognized, our children are brought home to the Nation, our people have a safe and affordable place to call home, and our entrepreneurs flourish.” said Walter Mineault, MNBC President.
MNBC and the Board of Directors remain committed to strengthening our relationship with the provincial government to achieve better outcomes for our Citizens. Métis people have made enduring cultural, historical, and contemporary contributions to British Columbia, including in shaping the province itself.
For more information, please contact: media@mnbc.ca
About Métis Nation British Columbia
Métis Nation British Columbia represents the section 35 rights of approximately 31,000 Métis Citizens who are registered with MNBC and advocates for the over 113,000 self-identified Métis in British Columbia. MNBC represents thirty-nine (39) Métis Chartered Communities in British Columbia. MNBC’s mandate is to develop and enhance opportunities for Métis communities by implementing culturally relevant social and economic programs and services. MNBC is recognized by the Government of British Columbia, and the Government of Canada. MNBC is the government for Métis in BC.