Intertribal Life Newspaper -

Winnipeg, MB-The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) and the federal government signed a new agreement in early May that will bring $160 million to help Métis citizens improve skills and find good jobs.

"This new agreement for Métis Employment and Training marks another important milestone on our journey towards reconciliation with Canada," said David Chartrand, President of the MMF. "This agreement reflects the partnership between the Manitoba Métis Federation and the Government of Canada. This agreement ensures over 15,000 Métis Citizens receive the supports they need for gainful employment. That's over 15,000 skilled Métis Citizens ready for the labor market. I commend Prime Minister Trudeau and Minister Hajdu for their commitment to the Manitoba Métis Government. Thanks to their vision, a vision based on reconciliation, we have made history and ensured a legacy for our hardworking, taxpaying People."

This announcement is part of a continued commitment made by the Federal Government to identify and deliver programming and initiatives that are culturally relevant and self-empowering for Métis Nation citizens. In the case of the MMF the agreement provides funding for labor market driven employment and skills training programs through the Métis Employment and Training Department, which has delivered services to the community for 20 years. This new agreement will result in more than $160 million being invested in our training initiatives.

"Up until now, our Minister of Métis Employment and Training, John Fleury, and his staff have independently developed industry partnerships and a strategic plan that have been central to ensuring the best possible outcome for Métis opportunities in the working world," added President Chartrand. "For that I am extremely proud. I am also proud to stand today with members of the Trudeau Government as their continued commitment to our Nation will only enhance the work we have already completed against the most difficult of circumstances."

The federal government's commitment to reconciliation with the Métis Nation informs the distinctions-based focus of the new Métis Employment and Training Agreement. This Agreement is one of several government-to-government agreements between the Métis Nation under the Canada-Métis Nation Accord. The MMF's Métis Employment and Training Department operates through funds provided under the Indigenous Skills and Employment Strategy (ISETS) Agreement with Employment and Skills Development Canada (ESDC).