Métis Nation – Saskatchewan benefits from Province’s Budget
March 25, 2010 (Saskatoon, SK) – The Métis Nation – Saskatchewan is pleased overall with yesterday’s Provincial Budget. Saskatchewan’s Finance Minister Rod Gantefoer delivered what he called a “ balanced budget” by reducing overall government spending by $121.3 million or 1.2 per cent from last year’s budget, a cut that will not affect the Métis Nation – Saskatchewan’s Mandate.
In fact, MN-S affiliates will benefit greatly from the budget as The Clarence Campeau Development Fund (CCDF) will receive 1.4 million dollars to help provide financial assistance for economic development where currently there is a void for Métis clients. Another benefactor from this year’s budget is The Gabriel Dumont Institute which will see a 4.5% increase in funding to provide Post Secondary Training and Education to Métis citizens.
MN-S President Robert Doucette summed up his view on the budget by using a baseball analogy, “Although it’s not a homerun, it’s a solid double down middle field. This allows the MN-S to get our issues around the bases and hopefully help get them home.” He adds, “In a year of financial restraints, such a commitment is refreshing to see.”
This positive move forward shows good faith in the Province’s continued efforts to build relationships with its Métis citizens. It also enforces the dedication of 2010 being “The Year of the Métis” as not just a title, but a movement towards a stronger Province for all citizens, both Métis and non-aboriginal.
For more detailed information on the Province’s 2010/11 Budget, go to www.finance.gov.sk.ca.
For more information Contact:
Gaylene Poulin
Manager of Communications
Métis Nation – Saskatchewan
406 Jessop Avenue
Saskatoon, SK S7N 2S5
(306) 667-0428 (direct)
(306) 343-8285