Policy & Self-Determination

Welcome to Policy & Self-Determination at Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S). The Policy & Self-Determination unit is dedicated to drafting legislation and shaping policies and strategies that advance the interests, rights, and well-being of Métis people in Saskatchewan. This involves working with Métis citizens, elected leadership, Elders, Local councils, as well as other governments, both Métis and non-Métis. We support the development and implementation of all the elements that go into making MN–S a fully realized, self-governing nation. This involves research, drafting models for new systems and institutions of government, and monitoring agreements to ensure MN–S is fulfilling and compliant with its commitments.

Policy & Self-Determination has four main departments overseen by the Deputy Chief of Self-Government:

1. Policy and Research
2. Planning and Priorities
   • The Locals Unit
3. Cabinet and Legislative Services
4. Intergovernmental Relations

Policy and Research

Policy covers a wide range of work building systems and institutions, negotiating agreements, and building laws. 

• Legislation: We work with other departments of government to develop the body of laws that govern MN-S, both constitutionally and legislatively. Our work includes the Voice of the People constitutional reform process and the development of new legislation.
• Policy: Policies are needed to ensure consistent, fair and transparent rules in government operations. Sometimes we lead policy development, other times we support other departments. This also involves developing new areas of MN-S operations and research into new areas such as data governance or the creation of the Métis judiciary.
• Representation: We work with external partners to ensure Métis perspectives are represented in decision-making processes at local, provincial, and national levels. We negotiate, collaborate, and contribute as the issue requires with stakeholders, government partners, other Métis governments and community members to advocate for policies that empower, protect, and promote the rights and interests of Métis people.

Planning and Priorities

The Department of Planning and Priorities leads the development and implementation of the Distinctions Based Focus Plan, a foundational document that outlines the Core Values and Guiding Principles that ground the work of our government. Upholding these values ensures that our government continues to act in a good way and provides clear direction for how we advance our Nation’s priorities.

Planning and Priorities also oversees the Locals Unit, which purpose is to strengthen the governance of MN-S Locals by providing the tools and the support they need to operate effectively and sustainably.

Cabinet and Legislative Services

Cabinet and Legislative services manages the Provincial Métis Council and its subcommittees, ensuring that elected leadership can make informed decisions on running government. Cabinet and Legislative Services also support the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly by managing the twice-yearly sessions of the Métis Nation Legislative Assembly which sets overarching direction, and related activities.

Legislative Library

Métis Nation Legislative Assembly

Provincial Métis Council

Intergovernmental Relations

The Department of Intergovernmental Relations plays a key role in advancing Métis self-determination by building strong relationships with provincial, federal, and Indigenous partners. Through negotiation, advocacy, and collaboration, the department ensures that the voice and rights of Métis citizens are represented in government decision-making. We work to protect our Nation’s interests while laying the groundwork for a stronger, more sovereign future for Métis people in Saskatchewan.