The Métis National Council (MNC) is calling for an urgent nation-to-nation meeting between Canada and recognized Métis governments to discuss Bill C-39, the Building Canada Strong Act, and its implications on Métis rights and interests.

Ottawa, Ontario, Sept. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Earlier this year, MNC, together with the federally recognized Métis governments comprising its Governing Members, responded to Canada’s request for input on two related discussion papers. However, the resulting magnitude of Bill C-39, which establishes a statutory regime that will very likely facilitate adverse impacts on the constitutionally protected rights of Métis communities, most certainly requires the Government of Canada to meaningfully engage beyond a request for written submissions. Co-development of the elements that are most likely to impact Métis rights is required.   

The Government of Canada has a statutory obligation to take all measures necessary, in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples, to ensure new legislation, like Bill C-39, is consistent with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, specifically outlined in section 5. The MNC and Métis governments do not believe engagement on Bill C-39 has met this threshold.     

As the Métis-specific National Indigenous Organization, MNC expects meaningful engagement from Canada with Métis governments on federal initiatives affecting the Métis Nation, including Bill C-39, and can support the convening of Canada and Métis governments in constructive dialogue on this matter. Métis governments, as the governments representing Métis rights-holders, must be engaged.  

As part of its research and advocacy mandate, the MNC is reviewing Bill C-39 against the input previously provided to the Government of Canada and has identified areas where Métis rights and interests may be impacted. Canada must address these concerns as the legislation proceeds through Parliament.   

Métis governments are ready to work alongside Canada—as full partners—on projects of national interest, strengthening supply chains and the Canadian economy. Early partnership creates greater predictability, helps address impacts sooner, supports efficient project development, and delivers better outcomes for projects and Métis communities. 

MNC looks forward to meaningful engagement with Canada as Bill C-39 proceeds, including through the parliamentary committee process. We call on Canada to undertake meaningful consultation directly with Métis governments where the legislation and its implementation may affect Métis rights and interests. 

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Since 1983, the Métis National Council has been the national and international voice of the Métis Nation within Canada. Through national research and policy development, the MNC advocates to advance the rights and interests of Métis Governments, including the implementation of the Métis Nation’s inherent right to self-determination and self-government. The MNC is committed to accountability and transparency within its operations, and to its relationships with its Governing Members and other partners. 

CONTACT: Melissa Lagacé
Métis National Council
2042900199
melissal@metisnation.ca