Manitoba Metis Federation

Tuesday, 17 January 2006

CPC MP Inky Mark says: taking sides will hurt you and your organization sooner or later
WINNIPEG In a recent email to Manitoba Metis Federation President David Chartrand, Conservative MP for Dauphin-Swan River Inky Mark suggests that if a Conservative Party should form Government that the road ahead for the Metis People will be in jeopardy.

Mr. Mark has indicated that our endorsement of the Liberal Platform will hurt our organization, said President Chartrand. That indicates a direct threat towards the MMF and the entire Metis Nation.

Recently the Metis National Council endorsed the Platform of the Liberal Party of Canada based on responses that they received from each party with respect to the issues of Metis Nation recognition, Metis Rights protection, and the commitments coming from the Kelowna Agreement. We received no response from the Conservatives. It is blank, stated President Chartrand. The Liberals have the strongest platform for the Metis People. As President it is my job to advise the Metis People as to which platform best supports Metis interests.

President Chartrand has also faced criticism from Winnipeg South Conservative Candidate Rod Bruinooge over the MNC's endorsement, but with the recent email from Inky Mark, it draws a disturbing conclusion to a hidden agenda developed by Thomas Flanagan, Harpers closest advisor, that the Conservative Party has for the Metis Nation.

The Conservatives have no position for the Metis People. Yet their members threaten us when we endorse a platform of a party that has been upfront, honest and open with us regarding our Rights and Recognition said Chartrand.

President Chartrand's invitation to debate Metis issues with Conservative Leader Stephen Harper still remains open and unanswered. We challenge them to show us their Metis Policy said President Chartrand.

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For More Information Contact:
MMF Communications Coordinator
(204) 586-8474