(June 16, 2023 – Toronto, Ontario) The Ontario First Nations Young Peoples Council (OFNYPC) stands with the Ontario Chiefs in our leadership’s rejection of the Metis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Agreement.

“We recognize that First Nations in Ontario are the only holders of inherent and treaty rights in our territories.

OFNYPC calls on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to immediately halt his government’s advancement of the Metis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Agreement until meaningful consultation and engagement can be done with First Nations in Ontario.

The future of First Nations youth in Ontario will be impacted by this Agreement, and our voices must be heard.  We share our leadership’s serious concern that this Agreement will erode First Nations inherent rights and title.  It will be a historic mistake if Prime Minister Trudeau and Minister Marc Miller allow this Metis Agreement to move forward despite First Nations opposition.

OFNYPC representatives will accompany Ontario Chiefs to Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario on June 19, 2023, to oppose any erosion of First Nations inherent rights and title.”

-30-

The Ontario First Nations Young Peoples Council (OFNYPC) is the official youth voice for the 133 First Nations in Ontario.

Contact:

Lance Copegog
Chiefs of Ontario
Phone: 437-427-7342
Email: Lance.Copegog@coo.org