2-02531

GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ANNOUNCES FUNDING TO SUPPORT MÉTIS VETERANS

OTTAWA (November 10, 2004) -

The Honourable Andy Scott, Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians announced a total of $100,000 in Government of Canada funding for Métis veterans promoting their contributions to war-time efforts.

This funding, through the Federal Interlocutor Contribution Program, builds on the Government of Canada's commitment to Aboriginal peoples. The National Métis Veterans Association Inc., (NMVA) will receive $50,000 for 2004-05 for each of its two projects. One project will result in the development of a Métis Veterans Outreach Delivery Program. As part of their work, the NMVA will undertake consultations with rural and urban Métis veterans; produce documentation and a final report. In the other project, the Association will produce a documentary video honouring the contributions of Métis during World War II and to inform Canadians about the role that they played. The video will tell the story through the eyes of a Métis veteran returning home to urban life on the Prairies.

"These funds will make a demonstrable difference to Métis veterans," said Minister Scott. "It will help them to better access programs and services. It will also acknowledge and honour the contributions of Métis veterans in World War II - I'm looking forward to seeing the completed documentary."

"This Outreach Delivery Program will certainly complement work already underway by my Department on an Aboriginal Outreach Strategy to ensure that Aboriginal Veterans and their spouses are aware of the full range of programs and services for which they may be eligible today," said the Honourable Albina Guarnieri, Minister of Veterans Affairs. "As part of this strategy, a senior officer will serve as the focal point for coordinating VAC outreach efforts with those of the Aboriginal Veterans' organizations."

The role of the Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians was created in 1985, to provide a direct liaison between the Government of Canada and organizations representing these groups. The Honourable Andy Scott, as the Interlocutor, advocates for the benefit of Métis and Non-Status Indians (MNSI) as well as all urban Aboriginal people in Cabinet, with other levels of government, with partners and other stakeholders to improve the life chances of MNSI and urban Aboriginal peoples.

For further information contact:

Campbell Morrison
Office of the Minister
(819) 997-0002

Diane Laursen
INAC Media Relations
(819) 994-2044

Back to News Release Index