METIS AND OFF-RESERVE FIRST NATIONS INITIATIVE LAUNCHED

Premier Roy Romanow today launched an initiative that will improve the economic

and social conditions of Metis and off-reserve First Nations people in

Saskatchewan.



The initiative, A Framework for Co-operation, outlines four priority areas that

require attention to improve the long-term future of Metis and off-reserve

First Nations people.



"We have consulted extensively with Metis and First Nations political leaders,

individuals and the public," Romanow said. "Together, we have a vision of a

province that offers opportunity and resources, hope and respect for every

person in Saskatchewan. We will achieve that vision together, building on the

framework we are launching today, until every person in our province is

participating fully in our society and our economy."



The identified priorities are education; skills training and work preparation;

jobs and economic development opportunities; and community initiatives aimed at

improving individual and community well-being of Metis and off-reserve First

Nations people. Twelve departments will be directing resources toward programs

that fulfill the detailed objectives developed from these priorities.



Also participating in the launch were Chief Perry Bellegarde of the Federation

of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, Metis Senator Nora Ritchie and Saskatoon Mayor

Jim Maddin.



A Framework for Co-operation Policy Statement outlines detailed objectives for

each of these priorities. In addition to extensive input from the Aboriginal

community, the policy document represents input from 12 provincial departments

committed to the initiative. The document is available from the "What's New"

section of the Government of Saskatchewan web site, www.gov.sk.ca.



A Framework for Co-operation strives to bring together federal, provincial and

municipal governments to work with Metis and First Nations governments and

organizations.



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For more information, contact:



Wendy Campbell

Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs

Regina

Phone: (306) 787-8008