LAMPARD SUBMITS REPORT ON MÉTIS ELECTIONS

First Nations and Métis Relations Minister Maynard Sonntag has received the report of Keith Lampard regarding the recent Métis Nation – Saskatchewan election.

The minister will release the report along with the government's response to the report in the near future after he and department officials have a chance to review it.

The provincial government suspended tripartite and bilateral funding to the MNS on June 17th, 2004. Lampard was appointed in July to review the May 26th, 2004 election. The review was triggered as a result of questions raised by Métis people regarding the way the election was conducted. The review was to determine whether the results of the election reflect the democratic will of all Métis people in Saskatchewan.

Lampard was Saskatchewan's Chief Electoral Officer from 1982 to 1993. He is recognized as a technical expert, having overseen two general elections, six by-elections, two controverted elections, one recount and has participated in a number of provincial and municipal commissions.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Anna Arneson First Nations and Metis Relations Regina Phone: (306) 787-8008