NEWS RELEASE: SHA and Métis Nation-Saskatchewan Sign Memorandum of Understanding

Today, at Back to Batoche the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) and the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan (MN-S) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to work together to achieve better health outcomes for Métis people.

Senior representatives from Saskatchewan Health Authority and Métis Nation-Saskatchewan signed a formal agreement establishing a framework in which the two sides will work collaboratively to maximize efforts to improve the health of Métis people through diverse and targeted initiatives. This includes health promotion, tracking the determinants of health, and supporting efforts to access funds for new programs, services, and research.

“With the creation of the Saskatchewan Authority, we are now better positioned for these types of agreements,” Vice-President of Integrated Northern Health Andrew McLetchie said. “Instead of 12 different MOUs with the MN-S, we are now able to work together as one organization to ensure that Métis people across the province have access to the same level of care.”

“As Métis people, we have a strong and resilient culture and we have learned over time how to take care of each other and contribute,” said Métis Nation-Saskatchewan Minister Marg Friesen. “We know successful relationships must include open, honest, respectful communication. Through this MOU we are setting a path for meaningful discussions on health-related issues, including traditional medicine and spiritual healing practices for Métis and all Saskatchewan people.”

The memorandum was signed after having built a mutual understanding and an agreement about the needs that are required for responsive and effective outcomes. Including addressing gaps in services, lack of health data of Métis citizens accessing health services and systemic barriers impacting Métis specific health. The MOU will provide a platform for each to work on these critical issues.

For more information, please contact:

Bonnie Leask

Creative Fire

306.202.7572

Email: bleask@creative-fire.com

Amanda Purcell

SHA Media Relations – Saskatoon

306-655-3476

Amanda.purcell@saskhealthauthority.ca

News release download:  MN-S-SHA-MOU News Release-2018.07.20

MOU Backgrounder download:  MN-S-SHA MOU Backgrounder