Dane Gibson
Northern News Services

Norman Wells (Nov 29/99) - Norman Wells Metis have taken the first step towards setting up self-government for their 166 area members.

At the Metis Nation annual assembly Sept. 25, a motion was passed by the membership directing individual Metis communities to begin self-government negotiations.

The Ernie MacDonald Land Corp. represents the Metis community in Norman Wells. Land Corp. president Winter Lennie said because the population of Norman Wells is mainly non-aboriginal, the first negotiations that take place must be between themselves and the township.

"Before we begin the process, we must start talking bi-laterally. The non-aboriginal community has to be considered in this," said Lennie.

"At this point we're at the most preliminary stage, but we know the municipal government has to be involved. The way we look at it is that it's in our best interest and in the best interest of the town to explore ways to work together."

On behalf of the corporation, Lennie sent a letter to the Norman Wells mayor and council advising them of their decision to begin self-government negotiations with the federal government.

Lennie said they want to sit down and discuss how the two groups can work together to create a system they can both be happy with.

"At the end of the process, it would mean we would have an aboriginal organization with an inherent right to self-government working as part of the Norman Wells community government," said Lennie.

"Right now we're waiting for the town to formally respond to our letter, then we can set a date to start looking at a framework to negotiate this."

Norman Wells Mayor Frank Pope said self-government will impact their municipal style of government, but the effects can be positive for both parties if they keep lines of communication open throughout the process.

"Not only in the NWT but across Canada the words 'aboriginal self-government' conjures up fear," said Pope.

"I don't want to be in fear of self-government and the way to do that is to be involved in the discussions."

Pope said until he knows what form self-government will take, it will be difficult to make a statement on how it will affect the town.

"Norman Wells has a community government that raises the majority of its operating budget through municipal taxes. Because it's a tax-based structure that works, things should stay as they are," said Pope.

"I'm assuming they'll want to enhance that structure to the benefit of us all. The bottom line is we want to work with (the Metis) in the spirit of co-operation to meet the aims and aspirations of aboriginal people."