Funds still needed - Metis

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Various Alberta Metis leaders want the Native Economic Development Program (NEDP) renewed by the federal government by the end of this month.

Some leaders feel the program, scheduled to expire March 31, is critical to the economic rejuvenation of their communities.

A special funding source, such as the NEDP, should be continued because it helps Metis living in small, isolated communities start up a small business they otherwise would not be able to do, said Zone 2 vice-president August Collins from Bonnyville.

He said banks turn down the majority of loan applications submitted by settlement Metis because they lack collateral. Their houses are built on land they do not privately own.

Instead, the land is collectively owned by the Metis Settlement corporations.

Under the provisions of the NEDP, the Metis and Treaty or Non-Status Indians are not subject to the same kind of roadblock, said Collins.

Should the federal government discontinue the program, the chances of a Metis starting up a small construction company or grocery store are slim. So revisions are needed, said Collins.

The Metis vice-president of Zone 4 wants a better system for distributing program dollars equipped with more money for the "little guy."

"We used to call it the phantom 345 a few years ago when it (NEDP) first came out. We heard so much about it. Well, it's there - but it's a phantom," said Joe Blyan.

He said few Metis were able to obtain money from the program although they knew $345 million was to be distributed over five years.

Blyan wants the program renewed. He feels the "restrictions" and "errors" made in its design should be rectified. He suggested the federal government conduct "in-depth consultation" sessions with various Native organizations in the provinces.

The chairman of the Settlement Investment Corporation (SIC), an economic business development arm affiliated to the Federation of Metis Settlements, wants to see NEDP renewed also with some changes.

"Personally, I would suggest....a little bit more flexibility in ways of amending the agreements or in adjusting policies which are better suited to our people," said Harold Cardinal.

Cardinal said "more attention" needs to be paid to the "operation" of individual companies. As it stands, "revenue restrictions" are "inhibiting growth" of some potentially sound businesses. He said the Metis need help in "developing their business ideas" so that when the NEDP board meet, their proposals will be sound in presentation and concept.

SIC received $4.2 million grant to be distributed over a three-year period. Their final installment is expected this year.