On Feb. 10, the Red River Métis Gimli Local hosted the MMF Interlake Regional Meeting inside Johnson Hall on the fifth floor of the Waterfront Centre. Over 100 MMF members from across the Interlake attended, along with many cabinet ministers, and MMF president David Chartrand.
The day-long event covered the projects and progress of areas such as housing, culture and heritage, infrastructure, employment, youth initiatives, justice, health and Child and Family Services.
Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Jack Park shared that all of the delegates were impressed with the gathering, and that this was one of the best regional meetings he had been to in the 21 years he has been attending.
Park expressed enthusiasm about Gimli Mayor Kevin Chudd and council’s plans to host a flag raising ceremony at the Rural Municipality Office, and work together with the MMF on future endeavors.
“We look forward to engaging in meaningful discussions, forging new connections, and creating lasting memories,” Chudd pledged.
Chartrand was taken with the Gimli Locals’ efforts, calling the meeting a “class act.”
“Driving up and seeing our Métis Flag flying was a proud moment for us all. It really touched me. The venue is amazing with a great view of the lake. We are proud of the Gimli Local and can’t say enough. We have tremendous respect for them and how far they have come in such a short time,” he said.
Chartrand also looks forward to opportunities in working with the RM of Gimli, Chudd and the Gimli Local. He plans to meet with the respective groups in the near future, he said.
Interlake Locals and delegates in attendance also brought an amazing amount of donations for the silent action, held on the centre’s first floor in the New Iceland Heritage Museum theatre.
Prize winning Métis curler, Kerri Einarson, donated a signed jersey for auction. She also gifted delegates with curling brooms signed by her team.
Red River Métis Gimli Local chairperson, Donna Austfjord, expressed pride in her community with respect to the efforts made to make the meeting a huge success.
“Hosting the regional meeting was a proud moment for the Local. We have been embraced by the RM of Gimli, businesses and citizens. Special thanks to Kerri Einarson, the Waterfront Centre, NIHM, Mad Dash catering and especially the volunteers for all their help,” she said.
