Manitoba meets Indigenous leaders in Thompson to discuss Churchill Plus

Premier Wab Kinew and federal and provincial ministers met with northern First Nations and Métis leaders in Thompson to discuss the Manitoba Crown Indigenous Corporation and the Churchill Plus project; the meetings capped a two-day northern trip that included a visit to Churchill and announced funding to explore a national marine conservation area.

Premier Wab Kinew, Minister Ian Bushie and federal Minister Rebecca Chartrand met with northern First Nations and Métis leaders in Thompson to discuss the Manitoba Crown Indigenous Corporation (MCIC) and the Churchill Plus project. The meetings brought together representatives from the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) and the Manitoba Métis Federation. The visit capped a two-day northern trip that included a separate stop in Churchill and an announcement of funding to explore a national marine conservation area. The government described the trip as focused on listening, building relationships and discussing how MCIC might support economic opportunities in the north. Key facts: - The meeting in Thompson included Premier Wab Kinew, Manitoba Northern Relations and Indigenous Futures Minister Ian Bushie, and federal Northern and Arctic Affairs Minister Rebecca Chartrand. - Leaders from northern First Nations and Métis organizations attended, including representatives from the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO), and Red River Métis leadership. - Discussion topics included the Manitoba Crown Indigenous Corporation (MCIC) and the Churchill Plus project, which has been referred to the federal Major Projects Office as reported. - The Manitoba government announced funding to explore establishing a national marine conservation area in partnership with the federal government and Oceans North during the northern trip. - Officials emphasized listening to communities, government-to-government partnerships, and ensuring Indigenous nations see benefits from major projects, as reported. Summary: The meetings aim to maintain dialogue between provincial and federal officials and Indigenous leaders as Churchill Plus proceeds and as MCIC is discussed as a mechanism for northern participation. Work is ongoing and engagement with northern communities and Indigenous nations will continue as the project and related initiatives advance.