Helena Konanz on Red River Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Treaty Act

In the House of Commons on April 22nd, 2026. See this statement in context.

Bill C-21 Red River Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Treaty ActGovernment Orders

April 22nd, 2026 / 6:15 p.m.

Conservative

Helena Konanz Conservative Similkameen—South Okanagan—West Kootenay, BC

Mr. Speaker, it is very concerning when a bill such as this one comes forward and there is so much dissent against it, yet government representatives, MPs, are wondering why we are bringing forward concerns. That is definitely why we are here.

Again, there have been first nations and Métis governments raising concerns, including the Dakota nation, arguing that a failure to consult violates constitutional duties. Treaty 5 nations object, and some first nations say that the MMF participation in government oversteps jurisdiction.

I could keep reading the list, but basically I want to ask this of my fellow MP: What needs to change? It seems as though a lot needs to change. What should we be worrying about when there is so much dissent against the bill?

See context to find out what was said next.