Our Strategy
The Hay River & Area Metis Local 51 has experienced cyclical growth and participation in community and regional politics since its inception. On the other hand, the Hay River Metis Development Corporation has experienced tremendous growth since it began operations in 1988.
The Corporation has a diverse portfolio of real estate investments and operating companies in the community of Hay River. The society has not experienced growth, mainly due to a limited number of volunteers; therefore, it is not able to participate in political meetings or planning workshops held outside the community.
The Society is governed by a constitution and by-laws pursuant to the Societies Act of the Northwest Territories and is not reflective of the Metis membership goals and aspirations. These documents will require a complete revision. The Corporation is governed by the Business Corporations Act of the Northwest Territories and is set up as a profit-making operation.
The Society, through a trust relationship with one person holding shares in the trust, has ownership of the Corporation and provides direction on appointments to the board of directors.
The Metis will focus on developing a strong and effective Board of Directors and qualified employees. They will identify and protect the rights of the Metis people as they relate to lands, resources, culture, traditions, education, and economics.
An aggressive approach will be taken with resource developers and the government to procure business opportunities for Metis people and businesses.