MNO | Central America

The Metis Nation of Ontario has long seen the value of accessing and using the most advanced of information and communications technologies. The MNO makes maximum use of Internet technology through its websites and recently has begun to establish video-conferencing facilities at its head office and its community councils. This has led to the use of this technology for training and tele-health. The MNO is well advanced in a joint venture with the Anishenabek Nation in developing a virtual call centre that will see employment opportunities brought to Métis and First Nations people no matter where they live.

This focus on the future has also led MNO Former MNO President Tony Belcourt to promote the development of ICT’s nationally through his position as a member of the Crossing Boundaries National Council and internationally in his role as Métis National Council Minister for International Issues. The MNO and the MNC have been active advocates for access to technology for indigenous peoples through the process leading up to and including the World Summit on Information Societies hosted by the International Telecommunications Union.

MNO Former MNO President Tony Belcourt (far left) represents Canada on the Indigenous Interim Commission for the Development of ICT’s in the Americas seen here during a workshop in Mexico City.

Recently an “Indigenous Interim Commission for the Development of ICT’s in the Americas” was formed. Tony Belcourt is the representative from Canada and is on the three member planning committee. The Interim Commission will be holding its first planning meeting in Antigua, Guatemala on March 6 – 8, 2007. MNC President Clem Chartier and National Congress of American Indians President, Joe Garcia, will also be attending to pursue talks begun by Tony Belcourt towards establishing a “Nation to Nation” relationship between the MNC and the NCAI.

The goals and potential for the Interim Commission are immense. Included in this website is a report on the 1st Indigenous Workshop on ICT’s held in Mexico City (versión espanol) a year ago. A full report on the outcome of the meeting of the Interim Commission will be posted on the website following the meeting in March.

The Métis Nation of Ontario, on behalf of the Indigenous Commission, wishes to acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada (CIDA, DFAIT, INAC) and the Government of Mexico (CDI) for the generous contributions to fund the holding of the meeting of the Indigenous Commission in Guatemala.

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