A Statement from Minister Beverly Fullerton, MN–S Health and Mental Health and Addictions

Press Release

To the Members of the MNLA and to our MN–S Citizens,

Today, I am writing with a heavy heart.

The Métis Nation–Saskatchewan has been placed in the very difficult position of reducing mental health services due to federal funding cuts. These cuts will directly impact our citizens who rely on these supports, and they will also affect valued members of our Mental Health and Addictions team.

This is not just a budget adjustment. This is about people.

It is about citizens who finally reached out for counselling after years of carrying pain. It is about families who found safety in knowing there was someone to call. It is about staff who have shown up every single day to support our Nation’s healing journey.

For too long, our Nation has been expected to do more with less. Chronic underfunding in health and mental health services has forced difficult decisions, and the sunsetting of the MN–S Mental Health Support Line Program means six dedicated team members will be impacted. I want to personally acknowledge their commitment, compassion, and service to our citizens.

In addition to the dedicated MN–S staff impacted, we also recognize the independent clinicians who have walked alongside our citizens through some of their most vulnerable moments. These professionals provided culturally responsive care, built trust within our communities, and became part of many citizens’ healing journeys. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and the compassion they have extended to our Nation.

Most importantly, I want our citizens to know: you matter. Your healing matters.
Your mental health matters.

While direct payment for counselling services through this program will no longer be available, we are ensuring that clients are individually contacted and supported through transition planning. Citizens will be referred to alternative supports and are encouraged to connect with Ma Faamii citizen support workers for guidance and assistance. We will not leave people without direction.

This moment reinforces why advancing and finalizing our Self-Government Agreement with Canada is urgent and non-negotiable. Our Nation cannot continue to have critical health services disrupted by funding decisions made far from our communities and without Métis authority at the table. True Nation-to-Nation partnership means fiscal stability, jurisdictional respect, and the ability to design and deliver Métis-distinct services that are protected and sustainable. Our citizens deserve more than temporary programs, they deserve a health system built by their Nation, for their Nation, and secured for future generations.

We will continue advocating at every table available to us. We will continue pushing for fair and stable funding. And we will continue fighting for the wellness of our families.

With respect and determination,

Minister Beverly Fullerton
MN–S Health and Mental Health and Addictions

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