Business postponed - Attempt to oust members defeated

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Business was put on the backburner as politics and in-fighting dominated the Metis Association of Alberta annual assembly held at Lac Cardinal, August 15 and 16.

Although the assembly began with a plea from president Sam Sinclair for unity, a long drawn-out debate on a motion made by Zone two vice president, August Collins calling for the suspension of Zone one vice president and director, Gerald Thom and Alvina Strasbourg, Zone three vice president, Joan Major-Malmas, Zone four vice president and director, Ben Courtrille and Ron LaRocque, and Zone six vice president candidate, Florence Henry, dominated the first day.

As the debate continued most of the additions were ruled out of order, as many delegates shouted that the assembly should be 'shutdown'.

"If I am out, I'll recommend to my regional council, not to participate in anything," said Geral Thom.

The motion was defeated 120 to 79.

Because of this, and other long debates, most of the assembly business was postponed until next year. This prompted several members to ask for a return to the old system of election by a show of hands.

"You used to come here to meet people that you normally wouldn't see every day or see only once a year, and I think is is where our elders feel bad. I think the voting should be brought back to the assembly."

"I've only missed one (assembly) said Caslan member, Fred Reed. "I've seen a lot of strong people before . . . they fight more now," he said.

More than 13 resolutions were tabled as the assembly drew to a close, and many members said they feared this would be the last assembly.

Only about 500 people attended this year's assembly compared to at least 1,200 in previous years. Zone six vice president, George Amato felt that attendance was poor because of lack of travel funds and the ballot box system.

After the assembly, executive members would not comment on whether an assembly would be held next year. No place or date has been set.