Lipinski won’t run for president of MNO

Lipinski won’t run
 
After more than two decades of holding political offices within the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO), including two terms as president, Gary Lipinski announced March 5 that he will not be seeking re-election in the 2016 MNO elections scheduled for May 2016.

“Eight years ago, I was elected as president on a platform that committed to advancing Métis rights, improving the quality of life of Ontario Métis children, youth families and communities and stabilizing and strengthening the MNO's finances, accountability and administration. Today, I take great pride in the successes and results we have achieved in all of these areas. Some we could not have even imagined in 2008. I take even more pride in the fact that we did all this by working—together,” said Lipinski in a press statement.

Amongst a lengthy list of accomplishments by the organization, Lipinski listed eliminating the MNO’s inherited $4.2 million debt by 2016/17 as one. This new reality—a debt-free MNO—will allow future generations not to be saddled with the burdens of the past, the statement reads.

Other accomplishments are: building a strong and credible Métis public service; the signing and renewal of the MNO-Ontario Framework Agreement; establishing a unique Crown- Métis Nation consultation model: and the standardization and “de-politicizing” the citizenship registration process.

Lipinski emphasized that he was most pleased with the efforts the MNO has made in ensuring Métis youth can be all they can be.

“Over my mandates, the increased successes and participation of our young people—at all levels of the MNO and within society as a whole—has warmed my heart the most. Further, the fact that more and more Métis youth want to learn about their history, culture and assist in the MNO’s nation-building project allows me to retire knowing that we are in good hands going forward.”