AMC Responds to Dismissal of Manitoba Hydro CEO
February 13, 2024
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
AMC Communications
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) issues this statement in response to recent media reports announcing the termination of Jay Grewal as the Chief Executive Officer of Manitoba Hydro.
AMC commends the decision made by the Manitoba Hydro Board of Directors. This decision comes after a prolonged period of disconnection between Manitoba Hydro and First Nations Leadership of the AMC. Despite the AMC’s numerous attempts to initiate dialogue, there was a consistent lack of willingness to meet and discuss crucial matters affecting First Nations in Manitoba.
As a result, during the tenure of the former CEO, there were no meaningful engagements or discussions between Executives at Manitoba Hydro and AMC member First Nations Leadership. The former CEO failed to make herself available to the pressing issues impacting First Nations in Manitoba. Instead, Chiefs were directed to meet with Hydro staff, disrespecting the authority of elected leaders. There was also a noticeable absence of reconciliation efforts, most notably during the COVID-19 pandemic, which are essential for building trust and fostering genuine partnerships.
The AMC reiterates its commitment to work with Manitoba Hydro and notes that it is imperative that the incoming leadership demonstrates a genuine willingness to engage with First Nations Leaders, respect their sovereignty, and prioritize reconciliation efforts.
Grand Chief Cathy Merrick stated, “The relationship between Manitoba Hydro and First Nations must be based on mutual respect, meaningful consultation, and collaboration. We look forward to finally re-establishing a working relationship that includes engaging constructively with Manitoba Hydro’s leadership to ensure that the concerns and priorities of First Nations are addressed effectively. This includes addressing First Nations energy poverty, bill affordability programs, and being actively involved in the selection process for the new CEO of Manitoba Hydro.”
For more information, please contact:
Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email: media@manitobachiefs.com
About the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
The AMC was formed in 1988 by the Chiefs in Manitoba to advocate on issues that commonly affect First Nations in Manitoba. AMC is an authorized representative of 62 of the 63 First Nations in Manitoba with a total of more than 172,000 First Nation citizens in the province, accounting for approximately 12 percent of the provincial population. AMC represents a diversity of Anishinaabe (Ojibway), Nehetho / Ininew (Cree), Anishininew (Ojibwe-Cree), Denesuline (Dene) and Dakota Oyate (Dakota) peoples.