on May 1, 2007, Merasty introduced a motion into the House of Commons to calling on the House to "apologize to the survivors of the Indian Residential Schools for the trauma they suffered as a result of the policies intended to assimilate First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, causing the loss of aboriginal culture, heritage and language, while also leaving a sad legacy of emotional, physical and sexual abuse." After Merasty introduced the motion, Prentice announced the Conservatives would support it, allowing the apology to pass unanimously (257-0). Retirement from politics In July 2007, Merasty announced he was stepping down as MP for the riding on Aug. 31, to pursue a career in the private sector. A few months later in September, Merasty was appointed VP, Corporate Responsibility and Communications at Cameco Corporation. In 2013, Des Nedhe Development announced the appointment of Merasty as president and CEO. Awards and boards 1996—Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Pelican Narrows Community Service Award. 2006—Eagle Feather News Newsmaker of the Year. 2012—Diamond Jubilee Medal. Merasty has received both the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal (2004) and the Commemorative Medal for the Centennial of Saskatchewan (2005) for his service to the people of Saskatchewan. Board of Directors Northwest Company (TSX traded company); Board of Directors Children's Hospital of Saskatchewan (2010 to present); Board of Directors Canada West Foundation ( 2008 to present); Chair, Northern Career Quest (2008 to present); Board of Directors Enterprise Saskatchewan (2008–11); Chair, Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Association (SIGA) (2000–05); Board of Directors, Dakota Dunes Golf and Country Club (2003–05); Board of Directors Saskatoon Airport Authority (2003–05); Board of Directors Western First Nations Hospitality (2002–05); Chair and director Northern Broadband Initiative (2002–05); Chair and director Westwind Aviation Ltd. (2001–05); Chair and director Northern Development Board (1999-2004); Chair and director Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) and Saskatchewan Indian Training Assessment Group (SITAG) (1999-2005). Education Merasty holds Bachelor and master's degrees in Education from the University of Saskatchewan. Merasty was named in the 100 Alumni of Influence by the University of Saskatchewan in 2007. In 2005, he received an honorary diploma in Entrepreneurship and Small Business from the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology. Electoral record References External links 1964 births Cree people First Nations politicians Liberal Party of Canada MPs Living people Members of the House of Commons of Canada from Saskatchewan Politicians from Winnipeg University of Saskatchewan alumni Indigenous Members of