rise has been observed in the number of Métis people in Alberta who have registered as members of the MNA. Métis people in Alberta are recognizing the benefits of MNA memberships and the importance of the MNA as an organization. As well, the MNA has transitioned from solely a representative body to an organization responsible and accountable for the ongoing delivery of a variety of programs and services. The MNA continues to make strides as an organization and develops and implements a number of projects and initiatives (including Apeetogosan Development Inc., Métis Urban Housing Corporation of Alberta, and the Aboriginal Human Resource Development Agreement – Labour Market Unit.) The MNA has responsibilities and expectations and becoming a more results-based organization. It has addressed issues relating to internal governance and has developed the administrative capacity to meet the expectations that are placed upon the MNA. The MNA plays a role in the policy development process. Its elected officials and staff sit on committees responsible for an array of issues. The Rupertsland Institute of Alberta is an affiliate to the Metis Nation of Alberta. Its mission is to enhance the individual self-sufficiency and the collective well-being of Metis people through education, training, and research. Powley Case There was a law defining case that is recognized as the first time the issue of Métis rights were recognized under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. Steve Powley was scrutinized and almost punished for knowingly hunting without a license in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. When the case made it to the Supreme Court of Canada, Powley’s case was protected by the Métis Aboriginal right to hunt and the case was dismissed. List of settlements See also List of communities in Alberta List of designated places in Alberta List of Indian reserves in Alberta List of municipalities in Alberta Notes References Further reading External links Métis Nation of Alberta Métis Settlements Act Student, aboriginal studies oriented dedicated to the Alberta Métis Settlements - history, documents, legislation, photographs and other research text