The president of the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan is defending a nearly $400,000 deficit.
That was the number facing the organizing committee for Back to Batoche Days.
Métis Nation of Saskatchewan President Robert Doucette said this year was a very big year.
Not only was it the event's 40th anniversary, but this year also marked the 125th anniversary of the northwest resistance.
Upwards of 70,000 people came through the gates during the eight-day event.
“So you know, having said that you need to spend some money to ensure that people are well fed, there are good sanitary conditions and have a place to put their trailers,” said Doucette.
Doucette said over the last month and a half, they have already paid down $150,000.
“When I came into office three years, we had a $3 million deficit, and I slayed that dragon, and this isn't even a dragon, it's a strategic investment,” said Doucette.
He said the event itself is not at risk, in fact he predicts the event will be even bigger next summer.
nmaxwell@panow.com
