Pimacesowin (to make your own way): First Nation governance through an autonomous non -government organization: The experience of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Health Services Inc. in northern Saskatchewan

Abstract

This thesis examines the history and governance experiences of a First Nation Health organization in northern Saskatchewan. It describes the case study of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Health Services Inc. within the context of a broader governance debate on the role of the State and civil society. It applies the integrated model which blends both views and acknowledges the continuing significance and link between the State and society in the management of public services. It suggests that society and First Nations, as the PBCN story demonstrates, can do a better job identifying and meeting their own needs through their own governance systems. The thesis also makes some recommendations and identifies topics for further study from the lessons learned in the governing experiences of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Health Board.