Functional Responsibility:
The primary responsibilities of the Métis Settlements Appeal Tribunal are to contribute to the self-sufficiency of Métis Settlement life by providing resolution to issues that would threaten the progress of Settlements and individuals. It provides a forum for resolving disputes that arise within the Métis Settlements, particularly those involving surface access and compensation for oil and gas and other minerals; appeals on Council decisions affecting membership and land; and any other type of dispute if all parties agree to have the Tribunal settle the dispute.
The Tribunal has the authority to make rules of procedure for the conduct of its affairs; to issue notices requiring someone to attend a dispute hearing or to produce documents at a hearing; to hold hearings and make decisions regarding disputes that are referred to it under its enabling legislation, and other acts, regulations, by-laws and policies; and to utilize alternative mechanisms of resolution in the settlement of disputes such as mediation or arbitration.

Predecessor and Successor Bodies:
There are no predecessor/successor agencies for the Métis Settlements Appeal Tribunal.

Administrative Relationships:
The Tribunal reports to the Executive Council through the Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, but is also required to submit this report to the Métis Settlements General Council. Since its inception, the Tribunal has reported to Municipal Affairs (1990-1991 and 1992-1993), the Solicitor General (1991-1992), Family and Social Services (1993-1997), Federal and Intergovernmental Affairs (1997-1999), Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs (1999-2000), and Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development (2000-current).

Administrative Structure:
The Tribunal consists of not less than seven members. The chair is appointed by the Minister from a list of nominees provided by the Métis Settlements General Council. Three members are appointed by resolution of the General Council, one of whom must be designated as the Tribunal vice-chair by the General Council. Three other members are appointed by the Minister, of whom at least two must be persons who are not settlement members, and one must be designated as Tribunal vice-chair. Other persons may be appointed to the Tribunal by agreement between the Minister and the General Council and the Tribunal chair may designate any of these appointed persons to become a vice-chair.

Names of Chief Officers:
Chairs of the Métis Settlements Appeal Tribunal:
Archie Collins 1990-1994
Harry Supernault 1994-2002
Andre L'Hirondelle 2002-current