Concern Grows for First Nations Threatened by Wildfires; Emergency Response Acknowledged
THUNDER BAY, ON: Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler, on behalf of the Executive Council, has expressed ongoing concern for NAN First Nations threatened by severe wildfires across NAN territory:
“There is a growing concern with the threat to many of our remote communities including Pikangikum First Nation, Poplar Hill First Nation and Keewaywin First Nation. Our hearts are with our families and relations who have been forced to evacuate and those who remain under threat of these devastating fires.
Pikangikum has been without electricity for two days after forest fires compromised power lines. We are worried about the elderly and those needing air conditioning, and the spoilage of food and harvested wild game from spring hunts stored freezers. We have been in touch with Wataynikaneyap Power and hope that power can be restored as quickly as possible.
Communication systems in these communities has also been compromised due to breaks to the broadband fibreoptic network, limiting the ability of our leaders to coordinate with emergency responders and government officials. We are pleased to hear that service is being restored with satellite backup units.
NAN is monitoring potential threats and have addressed these concerns to various levels of government. We have followed up with senior officials today to ensure that our communities receive immediate support. Relief efforts underway include flying in generators to provide temporary power and establishing food chains to secure and distribute food and water, fuel, and other vital supplies.
Many of our communities have been threatened by wildfire this season and we are grateful for the support they have received from various levels of government. Miigwetch to our Chiefs, Councils and community leaders for their tremendous leadership. We also thank the firefighters, emergency response personnel, First Nations organizations, and host communities who are working tremendously hard to support our members.”
For more information please contact:
Michael Heintzman,
Director of Communications
Cell: (807) 621-2790
mheintzman@nan.ca