Saugeen First Nation has declared a state of emergency.
A release says, “In consideration of the ongoing drug epidemic which introduces criminality, violence and contributes to the tragic loss of lives, the Council of Saugeen First Nation has issued a Declaration of State of Emergency.”
It continues, “In response to the State of Emergency, Saugeen First Nation will convene a Community Safety Task Force (‘Task Force’) which will bring together a diverse group of interdisciplinary subject matter experts and community members to assist (and) inform a collaborative approach related to concerns from community members around drugs, gangs and weapons. We encourage members of the community to report suspicious activity to Crime Stoppers at: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)”
The release says, “For the safety, security and well-being of community members, we need to advance a proportional response and to consider extraordinary measures. Saugeen First Nation calls on the federal and provincial government to recognize the jurisdictional challenges inherent under the Indian Act, which infringe on the Nation-to-Nation recognition of self-government and self-determination.”
It concludes, “We appreciate the support of the community while we organize a level of response for the safety, security and well-being of our Nation. Further information and status updates will be provided weekly (each Friday) throughout the duration of the Declaration of State of emergency.”