In response to a rising number of drug overdoses and deaths, Walpole Island First Nation Council has declared a State of Emergency.
In a media release on Friday morning, Acting Chief Burton Kewayosh said the State of Emergency was declared with the full support of council.
Walpole Island First Nation has also been in a separate State of Emergency because of COVID-19 since March 23, 2020.
According to the media release, the second emergency declaration will mobilize internal and external resources for law enforcement, security, mental health, community wellness supports, and security on the bridge. It will also facilitate access to funding from outside agencies.
"We are grappling with a drug pandemic that has affected communities across Canada," said Kewayosh. "We have seen the evidence of harmful drug addictions and the deterioration of mental health across our community, and the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this trend. This has been compounded with traumas triggered by the uncovering of mass graves at residential schools. We cannot begin to address this problem without acknowledging that this is a spiritual impasse that is at the core of our community at this time. Healing must take place across our community."
According to Walpole Island CEO James Jenkins, action will also be taken to stop the supply of harmful drugs and a bridge checkpoint will be put in place.
In addition, help will be available to any individuals who may be struggling with mental health or addiction.
"Walpole Island First Nation will work with available services and agencies to expunge the flow of illicit drugs into our community," said Jenkins.
According to the release, the short-term plan is to focus on the supply of drugs entering the community while the long-term goal is to focus on the quality of life for youth in Walpole Island and increase access to health and recreational opportunities.