Image from the Oneida Nation of the Thames Administration Facebook page.Image from the Oneida Nation of the Thames Administration Facebook page.
London

Oneida shuts out non-residents due to COVID-19 fears

An Indigenous community southwest of London is now restricting people from entering its territory as a way of protecting its residents from COVID-19.

The Oneida Nation of the Thames blocked the four access points at Kennedy’s Corner, Evan John’s, Ambrose Corner, and the bridge with temporary structures as of Monday. Oneida personnel are stationed at the points and will not be allowing non-residents to pass.

"We are designating staff, equipment, signage, and ensuring all health and safety measures are being adhered to during this emergency. All essential services will still be operational for our community members," the Oneida Nation of the Thames Administration said on its Facebook page.

Oneida citizens with proof of residency, those with council permission, and employees will still be able to enter the territory.

On Sunday, a long line of vehicles belonging to non-residents was seen entering Oneida to shop ahead of the closure. That prompted Oneida officials to ask smoke shops and gas stations to halt cigarette sales as of 4 p.m.

Currently, there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 within the territory.

Oneida isn't the only First Nation shutting down its boundaries to outsiders.

Six Nations of The Grand River, southeast of Brantford, has also set up checkpoints to restrict people venturing in and out of the community.

There has been no word on whether other First Nations in southwestern Ontario, including Chippewa of the Thames and Munsee Delaware, will close their boundaries.

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