AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde Wants Governments to Work with First Nations in Manitoba to Ensure Safety During the Wildfire Emergency

OTTAWA, May 23, 2018 /CNW/ - Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde said today that all governments and emergency service providers must work with First Nations leadership in Manitoba to ensure the safety and security of all those affected by the wildfire situation in the province.

"Our first thoughts are for the safety and well-being of all the families, the children, men and women in the communities that are dealing with this crisis situation," said AFN National Chief Bellegarde. "This calls for immediate action by the federal and provincial governments and all emergency service providers to work cooperatively and collaboratively in coordination with the First Nations to find the most effective and efficient way to get our people out of harm's way. This is not an issue of jurisdiction. This is an issue of the safety and security for First Nations families."

The current situation is volatile and changing rapidly. The most recent reports indicate wildland fires have resulted in the need to fully evacuate Little Grand Rapids, Pauingassi First Nation and Sapotaweyak Cree Nation in Manitoba.  

The AFN is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Updates.

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations

For media requests or more information, please contact: Jamie Monastyrski, Press Secretary, National Chief's Office, 343-540-6179 (cell), [email protected]; Monica Poirier, Bilingual Communications Officer, 613-241-6789 ext. 382, 613-290-0706 (cell), [email protected]