Assembly of First Nations National Chief Calls for Action to Ensure Safety for First Nations Affected by Forest Fires in Saskatchewan

OTTAWA, July 5, 2015 /CNW/ - Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde called for action to ensure safety and security for all First Nations citizens and communities affected by the fire situation in Saskatchewan.

"Our thoughts are with all those who are affected by the forest fires in Saskatchewan, including the many men, women and children who have had to be evacuated to other communities," said National Chief Bellegarde.  "We must make sure they have proper food, water and shelter during this difficult time.  I have been in touch with Saskatchewan Minister of Government Relations Jim Reiter to support the calls for immediate action from all levels of government, including the federal government.  I am in touch as well with Chiefs in the region, including Montreal Lake Cree Nation Chief Henderson and Lac La Ronge Chief Cook-Searson.  We are all working to ensure the response is immediate and coordinated so our citizens are safe.  We will continue to monitor the situation and provide any support we can."

Montreal Lake Cree Nation declared a state of emergency earlier today.  Lac La Ronge Indian Band, the largest First Nation in Saskatchewan, is currently undergoing evacuation.  Thousands of people are affected by the forest fire situation.  The province is providing updates as the situation develops.

The Assembly of First Nation is the national organization representing First Nation citizens in Canada.  Follow the #AFNAGA on Twitter @AFN_Comms, @AFN_Updates.

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations

Alain Garon AFN Bilingual Communications Officer 613-241-6789, ext 382; 613-292-0857 or [email protected]; Jenna Young Castro, AFN Communications Officer, 613-241-6789, ext 401; 613-314-8157 or [email protected]