Assembly of First Nations Supports Kawacatoose First Nation in Efforts to
Re-build After Being Hit by Tornado in July

KAWACATOOSE, SK, Oct. 14 /CNW/ - Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo was in Kawacatoose First Nation today to support the community's rebuilding process following a July 2^nd tornado. The National Chief issued the following statement:

"I would like to recognize the leadership of Chief Poorman and his council in this emergency situation and commend the entire community for their extraordinary efforts to work together following this extraordinary event. The citizens of Kawacatoose have come together to re-build their homes and their community.   

Since the tornado tore through the community in July, 18 families have been displaced for three months now. Unfortunately, there continues to be delays in the community accessing the funds needed to re-build. I join the people and leadership of Kawacatoose in calling upon the federal government and all relevant provincial emergency support services as well to work with First Nation communities to ensure there is coordination, communication and efficient response when emergency situations arise. We also call on the private sector and relief agencies to contribute to these essential efforts.  The re-building effort in Kawacatoose should begin immediately."

On July 2, 2010, a tornado destroyed 18 homes and badly damaged two others, leaving 82 people homeless in the community of Kawacatoose First Nation in Saskatchewan. Fortunately, because of excellent preparation and execution of an emergency plan, Chief Darrin Poorman and his council were able to minimize impact and provide critical supports to their community members. A preliminary survey of the impact concluded that the community has sustained over $2.1 million in damages to property alone.

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.  

For further information:

Alain Garon, Bilingual Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
Cell: 613-292-0857 or [email protected]