MOOSE CREE FN – The Moose Cree First Nation and the Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to underscore their joint commitment to fight drug trafficking, and to work together to ensure a safe and healthy community.
“Today is a significant day for our community. Our people have been clear that they want steps taken to reduce drug abuse and the trafficking of drugs in our community. We recognize that drug use is destructive. It is hurting our children, families and community and we are committed to work with the Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service to prevent and reduce it to the greatest extent possible,” stated Chief Norm Hardisty Jr.
The MCFN made the decision to fund two NAPS Officer positions for one year with NAPS providing training and equipment. The two Officer positions will focus specifically on preventing and investigating drug offences. “It is a well-known fact that the NAPS has been under-funded by governments for years. This situation is unacceptable and the Moose Cree First Nation continues to call on both levels of government to address this unfair situation,” said Chief Hardisty. Chief Hardisty indicated that the Moose Cree could not wait any longer for additional officers to deal with the prevalence of drug trafficking in the community and so took the initiative to fund two additional full-time positions.
“I am pleased that our First Nation and NAPS are able to work together in taking a strong stance against drug trafficking. With the support of our community, other First Nations in the region, the Town of Moosonee and NAPS, I believe that we can make a difference in reducing drug abuse in our communities,” stated Deputy Chief Earl Cheechoo. “This is an important step in the right direction and we must remain committed to eradicating this problem for the benefit our children and youth and community as a whole.”
On January 11, 2016, NAPS Chief of Police Terry Armstrong and Northeast Region Inspector Eric Cheechoo, along with Chief Hardisty and the MCFN Council met at the Moose Cree First Nation to participate in a signing ceremony, followed by a feast to recognize the occasion.
