THUNDER BAY – Ontario Regional Chief Isadore day reports, “Chief AnnMarie Beardy, a Strong Woman Leader is working hard on this Christmas Eve to keep her community warm and safe. On this Christmas Eve, our prayers and efforts are with the Chief and her community members in the community of WFN.”
Chief Day shares, “There are two Generators down and community efforts are being made in the remote First Nation to maintain heat and intermittent power — this is futile as the systems are in dire need of replacement. Should they not get a generator up there tonight or tomorrow, at the latest – we are advised that the entire water system will freeze — this is an infrastructure emergency and most importantly, the lives and safety of Chief Beardy and her community members are of paramount concern”.
Minister Jane Philpott and Minister Carolyn Bennett — the strength of Chief Beardy is an important factor in keeping the community safe. The Regional Director General Anne Scotten has responded and is working to resolve the issue. Your added directive to respond to the community is much appreciated. In this emergency situation — replacing the generator or evacuation are one of the two imminent solutions.
The Regional Chief says, “We are seeking to ensure the Chief and her community members are safe, sound and can see through this and somehow keep the Christmas Spirit alive. As we all rest in the comfort of a warm house, with family and festive occasion — please keep in mind Chief Anne Marie Beardy and WFN. Your prayers and sentiments of support are appreciated”.
Wawakapewin First Nation (Oji-Cree: ᐙᐙᑲᐯᐎᐣ ᓂᐢᑕᒼ ᐊᓂᐦᔑᓂᓂᐙᐟ (Waawaagabewin Nistam Anishininiwaad): ᐗᐗᑲᐯᐎᐣ ᓂᐢᑕᒼ ᐊᓂᔑᓂᓂᐗᐟ) is an Oji-Cree First Nation reserve located 350 kilometers north of Sioux Lookout, Ontario.
It is only accessible by air and the winter road system from Pickle Lake. Wakakapewin First Nation is a member of Shibogama First Nations Council.
