Interlake Reserves Tribal Council and its member communities: Dauphin River First Nation, Kinonjeoshtegon First Nation, Lake Manitoba First Nation, Little Saskatchewan First Nation, Peguis First Nation, and Pinaymootang First Nation are declaring a state of emergency from the recent and current snow storm underway.

Chairman Cornell McLean shares that “our communities are vulnerable in natural disasters such as these, we cannot wait 72 hours to declare a state of emergency. Especially elders and parents with children. Our tribal council and member communities has led these emergency management developments for years and we have determined this is the time to declare.

”IRTC has been in contact with each community assessing the current damage and needs, the most common themes of being power outages, broken power lines and hydro poles, as well as elders, parents with little children such in the cold with no heat and electricity. Roads are also blocked and covered with snow. We have been organized and working well with each communities leadership to assess needs and respond. “Karl Zadnik, Executive Director.

Chief McLean goes on to add both governments have to focus on our emergency needs and work with us to address these concerns. We are open and committed to working with all levels.

For any questions or immediate concerns please contact Karl Zadnik, email: karlzadnik@irtc.ca