Urgent update from Chief and Council regarding State of Local Emergency

April 4, 2020

Dear Ugpi’ganjig community members;

RE: State of Local Emergency SOLE

On April 3rd, Chief and Council and the Ugpiganjig Emergency Preparedness Team have decided that it is time to declare a state of local emergency. Following suit with the Province of NB state of emergency and Assembly of First Nations National State of Emergency, Eel River Bar, by authorization of Chief and Council hereby declare a state of local emergency. Under the Indian Act section 81.1 we will be isolating our community, restricting access, and controlling access to ERB.

This decision has not been taken lightly, nor is it to control community members, it is to enhance our community protection and provide necessary safeguards for community members. As First Nations, our health levels are at a greater risk than the non-Indigenous population, we must take all necessary measures to keep our community safe.

Beginning in the week to come, we will be implementing checkpoints in the community. There will be no admittance to non-residents. Certain exemptions will apply for essential service employees, delivery services, law enforcement, and others that may be required.

As a council it’s our responsibility to protect our community. We see this measure as a proactive step rather than waiting for crisis to hit. Should additional measures be required they will be implemented. By being diligent and adhering to social distancing, we will get through this. We are strong, united, and resilient. By staying home we stay safe!
Sincerely,

Chief Sacha