On December 9, AFN National Chief RoseAnne Archibald along with B.C. Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth and the Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation Murray Rankin travelled to central BC to witness the devastation caused by the recent Pacific Northwest floods. Travelling by helicopter the group flew over the communities of Cook’s Ferry and Nicomen First Nations where their respective Chiefs Christine Minnabarriet and Norman Drynock spoke of deep concerns for their children, families, and Elders.
National Chief Archibald says “kukwstsétsemc” (thank you) to Chiefs Arnold Lampreau of the Shackan Indian Band, Chief Marcel Shackelly of the Nooaitch Indian Band, Chief Stuart Jackson of the Lower Nicola Indian Band, and Chief Lee Spahan of the Coldwater Indian Band, for requesting formal meetings with the Ministers and to Minister Farnworth for agreeing to a detailed discussions on the healing path forward.
National Chief Archibald pressed Minister Farnworth on long-term sustainable funding for the First Nations Emergency Services Society, whose Kamloops office National Chief Archibald toured the day before. Minister Farnsworth agreed the FNESS plays an integral role in assisting, responding to, and supporting First Nations communities when they face climate disasters and trauma from climate change.
Meegwetch to Kúkpi7 Judy Wilson for connecting National Chief to the organization, joining the tour and helping her to understand from a Kúpi7 perspective how vital FNESS is to communities during difficult times.
“I look forward to advocating that FNESS receive long-term sustainable funding so that First Nations are properly supported and assisted during times of crisis,” she said.
Photos:
Touring the Kamloops office of the First Nations Emergency Service Society (FNESS)
Group photo before touring the devastated areas
Photo Credit: FNESS photographer Richard Olak
Jamie Monastyrski
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
