Summary
“There are 49 communities in Nishnawebe-Aski Nation (NAN); it’s a vast region and some infrastructureservices are still not provided. We still have boil water advisories; most communities dependent on diesel for electricity generation; there’s no room for growth or expansion; we are limited by the lack of water infrastructure; we have little internet availability; and there are social issues like alcohol and drug abuse, suicides, which is one of the biggest challenges for police services. Development is knocking on the door but social issues hamper the ability to get work done. NAN police services started in 1994 with First Nations constables; they dealt firsthand with the impacts of traumatic events and there was no support. In Fort Severn, a constable had to deal with a shooter; it was more than 24 hours later that back-up arrived and the community was locked down. This could have been handled, or even prevented, if we had the proper resources.”--Page 6.