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Ginoogaming First Nation is calling on its treaty partners and the federal and provincial governments to provide support and resources to help address issues around community safety.

This comes as the First Nation’s Chief and Council have declared a State of Emergency.

“Our community is currently overwhelmed by a rise in criminal activity, resulting in a need for a full-time police presence in the community,” said Ginoogaming First Nation Chief Sheri Taylor. “At the same time, the community is dealing with the effects of intergenerational trauma, including recent suicides, more substance abuse, and more overdoses.”

The First Nation is currently policed on a part-time basis by the Anishinabek Police Service and the Ontario Provincial Police and there’s hope that a full-time presence will deter criminal activity.

Ginoogaming First Nation is located approximately 40 km east of Geraldton, south of Long Lake 58 First Nation.