TIMMINS -- Kashechewan First Nation is asking for help to protect its vulnerable population from a possible flood from Albany River.
Chief Leo Friday declared a state of emergency May 1, seeking help setting up shelter, transporting residents and, potentially, the evacuation of the community. The declaration was sent to the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre.
“As the spring flood risk along the Albany River is high and the risk of flooding for Kashechewan, we are concerned for the safety of our community members and the most vulnerable,” the emergency declaration read.
Rather than evacuating, about 1,000 residents are sheltering on higher ground to limit exposure to COVID-19. The rest of the community — largely elders — are at risk if a flood occurs, the declaration said.
The declaration called for help to arrive from May 5-20, with the list of requested supplies including food, water, cots, blankets and personal protective equipment.
The declaration also mentions setting up a hosting agreement with neighbouring Fort Albany, also situated along Albany River.
The COVID crisis complicates the situation, should evacuation become necessary. Kapuskasing announced its decision in late March not to host evacuees as it normally would due to the pandemic.
In Timmins, Mayor George Pirie said at his daily COVID-19 update April 29 the city is not in a position to accommodate evacuees, with resources already stretched thin in the area.
“They are a healthy community and there’s absolutely no guarantee, with the community spread we have in Timmins, that they could arrive here and ... be leaving healthy,” Pirie said.
That said, Pirie said if the province decides the First Nation needs to evacuate, Timmins would be obligated to accept them if asked to -- and is planning for that possibility.
CTV has not yet been able to reach officials at Kashechewan First Nation for comment.
This is a developing story. Check back here often for more details.
