Fort Chipewyan, AB – The Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (ACFN) has declared a State of Local Emergency (SOLE) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are taking proactive and aggressive actions to protect our First Nation from this serious threat to our community and Members,” said Chief Allan Adam.
Of ACFN’s more than 1300 members, 275 reside in Fort Chipewyan, Alberta, a remote northern community accessible only by air, water and ice road in the winter.
“Declaration of a State of Local Emergency will ensure we have the resources, assistance and powers we may need to ensure our community, especially those most vulnerable such as our Elders, are protected from COVID-19,” said Chief Allan Adam.
The State of Local Emergency has been declared in response to the rapidly evolving situation with COVID-19 and the significant risk it presents to First Nations communities.
“As a strong, independent First Nation government, we will take every step necessary to protect our people,” said Chief Allan Adam. “The declaration of a State of Local Emergency will help us to ensure their safety, health and well-being, which is our first priority.”