Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh congratulates Wabaseemoong Independent Nations on Relationship Agreement with Federal Government
Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh and Grand Council Treaty #3 would like to congratulate Chief Waylon Scott and the council of Wabaseemoong Independent Nations (WIN) on the newly signed Relationship Agreement: Comprehensive Response to Mercury and Human Health in Wabaseemoong Independent Nations with the Federal Government.
The Relationship Agreement lays forward a plan to address the comprehensive health needs of members of Wabaseemoong Independent Nations that continue to suffer the effects of mercury poisoning in the Wabigoon and English river systems.
“I am very happy to see this positive step forward for Wabaseemoong Independent Nations,” said Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh, “I know that a lot of effort has been put into this process by Chief Waylon Scott and his council. I am certain that this move will bring positive results to the people of Wabaseemoong and we at Grand Council Treaty #3 will at all times be ready to support Wabaseemoong in its efforts to improve the health outcomes of its people.”
A major component of this Relationship Agreement will see the construction of a Mercury Wellness Centre to be built in Wabaseemoong to service those that suffer from the effects of mercury poisoning. Concurrently Wabaseemoong is conducting a Community Health Assessment that is expected to be completed in 2022. This project will identify the health needs of community members that will be the focus of the programs and services provided by the Mercury Wellness Centre.
Wabaseemoong Independent Nations is approximately 100km northwest of Kenora, Ontario with a registered population of 2000 people, 1200 of which live on-reserve.
-30-
For more information please contact: Daniel Morriseau, Political Advisor – Grand Council Treaty #3 (807) 464-2647 or by email daniel.morriseau@treaty3.ca