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Samson Cree Nation working to ensure residents’ safety

Chief and council issue new regulations on housing, health
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The Samson Cree Nation and various Maskwacis agencies have put out several orders and releases that are designed to provide needed information for residents as well as ensure a safe environment for them.

To that end, the Samson Cree Nation administration office will remain closed to the public until the end of April. Only essential and emergency personnel will be permitted inside.

Meanwhile, food package deliveries are continuing this month, with several areas having already been completed. Residents are urged to check out the Samson Cree Nation Facebook page or contact Samson Emergency Management at 780-585-2522 or email emergencyscn@gmail.com.

On the safety side, the Chief and council have developed a response to certain criminal activities that have been occurring in the community as well as to assist in preventing any possible transmission of COVID-19. To date, there have been no confirmed cases in Maskwacis, so the hope is this measure will help it stay that way while also deterring crime.

Strict enforcement will be done on the housing regulation that stipulates an occupant or any person in their residence shall not permit any illegal activity in their residence — such as selling any illegal substance from their residence or engaging in any gang-related activities. Residents who are in breach of their agreement as occupants may be subject to eviction on 24 hours notice.

In addition, homeowners on Samson Cree Nation have been issued a reminder of their responsibilities in maintaining and keeping their residences clean and disinfected, as there has been a high number of service calls recently.

Residents can assist by doing many small and routine maintenance issues including changing furnace filters, purchasing pest control products and tightening loose fixtures or items. In addition, residents have been asked to clean up their yards and homes, to not burn garbage and to restrict the use of harsh cleaning chemicals and be respectful of neighbours by refraining from loud noise in the evenings.

COVID response

Expanded testing and screening has been implemented for Indigenous communities. However, Maskwacis Health Services is only providing testing for those exhibiting symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, shortness of breath or diarrhea.

Anyone experiencing symptoms needs to first call the MHS community health centre at 780-585-2020. Staff will provide the next steps for screening and possible testing.

That said, anyone that feels anxious or concerned about other issues can speak to a mental health counsellor by calling 780-585-2020 for a phone appointment.

Meanwhile, there are some job opportunities available through MHS. Currently, there is a need for more health care aides, custodians, security personnel and general labours. Those interested need to send a resume, all certifications and a criminal record check to mhstempjobs2020@gmail.com.

Education

Maskwacîs Education Schools Commission (MESC) has released a timeline for parents and students regarding the continuing delivery of classes with schools closed due to the pandemic.

Instructions have already been posted on the MESC website and social media regarding when and where learning packages will be available for pick up on April 14 and 15. The exception is packages for the Ehpewapahk Alternative School that will be delivered to student homes April 16 and 17.

Anyone unable to arrange pick up is asked to contact the school for alternate arrangements.

https://www.facebook.com/MaskwacisHealth/videos/1097977410564907/