An Update from Leadership

Last year, we shared a message with you grounded in our community’s resilience, unity, and commitment to addressing the ongoing drug epidemic. We reaffirmed that this issue would remain a top priority for the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government, and we committed to taking meaningful action to restore wellness and safety in our community.

Today, we would like to provide an update on the progress we have made together, and the continued steps we are taking to strengthen our response.

We are pleased to report that our law enforcement capacity has increased. Additional police officers and investigators have been hired, strengthening our ability to respond to and prevent criminal activity. Beyond enforcement, there’s been a renewed focus on building relationships through increased police presence and community engagement. These efforts are helping to restore trust, visibility, and collaboration within Listuguj.

To further support safety in public spaces, we have introduced new Safety Officer positions. These individuals will actively monitor parks and public areas, contributing to a visible and preventative approach to community safety. This is complemented by the installation of improved street lighting throughout Listuguj and the addition of more surveillance cameras in key public areas, both of which are already helping to deter illicit activity.

Recognizing that enforcement must be balanced with support and outreach, we have expanded our community-based services. An outreach van is now operational, along with dedicated outreach workers who are connecting directly with individuals in need. The Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative (LWRI) team continues its vital work in prevention, education, and community engagement, helping to break stigma and support healing.

To promote healthy lifestyles and safe public spaces, we are nearing our goal of securing funding for the Listuguj Community Recreation and Wellness Centre. We aim to begin design work and community feedback this winter, marking a major investment in our community’s long-term wellbeing. In the meantime, infrastructure improvements continue, including the construction of a new park in Listuguj Hills that will provide additional safe recreational space for families and youth.

We are making progress in strengthening our social services framework. Increased community engagement efforts are underway, and work has begun on the development of a comprehensive social services strategic plan that reflects the needs and voices of the community.

To address ongoing concerns, a moratorium was placed on the construction of new cannabis stores and the expansion of any existing stores. This measure reflects our commitment to careful, responsible decision-making that prioritizes community wellbeing.

We are also taking steps to strengthen compliance and enforcement through the re-establishment of the Listuguj Cannabis Compliance Office (LCCO). Positions will be posted as we work to restart this important function within our governance framework.

While progress has been made, we recognize there is still much work ahead. Addressing substance use, improving safety, and supporting healing requires sustained effort, partnership, and community involvement.

We remain committed to listening, adapting, and working together. Your voice continues to be essential in shaping our path forward, and we encourage ongoing dialogue and participation as we build a safer, healthier Listuguj for all.

Thank you for your continued support, trust, and commitment to our community.

In Peace and Friendship,

Leadership