JC Van Horn Bridge – Formal Complaints Process

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The Superintendant of the New Brunswick Public Security, Inspection and Enforcement Branch has established a process to receive incident reports / formal complaints regarding the JC Van Horn Bridge Access Control point located in Campbellton.  If you wish to file an Official Complaint against a NB Peace Officer, they ask that you send your complaint to the following email address:  ienb.ialnb@gnb.ca

Please provide as much detail as possible and a contact phone number so they can follow up with you.

Listuguj Band Council Election Update

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As the Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to evolve, so does the response from the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government. Prior to the COVID-19 outbreak; on March 16, 2020, Chief and Council approved Order in Council number 2531, Band Elections June 2020. This OIC appointed Michel Poirer as Electoral Officer to conduct the upcoming elections on June 6, 2020, in accordance with Section 2 of the Indian Band Election Regulations C.R.C., c. 952.  On March 24, 2020 an emergency duly convened Chief and Council meeting was called to discuss the June 2020 elections. As a result, and for the safety of the Listuguj community members both on and off reserve, Chief and Council passed an OIC to rescind Order in Council 2531 – Band Elections June 2020, and postpones the June 2020 elections until it is deemed safe to run an election.

On May 13, 2020, after discussions and collaboration with the Director of Health, and the Electoral Officer, Chief and Council passed an OIC (click to download) to specify November 7, 2020 as the new election date. According to the guidelines for cancellation and postponement during COVID-19, an initial extension of the term of office for a maximum of six (6) months after the date the term of office would have normally ended is permitted. In the case of Listuguj the current mandate would have finished on June 2, 2020, however it is now extended until November 7, 2020.

If it is still necessary to postpone the election a second time in order to prevent, mitigate or control the spread of COVID-19 in the community, Chief and Council may set an additional extension period of up to six (6) months after the end of the first extension.

Properly running a safe election is the highest priority for Chief and Council. As the situation further unfolds, Chief and Council will continue to update the community.

 

Workplace Safety

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The Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government has begun the gradual reopening of our government buildings. We would like to welcome all of our returning staff. We hope you are enjoying your time back in the office. In the weeks leading up to today, our government has put in place new measures within our government buildings to ensure a safe and healthy work environment for our staff. Please note, all LMG buildings will remain closed to the public.

The LMG has made every effort to ensure a safe work environment for our staff. We are pleased to report that each building has been disinfected and deemed safe for the gradual return of LMG employees. Listuguj Health and Safety have inspected all LMG buildings and workstations. Cleaning products have also been checked to ensure that they can adequately fight against COVID-19. Listuguj Health and Safety have also implemented new measures such as maximum room capacity, social distancing, mandatory cough etiquette, and the washing of hands. These measures have been put in place to protect your health and safety, and must be followed at all times.

In addition to this, Listuguj Health and Safety in collaboration with Human Resources have provided training for facilities management staff to ensure thorough sanitation of LMG buildings; the Listuguj Community Health Services had also organized the cleaning of the air ducts within LMG buildings; and the Unified Command have made masks, hand sanitizer and mental health services available for staff. The Unified Command will continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates through LMG Communications related to LMG’s Response to COVID-19.

For more workplace health and safety tips, please consult the following pamphlet:

COVID-19 Prevention

Listuguj Access to New Brunswick

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RE: Listuguj Access to New Brunswick

 

Dear Premiers;

Over time, Listuguj has developed a unique symbiotic and collaborative relationship with the neighbouring communities of Campbellton and Pointe-à-la-Croix. This relationship includes kinship ties, shared services and solid working relationships, and recognition of Mi’gmaw ancestral territory. The points of intersection between the communities go well beyond roadways and bridges.

Our students have been attending schools in Campbellton since 1969, and still to this day transition from our community school to Sugarloaf Senior High School to complete their secondary education. The Enhancement services in education are arguably the most successful in the province. The Campbellton Centennial Library has more members than residents of Campbellton because we contribute to and make use of the services. We have a New Brunswick Provincial Championship banner hanging in the gym of our community school. Our people represent and coach for team New Brunswick in the North American Indigenous Games.

The Intercommunity Harmony Project, initiated in 2002 between Pointe-à-la-Croix and Listuguj, unique at the time in how it effectively brought people from our community together, is now something being replicated throughout the province. We share a wastewater treatment facility with Pointe-à-la-Croix, and have been working on joint economic development initiatives over the last 3 years, to increase tourism and opportunities for the region. Should these projects come to fruition, the opportunities will be of benefit to each of us in the region. Additionally, we as a community, and our members, are a significant part of the local economy, contributing well over 60 million annually (according to old estimates) to local businesses and services. However, of late these contributions and opportunities for collaboration seem to have been pushed aside without full consideration for alternative approaches.

On March 25th, 2020, the government of New Brunswick announced their decision to impose restrictions at provincial borders to people from outside the province entering, as a way to deter the potential increase in risk for transmission and infection specific to COVID-19.

Upon hearing of this pending decision, the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government inquired about the details of the decision and publicly stated through a community announcement that this decision would be problematic. It was further noted in communications with New Brunswick that while this action may address and alleviate the potential concerns around risk of infection for people living in New Brunswick, it creates the potential for crisis, as there are numerous interconnections and links between both services and people on both sides of the Restigouche River. The concerns raised by Listuguj have since been echoed by other municipalities.

The imposed restrictions, at the checkpoint in Campbellton at the time and to this day have been problematic. Initially, decisions on how and what to implement were changing within the day. What was deemed as acceptable at 8 am was no longer acceptable at 12 pm, and then could be switched back again by that evening. The lines of communication were limited and gave the impression of disregard for us as First Nations, and an unwillingness to collaborate on how to continue accessing our ancestral territory for necessities. Again, as Chief, I reached out to the New Brunswick government stating our concerns and need for respectful dialogue towards meaningful solutions as this moves forward.

The Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government received notice that a table was identified with a mandate from the Premier of New Brunswick to find solutions to access services and other needs available on the other side of the river from Listuguj. The first call was held on April 1st, 2020. The initial and most pressing concerns for the people of Listuguj at the time were access to sufficient and consistent sources of food and groceries, medical appointments, and pharmacies.

Key points of discussion included that the restrictions put in place by the government of New Brunswick were done unilaterally and without notice to Listuguj. The restrictions and implementation were, and remain inconsistent, with differences in interpretation daily; causing significant distress and tension for community members in need of access to life essentials. Further to this, communication from the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government has been rendered pointless, as despite our best efforts to provide accurate information, LMG could not maintain the pace of changes being imposed by those implementing the restrictions.

On April 2nd, 2020 a draft list of essential items was generated and shared with representatives of the government of New Brunswick. This draft list of essential items remains the only actual list of record, and although provided by representatives of Listuguj, to my understanding remains the primary list of reference for restrictions imposed on both Listuguj members and Pointe-à-la-Croix. This list has not evolved nor changed over the course of the last 6 weeks, and while some items remain constant in terms of essentiality, the need to adapt has not kept pace as with changing times, seasons, and reality with regards to COVID-19.

To date, the discussions with the government of New Brunswick have progressed towards a sole solution; a pass system that was understood to address different concerns by the parties involved. Representatives of the Listuguj Mi’gmaq First Nation believed the passes to be a solution to the list of essentials, allowing members with passes additional access beyond the scope of the items from the initial list. New Brunswick’s understanding was that the passes were a system of additional scrutiny imposed by Listuguj on its members to reduce the number of residents crossing over to the other side of the river from Listuguj, and had no effect on what would or could be accessed. Yet another understanding was that the passes were a system used by Listuguj, of identifying those most in need of access to essential items; those who may not necessarily have the means to do so in the nearest urbans centers, located 55+ kilometers from the community of Listuguj.

As New Brunswick continues to work through clarifying and applying consistency, while also developing the understanding and purpose of the passes, we have been subject to increased tension and diminished relationships in the region. Our people working for businesses located in Campbellton and Atholville are not allowed to access food and takeout during their lunch breaks, and have been threatened with fines. Those from Listuguj who choose to use the pass system are often concerned that a target has been placed on them or their vehicles while they shop for things taken for granted by New Brunswickers. Those who have accessed stores in Atholville have been reminded by staff, while in the store that they are only to shop for essential items or to hurry and finish their shopping; in effect adding distress to an already stressful situation. Tensions are exacerbated by these acts of vilification by staff and enforcement agencies in New Brunswick, which serve no practical purpose towards reducing the risk of infection and transmission of COVID-19.

The initial commitment to dialogue between representatives of our respective governments have hit an impasse. The government of New Brunswick has made it clear they perceive people from outside the borders coming in as the greatest threat posed to New Brunswickers. The New Brunswick government has also been consistent in their statements of late that the border restrictions will remain, and additional scrutiny may be implemented. It has also been brought to our attention that the restrictions imposed at the New Brunswick checkpoints may be in place until November.

The government of New Brunswick’s response to COVID-19 has been successful to date, keeping infection rates low, providing clear and accurate information to the people. Listuguj, as well has been successful to date. No infections within the community or for any of the community members living on both sides of the river. No infections to workers coming in from the other side of the river, or travelling to the other side for work. Our check points have been maintained for several weeks, and potential issues in the community were identified and addressed swiftly. Moreover, communication to our members by the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government has been frequent, consistent and factual.

We have also been monitoring and closely tracking our data and information. The highest risk for our members has been identified as travelling 55+ km to areas with confirmed cases of COVID-19, which remains our best alternative for accessing essentials of life and basic needs. The conundrum is evident, as this risk was not created by our own decisions and actions, but due to the restrictions imposed by the government of New Brunswick. Thankfully though, the Gaspe region has also stabilized and no new infections have been identified for several days. They have taken great precautions and steps to address the situation and for those with the means to access these centers it is encouraging. However, for many, the 55+ km and increased potential for infection remains a barrier.

We have also noted that restrictions are being eased and new opportunities given to New Brunswickers, clearly with an understanding of the importance of developing comfort with the new normal, and to reduce the adverse effects on mental health from the restrictions. Exploratory discussions and potential partnerships with PEI on how to boost one another’s economy are under way. Yet in our area the border restrictions will remain in place, where people of the region still have no access to purchase simple items such as socks and underwear, buy food during their lunch break, pick up supplies for gardening, or outdoor games to help deal with the added stress of weeks of isolation and restrictions. Furthermore, there will still be no solutions for those who wish to visit family on either side of the river, even though there remain no confirmed cases of COVID-19 within a 50 km radius.

Counter to this, on May 18th, 2020, the Quebec government will remove those imposing the border restrictions under their authority at the JC VanHorne Interprovincial Bridge. The Quebec government will also be removing all restrictions between regions. This decision will allow New Brunswickers to travel across to the Listuguj side of the river, and go wherever they please. We know that on a regular day, between 3000 and 5000 cars travel across that bridge to access services and goods in Listuguj and the nearby region. We also know that many will want to visit family and friends that they have not seen for several weeks; people that have been kept apart because the 14-day isolation required would create additional and insurmountable problems. This free flowing movement coming into our area based on the decision of the Quebec government brings with it significant questions that we alone cannot answer.

It has been suggested that reaching out the offices of the Premiers of both Quebec and New Brunswick may help in finding the solutions and understanding to address our situation. However, it is the decisions being made by people far removed from our local reality that have set us on a collision course for increasing tensions and concern. The decisions to date seem to have increased tensions, anxiety and retraced old lines of division, racism and anger. If provided the opportunity to take action locally, and collectively as a region, I have no doubt that a workable solution would be found in short time. This would also enable the region to be better prepared and ready to evolve, as well as remain adept and relevant in making the necessary adjustments to fit our local reality in response to COVID-19. In that sense, the Premiers could be very helpful by agreeing that it is best for us to work together locally; as we all continue working and doing our best to protect our people, it is time to try something different.

Respectfully, I would like to recommend convening a meeting with New Brunswick and Quebec leadership, representatives of regions, and local municipalities interested in collaborating, along with Listuguj, towards a solution oriented approach. An approach that will maintain the priority of protecting our people from infection and transmission of COVID-19, while increasing access for the region to both sides of the Restigouche River. Additionally, a local response plan could be developed to address and prepare for the potential second wave that is collaborative, appropriate, agile and sufficient.

In Peace and Friendship,

 

Darcy Gray

Chief of Listuguj

 

Letter to Premier Blaine Higgs

Letter to Premier Francois Legault

Community Notice from Listuguj Public Security

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The fire danger level on the SOPFEU Forest Fire Index is currently HIGH in the Baie-des-Charleur region. Listuguj Public Security will continue to monitor for ‘open fire’ bans in our region. At this time, we ask that all community members exercise great caution and continued vigilance.

 

 

 

Chief and Council Support the Delay of Day Care Opening

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On Monday, April 27, 2020, Quebec Premier François Legault announced elementary schools and daycares will reopen starting May 11, 2020 in regions less impacted by COVID-19, outside of Montreal.  On Wednesday, May 13, 2020 at a Duly Convened Chief and Council meeting, Chief and Council made a motion to delay the opening of the Mawo’ltijig Mijjuaji’jg (Child Care Centre) until June 1, 2020. While the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government continues to monitor the COVID-19 status in Listuguj, the date for reopening the Mawo’ltijig Mijjuaji’jg (Child Care Centre) is tentative and will be reassessed prior to the official reopening date.

The health and safety of our community remains a top priority for the LMG. We are asking for community members, residents, and LMG employees to continue practicing social distancing and to limit outings when possible to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As always, the LMG will provide continuous updates as the pandemic unfolds. Please refer to the LMG website and social media pages for up-to-date information on Listuguj’s response to COVID-19.

LMG Quarantine Powers

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Chief and Council have delegated new authority to the Unified Command as per OIC #2549. To avoid any risk of infection, the LMG Health Director, or the Unified Command are authorized to order a person to self-isolate for a maximum period of 14 days if the person does not consent to voluntarily self-isolate and is in any of the following situations:

  1. the person shows Covid-19 related symptoms and there are serious reasons to believe the person has been in contact with a person who has that illness;
  2. the person has recently lived, stayed or visited an environment in which persons having Covid-19 related vulnerability factors are also living or staying or in an environment where there is a greater risk of Covid-19 transmission, and there are serious reasons to believe the person has been in contact with a person who has that illness;
  3. the person is living or staying in an environment in which persons having Covid-19 related vulnerability factors are also living or staying or are in an environment where there is a greater risk of Covid-19 transmission, and the person shows Covid-19 related symptoms; or
  4. the person is waiting for the results of a priority Covid-19 screening test;
  5. the person has obtained a positive result following a Covid-19 screening test and is considered to be contagious;

The isolation of a person will cease as soon as a negative Covid-19 screening test is obtained or the LMG Health Director, or an attending physician is of the opinion that the risks of contagion no longer exist; or that a qualified Court has so ordered.

Listuguj’s Emergency Plan Explained

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The Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government closed its doors on March 17, 2020. Since then, our day-to-day operations have been maintained, including the on-going delivery of programs and services, almost without interruption. This was made possible due to our government’s timely response to COVID-19, which was developed in February 2020, before the Public Health Agency of Canada announced COVID-19 as a public health risk.

We asked the CEO to explain the Emergency Response Plan and why it has been so successful.

He said, “the emergency response plan is a roadmap outlining how we should respond in any given situation. We tried to anticipate what could happen as the virus matures – and then created detailed answers based on our capacity and resources; successes of other governments; and legislation. This was then operationalized by the combined effort of the 8 Directors, the Unified Command, and the foundational work done by the Emergency Coordinator. It took a lot of people to make this happen.”

The objective of the emergency response plan is to: prevent fatalities and injuries; protect the environment and the community; maintain sustainability of programs buildings, stock, and equipment; and accelerate the eventual resumption of normal operations. It was created by gathering information, seeking different perspectives, examining best-practices and by setting forth a blueprint for action using management tools, administrative principles and matrix reporting.

“The best way to visualize the plan is to think of it as a jigsaw puzzle made of three components:

– Work plans: the 8 Directorate plans which fall under the overall “umbrella” of the LMG’s plan,

– Tactical plan: the LMG’s “umbrella” plan provides for the coordination between the 8 Directorates and sets standards, policies, and provides resources,

– Strategic plan: the Unified Command’s plan which determines priorities, direction, allocates personnel and resources, and synchronizes efforts across the organization and with other emergency organizations.

This led to the identification of 11 stages, each of which includes detailed steps, goals and objectives. The plan should be looked at as a “continuum” that allows us to move backwards and forwards, or to even jump stages, depending on the circumstances and the situation at hand. Each stage is defined by “trigger events” that tell us when to move onto the next stage. The plan has been very successful, so far, because we have always looked at as a flexible guide rather than a strict rule.”

The CEO explains that, more importantly, the emergency response plan has been successful for four main reasons:

  • The three members of the Unified Command (the Director of Health, the Emergency Coordinator, and the CEO) took responsibility for the plan and its outcome. This led to many sleepless nights and long discussions amongst ourselves. However, this ensured that every step, every action, and every detail was thought out clearly.
  • We implemented it “reasonably”, by listening to different voices and opinions, and accepting that we may need to change direction, especially when a mistake or a misstep occurs.
  • We created a plan with the primary goals of protecting the health and safety of the community. But we also wanted to protect people’s normal rights and privileges.  Thus, the plan had to be as minimally invasive as possible.
  • We have put the work into it: we researched the changing state of affairs, we communicated with outside organizations to find out what is being done successfully, we gather evidence to make decisions objectively, and we documented every step that was taken. Emotion is an important part of life. But in a time of crisis, it is dispassionate, impartial, rational thought that is needed.

“The proof that our plan has been successful is that Listugujewaq have continued to receive high quality programs and services. People’s lives have not been negatively impacted by curfews, censorship, or serious lockdowns. Accurate and timely information has been communicated regularly. Shelter and food is readily available for all. And the LMG continues to provide a generous and safe work environment which allows almost 80% of its workforce to remain at home with full pay – during this time of emergency – while many other employers are terminating staff, laying them off, forcing them to use vacation or sick time, or accept a reduced pay.

In addition to these successes, our government has also developed new programs to serve community members such as: the LMG’s mental health initiative, the distribution of masks and hand sanitizers in public buildings, and prescription pick-up service through the Listuguj Community Health Service’s medical taxi program. Our efforts to instill social distancing, containment, and hygiene have, in general, worked – there has been no actual or presumptive cases. Listuguj’s public health has not been compromised but has actually been strengthened though the use of educational materials, preventative measures, and systematic review of LMG facilities.”

Mother’s Day Lobster Distribution Update

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To honour the mothers in the community, the Natural Resources Directorate will be delivering cooked lobster to each household on Friday, May 15, 2020, starting at 12:00 p.m.

Please note, due to delays in the lobster fishery, lobster is only available after Mother’s day. The department will make all efforts to ensure each household receives lobster. You must be home to answer the door to receive lobster. No bags will be left on the door step.

Community Kitchen Update

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This is a notice to ALL community members. The community kitchen will have a distribution day today, May 5th, from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

We would like to remind you that the community kitchen remains closed at this time. This distribution is for one day only and delivery is not available. There is approximately 75 bags to be distributed (same items as the last distribution day).

Please make yourself visible at the food bank doors and a staff member will come out and bring you a bag.

*** Each bag contains peanut butter, jam, apple sauce, a muffin, cereal, yogurt and bread.***