The Nishnawbe Aski Nation is expressing its heartfelt condolences following a tragic house fire Tuesday night that has claimed at least six lives in Pikangikum First Nation.
In a statement, Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler says NAN is shocked by this tragedy and their prayers are with the victims, their families and the entire community as they struggle to come to grips with the devastating loss.
Fiddler notes the community is still in shock and they have assured Chief and Council that they will do everything to ensure that all required services and supports are made available.
Fiddler says fire-related fatalities are stretching limited resources to the breaking point in the Far North.
He stresses people are dying from overcrowding, unsafe building standards and a lack of basic firefighting equipment, and more lives are at risk.
Fiddler adds such tragedies are avoidable, and it’s critical that their communities are resourced appropriately to address their needs to ensure proper health and safety.
