A groundbreaking initiative is set to begin at Gods River Airport in Manto Sipi Cree Nation in northern Manitoba. The community has launched a pilot project to conduct baggage searches for alcohol and drugs. This new measure comes as a response to the growing concerns over bootlegging and drug dealing that have deeply affected First Nations communities in the area.
Manto Sipi Cree Nation, a designated dry reserve, has long had bylaws prohibiting the possession and sale of alcohol and drugs. However, these regulations have historically lacked proper enforcement. Now, with the support of various agencies, the community is taking a proactive stance to protect its members and create a safer environment for all residents.
Pilot Project Announcement
Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO), a political advocacy organization representing 26 First Nations in northern Manitoba, has announced a new pilot project. The initiative involves conducting baggage searches at Gods River Airport in Manto Sipi First Nation. This project aims to tackle the smuggling of alcohol and drugs into the community from Winnipeg.
Motivation Behind the Initiative
The death of a young mother in Manto Sipi Cree Nation last year served as a catalyst for this new enforcement measure. Chief Michael Yellowback of Manto Sipi Cree Nation expressed that the community does not want to lose another young life. The tragic incident left behind a one-year-old daughter, highlighting the urgent need for action against substance abuse in the community.
Dry Reserve Status
Manto Sipi Cree Nation is officially designated as a dry reserve, meaning the possession and consumption of alcohol within the community are prohibited. The First Nation has had bylaws in place for several decades banning the possession and sale of alcohol and drugs. However, these regulations have not been effectively enforced until now.
New Enforcement Measures
First Nation safety officers will now be responsible for searching bags at the Winnipeg airport for travelers heading to Manto Sipi Cree Nation. A sign has been placed at the Perimeter Aviation terminal in Winnipeg to inform passengers about this new policy. The searches will be conducted upon arrival at Gods River Airport by trained First Nation safety officers from the community.
Legal Authority
Manto Sipi Cree Nation was granted the authority to enforce the alcohol ban in July by Manitoba’s justice minister. This decision came in response to a large number of drug and alcohol-related deaths in the community. The new enforcement measures are seen as an important step in exercising the First Nation’s sovereignty and making decisions that benefit its people.
Scope of Searches
The baggage searches will not be limited to personal luggage. Cargo arriving at Gods River Airport will also be subject to inspection. This comprehensive approach aims to close potential loopholes that could be exploited by those attempting to smuggle prohibited substances into the community.
Training of Safety Officers
Currently, Manto Sipi Cree Nation has eight safety officers. Six of these officers have already been certified to conduct the baggage searches. The remaining two officers are scheduled to complete their training by the new year. This ensures that there will be a sufficient number of qualified personnel to carry out the searches effectively.
Handling of Confiscated Items
When prohibited items are discovered during the searches, they will be handled according to specific protocols. Alcohol found during the inspections will be destroyed by the safety officers on site. Any drugs discovered will be secured in a safe until they can be collected by the RCMP for proper disposal or further investigation.
Consequences for Violations
Individuals caught attempting to bring drugs or alcohol into the community will face consequences under the intoxicant bylaw. Those found in violation will be charged and required to participate in restorative justice programs established by the community. These programs aim to address the root causes of substance abuse and promote healing within the community.
Collaborative Effort
The pilot project is the result of a partnership between multiple organizations and government agencies. Participants include MKO First Nations, the province of Manitoba, Indigenous Services Canada, Canada Post, the Public Prosecution Service of Canada, Justice Canada, and RCMP D Division. This collaborative approach demonstrates the widespread recognition of the issue’s importance.
Regional State of Emergency
The baggage search initiative is part of a broader response to substance abuse issues in northern Manitoba. In March 2023, the Keewatin Tribal Council, which includes Manto Sipi Cree Nation, declared a regional state of emergency. This declaration was made to draw attention to the dire situations in northern Manitoba communities, including deaths due to drugs and suicide.
Community Support
The new enforcement measures have received support from community leaders and organizations. Garrison Settee, Grand Chief of MKO, has described the initiative as a milestone in exercising First Nations sovereignty. The MKO has applauded the move, calling it an important step in addressing the epidemic of bootlegging and drug dealing affecting First Nations.
Intoxicant Bylaw Legislation
Manto Sipi Cree Nation enacted intoxicant bylaw legislation under the Indian Act as part of its efforts to combat substance abuse. This legislation formally states that the use, possession, and selling of intoxicants on the Manto Sipi reserve creates misery, disorder, and devastation for its citizens. The new enforcement measures aim to give teeth to this existing legislation.
Potential Model for Other Communities
The baggage search pilot project at Gods River Airport is being viewed as a potential model for other Indigenous communities facing similar challenges. If successful, this initiative could be replicated in other fly-in communities to help curb the influx of drugs and alcohol. The project’s outcomes will be closely monitored to assess its effectiveness and potential for wider implementation.
Community Health and Safety Focus
At its core, the baggage search initiative is about promoting the health and safety of Manto Sipi Cree Nation’s residents. By taking proactive measures to prevent alcohol and drugs from entering the community, leaders hope to create a safer environment for all community members. The project reflects a commitment to addressing the root causes of substance abuse and fostering a healthier community for future generations.
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