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State of emergency discussed

The Blood Tribe has declared a State of Emergency, asking for provincial and federal help in its fight against the rise of dangerous drugs.

Several deaths are being blamed on Fentanyl and counterfeit Oxy 80 pills.  The province has not yet approved the State of Emergency, but the Tribe continues to work closely with the Alberta Emergency Management Agency.  Today, Blood Tribe officials gathered in Lethbridge to formulate a plan to combat the issue.

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“We’ve been working with Blood Tribe Police extensively,” said Chief Charles Weasel Head.  “Through these meetings we’re finding out if we need additional support.  Whether it’s funding requirement, or more specialized police. We’re also counting on medical support from First Nations Inuit Health.”

If the State of Emergency is ultimately approved, the Tribe would also be allowed to apply for funding assistance from the Federal Government.   In the meantime, Chief Weasel Head says the local State of Emergency will remain in place.

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“It hasn’t been declared by Alberta Emergency technically, but for ourselves, for chief and council, for the members of the Blood Tribe, we are in a State of Emergency.”

The Blood Tribe is next scheduled to speak with the Alberta Emergency Management Agency during a teleconference on Monday.

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