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Tla’amin Nation reports 31 active cases of COVID-19

Executive council extends state of local emergency order
Tla'amin Governance House
Tla'amin Governance House. Powell River Peak archive photo

Tla’amin Nation is reporting 31 active cases of COVID-19. The nation made the announcement via media release on Monday, September 21.

People who have tested positive or have been in contact with those experiencing symptoms have been contacted by Vancouver Coastal Health and directed to isolate to help prevent further spread, according to the release. 

In response to the increase in COVID-19 cases over the weekend, Tla’amin Nation Executive Council enacted an extension to the local state of emergency order until September 29. The order allows for additional protective protocols to remain in places to help flatten the curve.

“We have witnessed some individuals not obeying local or provincial orders; this is both selfish and irresponsible,” stated hegus Clint Williams. “Everyone is reminded to keep the course and stay strong. All our actions count. We do not want to be in an outbreak situation and have to enforce another shelter-in-place order.” 

In line with the state of emergency order extension, a nightly curfew remains in effect from 9 pm to 6 am, and access to the community continues to be restricted to Tla’amin residents only, with the exception of a few volunteers who have been prescreened, as well as approved WCB COVID-19 compliant contractors and delivery companies.

The checkpoint at Sliammon Road will remain in place until further notice, according to the release. Tla’amin residents must continue to inform checkpoint staff of where they are going when departing the community and when they plan to return. Masks will be available at the checkpoint and must be worn at all times when interacting with the public.

COVID-19 testing is scheduled from 1:30 to 3:30 pm on September 22 at Tla’amin Health. In the media release, the nation strongly urges residents to seek testing if they are experiencing symptoms, including headache, fever, cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, muscle pain, lack of appetite and abdominal distress. Test samples will be flown to Vancouver for analysis. For more information on testing, call 604.483.3009.

Tla’amin Health reminded residents to keep their social bubbles small to limit potential exposures. Large gatherings, including parties, are not permitted.

First responders including police, fire, ambulance and social services continue to respond to non-COVID-19 related calls wearing all required personal protective equipment. Anyone requiring harm reduction services and supplies can call 604.223.4430 for confidential help. Tla’amin members with questions or requiring help with grocery essentials can call 604.578.0447.

“During these difficult times, our nation, our residents and our neighbours continue to come together to show leadership and support for one another,” stated Williams. “There were no food hamper orders over the weekend. That indicates no house is going without food and that checkpoint operations continue to be effective.”

Anyone who witnesses COVID-19 violations or suspicious behaviour is asked to call the 911 emergency line.