New efforts aim to make Sask. First Nations communities safer

It’s the first of its kind in Saskatchewan.

The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations and the Saskatchewan First Nation Safety Association signed a memorandum of understanding on Tuesday in an effort to address safety concerns in First Nations communities across the province.

Founder of the association, Toby Desnomie, said they have a big job ahead, one they’re going to tackle one step at a time.

“The first thing is identifying hazards and what kind of hazards are in the community,” Desnomie said. “A needs assessment has to be done.”

That needs assessment will determine what types of projects are potentially putting workers at risk and breaking that into usable data so that they can start to address critical hazards.

“I’m making my way to every First Nation, sitting down with leadership and discussing what safety is,” Desnomie said.
 
Desnomie said one of the main objectives is to develop safety awareness to prevent tragedy before it strikes.

“Being a First Nations person, I understand the struggle, what happens with respect to lack of funding and other directives within the state of Canada,” Desnomie said.

He said the memorandum of understanding will be as long as neccessary to where we can bring occupational and health to 74 First Nations collectively.

“I find very rewarding to look back in this realm of preventative measures,” said Desnomie. “Making sure you see that hazard before it even comes and stirring clear of it.”