A state of emergency has been declared by a First Nation in southern Alberta after a string of drug poisoning deaths. The Piikani Nation Chief Troy Knowlton and council made the declaration on Tuesday. Knowlton characterized the drug crisis as the “public policy challenge of the century, affecting every community from coast to coast.” He expressed sorrow for the recent deaths and announced the availability of grief and mental health counseling services for those affected.
In a tightly knit community like Piikani, the impact of drug use is felt especially painfully, according to Knowlton. The state of emergency includes “substantive measures” to prevent drug use, improve emergency treatment, and provide additional resources to front-line agencies. Additionally, the First Nation is working with local RCMP to crack down on the source of the problem, namely gangs and drug traffickers.
Knowlton called the drug poisoning crisis a long-term and complicated issue that requires immediate action that has already begun. He also expressed his sympathies for the families of the youth who have been lost, assuring them that the First Nation is taking action to address the crisis.
The drug poisoning deaths in Piikani Nation have prompted the declaration of a state of emergency, reflecting the urgency and severity of the situation. The community is working towards implementing measures to prevent further drug use, improve emergency treatment, and crack down on those responsible for supplying the drugs. The crisis is a significant public policy challenge that requires comprehensive and immediate action to address effectively.