March 27 2020

Nickel Belt News Volume Volume 58 60 Number • Issue 1311

Friday, March27, 16,2020 2018 Friday, March

Thompson, Manitoba Thompson, Manitoba

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Providing you with expert advice & friendly service.

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Fourteen more Manitobans test positive for COVID-19, nothing confirmed in north CASSIDY DANKOCHIK FLIN FLON REMINDER

tive test province-wide for someone under 10 years old and a woman in her 60s currently in intensive care.

Two cases were from communities covered by Southern Health-Sante Sud with one from a community covered by Prairie Mountain Health. The Northern Health Region is the lone remaining regional health authority in Manitoba without a positive test as of March 25.

Thirty-six people had been tested at the Thomp-

son testing site between when it opened March 16 and March 25.

“It's still not too late,” Roussin said. “Starting today, increasing your compliance with the social distancing measures will help protect you, the people around you and even our community from the impacts of this virus.”

Lanette Siragusa, Manitoba’s chief nursing officer, said tests could be performed in remote communities and officials were

working with far-flung locations in Manitoba to help them practise proper social distancing measures.

Manitoba is currently experiencing a backlog of completed tests, due in large part to a lack of access to a reagent necessary for testing. Roussin added the Cadham Provincial Laboratory had found a “workaround” to help work through a lack of testing supplies, anticipating Manitoba’s backlog of tests should be eliminated by the end of the week.

“We’ve developed a priority list that will expand with our testing capacity,” Roussin said.

The first people to get tests will be health care workers when their capacity increases.

Manitoba is still investigating some of the 14 new cases, but have been able to link the majority of cases to recent travel or direct contact with an infected person.

“We’re not seeing any pop-up cases,” Roussin said.

He added that emergency rooms across the province have not seen an increase in respiratory sickness.

Roussin continued to call for any Manitoban who makes non-necessary travel outside the province to self-isolate for 14 days after returning. He said that some people had broken self-isolation to go to receive health care, but did not tell doctors on their arrival.

“We want Manitobans to start working together,” he said.

Book a way to preserve and pass on memories of growing up in Churchill

Overall COVID-19 cases have spiked in Manitoba, according to information released by the province March 25.

The province’s chief provincial public health officer, Dr. Brent Roussin, announced 14 new probable cases of the disease at the Manitoba government's Wednesday update.

Most of the cases – 11 in all – are within Winnipeg, including the first posi-

Vale stopped letting contractors from outside Manitoba onto company property March 23 to reduce COVID-19 risk

BY IAN GRAHAM

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

As a COVID-19 pandemic precaution, Vale Manitoba Operations stopped allowing any new external contractors from outside the province on their property March 23, except for one engineer from Newfoundland who self-isolated for 14 days after returning and before reporting back to work.

The company also set up screening stations at the T1 and T3 mine entrances March 24 to screen everyone that enters the plant site,Tara Ritchie of the company’s Corporate

& Indigenous Affairs department said March 25.

Contractors who have been in Thompson for the past four weeks are still working at Vale Manitoba Operations sites.

“They have agreed to stay and will continue working for a distinct length of time, not to return after they leave,” Ritchie said. “All nonessential contractors and suppliers have been directed to stay away from Vale property.”

Manitoba Vale employees returning from outside the province since March 23 have been required

to self-isolate for 14 days.

“We have put a large number of measures in place through our Pandemic Plan to protect the health and safety or our employees and to ensure we continue to operate safely,” said Ritchie. “It is everyone’s responsibility to do their part to flatten the curve of this virus as we work together to get through this critical time for our business, our families and our community.”

Warren Luky, president of United Steelworkers (USW) Local 6166, which represents hourly workers at Vale Manitoba Operations,

said dealing with the coronavirus pandemic is like trying to defend against an invisible invading force.

“We’ve been working hard with the company to make sure everybody’s safe,” he said March 25.

“The concern is staying up with all the screening.”

Luky said he hopes that people in Thompson don’t get lulled into a false sense of security because there have not been any positive tests for COVID-19 in Northern Manitoba so far.

As of March 25, 36 people had been tested for COVID-19 at the

testing site in Thompson and no one has tested positive yet.

USW Local 6166 has taken its own steps to protect its employees from possible exposure to the coronavirus by having those who can work from home and locking the door to their office, though people can ring the doorbell to be let in.

“It’s a little taxing,” Luky said of the pandemic precautions and all the information that changes on a daily basis, but says its important for everybody to do their part. “Let’s get through this together.”

Misipawistik Cree Nation declares state of emergency, will limit customers in its gas station and grocery store Misipawistik Cree Nation known as COVID-19. Use (MCN) at Grand Rapids of the MCN University Colannounced March 24 that lege of the North regional they have declared a state access centre is also beof emergency in response ing suspended, including Nickel Belt News photo by Ian Graham to the ongoing COVID-19 all classes and instructors’ Addictions northern director Gisele deMeulles has written a book about her experiences growing up, mostly in Churchill. pandemic. Foundation of Manitoba residences.

Effective immediately, no “Our chief and council is BY IANgatherings GRAHAMof more to For all the harsh weather write things that youabout have ‘Oh, I’m just as bad, right?’ was not a very safe thing swallow when people say public extremely concerned EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET I have all these stories and to fi gure out.

It’s pretty clear to do but I jumped at it.

I that Churchill residents and the dangers of polar than five people are al- the public health risk and on Though she’s now written when I get through.”

I need to capture them for thought that was exciting should just fi nd somewhere bears, deMeulles said if it lowed, including more than March 12 our Communica book about her experienDeMeulles said she wrote my grandchildren really until the plane landed and easier to live. had been viable she would five people at a residence able Disease Emergency ces in Churchill, book, titled in because they will be lost if they started throwing the “To say, ‘Those people have moved back to Churchwhogrowing do not up normally live her Health plan wasWhispers activated,” Addictions Foundation the I don’t.” fuel off and I realized, ‘Holy choose to live there. They ill in a heartbeat. there. The First Nation of is the saidWind: MCNStories Chieffrom Harold Manitoba northern director North Life in Churchill for She also has a reputation cats, I was probably sitting should just leave,’ is quite “I miss the shoreline, I also advising against any Turner in a press release.

Gisele deMeulles said writ- a couple we of reasons. on a bomb.’” simplistic. It’s quite disre- miss the rock, I miss the unnecessary out-of-town “Today passed a reso- as a storyteller herself. ing wasn’t something she lution “I just sort of athought, “I had such a varied hisAnother thing that spectful. If we were in the polar bears even though travel or hosting people to declare state of always thought she would you know what, this history and I would tell people spurred her on was the same boat in another area they’re very dangerous and from out of town. Pelican emergency.” do. this stuff that’s Landing gas station and res- tory, Non-essential travelin is my be- stories and they would go, hard times facing Churchill I think we would scream I really miss the Hudson “In my youth the I never it’s going to bememgone ‘That’s not true, is it?’ I’d go, since the Hudson Bay Rail- about that so why don’t they Bay,” she says. “When I go taurant is limiting num- head, ing restricted for band felt good at writing,” she if I don’t write it down,” she ‘Yeah it’s true.’ They’d go, way suspended operations have the option to do that? back home, standing on the ber of customers to five at a bers and the MCN adminsaid.

“But when I moved said.

“My kids are not go- ‘You didn’t do all that, did north of Gillam last spring. I think right now they’re Hudson Bay looking out on time, while MCN Foods is istration offices are being to Thompson get into ing to get it if I don’tofdothe it you? You’ve got to be really “It used to be a really feeling like they’re pawns the bay, it just gives you an allowing only 10tocustomers closed to members the school of social work, and it’s something I’ve alold.’

I was like, ‘No, actually thriving large community in a political game and that’s incredible sense. You feel so at once, with children not public. Recreational proat that point I had to write ways wanted my mom to I did all that before I was and it’s just dwindled down really sad for them because I small and you feel great.” allowed inside. Both busi- gramming is also cancelled. for university and realized, My are mom’s an elder and 27,’ and they went ‘What?’” to such a small population think the people of ChurchNow that she’s got nesses are allowing only do.“We basing our plan ‘Holy, I’m not bad at this, she’s an artist, she’s got so now,” deMeulles says. one book under her belt, Looking back, some of ill really want to thrive. one person per vehicle or for COVID-19 on evidenceright?’

I certainly developed many wonderful stories bethose experiences are things Though she’s not there They’ve built their worlds deMeulles says she may try household inside at one based information we have a lot of skill MCN in university she always her she might not do again. any longer, her parents and there. How would we feel to produce another. time, while Foods cause received from healthtells profesNickel BelttoNews of Niki Ashton/Twitter and came outthe of there at Turner Parks Canada in “I did some pretty bizarre her sister and other family if someone came you photo and courtesy “I have another book in is reserving hour with of 9 stories sionals,” said. “We Misipawistik Cree Nation will limit the number of customers in its Pelican Landing gas station in Grand Rapids under a very strong skill in my Churchill and I’ve always stuff like fuel hauls into the said, ‘I’m sorry, you have to me,” she says.

“It’s a darker members still are. a.m. to 10 a.m. every day for are asking band members to the terms of a state of emergency declared March 24. writing and confi in hounded her, ‘Please, just high Arctic at -35,” said “My cousin owns the leave your home community story, more about personcustomers who aredence elderly, help us prevent the introducmy I write very I will write it deMeulles. didn’tWe dawn store there,” she and we’re to displace struggles. havewriting. health conditions or put tionitofon thetape, COVID-19 virus until further“It notice. are hardware Misipawistik Cree Nation. shared to going help us protect al willgrowth provideand updates to our clear and that’s it.

It’s there. for you because your story on me until after.

That was a says. you somewhere else and all Maybe in the next years are otherwise vulnerable to into our area by following grateful we do not yet have We encourage everyone to our community from the membership on anyfive changes Some people say it’s kind of is going to be lost,’ and she’s very dangerous thing to do.

Because of that, your loved ones and your it’s something I’ll focus on the novel coronavirus, also the community guidelines any cases of COVID-19 in take the guidance we have COVID-19 pandemic. We or updates as they occur.” blunt or direct. I don’t tend

never done it and I thought,

Being on a plane full of fuel

deMeulles finds it hard to

history is gone?’”

doing.”

Page 2 • News

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, March 27, 2020

Keeyask scales back construction operations in response to COVID-19 pandemic

BY IAN GRAHAM

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Manitoba Hydro announced March 19 that it is scaling back work on the Keeyask generating station and suspending travel in and out of the Northern Manitoba construction camp to protect workers and residents of nearby communities from potential exposure to the novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19.

The temporary reduction in personnel and implementation of the travel suspension was completed by the end of the day March 21.

About 600 supervisory, construction and support staff have volunteered to remain at the site.

The changed operations are expected to last four to eight weeks.

“These are extraordinary times and we are making this decision in the interest of public health and the best interests of our customers, employees, contractors, and neighbouring communities,” said Manitoba Hydro CEO Jay Grewal. “These measures are temporary in nature and will be re-assessed based on guidance we receive from Manitoba Health officials in a few weeks.”

Any workers on site with symptoms of illness will be assessed by a nurse practitioner and isolated in a special room if they are recommended for further assessment offsite. Gym classes and intramural ac-

tivities were also suspended at the construction camp, the on-site theatre was closed and the dining hall is only providing take-out meals. Increased cleaning protocols have also been instituted.

Churchill-Keewatinook Aski NDP MP Niki Ashton called March 18 for the federal government to take action to limit the spread of COVID-19 in Northern Manitoba workplaces such as Keeyask, which had over 1,000 workers onsite, and at mining operations “Their health should be a top priority and we must ensure that the virus does not spread beyond the camp into northern communities,” Ashton said in a news release. “People are also concerned that employers such as Vale are unable to apply strict social distancing and other protective provisions for their workers.”

Tar Ritchie of Vale Manitoba Operations told the Thompson Citizen March 17 that the company has been taking all necessary measures at its worldwide operations since late January to prevent COVID-19 transmission among its workers, by suspending non-essential business trips and creating a technical crisis committee and an executive committee to manage actions related to the coronavirus pandemic.

“All Vale employees returning from international travel are instructed to contact the company’s health

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO DISSOLVE LIMITED PARTNERSHIP NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION FOR: FOX LAKE LAND LIMITED PARTNERSHIP AND MAKESO LAND LIMITED PARTNERSHIP NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Fox Lake Land Corporation and Makeso Land Corporation, the general partner of each of the limited partnerships, respectively, and Fox Lake Cree Nation, the limited partner of each of the limited partnerships, intend to dissolve the said limited partnerships in accordance with The Business Names Registration Act (Manitoba) effective on or about the 31st day of March, 2020, and that the said limited partnerships will cease to carry on business on that date.

cences Li

department or appropriate health authorities by telephone before returning to activities, even if they are not showing any symptoms of the virus,” Ritchie wrote in an email. “A specific procedure for COVID 19 was created to deal with the pandemic properly.

This procedure establishes specific severity levels and well-defined actions.”

The company’s Voisey’s Bay operation in Newfoundland began preparations to go on care and maintenance March 16, though there were no employees there or at any of Vale’s other worldwide operations with

COVID-19.

“Given the unique fly-in and fly-out nature scenario at Voisey’s Bay and the difficulty that presents with social distancing, we have taken this decision as a precaution to protect the well-being of the Innu and Nunatsiavut communities in Labrador,” said a memo to employees from Vale’s North Atlantic chief operating officer Dino Otranto.

“More than 400 people in our workforce at Voisey’s Bay are Indigenous, and we want to ensure our operations do not act as a catalyst to inadvertently introduce the virus in these

remote and vulnerable communities, where concern has been expressed about access to adequate healthcare services and overcrowding in homes.”

Hudbay told Manitoba employees March 19 that it is promoting social distancing, hand washing, coughing and sneezing etiquette, self-monitoring for illness symptoms and employees staying home when feeling sick. Technology is being used to reduce face-to-face meetings and the number of people together in cages in the mines has been reduced. Employees who travel to Hudbay operations

from outside the province are subject to a screening process to ensure that only those who are fit for work are allowed to travel and non-essential business travel has been suspended. The Snow Lake Camp where many Lalor Mine employees live is being cleaned more and emergency measures in case of sickness have been instituted. Non-essential facilities such as the gym have also been closed.

“At this point, Manitoba remains a low-risk jurisdiction with no known cases of COVID-19 in Northern Manitoba,” Hudbay said in a March 20 news release.

Keeyask limiting person-to-person contact, completing COVID-19 tests on people for leaving for medical reasons before departure

BY IAN GRAHAM

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

With Manitoba Hydro’s under-construction Keeyask generating station having scaled back operations in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, new procedures have been implemented to reduce contact between people inside the facility and the outside world.

A spokesperson for the Crown corporation says anyone arriving at the site without prior authorization will be turned away at the gate and not allowed to enter, while delivery vehicles bringing required materials and supplies are being unloaded by on-site Keeyask staff, with the drivers required to remain in their vehicles. For smaller items like mail or other envelopes, arrangements are made for the delivery person to leave them at the gate, where onsite employees can retrieve them without the need for

person-to-person contact.

As of March 21, anyone being referred for medical treatment offsite as a precaution must be tested for COVID-19 prior to leaving, with the sample sent to Winnipeg. Before that, whether people transported from the site for health reasons were tested was up to medical staff in their home communities.

There have not been any presumptive or confirmed cases of COVID-19 among any workers at Keeyask, said Hydro’s spokesperson.

When it was announced March 18 that operations at Keeyask would be scaled back, Manitoba Hydro tried to ensure key staff who were then off-site returned by the end of the following day.

Workers who required more time to get back to the site are being screened according to Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living guidelines before being allowed back

Nickel Belt News photo courtesy of Manitoba Hydro Manitoba Hydro’s Keeyask generating station near four First Nations and Gillam is limiting access to the site after scaling back operations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. onsite. If key staff not currently at Keeyask need to return during the four to eight weeks that scaled-back operations are currently planned for, they will be screened before being admitted.

Any employees remaining at the site who wish to leave due to family emergencies or other exceptional circumstance will have their situations reviewed on a case-bycase basis.

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BY IAN GRAHAM

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

NDP MP Niki Ashton, whose riding includes Manitoba Hydro’s Keeyask generating station, northeast of Split Lake, isn’t convinced that the Crown corporation’s plans to scale back construction goes far enough to protect workers and area residents during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

“I appreciate the measures that Manitoba Hydro has taken with respect to the Keeyask construction site,” Ashton wrote in a letter to Manitoba Hydro CEO Jay Grewal. “I applaud you for taking proactive measures but our region is particularly vulnerable and we must do everything we can to limit the spread of COVID-19. Workers who have been in Keeyask

and the surrounding First Nations, Northern Affairs and urban communities in our region are concerned that the situation at Keeyask continues to put people at risk.”

Manitoba Hydro announced March 19 that it is scaling back work on the Keeyask generating station and suspending travel in and out of the Northern Manitoba construction camp to protect workers and residents of nearby communities from potential exposure to the novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19.

Prior to that decision, the Winnipeg Free Press reported that at least five employees or contractors at the site were flown south on isolated flights after displaying symptoms of possible infection by

COVID-19.

Councillors and chiefs from nearby Tataskweyak Cree Nation and York Landing First Nation told the Free Press they are concerned that the Keeyask camp, which employs residents of four nearby First Nations as well as fly-in workers and contractors from across Canada and the United States, could be a pathway for the coronavirus to enter their communities.

Hydro said March 19 that any workers on site with symptoms of illness will be assessed by a nurse practitioner and isolated in a special room if they are recommended for further assessment offsite.

The Free Press reported that representatives of the nearby First Nations were

told in a conference call with Hydro that, even if construction shut down, 200 people would be needed to keep the site safe.

“At a time when governments and the medical community are calling for strict measures in terms of social distancing and slowing the spread including containment measures and travel bans to stop the spread of COVID-19, I am urging Manitoba Hydro to take further steps including halting construction at Keeyask,” said Ashton in her letter to the Manitoba Hydro CEO. “I am also urging Hydro to ensure that affected workers are not only protected against the virus but supported financially if they are unable to work as a result of this unfolding pandemic.”

Friday, March 27, 2020

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

News • Page 3

Rents frozen, non-urgent eviction hearings postponed by provincial government Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister and Finance Minister Scott Fielding announced March 24 that any rent increases scheduled to take effect April 1 or later will be suspended and non-urgent eviction hearings will be postponed effective immediately as part of the province’s response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“Taking these steps will help reduce financial uncertainty and worry for Manitobans who face challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Pallister.

“Manitobans who have been laid off, are working less or are in self-isolation shouldn’t also have to worry about making rent payments and keeping a roof over their heads.”

The only Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) and Residential Tenancies Commission (RTC) eviction orders to be issued between now and May 31 are those addressing health and safety issues, including unlawful activities.

“This approach balances the need to support renters experiencing eco-

nomic hardship or who are self-isolating in their unit due to COVID-19 with those safety concerns,” said Fielding. “The Residential Tenancies Branch remains available to resolve urgent situations involving health and safety for landlords and tenants, which could include a landlord illegally shutting off utilities or locking tenants out of their rental unit, or a landlord dealing with a situation where a tenant is conducting illegal activities from their rental unit.”

NDP MLAs Adrien Sala

and Lisa Naylor called March 23 for the province to freeze all evictions, foreclosures and notices of tenancy termination immediately and to offer interest-free payment deferrals for renters for at least six months. They also wanted Crown corporations like Manitoba Hydro and Manitoba Public Insurance to offer interest-free payment deferrals on utility bills for up to six months and for the government to offer landlords financial support to disinfect residences and suspend non-urgent and

routine maintenance work in apartment buildings.

“No family should be kicked out of their home because they can’t make rent right now or for any other reason,” said Naylor. “The province must keep families and our community safe by freezing all evictions.”

“Families from all income levels are worried about paying their bills right now—from electricity and water to the internet bills that keep them connected to loved ones,” said Sala. “The province should reduce the burden on families by de-

ferring payments.”

RTB offices in Winnipeg and Brandon are open on an appointment-only basis.

The Thompson office is temporarily closed. Landlords and tenants who require further information or services can call 204-9452476 or toll-free 1-800-7828403 or email at rtb@gov. mb.ca.

There are currently 21 confirmed or probable COVID-19 cases in Manitoba. For more information from the province on the COVID-19 pandemic, go to www.manitoba.ca/covid19.

Union walkout in Snow Lake leads to some contractors removed from Lalor

BY ERIC WESTHAVER FLIN FLON REMINDER

Unionized employees walked off the job at Hudbay's Lalor mine March 24 after concerns with Hudbay's response to COVID-19 and the arrival of a new set of workers from outside the community at the mine.

A statement posted on Hudbay bulletin boards March 23, later circulated online by the Town of Snow Lake, stated the local town council had issued requests to the company due to concerns about COVID-19. One

of the most prominent requests involved suspending air travel for workers and service providers at Hudbay's operations in Snow Lake, effective throughout April.

A separate statement made to The Reminder by Hudbay March 25 said the company had approved the request and sent out an update to employees and onsite contractors Tuesday.

Despite that, a plane of workers with an outside contractor arrived in Snow Lake later March 23, spark-

ing the walkout.

"We have roughly 35 unionized workers at Lalor underground operations that filled out a right to refuse this morning," said United Steelworkers (USW) Local 7106 president Tom Davie.

Most, if not all, unionized workers at Lalor mine were part of the walkout, along with a number of employees at the 777 mine site.

"They filled out a right to refuse because they don't believe Hudbay is going far enough to protect them during the corona scare, that

they aren't going far enough to protect the safety of the workers."

The Hudbay statement to The Reminder stated all people transported into the community were pre-screened by their employer before travelling and screened again once in Snow Lake. Manitoba's provincial government declared a state of emergency due to COVID-19 March 20. Provincial health officials have warned against any non-essential travel, including interprovincial or

international travel.

"Effective immediately, public health officials are recommending that anyone who returns from travel, either international or domestic, should self-isolate and self-monitor for symptoms for 14 days following their return," reads a COVID-19 update from the Manitoba government March 24.

The additional workers affiliated with the contractor left the community later March 24, ending the walkout. Unionized workers

were back on the job March 25.

"Out of concern for employee safety, Hudbay has advanced the no-fly restriction to March 23rd and has sent home the employees who just arrived," reads the company's statement to The Reminder.

"Hudbay continues to work with the community and our employees and established additional measures to ensure our mine and mill in Snow Lake are able to operate safely during the COVID-19 pandemic."

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At time of registration the fee must accompany the registration form in order for your seat to be held.

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DEADLINE TO REGISTER: MAY 22, 2020

Friday, Page 4 March 27, 2020

Nickel Belt Nickel BeltNews News••www.thompsoncitizen.net www.thompsoncitizen.net

KNC Electric will be offering

EMERGENCY SERVICE ONLY

Page 4 Friday,News March•16, 2018

Police seeking Thompson man spotted in Stonewall March 19

through this difficult time.

Spiritual Thoughts

CALL 204-679-3588

to discuss any Electrical problems you may have, and we will do whatever we can to get you fixed up safely.

“Remember – We’re all in this together.”

COVID-19 REACTION PLAN

We are offering the following services due to the COVID-19 outbreak in order to continue to help you and your vehicle in the best ways we can: • NO CHARGE pick-up and drop-off of your vehicle from your home or workplace.

• NO CHARGE sanitization of all areas of contact in your vehicle before and after service or repair.

• Payment options over the phone so you never have to leave your home.

We realize you depend on your vehicle in order to live your life, which is why we are taking these extra steps to keep you, your vehicle and the people of Thompson as safe as possible during these difficult times.

BE SAFE. FROM THE STAFF OF HI TECH AUTOMOTIVE.

204-677-5936

Thompson RCMP are asking for the public’s help to locate 42-year-old Jimmy Joseph Bauer, who was last seen in Thompson March 17 and spotted in Stonewall two days later.

Bauer, who is described as about 5’7” and approximately 235 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes, was reported missing March 22. When he was seen in Stonewall he was driving a white 2003 GMC Sierra with a missing tailgate latch and the licence place HJS 512.

Police say there is concern about Bauer’s welfare and they are seeking to confirm his whereabouts. Anyone with information about where Bauer is can contact Thompson RCMP at 204-677-6909 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477. Tips can also be submitted online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com.

educentr.dumont@gmail.com Sister Andrea Dumont

Thompson RCMP are trying to locate 42-year-old Jimmy Bauer, who was last seen in Stonewall March 19 and reported missing March 22.

Thompson RCMP photo

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TO MY VALUED CUSTOMERS

Due to the Corona 19 virus I am making changes in the dining room.

We’ll be open from 9 am to 3 pm daily. For now, we are starting takeout and delivery service that will continue until the emergency is lifted.

I wish to thank everyone for their loyal business.

Kelly Bindle

kelly.bindle.mla.office@gmail.com Constituency Office: Unit 3-40 Moak Crescent Thompson, MB R8N 2B7 204-677-2066

Thanks again, and stay healthy

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Published weekly by The Prairie Newspaper Group LP, a division of GVIC Communications Corp. of 141 Commercial Place, Thompson, Manitoba, R8N 1T1. The Nickel Belt News is owned and operated by The Prairie Newspaper Group LP, a division of GVIC Communications Corp.

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Caesar Salad .................... $10.95 +Chicken $3.75

Soup ......................................... $2.75

Greek Salad ...................... $12.50 +Chicken $3.75

Clubhouse ................................ $10.50

HOT SANDWICHES

Chicken Fingers ........................ $9.00

Turkey, Beef, Hamburger . $12.00

Hamburger ............................... $5.20

OTHER ITEMS

Chicken Burger ......................... $7.50

8 Wings ............................. $7.95

Chicken Pita ............................. $9.00

Poutine ............................. $7.00

Cold Sandwiches ...................... $5.50

Perogies ............................ $11.50

$

Northern Burger ....................... $9.75

Thompson RCMP Drug Tip Line Fries .................................. $4.00

Steak on a Bun ......................... $13.00

Onion Rings ...................... $5.00

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204-677-6995

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Friday, March 27, 2020

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

News • Page 5

Cyclists conquer world’s longest ice road

BY JAMES SNELL

JAMES@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Adventure cyclists Ryan Atkins, Eric Batty and Buck Miller, known as Expeditions Ontario, have successfully navigated the entire length of the world’s longest winter road – the Wapusk Trail – which is 750 kilometres from Peawanuck First Nation in Ontario’s Hudson Bay region, through Polar Bear Provincial Park, Fort Severn First Nation, Shamattawa First Nation and ending in Gillam.

The team rode fat tire bikes loaded down with high-tech outdoor gear to safely accomplish their goal of raising money for True North Aid, a non-governmental organization that supports remote Indigenous communities.

“It was a wonderful and an amazing experience,” said Miller. “Truthfully, I’ve spent a lot of time in the James Bay side of Northern Ontario. A lot of time. Tons of time. I’ve ridden all the winter roads on that side. And the Wapusk trail side was beautiful.”

Even though Miller is one of the few experienced winter road cyclists on the planet, he was surprised by some of the terrain.

“It was actually a little bit different, I anticipated it to be more low-lying swamp,” he explained. “There was a lot of swamp, no two ways about it, but there’s still high points and little ridges.

Our total ascent was 8,000 feet over the 750-kilometre ride. You’re constantly moving up and down. We were all really surprised because we were expecting the long, 300-kilometre

sections of dead flat, you know, swamp, low-lying swamp, but it wasn’t like that at all. It was constantly rolling all day long. The only real flat spots were the big lakes and the large swamp crossings.”

The team set their pace and navigated with a Global Positioning System (GPS) “every single kilometre,” explains Miller.

“We did 48 hours of total pedalling, with 58 hours of bike time – meaning, another 10 hours was stopping, stretching, eating food, drinking some water, adjusting your bike and falling off and crashing. We also took some photos and did some filming … that was an extra 10 hours. The actual pedal time was 48 hours to do the whole trip.”

Meeting two generous strangers on the trail was the highlight of the trip.

“We only passed 16 vehicles, private trucks travelling the winter road,” explained Miller. “And of those 16, Robert Thomas and Jordan Chookomolin were in one vehicle, and they gave us $100 to donate to True North Aid – right on the spot – on the side of the road.”

Miller said the team remained comfortable in the life-threatening temperatures.

“The coldest night was about -38,” he said. “And we were nice and warm, no problems at all with the tent. Our bikes were absolutely perfect. Couldn’t have asked for a better scenario with the bikes.

Truthfully, I think we’re getting pretty good at this.

Nothing really didn’t work.

We have enough experience

Nickel belt News photo courtesy of Eric Batty Expeditions Ontario members who biked from Peawanuck First Nation in Ontario to Gillam along a 750-kilometre winter road (from left to right) Ryan Atkins, Eric Batty and Buck Miller. now that we kind of anticipated any problems and fixed them during the gear selection process.”

Even though the team’s equipment functioned flawlessly, the omission of one simple item plagued them while on route.

“One thing we didn’t do, that we maybe could have in hindsight, is vapour barrier liners for our boots,” Miller said. “Our feet were getting really wet from sweat. We were riding for 10 hours a day for eight days. That would have helped a little bit. We did have cold feet.

So, next year we’ll combat that with plastic bags over our feet before we put

them into boots – then your boot’s dry.”

The team surpassed their their fundraising goal of $10,000 on March 25, according to a post on their Facebook page.

In addition to successfully raising funds for True North Aid, Miller is celebrating the adventure with his family.

“Our families are super proud of us,” he said.

“Without a doubt, my wife is happy to have me home and is eager to hear the stories. I’m going to pick up my daughter and my son right now. They’re at the grandparents, so everyone is excited.”

Remote communities need coronavirus testing centres

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Norman AAA Northstar’s Annual General Meeting postponed indefinitely. Should you have any questions please contact: Brad Salamandyk bradsalamandyk@hotmail.com

The outbreak of the corour constituency offices in onavirus (also known as light of the recommendaCOVID-19) has impacted tions from Manitoba Health the lives of people globally with regard to COVID-19.

Thompson RCMP and now Manitobans across Should you have any Drug Tip Line the province. At the time of concerns or questions, Tom.Lindsey@yourmanitoba.ca writing we have not seen the please contact my office worst of it yet. at Tom.Lindsey@yourI encourage you all to manitoba.ca, or call me at Tom Lindsey access the right informa1-204-687-3246. tion through the Manitoba government website: ern communities can expect years to come.

Nothing we did in the https://www.gov.mb.ca/ to see a facility. It is importcovid19/index.html. Prov- ant that the locations not legislature prevented the incial health officials also be limited to just the major government from introdurecommend Manitobans northern communities but cing their budget or from R FLIN CONST MLA FOR FLIN FLON CONSTITUENCY taking action towards contact Health Links (204- also include remote com- FLON 788-8200, or toll-free at munities. Having test cen- COVID-19. The govern1-888-315-9257) should tres in the remote locations ment always had the abilREPRESENTING: Brochet, Cold Lake/Sherridon, you require more informa- is vital in the protection of ity to do so, they just chose some of the most vulnerable not to. We have now seen tion on COVID-19.

Cranberry Portage, Cross Lake, Flin Flon, the budget and some of the We remain concerned people in the north.

Herb Lake Landing, Lac Brochet, Leaf Rapids, We the NDP were suc- legislation they wanted to about the government and Lynn Lake, Norway House, Pukatawagan, Northern Regional Health cessful in preventing the ram through, although it Authority’s actions to ad- Pallister government from is interesting to note they Snow Lake, South Indian Lake, Tadoule Lake dress the needs of North- ramming through legis- didn’t introduce everything ern Manitobans amid this lation that could negative- they were going to because Offi ce: Constituency Office: ly impact students, families this government is afraid to pandemic. et,Testing Flin MB. 93 Main Street, Flin Flon, MB. workers. We took a firm show Manitobans their cuts centres are now andFlon, to stop this from hapto education and impacts to –Fri, am – 4 pm HOURS: Mon–Fri, 9 am – 4 pm open in Flin Flon,9 The Pas stance and Thompson but there has pening so Manitobans have workers’ rights.

687-3246 PHONE: 204-687-3246 I encourage all of you to been no word from Mani- the proper opportunity to see and respond to those stay safe during this difficult toba Health or the Northern 7-5649 FAX: 204-687-5649 Regional Health Authority pieces of legislation that time. We have taken the unEMAIL: ndsey@yourmanitoba.ca EMAIL:tom.lindsey@yourmanitoba.ca tom.lindsey@yourmanitoba.ca when the rest of the north- will impact their lives for precedented step of closing

Flin Flon MLA Report

204-677-6995

LINDSE TOMLINDSEY

M

Friday, January 20, 2017 Page 6 • Columnists

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Columnists

Page 3 Friday, March 27, 2020

The Psalms: mirrorlife-sustaining of the soul Spiritual foodthe is also

Holy Spirit.

What does a fourth-cen- in exile, or “at every turn of Bibliography: Bible teaches God Bethge, remember the and first life.” is in many places.

When himself Eberhard. and he offers tury ICatholic bishop Persecution and exile Gilbert McInnis that is comDiet- it had no He is rich time that I hadAthanathe won- usually Jesuscome walked thisinEarth, freely to everyone.

Greek-Egyptian, hand hand,he pleting his beginning. master’s degree Bonhoeffer: Theologian, derful opportunityhave to eat and spoke that were onlythrough person whose After message, this isin theterms case for Athain the divinity Queen’slife Christian, Manthis for His Times: sius of Alexandria, did not start.

The very namany stopped following deep-fried bannock.

I did common to the people.

He College, Memorial Uni- A Biography Rev. ed. Minneapin common with Dietrich nasius, but for Athanasius the not grow aup20th-century in the North Psalms talked about and ture of God is beyond Jesus.

Jesus said to his disBonhoeffer, allow himfitoshing address versity, and currently is what an olis: Fortress Press, 2000. and as such, bannock just farming, prodigal sons and our minds can understand. ciples, “Do you want to go German Protestant pastor, God directly. For instance, assistant professor and the Kolbet, Paul K. “Athanasius, inexilepublications@gmail.com was not a part of my diet. kings and rulers.

I think God, having no beginning, away too?”

Peter replied, harmst@live.ca theologian, and anti-Nazi Athanasius informs us that co-ordinator of the writing the Psalms, and the Reformation A few years ago, I spent “We if Jesus would have come is the one whoColis the of the “Lord, whom shall we dissident?

Both theologians are told … here again centre foronly the University Self.”to Harvard Theologicin Thompson, some timeonliving in The theteaching source of his own life. God al Review go, you have the words wrote a book the Psalms Psalms supply words withhe lege of the North, Thompson.

99.1 (2006): 85-101.

Gilbert TravisMcInnis Harms Pas in Umpherville and would speak about trapneeds nothing to sustain of eternal life?”

I have of the Bible. Both theologians which both those who flee His forthcoming book “Kurt Worthen, Jeremy. “Prayingno was part of the local church ping, fi shing, hockey and his life for He Himself is toand turn the many Vonnegut: Myth and Science theneed suffered persecution because persecution and those who Psalms theto Challenges There convictions, was this one suffer mining. would speak life. vices in this city, because I of there. their religious underHe it may suitably in a Postmodern World” will of Christian-Jewish Relations: mentions it only once. For because it was his prayer” time when we were having to us in the terms that we Jesus told the people of can say together with Peter, in the wilderness for 40 gives us strength for every and as a result both were ex- address themselves to God” instance, when citing Martin (20-1). Hence, according be released in the spring by Dietrich Bonoeffer and Thomknow. a potluck that deep-fried Jerusalem to believe his “Lord, to whom shall I go, years just like bannock day, we need spiritual food iled by oppressive systems. (Para. 10). A few paragraphs Luther, Bonhoeffer declares to Bonhoeffer, our prayer Peter Lang Inc. See his Ama- as Merton.” Studies in Chrismessage has sustained the lives of even more so. bannock was brought into later,There words andwebsite they would have tian-Jewish you haveRelations the words of eterThe Coptic Christian bishop we seewas howone Athanasius zon Author’s for more 9 (2014): the Psalms “…demand a quiet is not really ours, because my life.five Let methroughjust say reads he gave about him- people in the North for who nal life?”

Our physical lives are eternal life. Jesus said he is 1-23. was exiled times himself intohow the he place and restful soul, which can “it can become our prayer works by him. that it was a life-altering self was the bread of life. the bread of life, replacing Travis Harms started knows how long. upheld by the lives of other out life, but died peacefully of David the poet when he grasp and hold to that which only because it was [Jesus’s] experience.

The people knew about a the bread that their foreworking at Midway Bible If Jesus came to Thompplants and animals.

Our in his bed in 373 A.D. Like claims, “If any plot against the Holy Spirit there presents prayer.” Yet, for Athanasius At least in years was past, you, time when God gave them son, he would tell us that spiritual life must also be fathers ate. To Thompson, Camp last year and looks Athanasius, Bonhoeffer as did Ahithophel against and offers” (23; italics added). “every other Psalm is spoken EMPLOYMENT bannock staple David a bread fromAthanasius], heaven. This he is the bannock of life. upheld by someone who Jesus is the bannock of life. forward to what God will exiled as well,was to thethe Flossen[as with Bonhoeffer’s “demand” de- and composed by the Spirit in food of the North and still bread sustained their lives He has true eternal life in do in the coming year.

Just as the food we eat has life within him.

The OPPORTUNITY burg concentration camp near and someone tells you of it, picts an image of a drowning the selfsame way: just as in the Czechoslovakian border, sing Psalm 7, and put your person who can only “grasp a mirror, the movements of PAYROLL/PAYABLES CLERK yet Bonhoeffer was hanged trust in God Who will deliver and hold” onto what the Holy our own souls are reflected FINANCE DEPARTMENT on April 9, 1945. Accord- you.” (Para. 15) Spirit presents. Unlike Bon- in them, and the words Faculty of are Nikan Awasisak Agency Inc. is seeking ing to one of his students Just as the Christian broth- hoeffer, Athanasius presents indeed our very own, given an individual for the position of Payroll / Payables Clerk.

Social Work present at the hanging, Eber- ers and sisters pursued Atha- an image of what seems to us to serve both as a reminder The Payroll/Payables Clerk reports directly to the Director hard Bethge, “I saw Pastor nasius because of his religious be a feedback loop between of our changes of condition of Finance.

Bonhoeffer ... kneeling on convictions, so did the Nazis the Holy Spirit and the Social human and as a pattern and model for Northern Work Program QUALIFICATIONS: the floor praying fervently pursue Bonhoeffer. Accord- soul. For instance, Athana- the amendment of our lives.”

• Payroll experience is required to God. I was most deeply ing to Worthen, Bonhoeffer’s sius The University Manitoba, Social Workadded) at Thompson believes thatofthe book Faculty (Para.of 12; italics Ac• Some accounting training and/or college diploma in moved by the way this lov- “Prayerbook of the Bible was of Psalms is now accepting for the Northern “has thisapplications pecu- cordingly, KolbetSocial arguesWork that Business Administration; able man prayed, so devout the last book Bonhoeffer was liar marvel Program. for submitting applications March ofThe its deadline own, that for Anthanasius, “TheisPsalms, • Must be proficient at any Computerized Accounting 1, 2017.

The program and is scheduled to begin are September 2017. and so certain that God heard able to publish, and the one within Software, Word, Excel and data; a working knowledge it are represented consequently, a secondary Students may complete the Northern Social WorkaProgram as a of Sage would be an asset his prayer. At the place of exe- that brought him into the most portrayed in all their great varremedial mirror, corrective fulltime or part-time student.

• Must have the ability to perform duties independently; cution, he again said a short immediate trouble with the iety the movements of the hu- lens, that is needed since the • Must have a valid class 5 driver’s license; this is a prayer and then climbed the [Nazi] authorities—despite man soul. It is like a picture, human soul, the primary mirThe program provides post-secondary education for Residents condition of employment. few steps to the gallows,kelly.bindle@leg.gov.mb.ca its appearing to be no more in which you see yourself ror, has become occluded, • Must pass Child Abuse Registry Check and Criminal of Northern Manitoba, in particular those who have not had brave and composed.” (927) than a short devotional trea- portrayed and, seeing, may weakened, and disordered, no Records Check; this is a condition of employment. the opportunity due to economic and cultural reasons, lack of Kellythis Bindle The “way lovable man tise on a much-loved book understand and consequently longer functioning to reflect • Basic knowledge of the CFS Act would be an asset formal education, linguistic barriers or residence in remote areas. prayed” is described in de- of the Bible.”(6) Like Atha- formRelocation yourself to upon the pattherequired. divine image” (95). UnThompson will be RESPONSIBILITIES: nasius, Bonhoeffer looked to tail byAfter Bonhoeffer in his short tern given.”

(Para.

10; italics like Bonhoeffer, Athanasius attending a Brandon Chamber of Commerce stake• Process bi-weekly employee payroll; including book, Psalms: Theduring Prayer thein Psalms for this instruction reveals how a or feedback loop Individuals can apply either under ACCESS EXTERNAL remittances for source deductions, pension and health holders meeting AgDays Brandon week, Iof was added) Book of the Bible (FortressBuilding how toinface persecution.

For categories.

Thethere ACCESS is for mature 21 For Bonhoeffer is no category exits between ourstudents, souls and plans, and others present at the Legislative Winnipeg on WednesPress).

In it we learn how his instance, “The Psalter gives Accounts payable procedures (entering invoices and • years or over, who have under 30 credit hours of university level “self” when considering the the Psalms, and how these day for an exciting announcement that ties in with our new payments), including reconciliations of records to prayer is not really his pray-of the us Manitoba ample instruction how Psalms, courses.

EXTERNAL for regular who onlyThe Jesus.

In con- category divineis songs are students corrective government’s rebuilding economy.inPremier suppliers’ statements. have 30 credit hours or more of university level courses and are er;Brian “it canPallister becomeand our Agriculture prayer to Minister come before God in a propRalph Eichler made trast, Athanasius describes lenses to suit ourselves.

• Reconciliations of payroll records to general ledger and in good academic standing.

For both categories, applicants must only because it was [Jesus’s] er way, bearing the frequent In the future, my choice of how our souls are reflected in the announcement that Roquette, a France-based bio-food outside party documents have resided in Northern for 6 months prior prayer.”

In Athanasius’s suffering which this world the Psalms — as our faces areManitoba commentary on or themore Psalms company, is making book, a $400-million investment in Manitoba • Other duties as assigned by the Director of Finance; to theinapplication have been long term resident St.through Athanasius on the Psalms, brings upon us.

Serious illness a mirror;deadline hence, or would be aAthanasius over construction of a pea-processing facility in the Rural reflected • On-the-job training will be provided for both functions. of the North. in Municipality contrast, of Athanasius andThe severe loneliness before Portage la Prairie. project will create about this mirror is how these “div- Bonheoffer because AthanaYour cover letter and résumé must clearly indicate how you humanizes the Psalms when God and men, threat, persesuit ourselves.” sius humanizes the of Psalms 350 jobs during its two-year design and construction phase ine songs meet the qualifications. Please submit three references For information or applications contact the Faculty Social heand writes the “movecution, Bonhoeffer asks, at “How for me, in that myDial “face is at time of application.

150about permanent, well-paying jobsimprisonment, when the plantand is up First,Work at Thompson 204-677-1450 or No Charge 1-866ments of the human soul,” and whatever conceivable peril possible or forvisit a man and reflected” in them; hence, and running. This is the largest single private-sector invest- is it 237-5509 http://umanitoba.ca/faculties/social_work/ Salary: Based on qualifications it is onlyinAthanasius in and there onRoquette’s earth are know

by Jesusprograms/northern/591.html Christ to pray the Psal- these divine songs suit me. ment Manitoba’swho history, willisbe launching Deadline for Applications: Will Remain Open Until Filled a ternary way Psalms” (46). ter together? ... It is really our In addition, when I read point for itsbelieves product“these in Norththe America.

Apply to: divine songs suit ourselves The Psalms meet “our own To further rebuild our economy, our provincial government prayer, but since he knows Athanasius’s commentary, I andhas meet our own souls’ need soul’s need” more for AthaAdvertisement # NAA167 us better than we know ourfeel my “own soul’s need” been in consultations with the tourism industry to develop Attention: Hiring Committee at every turn of nasius and thaninvestment for Bonhoeffer. a strategy forlife.” improved promotion and in selves and since he himself is being met at every turn of Email: hr@nikanaa.ca For both Athanasius and In his short work, Athanasius PUBLIC NOTICE December, the Department of Growth, Enterprise and Trade was true man for our sakes, it life because I feel my life is Nikan Awasisak Agency Inc. Bonhoeffer, the Psalms helped mentions the “soul” 19 times is also really his prayer, and it animated when woven withapproved a Manitoba Star Attraction enhancement grant of P.O. Box 388 them through suffering Spirit compared Bonhoeffer who can become our prayer only in these divine songs by the $17,639 fortheir the Thompson Way totoreplace and upgrade Cross Lake, MB. R0B 0J0

Spiritual Thoughts

Largest privatesector investment in Manitoba history MLA Report

display panels along the Millennium Trail.

Separately, I want to thank Chief Ted Bland and band councillors Louisa Constant, Leroy Constant and Frank Wastesicoot from York Factory First Nation for braving bitterly cold weather last week and travelling to Thompson to meet with me to discuss issues affecting their community. It was an discussion regarding York Factory’s history, current BYinsightful IAN GRAHAM situation and potential regarding sustainable development.

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET It was also pleasure The president my of the union last that week rep- to congratulate Laura Brass, Justin Mallet, Vincent Meredith, resents workers at Safeway says the Daniel Stevens, Darryl Moose, Corey and Darien Munroe-Massan for their company’s moveMunroe to increase employees’ hard work and dedication in completing the 50-week Youth pay temporarily is good, but doesn’t go Build Program with the Thompson Boys and Girls Club. I wish far enough to recognize the vital role them all the best in their current such workers are playing during and the future job placements.

Our new government continues to work in partnership with COVID-19 epidemic.

Manitobans, we can make our province better together.

On March 22,so Canada Safeway CEO

Pesticide Control Program

Higher pay for grocery employees deserved but P doesn’t go far enough, says union president ublic notice is hereby given that Manitoba Housing intends to conduct the following pesticide-control programs in and around their housing units during 2017.

Public notice is hereby given that Manitoba Housing intends to conduct the following pesticide-control programs in and around their housing units during 2017.

1. To control rodents from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017 using the following pesticides: s "ROMADIOLONE s $IFETHIALONE s $IPHACINONE s "RODIFACOUM

s #HLOROPHACINONE s :INC 0HOSPHIDE s 3ULFUR

2. To control insects from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017 using the following insecticides: s 0YRETHRIN s 0IPERONYL BUTOXIDE s 0ERMETHRIN s ,AMBDA CYHALOTHRIN s #YFLUTHRIN s 0ROPOXUR s "ENDIOCARB s (YDRAMETHYLNON s !BAMECTIN s !VERMECTIN "

Or for more information contact: Ramona Tkachuk, CA, CPA, CAFM Director of Finance/Administration Phone: 431-230-2930

Learn Anywhere, Anytime

Email: rtkachuk@nikanaa.ca

“We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.”

NBN CLASSIFIED When it comes to pursuing your career and educational goals, location and scheduling are no CLASSIFIED@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET longer barriers.

204-677-4534

s 0ROPETAMPHOS s $ICHLORVOS s "ORACIC !CID s 3ILICON $IOXIDE s . /CTYL "ICYCLOHEPTENE $ICARBOXIMIDE Friday, March 16, 2018 s $ 4RANS !LLETHRIN s "ORAX s 3 -ETHOPRENE s $ 0HENOTHRIN

Take advantage of our flexible Michael Medline announced the comto achieve601• yourANNOUNCEMENTS career goals pany’s Hero Pay program, which will 301•delivery HELP WANTED see all employees receive an extra $50 and improve your skills. per week no matter how many hours they QUIZNOS THOMPSON is looking for work while those who work 20 hours or A HUGE THANK Weshift offer courses programs in: YOU! two full-time managers.

Experi- and Nickel Belt News • www.thompso more per week will receive a $2 per hour REGIONAL ence in the same industry will be an THOMPSON to Chris and Tom who asset. Minimum education required premium for every worked beyond 20SOCIETY INC. • Business and Management HUMANE helped my family is a bachelor degree or equivalent. hours. The increased pay is retroactive Valid driver’s licence required.

Interwho were stuck in the • Community Services to March 8 and will be reassessed at the ested candidates please drop off your end of April. Workers will receive their snow on the highway resume at Sub, 50 Selkirk • Quiznos Education The public may send written submissions or objections Humane first payments of Thompson the additional wages Society Avenue, Thompson, Manitoba, R8N

by Snow Lake. Your (within 15 days the publication of the the832 Nickel BeltofNews photo courtesy ofnotice) UFCW to Local 0M7 or emailvijay.ralhan@outlook. beginning in April.No Limit Texas Hold'em • Health Sciences CLASSIFIED@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET kindness is very much below: Manitoba Conservation and com. 10nb -8-17 “Our team is playing a vital role 2017 in UFCW Local 832 presidentdepartment Jeff Traeger Fundraiser Water Stewardship, Pesticide/Fertilizer Section, appreciated! “May you • Information Technology providing with the food, Suite 160 – 123 Main Street, Winnipeg, MB R3C 1A5 FirstCanadians Game this Satuday - January 21, 2017 • RETAIL/ 510 RETAIL/ medicine and essentials they need for active front-line employees in their stores & Commercial be blessed by the Lord” Workers (UFCW) Local 301 • HELP WANTED • Trades $100 SPACE their families during thisEntry terribleFee: crisis,” OFFICE SPACE by $2 an hour, retroactive to March 8. 832, which represents Safeway workers - Psalm 115:15 Rebuys: $50 to 3 rebuys) Medline said in a letter posted on(up Canada The increase is effective until April 4 and other members in Manitoba, said the Registration: 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm Safeway’s Facebook page. and may be extended as needed, said the increased wages for Safeway workers OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE 500-5000 sq ft. available. Cameron/Hoe building Game starts at 3:00North pm West Company’s Canadian retail are a good start.

The same day, Northern and North81 Churchill Drive. Contact Joe Aniceto.

Mart stores announced that they would Place: Thomspon Royal Canadian Legion president Alex Yeo in a press release.

“We don’t think it goes far enough,” 204-679-0490 or Neil Cameron 306be temporarily increasing wages for all Jeff Traeger, president of United Food Continued on Page 7 477-5668. 19nb-tfn-nb HIRING

IT'S BACK!!!

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Friday, March 27, 2020

Grocery workers ‘a critical service’ Continued from Page 6 he said, with half of the union’s members in Safeway stores having earnings below the poverty line. “Grocers like Safeway are making a huge, huge windfall off this. We’ve been arguing that grocery workers are largely unappreciated and underpaid. We plan on taking some of that public opinion to the bargaining table. I honestly believe it’s because of public pressure that a retailer decided to provide additional pay.�

Traeger says that as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy, the only places that remained open were hospitals, grocery stores and pharmacies. “That tells me they’re a critical service,� he said.

The union president praised efforts to improve worker safety taken by employers of UFCW Local 832 members since the novel coronavirus arrived in Manitoba. “They’re trying to keep up with that,� he said.

What he would like to see is the provincial government including grocery store workers in its list of employees who are eligible to receive personal protective equipment. “Health care workers get that first,� said Traeger, which he agrees is the right call. “Grocery workers aren’t even on the list.�

He would also like to see grocery store workers included among the essential personnel eligible for child care being provided during the pandemic. “Some spots should be opened for grocery workers,� he said.

Traeger has not yet received a response from Premier Brian Pallister to a letter he sent a week ago saying that grocery workers should automatically get approved for workers compensation if they test positive for COVID-19, given that they probably have a higher risk many health care workers of being exposed to the virus. “Right now that’s not the case,� he said.

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA OFFICE: SHAMATTAWA SUB-OFFICE LOCATION: THOMPSON, MB Position: Regional Child & Family Services Worker

One (1) Full-Time Permanent Position Reporting to a Unit Supervisor the Regional Child & Family Services Worker is responsible to implement the policies, procedures and specific directions/directives of Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba when working with families and children in the field of child protection. The duties would include managing a case load, conducting interviews and assessments, compiling case particulars for Court, investigating/follow up on allegations of child protection issues, maintaining regular visits, ensuring accurate and timely documentation, developing long/short term case plans, developing/ facilitating workshops, community education and networking with collateral resources/services.

Qualifications: • Bachelor of Social Work Degree with experience in child welfare preferred or an equivalent combination of experience and training may be considered • Strong commitment to community based service delivery • Knowledge of CFS legislation, standards and issues • Knowledge of Child & Family Services Information System (CFSIS) • Excellent assessment, interviewing, and counselling skills • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Good organizational and time management skills • Demonstrated ability to prioritize workloads and meet deadlines • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook • Must be self-motivated with the ability to work independently as well as a team setting • Sensitivity to and an understanding of First Nations culture and values • Ability to speak and/or understand the Cree and/or Dene language would be an asset Working Conditions: • Must be able to work in a fast paced environment • Must demonstrate a strong work ethic and be reliable • Must adhere to confidentiality when working with sensitive information • Must be willing to travel • Must have satisfactory Prior Contact, Child Abuse Registry Check, Criminal Record Check and Driver’s Abstract • Must possess a valid driver’s license and have access to a vehicle Salary: Awasis Agency offers a competitive salary and employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience Closing Date: Monday, April 6, 2020 – Or Until Filled Awasis Agency provides service to Indigenous children and families, therefore preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. Individuals interested in this challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number 2020-020 on your resume/cover letter and include it in the subject line of your email, in confidence to: Human Resources Department Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba Competition #2020-020 701 Thompson Drive, Thompson, MB R8N 2A2 Fax: 204-778-8428 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Careers • Page 7

University College of the North (UCN) is committed to building a workforce that is representative of the populations we serve. Applications are invited from individuals who have a demonstrated interest and ability to work with Indigenous learners and mature students. Preference will be given to Indigenous candidates.

University College of the North (UCN) is committed to building a workforce that is representative of the populations we serve. Applications are invited from individuals who have a demonstrated interest and ability to work with Indigenous learners and mature students. Preference will be given to Indigenous candidates.

LIBRARY CLERK

LAW ENFORCEMENT INSTRUCTOR

Wednesday, 2018 Full-TimeJanuary Regular31, Position Competition No: 20-033 Closing Date: April 1, 2020; however, will remain open until filled

www.thompsoncitizen.net Full-Time Regular Position The Pas, Manitoba Competition No: 20-034 Closing Date: April 2, 2020; however, will remain open until filled

Please visit our website for more detailed information about UCN and this employment opportunity. At http://www.ucn.ca, select “UCN Careers�, and select from the list of positions to view. Thank you for your interest in UCN.

Please visit our website for more detailed information about UCN and this employment opportunity. At http://www.ucn.ca, select “UCN Careers�, and select from the list of positions to view. Thank you for your interest in UCN.

Thompson, Manitoba Careers

Louisiana Pacific Swan Valley

General Labourers Louisiana-Pacific, Employer of Choice, a leader in the forest products industry known for the development of innovative, affordable, environmentally friendly building products and for excellence in Safety and Quality is currently Thompson 677.6450 seeking Labourers(866) at our Swan Valley SmartSideÂŽ, Swan Valley, Minitonas operation.

Qualifications: The successful candidate must possess the following EMPLOYMENT qualifications; • Good written and verbal communication skills OPPORTUNITY • Physically fit to perform all duties Child Family • Ability to multitask and& problem solve • Ability to operate equipmentWorker as required Services • Computer literacy will be considered (Thompson Office) an asset • Valid driver’s license • Shiftwork Nikan Awasisak Agency Inc. is seeking (1) full time permanent Child & Family Serviceswill Worker our Thompson Office. A The successful candidates join aindynamic team in providing satisfactory Criminal Check and ChildSwan Abuse Registry support to the facility Record located in the beautiful River Valley Check are conditions of employment. as it embarks on a new and exciting journey of producing siding

for a growing market.and supervision of the CFS Team Leader, Under the direction the Child & Family worker manages a case load of children Louisiana-Pacifi c offers a competitive wage and benefi t package in in care and/or Services files including protection and accordance withFamily the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Louisianavoluntary cases under Nikan Awasisak Agency Inc. Pacifi c is anservice equal opportunity employer.

The worker is responsible for case planning, monitoring, We thank all applicants, however, only those selected for referrals, and ongoing assessment and evaluation. Offer interviews will be contacted. Candidates will be subject assistance to children and families through basic counseling, to successful completion of comprehensive background advocacy and support as required. Works to empower screening and health checks. families to adequately provide for the physical and emotional Please forward and resume to: well-being of your theircover familyletter members.

Lorraine Schneider QUALIFICATIONS: Human Resource Generalist I • Bachelor of Social Work Degree or a minimum of 3 years Louisiana-Pacific Canada Ltd. work experience related to Child Welfare; P.O. Box 189, Minitonas, MB R0L 1G0 • Excellent assessment skills, children’s behavior Phone: (204) 525-2479 Ext. 2104 Fax: (866) 678-5969 management skills and sound knowledge of separation e-mail : lorraine.schneider@lpcorp.com and attachment issues; • Excellent communication, grammar, and organizational, problem solving, computer and evaluation skills; • Good working knowledge of Provincial Legislation and Standards; • Must have a working knowledge of the Child & Family Services Act and Regulations; • Must be available to work after hours and perform ont $PNQFUJUJWF 4BMBSJFT t 3FMPDBUJPO "TTJTUBODF call duties; t $POUJOVJOH &EVDBUJPO t 3FNPUFOFTT "MMPXBODF t &YDFMMFOU #FOFÜUT • Ability to take direction; >Dental Assistant • Willing to train; 5IPNQTPO (FOFSBM )PTQJUBM o 0QFSBUJOH 3PPN • Ability to work as a team member; 1BSU 5JNF '5&

• Self motivated; 5IFSF XJMM CF BO PQQPSUVOJUZ UP XPSL QBSU UJNF GPS UIF %FOUJTU JO • Knowledge and understanding of First Nation traditional BEEJUJPO UP UIJT QBSU UJNF QPTJUJPO values and beliefs pertaining to families and children; • Ability tosupervision speak Cree an asset; Under the direct of theconsidered Patient Care Manager or designate, assists multi-disciplinary team in performing a variety of patientavailable care • Knowledge ofpersonnel resources and collateral services activities and related non-professional in the City of Thompson;services necessary in caring for the personal needs and comfort of the patient. This is an integrated position that • Must have own vehicle and validprocedures driver’s for license; includes coordination and scheduling of dental the Operating • Must pass a Child Abuse Registry and andmaintaining Police Records Room (OR). This will require expertise in developing excellent working relationships with a broad range of individuals and organizations. The Check;

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

OR Dental Assistant will function within the provisions of the Vision, Mission, RESPONSIBILITIES: Values, policies and procedures of the Northern Health Region (NHR) and will• incorporate NHR core practice Management ofcompetencies case loadsinto asworking assigned by(Customer/ supervisor; Client Focused, Initiative & Pro-activity, Diversity Awareness, Teamwork, and • On-going assessment and evaluation of families serviced; Collaboration, Development of Self and Others, and Adaptability).

• Empowers children and families to develop to their fullest

The incumbent must fulfill the requirements of the Criminal Records/Vulnerable potential; Person, Child Abuse Registry check and Adult Abuse Registry check, and adhere • Court preparation; to all Northern Health Region policies and procedures. • Functions as an effective team member; Qualifications: Advocate for or families and children; t • Grade 12 education equivalent Referrals to other as needed; t • Successful completion of aresources recognized Dental Assistant Program required t • Current active practicing registration with Manitoba Dental Association Network with external/internal collaterals t • Excellent Windows programs (Microsoft Word, Excel, Otherknowledge duties asof may be based assigned Outlook, and Internet) t Your Minimum (3) years’ as a Dental Assistant required coverthree letter and experience rÊsumÊ must clearly indicate how you t meet Previous working with Pediatric cases preferred theexperience qualifications.

Please submit three references t Ability to speak Cree an asset

at time of application.

For complete list of qualifications please visit our website www.nrha.ca.

Salary: Based on qualifications Please submitfor resume

by February 2,Will 2018 to: Deadline Applications: Remain Open Until Filled Lori Rasmussen, Recruitment Officer Apply to: 867 Thompson Drive South Advertisement # NAA168 Thompson, MB R8N 1Z4 Fax:Email: (204) 778-1477 hr@nikanaa.ca Email: recruiteast@nrha.ca Attention: Hiring Committee $BMM VT UPEBZ -PDBM PS 5PMM 'SFF

Nikan Awasisak Agency Inc.

Cross Lake, MB. R0B 0J0Strategy, we encourage all applicants to selfNorthern RHA has a Representative Workforce declare. Criminal Record, Child Abuse, & Adult Abuse Registry Checks are required. We thank all “We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected candidates for applying. Only those selected for interview will be contacted. for further consideration will be contacted.�

www.nrha.ca

WORK WITH US & GROW A CAREER Glacier Media Group is growing.

Check our job board regularly for the latest openings: www.glaciermedia.ca/careers

Got a job

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friuli Suite Rentals & Bianchini Warehousing Thompson’s Biggest Little Secret!

ASSISTANT PROPERTY MANAGER • We are looking for someone who is dedicated and ambitious to develop management skills for long term future considerations. • Full time, permanent, 35 + hours per week, must be bondable, able to pass criminal background check, have driver’s licence and access to own transportation.

Thompson (866) 677.6450 • Must have excellent communication/typing skills, experience with Microsoft Office and basic bookkeeping preferable. • Preparing bank deposits, able to organize, prioritize and complete reports by deadline dates. • Attention to detail, ability to work independently and within a team environment applying confidentiality in all matters. • Be open to new ideas and changes that may improve efficiency CREE NATION CHILD & FAMILY in day to day operations.

CARING AGENCY • Ability to fill in for the manager when required/willingness to carry company cell phone in case of emergency.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT • Training provided, flexible work environment, wages based – PERMANENT POSITION on experience.

Start date: ASAP Mathias Colomb Cree Nation Email resume to Carolyn Turpie: manager@friulirentals.com or fax to: 204-677-3195 Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency is situated on Opaskwayak Cree or drop at 31 Oak and St. Office.

Nation and is responsible foroff administering providing for the delivery of Child and Family Services.

Under Closing date:a provincial Februarymandate, 16, 2018the Agency services the Swampy Cree communities, as well as Flin Flon, Thompson, Swan River, We appreciate the interest of all applicants, however only those Winnipeg and Lynn Lake/Marcel Colomb First Nation. individuals selected for interviews will be contacted.

Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency is dedicated to providing comprehensive Child and Family Services that are community-based and incorporate both protection and prevention service. Our agency strives to maintain family unity.

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the Unit Supervisor, the Administrative Assistant serves as the first point of contact for Agency clients, guests, visitors or others. The Administrative Assistant serves to receive and direct people, Home Careand NurseExternal Posting correspondence contact/calls to the appropriate Agency personnel or department. The Administrative Assistant provides a professional and pleasant point of entryFirst for theNation Agency Health and will maintain strict Marcel Colomb Authority is confidentiality seeking a in performing all duties. to fulfill the role of Home Care Nurse. qualified individual Job Summary RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Reporting Types, edits, formats and transcribes reports,the forms, correspondence, to the Home Care Manager, Home files, recordings, minutes, case notes and other material as Care Nurse is responsible forplanning promoting, protecting assigned by the the Unit Supervisor. & preserving health of Marcel Colomb community • members Receives,through screens,services assesses,directed transfers to telephone calls and takes home care messages. clients. The Home Care Nurse provides holistic care & • Assists with photocopying, faxing and other administrative duties practices nursing as defined by the Registered Nurses as assigned.

Act & in compliance with the College of Registered • Manages incoming and outgoing mail.

Nurses of Manitoba Standards of Practice & Canadian • Coordinates meetings and meeting spaces and makes travel Nurses Association Code of Ethics; cares for & directs arrangements. the overall care of clients; • Enters information on CFSISis responsible for advocating, educating clients to • providing Providesinformation, support to other office staff&assupporting needed. thatconfidentiality the highest in possible standard service is and • ensure Maintain accordance with theofagency policy provided; follows Marcel Colomb policies & procedures; procedures. works in a multidisciplinary team & may be called upon to assist with other duties within the scope of the QUALIFICATIONS department. • Post Secondary Diploma or equivalent • Position Ability toRequirements: converse fluently in Cree (preferred) • Ability to use a variety of computer applications such as Microsoft Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and database systems • Word, Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical • Ability to deal effectively with a variety of visitors and circumstances • CRNM or CLPN – Active Registration • Knowledge of customer service (preferred) • Valid Manitoba Class 5 Driver’s License • Good organizational skills and working knowledge of office and • Daily access to a vehicle administrative procedures and related equipment (preferred) • Criminal record & child abuse registry checks • Excellent oral and effective communication skills (preferred) • 2 years of related nursing experience • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT • Immunization record up to date • Must pass a criminal records check, child abuse registry check and prior contact Closing Date:check.

January 5, 2018 at 4pm. No late • submissions Cannot be active on aaccepted. protection case. will be Must maintain absolute confidentiality in accordance with agency • requirements.Must Include: Applications May be assigned to provide coverage or support for other office • from timethat to time and asindicates required. how you meet • locations A cover letter clearly • Other related to the position may be assigned. theduties position requirements • Resume Deadline: Marchof30,credentials 2020 @ 4:00(licenses, PM • Copy training, education) • Three references (colleague, supervisor or manager) and contact SUBMIT COVER LETTERinformation & RESUME ALONG WITH THREE (3) REFERENCES • Criminal record check & child MARKED “PERSONAL & CONFIDENTIALâ€?

TO: abuse registry checks (or indication that they have been applied for) Humaninformation Resource Manager • Personal contact (phone & email) Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency 10130 to interview without the Your application will notBox proceed Opaskwayak, R0B 2J0 job description, above information.

To obtainMB. a complete Fax: 204-623-3847 for additional information or to apply for this position hr@creenation.ca please contact or Email: submit your application to:

We thank all who apply, Email and be advised thatoff only those selected for further or drop only consideration will be contacted.

Cree Nation Tribal Health Centre Please visit our website at https://creenation.ca 107 Edwards Avenue, The Pas Noreen Singh, Finance Manager, nsingh@tribalhealth. ca or Wilma Cook, TNO/Team Lead, wcook@tribalhealth.ca

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Page 8 • News

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, March 27, 2020

App created to link Manitoba volunteers during COVID-19 outbreak

BY CASSIDY DANKOCHIK FLIN FLON REMINDER

The government has a new way for Manitobans to support each other during the COVID-19 outbreak.

During an update March 23, Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister announced the launch of helpnextdoormb. ca. The new provincial government website will connect Manitobans looking to

volunteer, and those who need help.

The website was developed in partnership with North Forge Technology Exchange, a Winnipeg-based entrepreneurship group that has often worked with the provincial government. North Forge board member Jerin Valel gave a few different examples on how the site could be

used, including picking up a prescription for an older neighbour.

“We heard from the community at large that given the uptake of online scams, Manitobans were unsure of who and what to trust with help,” Valel said. “We wanted a trusted source that could showcase the good Manitoba could do.”

He added volunteers will be given criminal background checks and child abuse registry checks before being able to sign up.

According to the website, the new site (described as a web app) can link two people together and exchange their contact information. You can sign up using social media or

Friday, March 2, 2018 Friday, March 2, 2018

people were willing to step up to help each other.

“Government can’t do it all itself,” he said. “It needs to be Canadians pulling together as we can and as we must. Manitoba has a reputation for leading in that respect.”

Valel said the website should work on all devices and can be found at helpnextdoormb.ca.

an email address.

“Once matched, you will receive an email that will include the other parties contact information,” the website reads. “You will be responsible for contacting and setting up a time for the request to be completed.”

Pallister cited high donation numbers during COVID-19 as evidence

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Mixed messages, lack of testing and inconsistent approaches to shutdowns are concerns with COVID 19 response Columnists Columnists

There can be no doubt about the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As we have watched developments overseas with the horrific spread of the virus in so many countries, we are reminded of what is at stake here in Canada.

The COVID-19 virus is very much a reality here in Canada. Across the country, every day, we’re seeing more and more confirmed cases and, tragically, fatalities as well.

Governments have been responding but in many cases there are mixed messages and differing and some times confusing approaches. Different approaches to testing, shutdowns and even reporting. This has created confusion and puts us at risk

of having a patchwork quilt of responses.

Over the last few days I have raised major concerns about people continuing to have to work in environments where they are at the risk of the spread of the virus. Whether it was at the Keeyask camp or other major employers in our region the message was clear. Workers should not have to face risks at work that they would not face elsewhere. This is what led to workers at Lalor Lake walking off the job recently in Snow Lake.

Testing is a real concern.

Many jurisdictions have been able to have a great deal of success thus far with extensive targeted testing. I have been contacted by people who have been unable to

Government increasingly ou MP MP Report Report Ashton.N@parl.gc.ca

Ashton.N@parl.gc.ca

Niki Ashton Niki Ashton get the test and unable to get the results back. This is in contrast to other jurisdictions that have found ways to do mass testing.

We need to make the expansion availability of Our and government’s reOur announced rethe tests agovernment’s national priority cently provcently announced and mobilize any and allprovreincial and federal joint incial toand federal joint sources get the job done. funding agreement of funding agreement of There are many concerns $63 million to bring high$63 million to bring about limitations to thehighas-to speed Internet access speed that Internet access sistance the gov-to residents offederal northern,

ernment has put in place for this pandemic. Other jurisdictions have moved to much bolder supports for workers and the self-employed. As transportation critic for the NDP I havetocalled for the together improve the together to improve the government to make a spelives of Manitobans. lives of to Manitobans. cial effort helpsuch support esMany more collabMany moreworkers such collabsential transport like orative projects will unorative projects will untruck drivers, taxi drivers, fold in the future, arising fold infederal-provincial the future, arising bus drivers and air transport from from federal-provincial workers in thisinchallenging agreements areas such

time. ing underprepared.

O u t haveoalso f been tou c h . cause of thing the shutdown There very Another is clear as O u tthe only of t otou dec h . of cause of theline, shutdown That’s rail real problems inway actually well.the As we watch thewhile horof thepeople rail line, while That’sthe thefederal only way to de- many scribe governacross our putting things in place in an- rific situation that is develscribeafter the federal govern- north many face people across our ment the disconnect challenge ticipation of being hit by the oping in otherthe parts of the ment after the disconnect north face food the challenge between Justin Trudeau’s of putting on their pandemic. What a contrast world we cannot afford to between Justin of putting food their eight-day to Trudeau’s India and sit table day,on Justin between thetrip First Nations back.every We cannot afford eight-day trip to India and table every day, Justin took a celebwhat is happening on the toTrudeau that have taken bold initiabe complacent.

Trudeau tookhim a celebwhat is happening on the rity ground home. chefI with on an tives to shuthere downat access to When talk to people ground the herepeople at home. rity chef with him on an While of eight-day trip that was their communities for any- across our region and While the people of eight-day trip that was Churchill sky- across for most the timethere noththing otherare thanfacing essential ourofcountry Churchill food are facing for most of the time nothrocketing pricesskybe- ising purposes and the continuing no more doubt than there aisjunket. a real rocketing food prices be- ing more than a junket. lack of resources that have spirit of social solidarity. been put in place by the fed- People know we’re in this eral government in northern together. They’re conand Indigenous communities cerned and they want to in advance of the potential make sure that everything impact of the pandemic. is done to protect them One thing is clear. We and their families and their have to do everything pos- communities. sible to be prepared. Quite As a Member of Parliasimply put you cannot kelly.bindle.mla.offi be ment I will be continuing ce@gmail.com kelly.bindle.mla.offi ce@gmail.com overprepared for a disasto push for real Constituency Offiaction. ce: ter. The only thing that will Time is of the essence.

Constituency Office: Unit 3-40 Moak Crescent create great difficulty is be- Unit We3-40 mustMoak respond now.

Crescent Thompson, MB R8N 2B7 Thompson, MB R8N 2B7 204-677-2066 Kelly Bindle 204-677-2066 Kelly Bindle

Standing Standing up up to to protect protect Manitoba’s Manitoba’s b b

residents of northern, rural and remote Manirural communities and remote Manitoba will toba communities will lift limits, alter prospects lift limits, alter prospects and transform lives. This and transform lives. This is just one example of is just one of more than 150example projects in more than 150 projects in which our provincial govindex.html for more which our provincial government and the federal information. ernment the centres federal government have worked Currently,and daycare government have worked and schools will be closed

agreements in areas such as housing, early learning as housing, early learning and child care, workforce and child care,Indigenous workforce development, development, Indigenous initiatives and infrastrucinitiatives and infrastructure investments.

But our ture investments.

But our government’s responsibilgovernment’s responsibility is to represent theThe best Flin Flon and The Pas. ity is to represent the best interests of Manitobans.

Thompson testing centre interests of Manitobans.

So when Manitobans are is located at the Northern So when Manitobans are Health Regional Authority

MLA MLA Report Report

COVID-19 response in the North COVID-19 has taken the world by storm, literally. It has known no geographical boundaries and has made its presence known in Canada.

Manitoba has been no exception as the number of confirmed cases continues to rise.

In efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus, which was declared a pandemic by the World Health

Organization (WHO), many public spaces across the province have been closed.

Some steps we can all take to protect ourselves and others include social distancing, avoiding social gatherings, washing hands, and disinfecting frequently used surfaces. Refer to the province of Manitoba’s COVID-19 site at https:// www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/

from Friday, March 20 to Friday, April 10. Childcare services are still available for essential service workers, please reference the link above for more information.

Three testing stations have now opened in Northern Manitoba: Thompson,

Make Payments Online The health and safety of customers and staff is our priority.

We are asking that customers visit us online rather than in person. You can make your Statement of Account payments online, such as driver’s licence, policy fee, registration, premium and any overdue insurance amounts.

Visit us at mpi.mb.ca

We ha We ha our no our nW ada. ada. is the is the are be are be with v with fv The The f shoul shouk the the k face face in ter in te

(NHRA) clinic in the Plaza mall and it is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Prior to getting tested call Health Links or use Shared Health’s online screening tool at https:// sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/ screening-tool/.

Other communities in our area are concerned about whether they will be able to access these testing centres

not well-served by a fednot government well-served by a federal policy or eral government policy or approach, we will speak approach, we will speak up for them. upThree for them. key issues for Three key issues for

which this approach has which this approach has been absolutely necessary been absolutely necessary are the federal carbon tax, are thebusiness federal carbon tax, federal tax chanfederal business tax changes and federal healthges and federal health-

MLA Report

Danielle.Adams@leg.gov.mb.ca

Danielle Adams

in a timely manner. There is a need for more testing centres to be placed in smaller northern communities.

Northerners are concerned and want the government

The University of Manitoba, Faculty of Social Work at Thompson is now accepting applications for the Northern Social Work Program. The deadline for submitting applications is April 13, 2020. The program is scheduled to begin September 2020. Students may complete the Northern Social Work Program as a full-time or part-time student.

Relocation to Thompson will be required.

Individuals can apply either under ACCESS or EXTERNAL categories. The ACCESS category is for mature students, 21 years or over, who have under 30 credit hours of university level courses. The EXTERNAL category is for regular students who have 30 credit hours or more of university level courses and are in good academic standing.

For information or applications contact the Faculty of Social Work at Thompson at 204-677-1450 or No Charge Dial 1-866-237-5509 or visit http://umanitoba.ca/faculties/ social_work/programs/northern/591.html

to ensure that the NRHA is well equipped to serve them in this time.

My NDP team and I supported the Emergency Appropriation Bill which allowed the government to release funds ($35.2 million) to purchase more medical supplies to protect frontline workers and those presenting with symptoms from spreading or receiving the virus.

This is an unprecedented situation and as things continue to evolve day by day, I encourage you all to do your part by staying home and practising social distancing.

If you have been impacted by job loss during this time or have any other question or concerns regarding this current situation please call my office at 204-677-2744 or email me at danielle. adams@yourmanitoba.ca.

For further questions or concerns about COVID-19 contact Health Links at 204-788-8200 or toll free at 1-888-315-9527.

care e care e latter latteri clear clearg eral eral g tion t tion in het in he reduc reduc Manit Mani billion billion at a ti at a t dents dents increa increa Ma Ma cial L cial a towL a tow health healt