Liquor plebiscite concerns Sahtu communities

Norman Wells, N.W.T., will vote in a plebiscite whether to end liquor rationing — a move that is raising concerns in the smaller Sahtu communities.

Pauline Roche, the manager of Deline First Nation, says alcohol has caused a lot of problems in the Sahtu region.

Planes and boats are checked upon arrival by the RCMP, she said. "And when you're over your ration then you lose all your liquor," she said.

Joseph Kochon, band manager in Colville Lake, feels all Sahtu communities should have a say on alcohol sales in Norman Wells. 

"It's something that was put into place by all the Sahtu communities," he said. "If they want to do this then at least give us the benefit to speak on it," he said.

Roche says lifting restrictions will mean people could buy multiple cases of liquor, adding to existing social problems. She says people in Norman Wells should think of the impact on other communities.

"It is disheartening for the elders here when you have to advise them this is what's happening in Norman Wells," she said.

Wells had a similar vote in 2003. People who wanted to lift the restrictions lost then, but only by 11 votes.