Ontario government responds to Wapekeka First Nation emergency

Ontario's Minister of Indigenous Relations says the province is working with the federal government as well as local and Indigenous leaders in response to a state of emergency in Wapekeka First Nation.

• Wapekeka First Nation declares state of emergency in wake of suicides

The remote First Nation of about 400 people, located approximately 600 kilometres north of Thunder Bay, Ont., declared the emergency in the wake of a third 12-year-old girl's suicide since January and other reported attempts. The community asked for an immediate response from Ontario and provision of the necessary services for the community.

The three girls, Jolynn Winter, Chantel Fox and Jenera Roundsky, were involved in a suicide pact, according to community leaders. A band council resolution from the First Nation declaring the emergency noted "another serious attempt" was made since Monday.

• 3rd girl involved in suicide pact dies in remote Ontario First Nation

• First Nations child welfare agency responds to concerns after death in Wapekeka First Nation

• Wapekeka First Nation asked for suicide-prevention funds months before deaths of 2 girls

"Our Ministry continues to play a coordinating role in responding to the declared social emergency ... drawing upon the support and expertise of our partners in federal government departments, provincial ministries and regional authorities," said a statement to CBC News from Minister David Zimmer.

"When appropriate, we will also continue to engage directly with Wapekeka First Nation about how to best serve their individual community needs."

According to community officials in Wapekeka, 15 young people died by suicide between 1989 and 1999 during a previous epidemic. Nearly 40 youth are currently considered to be at risk. That number represents about 10 per cent of the First Nation's population.

"Ontario has been working closely with Wapekeka First Nation, the Shibogama Tribal Council, the Nishnawbe Aski Nation and the federal government to identify needs and help coordinate the response for additional supports and investments," Zimmer's statement said.

The province said last week, it committed $50,000 after a separate request by the First Nation for sport and recreation equipment along with wilderness supplies like canoes for youth. That's to support recreation and other outdoor activities.

The money is also earmarked for other related costs like travel for families and other emergency measures, the province said.

"Provincial and federal officials are also reviewing proposals submitted by the First Nation for a youth center," Zimmer's statement continued, adding that that project is under the federal government's jurisdiction, as well as a three-year plan dealing with recreational activity for young people.