La Ronge Band Declares State Of Emergency

Wednesday, July 27, 2011 at 20:54

The Lac La Ronge Indian Band has declared a state of emergency.

Chief Tammy Cook-Seerson says the move was made so the band can tap into additional funds from the provincial government.

“Yeah we’ve declared a local state of emergency. It’s in order to qualify for that provincial disaster assistance program so people can apply for extra funding that’s provided under that.”

The Chief says there reports of flooded homes in Hall Lake, Stanley Mission and Sucker River.

Both the local fire department and Canadian Rangers have been helping with sandbagging efforts.

The Chief also cautions anyone using the Creighton road turn-off near Pine Creek to be careful as part of it has eroded away.

Air Ronge has also declared a state of emergency while La Ronge has not.

Mayor Thomas Sierzycki says they are monitoring the situation though and are also ready to help their neighbours.

Meanwhile drivers heading to and from Stanley Mission should keep a sharp eye out for water on the road.

Highways spokesman Doug Wakabayashi says the road is still open, but there’s water on it in various places.

He says a couple of culverts have been built, and that’s helped move water.

The ministry will continue to monitor the road to determine its safety.