Kashechewan, feds investing in new homes

The Government of Canada is partnering with Kashechewan First Nation to bring home 454 displaced residents.

In May 2014, 36 homes in Kashechewan First Nation were damaged due to snow melt within the ring dike, displacing residents who are currently residing in Kapuskasing, Ontario.

The Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, and Chief Leo Friday announced the arrival of the first modular units. These units will be assembled to build 52 new duplexes, for a total of 104 units.

The arrival of the units marks a major milestone in the First Nation’s Repatriation Project to bring home residents as well as help address issues of overcrowding and safety.

“Being away from family and friends is a tremendously difficult situation for the displaced residents,” said Bennett.

“By working in partnership with Kashechewan First Nation, we will ensure that all displaced residents will be able to return to the community as soon as it is safe to do so. Our sincere appreciation to the Town of Kapuskasing for its ongoing hospitality and support for the Kashechewan members currently residing there.”

Meantime, Chief Friday says residents are anxious to return home after a two year wait.

“The uncertainty of living away from your grassroots and people has impacted the displaced residents and we look forward to re-establishing our community spirit and unity. We would like to thank the people involved in getting this major housing project approved, especially the people at INAC office. Let this be an example of what the Liberal Government can accomplish for First Nation communities across Canada.”

When asked about it, Timmins-James Bay MP Charlie Angus says he’s pleased to hear the progress after having residents living like refugees the last two years.

However, he adds the long-term solution of getting the community off the flood plain needs to be addressed.

“At the end of the day, everybody knows yeah we want to build houses, but we want to be able to get them to higher ground,” he said.

“You cannot keep this community on the flood plain, it will flood year after year.”

Angus says discussions have already taken place on whether the houses can be moved.