Tla’amin Nation is reporting 37 total COVID-19 positive cases since September 7.
According to a media release from the nation, members continue to recover and receive clearance letters from Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH). Tla’amin Health has reached out to provincial health authorities to confirm recovered case totals.
“As our case curve begins to flatten, Tla’amin Nation is taking a very cautious approach to reopening our community,” stated hegus Clint Williams. “We thank everyone for staying the course as we hold on just a little longer. We are not out of the woods yet.”
Tla’amin legislature will continue with its local state of emergency order. The release stated that the nation has not received enough information from VCH and First Nations Health Authority in order to feel confident lifting the order early. Therefore, the order will continue as planned until October 6, according to the release. At this time, access to Tla’amin remains restricted to nation members only. Any volunteers or contractors entering the nation must be approved by Tla’amin.
The checkpoint at Sliammon Road will remain staffed through the weekend and barricades currently restricting access to other roadways in the community will remain in place, according to the release. As of October 5, the checkpoint will be opened up and regular community patrols will continue, according to the release.
Tla’amin legislators have carefully considered the mental health and well-being of its residents and have decided to lift the nightly curfew from 9 pm to 6 am effective immediately, the release stated.
However, community members must refrain from hosting or attending gatherings. While the curfew is now lifted, members were reminded that gatherings of any size can expose them to COVID-19. To stay safe, Tla’amin members were asked to refrain from hosting or attending any gatherings or parties.
COVID-19 testing is available by appointment at Tla’amin Health. Those contacted by health officials must abide by the mandatory self-isolation protocols and timelines. For more information on testing, call 604.483.3009.
Supports are available to Tla’amin nation residents, according to the release. Those requiring harm reduction services and supplies can call 604.223.4430 for confidential help. Tla’amin members with questions or requiring help with grocery essentials can call 604.578.0447.
