(File photo/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Election results

PBCN elects new Chief and makes history

Apr 28, 2021 | 1:05 PM

For only the second time in its over 100 year history, Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN) has elected a female Chief.

Karen Bird from Southend received 1,466 votes.

The ballots from the April 13th election were counted Tuesday night. Soon after the results came in, Bird posted a short video on social media. As she wiped away tears, she thanked all her supporters, as well as the Elders, and all the communities that took part in the election.

“History was made in the community of Southend where I’m from. I’m the first woman chief in Southend,” she said.

Bird’s election also represents the first time in history all three Woodland Cree bands in northern Saskatchewan are being governed by women.

Politics

NDP wants to see change from Sask Party as budget day looms

9h ago

Senior Hockey

Allan, Willow Cree set to battle for TRHL title

14h ago

Treaty rights

PBCN 'cows and plows' settlement worth $630 million

16h ago

Joyce Naytowhow-McLeod was elected Chief of Montreal Lake Cree Nation last fall, and Tammy Cook-Searson was re-elected Chief of Lac La Ronge Indian Band in May 2020.

Susan Custer (Linklater), the first female Chief of PBCN, was elected in 1999 and served one term. Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC) Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte released a statement about the election results.

“On behalf of the PAGC Executive, we look forward to working with the new and re-elected Chief and Council for Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation,” he said

Hardlotte explained he called Chief Karen Bird first thing this morning to sent his congratulations and welcomed her to PAGC’s circle of Chiefs.

“We are all committed to addressing issues that impact our many nations in northern Saskatchewan, and Chief Bird will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the many tables she will be joining,” he said.

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell