The flag on the Peace Tower in Ottawa was lowered to half mast.(Photo 81092967 © Stephanie Murton | Dreamstime.com)

By paNOW Staff

Provincial and Federal response

Prime Minister and Premier relay resources

Sep 5, 2022 | 3:32 PM

Saskatchewan’s premier says the entire province is grieving following the ‘horrific attacks’ that occurred in northeast Saskatchewan Sunday, but more must be done to help those affected. In a video posted to his social media, Scott Moe said the attention must turn to what’s needed now the most – care and support for the victims and their families.

“There are no words to adequately describe the pain and loss suffered by the victim’s families…this loss caused by these evil, vicious senseless attacks. All of Saskatchewan grieves with you, but we must do more.”

In the video, Moe, who is standing in a field being harvested, said Saskatchewan’s Provincial Command has been activated which helps coordinate and deploy any resources that the province can provide.

“The province’s victim services were deployed to the (James Smith Cree Nation) area yesterday. The local school has set up a centre for those who need service,” Moe said. “The PAGC (Prince Albert Grand Council) and health authority will provide social supports in the weeks to come.”

RCMP and local police resources have been supplemented with additional protective services staff from the province and an increased security presence has been coordinated at hospitals where Moe said many victim’s families are gathering.

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Police confirmed 10 people died and 18 others were injured during the incident Sunday on the James Smith Cree Nation and in the nearby community of Weldon, SK. The suspects, Myles and Damien Sanderson, are still on the loose.

Moe thanked the first responders and health care professionals ‘whose heroic efforts have been treating victims in our hospitals across the province.’

National response

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau echoed that sentiment Monday afternoon in a press conference.

“We want to thank first responders for stepping up and for being there in the community. For everyone affected by this tragedy, I know how incredibly overwhelming and distressing it can be.”

He urged anyone needing help or someone to talk to, to visit www.hopeforwellness.ca to get information on how to access support.

“I reached out to James Smith Cree Nation leadership earlier today and had a good conversation with the Chiefs. I also spoke with Premier Scott Moe of Saskatchewan to highlight that the federal government will be there with the resources necessary right now in this time of crisis, but also will continue to work as partners in the weeks, months, and years to come through grieving and healing,” Trudeau said.

“This kind of violence, or any kind of violence, has no place in our country.”

As a show of solidarity, the Prime Minister said all federal buildings in Saskatchewan have been lowered and the Peace Tower flag on Parliament Hill has been lowered to half-mast. Earlier, Premier Moe’s office said flags at provincial government buildings will be lowered to half-mast one day for each person killed.

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panews@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertNOW