NETMIZAAGGAMIG NISHNAABEG - A northern Ontario First Nation has taken the step of publicly naming two members who they allege violated COVID-19 isolation rules by taking a recent trip to Toronto.
Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg, a First Nation about 350 kilometres east of Thunder Bay also known as Pic Mobert, deemed the individuals trespassers in a release posted to social media Saturday.
"It is very shocking and disappointing that these people would disregard the health and safety of our citizens after months of sacrifices by all of us," the First Nation said in the release. "This is all about the right for our people to remain safe."
The band said the offense was particularly grave because Toronto is the provincial hot-spot for COVID-19 cases. Community members were urged to avoid the two men, as contact would require a 14-day self-isolation.
Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg has set up COVID-19 security checkpoints for those entering and exiting the community. Band leadership recently relaxed some restrictions, allowing members to travel within the immediate area, to communities like White River and Marathon.
Overnight travel, other than for work or medical appointments, remains forbidden by the band.
