Nishnawbe Aski Nation officials are calling on the provincial and federal governments to address the issue of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Syndrome within their communities.
Deputy Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler believes there is a significant number of First Nations people in prison that may need treatment for FASD, rather than jail time.
There's also a concern for children in their communities.
NAN says the funding for communities for diagnosis of FASD hasn't changed in 10 years.
They would also like to see more diversion programs for people with mental health issues in the legal system.
Fiddler says someone with FASD does not belong in a prison.
NAN officials also say secondary disabilities related to FASD can cost the health-care system up to $2 million per person over a lifetime, in educational, social, and medical issues.
(Thunder Bay Television)
