The Ontario government says it is working with Indigenous partners on developing "a robust safety strategy" for First Nations students attending school in Thunder Bay.
In a news release issued Monday, the province said the plan is in addition to a new Interim Social Emergencies Response Protocol developed with the federal government and Indigenous partners across northern Ontario in response to youth suicides.
Federal, Ontario and Nishnawbe Aski Nation representatives met in Ottawa on Monday to discuss the suicide crisis.
One of the roles of a new Indigenous Youth and Community Wellness Secretariat established by Ontario is to "work with partners to ensure Indigenous students who attend school away from their home communities this September feel safe."
The statement noted that "In recent months, young people have been the victims of racism and violence. Parents need assurances that their children will be safe while attending school."
The strategy includes developing alternatives for parents and students to receive an education closer to home.
