NDP statement on the deaths of five men in Northern Quebec

NDP Aboriginal Affairs critic Romeo Saganash (Abitibi – Baie-James – Nunavik – Eeyou) released the following statement on the deaths of five men in northern Quebec:

The community of Mistissini, the entire Cree Nation and the whole of northern Quebec are mourning the loss of five young men in a fire while out on the land.

There is no greater loss that a family and a community can face than the loss of youth. Sadly, today, Mistissini, the Eeyou Istchee and northern Quebec are mourning and crying for five of them.

It is, therefore, with a heavy heart that I express my condolences to the families and friends of David Jimiken, Emmett Coonishish, Chiiwetin Coonishish, Kevin Loon, and Charlie Gunner. As a father, I cannot even begin to imagine the pain that families and friends are feeling today, so today I want to send my support, my love, and our prayers in these trying moments and in this dark time of need.

May their memories be a blessing as we collectively attempt to come to terms with this sad and horrible loss. My friend, Jason Coonishish, who lost a son, brother, and three friends in this fire, said it best:

Tshe manndu weetshinan mishunwa.

May the Great Spirit stand with us.