TIB Concerned with community safety after fire hits reserve

(Kamloops, B.C.) – The July 20, 2010 fire along the railway tracks of the Tk’emlups Indian reserve has Chief and Council of the TIB very concerned over the safety and well being of their land and their people.

“I'm greatly concerned about the lack of maintenance that CN rail has failed to take care of which put many of our families and property in great danger from public safety, property damage and health concerns,” said Chief Shane Gottfriedson.”We have had many meetings with CN rail about the use of the railway spur, maintenance, and about blocking crossings.”

The CN route that runs through the reserve have always been an issue for the band and CN has failed to take steps to prevent imposing risks. Chief and Council are concerned that their prior communications are not being heard or respected.

“CN doesn't determine our community a priority in their work and management plans,” said Gottfriedson.

The issue is lack of preparedness; proper precautions have not been taken to ensure that such factors are not a risk. Grass management is a huge concern; if you compare how the grass is maintained by CN on reserve and off reserve, there is a huge discrepancy.

The tracks also run through the exit to the George Campbell sub-division. In some cases community members were completely blocked in. This is extremely dangerous and had the situation been any worse, Tuesday nights fire could been detrimental.

“Another main concern is community members and passers-by coming to check out the fire and see what all the commotion is about. If a situation like this is to happen again, we need to have steps in place to quickly evacuate the residents and people in place to stop spectators from obstructing the roads and putting themselves and others in danger,” said Ron Tronson, TIB Occupational Health and Safety Officer.

The TIB is currently working on implementing an emergency preparedness plan in case of such instances.

“If it wasn't for our people in the George Campbell sub-division working together and helping one another, things could have been far worse than the damage that was done. I want to thank the people for their courage, bravery and leadership to help one another,” said Gottfriedson.

“That's what we do as first nation people; help one another in times of adversity.”