Peguis CFS session highlights growth, but questions over transparency remain
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By James Wastasecoot, Terra Indigena News
PEGUIS FIRST NATION — Peguis Child and Family Services used a public information session on April 15 to showcase growth in programs, buildings and community services, but the afternoon also exposed a continuing divide over transparency, accountability and access to information.
Held at the Peguis CFS conference facility Maamawibiway Gathering Place near Hodgson, the session followed presentations by managers and moved into a question period led by communications director Kirk Mann. Early in the exchange, Mann announced a new that Mary Favel would hold the microphone for individuals who wanted to ask questions, thereby ensuring more control over the questioner. In light of this, Terra Indigena, asked whether Executive Director Clemene Hornbrooke would agree to a separate meeting to address a longer list of questions dating back to the Sept. 19, 2024 AGM. Hornbrooke declined a one-on-one meeting, saying questions would be answered in a public forum and adding that more information sessions are planned for May and June. She also said the agency is prepared to hold sessions every two months if needed. Terra Indigena reminded Hornbrooke that she reneged on a previous commitment to meet at the Sept. 19, 2024. She denied this saying that meeting did proceed and she had staff members present. This reporter sent emails requesting that she follow through with the meeting to address 21 questions, but received no reply.
Read more: Peguis CFS session highlights growth, but questions over transparency remain
Treaty 1 to build affordable houses at Naawi-Oodena’s Endayaan Omaa project
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BY TERRA INDIGENA STAFF
Peguis First Nation council and community members are celebrating the news of affordable the $91 million housing initiative announced by Treaty 1 and Government of Canada. The First Nations-led affordable housing project to build a new apartment building located on Naawi-Oodena will provide 260 new homes.
“This is a moment for our people to stand tall and see what is possible when First Nations lead,” said Chief Dr. Stan Bird of Peguis First Nation.
“For too long, our families have faced barriers to safe, affordable housing. Endayaan Omaa — Home is Here — is more than a building; it is a declaration that Peguis First Nation and our Treaty One partners are building a future our children and grandchildren deserve. We are not waiting to be included. We are leading.”
Built in partnership with Bockstael Construction, this project requires a minimum 30 per cent Indigenous workforce, with 20 per cent consisting of Treaty One First Nation members. To date, the Endayaan Omaa project has a 60 per cent Indigenous workforce and is expected to be completed in 2028.
This project was funded in part by the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF), which helps local governments across Canada cut red tape to build more homes faster.
Treaty One Nations, through their Naawi-Oodena HAF agreement, proposed an ambitious plan and recently received its third installment of approximately $1.3 million reflecting the successful implementation of its Housing Action Plan, $700,000 of which is being allocated directly to this project. These actions establish a strong foundation for long-term housing growth across a range of housing options, said Chief Bird.
Flood plans evolving as the province’s spring flood outlook again flags Fisher River basin
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BY JAMES WASTASECOOT
Peguis council and managers are planning preparations for a potential spring flood as the province’s forecast mentions Fisher River Basin. Chief Stan Bird said that the fact the Fisher River is noted is not a good sign and that preparations and measures are being taken. This includes snow removal around housing and structures, clearing culverts, improving drainage and creating emergency response plans.
200 Peguis Band Member petition calls for review of Peguis CFS and removal of ED and lawyer
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BY TREVOR GREYEYES
A letter containing more than 200 names and treaty numbers of Peguis band members has been submitted to Chief and Council, calling for an independent forensic audit and administrative review of Peguis Child and Family Services.
Manitoba budget offers First Nations new money for policing, language and infrastructure, but little direct clarity for Peguis
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BY JAMES WASTASECOOT
Budget 2026 includes Indigenous-led grants, majority-Indigenous energy partnerships and a broad flood-mitigation envelope, but much of the help for First Nations is still framed in province wide terms rather than community- specific commitments.
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