NationTalk: Treaty One Territory, Manitoba – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) extends heartfelt congratulations to Chief David Monias and Pimicikamâk Cree Nation on the grand opening of the Howard Halcrow Health Centre. Several Manitoba First Nations leaders attended the event, including the AMC Grand Chief, Cathy Merrick, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Grand Chief, Garrison Settee, and Manitoba premier-designate, Wab Kinew.

“This is a historic moment for Pimicikamâk,” said AMC Grand Chief Cathy Merrick. “Our people are often required to leave their First Nations to receive basic health services – something contradicting First Nations’ treaty right to health. I feel very blessed to have been a part of the negotiations of this Centre during my tenure as Councillor and, later, as Chief. Now, I get to cut the ribbon as the Grand Chief to the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs.”

Through the Howard Halcrow Health Centre, Pimicikamâk citizens can access an emergency department, ambulatory care clinic, diagnostics, and various community health programs and services. The 60,000-square-foot facility also provides administrative spaces, laboratory facilities and materials management capabilities.

“Today, we are proud to open the Howard Halcrow Health Centre,” said Chief David Monias. “For decades, Canada has failed Pimicikamâk citizens and many other First Nations in providing accessible, portable, comprehensive, and universal healthcare services. By establishing this centre, we are reclaiming our right to health and creating better outcomes for our people.”

The Health Centre is the result of years of negotiations between current and previous Chiefs, Council Members, and Health Directors. Establishing the Centre is just one step in addressing the complex healthcare challenges faced by First Nations throughout the province. There is still a great need for collaborative work with First Nations, provincial, and federal partners to address the staff shortages that plague First Nations across Manitoba.

“I’m grateful for our Leadership’s hard work and dedication on this project. Our people deserve the same quality and access to care as any other Canadians, and I’m so proud that we have been able to provide that here in Pimicikamâk,” concluded AMC Grand Chief Merrick.

For more information, please contact:
Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email: media@manitobachiefs.com