Community Messages

Message from the Chairperson of the Mercury Disability Board
Please note that the message from the Chair is updated at the end of each fiscal year to provide current information on the Board.

"A highlight for the Board in 2008-09 was the meetings held in the communities served - June in Wabaseemoong and September in Grassy Narrows.  The Board appreciated the opportunity to meet with the leadership and members of both communities and to discuss topics of mutual interest.  A joint meeting between the Board and the Search Committee in January was a valuable opportunity for dialogue.  In March the Board met with officials in several departments at Great West Life to review the relationship and services provided and to update arrangements as needed.

The Board developed the concepts for a literature review regarding the impacts of mercury on human health in order to ensure that its working knowledge is up-to-date.

Throughout the year the Board worked to review the legislation, policies and procedures and other documents which shape its work.

The Board's ability to do its work in fulfilling the mandate has been assisted by the consistency in Board members, particularly the community representatives and the physician members.  In March the Board celebrated the long-term commitment of Gabe Fobister who served as Grassy Narrows' representative from the inception of the Board.  Gabe has been replaced by Larry Keewatin.  Margaret Cameron continues to represent Wabaseemoong.

Thanks to these members plus the Ontario and Canada representatives for your work on behalf of the Board during the year."

Margaret Wanlin, Chairperson


Message from the Chief of Wabaseemoong Independent Nation
The website will give community members living both in the community and off reserve, visitors and visiting workers to the community and the general public the ability to learn more about the history of the contamination of the river systems, the negotiation process, the development of the Mercury Disability Board and Mercury Disability Fund and how the Board operates.

Historical community information around the contamination and its effect on the communities can be found under the Affected Communities link.  The FAQ section answers many questions asked by community members around processing claims, hair and blood sample usage and how to speak to the Board in person.

I recommend taking the time to look around the site to learn more about the mercury contamination issue still facing the communities.

Chief Eric Fisher, Wabaseemoong Independent Nations


Message from the Chief of Grassy Narrows First Nation
to be posted