Treaty Five Territory, Thompson, Mb – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) stands with Chief David Monias and the people of Pimicikamak Cree Nation as they continue to live this emergency. At a time when families are displaced and exhausted, Manitoba Hydro has chosen to deflect responsibility.
MKO is appalled that Manitoba Hydro is now attempting to introduce new theories about the cause of the power outage; theories that were never raised until Monday, long after the crisis began. This sudden shift in narrative is not only misleading; it is a blatant attempt to distract from Hydro’s own failures.
MKO is calling for an immediate meeting with the Minister Responsible for Manitoba Hydro and the Board Chair to deal with this blatant misrepresentation by Hydro administration.
Grand Chief Garrison Settee stated:
“This is callous and disrespectful treatment of citizens who have already been through so much trauma. This disrespect cannot be tolerated. Manitoba Hydro’s attempt to shift blame in the middle of a crisis shows a disturbing disregard for the wellbeing of Pimicikamak families.”
For decades, northern First Nations have lived with the consequences of Manitoba Hydro decisions, flooded lands, damaged infrastructure, and chronic underinvestment in the very communities that power this province. Now, in the middle of a life‑threatening emergency, Hydro’s priority appears to be protecting its image rather than protecting the people it serves.
MKO demands:
– Immediate transparency from Manitoba Hydro regarding the true cause of the outage.
– Full accountability for the failures that led to this crisis.
– Respectful, honest communication with Chief Monias, Pimicikamak leadership, and the affected families.
– A comprehensive review of Hydro’s emergency response protocols in northern First Nations.
MKO stands with Chief Monias and the Nation as efforts continue to rebuild damaged infrastructure, replace destroyed homes, and ensure evacuees can safely return home.
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