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For immediate release
July 7, 2022
Treaty Five Territory, Thompson, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) is issuing condolences to the family of 2-year-old Santaya Tyo-Greyeyes of Norway House Cree Nation.
Grand Chief Garrison Settee states:
“On behalf of MKO, I extend sincere condolences to the parents, siblings, family, and community of Santaya Tyo-Greyeyes from Norway House Cree Nation. Our hearts are heavy when we lose a child.
My office has been in contact with family representatives and we will seek answers as to why Santaya passed away so suddenly. We need to know if, and where, the health system failed Santaya and ensure that no other children are harmed as result of health systems failure.
Our health care system is broken. Provincial and federal governments need to take immediate action to rectify and improve health services in our First Nations.
The pandemic has shown us how fragile our health care system is. It is time to create innovative, efficient models to strengthen our health care system.
We can do better and we have to do better.
MKO is committed to collaborating with provincial and federal partners to ensure we develop and strengthen our health care system to one that is responsive, accountable, and inclusive to our First Nation citizens and communities.
MKO will be partnering with other Indigenous organizations to ensure we have the appropriate resources and expertise to provide wraparound support for the family. As the family lays Santaya to rest today, I pray for all those that loved her in the difficult days ahead.”
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For more information, contact:
Melanie Ferris, MKO Communications
Cell: 204-612-1284
Email: [email protected]
