Piikani Nation Chief Troy Knowlton is speaking out after issuing a state of emergency in response to drug-related deaths. (Photo: Troy Knowlton)

By David Opinko

State of emergency issued in Piikani Nation over drug-related deaths

Jan 3, 2024 | 2:14 PM

PIIKANI NATION, AB – A First Nation is southern Alberta is taking action in hopes of preventing further deaths related to the use of drugs.

The Piikani Nation issued a state of emergency on January 2, 2024.

Chief Troy Knowlton said it was a necessary step as there have been several deaths in their community over the last week.

“The situation affecting our nation is not unique to us. Drugs, especially opioids and fentanyl, may prove to be the public policy challenge of the century, affecting every community from coast to coast,” said Knowlton. “However, in a tight-knit community like ours, the impacts of drugs, especially addiction and tragically death, particularly among our youth, reverberate pain throughout our entire nation.”

He said his goal and the goal of council is to bring an end to or significantly reduce the availability of drugs and to prevent deaths among those “who have had their lives ensnared by drugs.”

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

Knowlton explains that the state of emergency was made based on their reading of Section 17(1) of the Emergencies Act, includes several measures to prevent drug use, improve emergency treatment, and provide additional resources to agencies dealing with drug abuse and its side effects.

The Act also has provisions to work alongside the RCMP to crack down on the sources of drug-related problems such as gangs and drug trafficking.

“Of course, any measures taken under the state of emergency will be exercised in accordance with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and will be carefully monitored to limit any impact on the rights of law-abiding Piikani citizens,” said Knowlton.

The chief adds that the drug crisis is a long-term and complicated issue, which is why they are taking decisive action now.

He extended his sympathies to the families of those impacted.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

—

If you have a news tip, question or concern, please email Lethbridge.newsroom@Pattisonmedia.com.