After the unthinkable tragedy that claimed a child’s life on our traditional waters recently, səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation) Chief and Council recognize and call for better safety measures, signage, and enforcement, both at the boat launch at Whey-ah-Wichen (Cates Park) and on the water to help keep Tsleil-Waututh Members and the public safe.

We call upon the federal government, the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, and other levels of government, authorities, and industry to work with our Nation to establish a permanent, community-based Guardians program, to place Tsleil-Waututh monitors on the water and help prevent future tragedies.

A community-based program would employ our Members and enable us to be on the water and to  have the resources in place to ensure active monitoring – ensuring boaters are properly licensed and operating safely – and coordination with law enforcement authorities on and near the water. This work already aligns with our Community Safety Plan and will strengthen the face of the Nation literally on the Inlet on a regular basis.

We simultaneously request that the Province provide additional resources towards a stronger marine presence for the Integrated First Nations Policing Unit (IFNU).

As Chief Jen Thomas shares: “Enforcement is key. We use these waters every single day. We have boats that go up Indian Arm, Takaya Tours, and our Members are training in their canoes every single day.”

For media inquiries, please contact:

səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation)
Communications Team
Email: communications@twnation.ca