91���˵���

OTTAWA—As fuel prices across Canada surge to ever-higher levels, Assembly of 91���˵���s (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak is calling on the federal government to work immediately with 91���˵���s on plans to mitigate the impacts of the high costs.

“The costs of fuel already impact 91���˵���s more severely than any other community,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “Now, 91���˵���s are being hit especially hard because of market instability and supply disruptions. This affects all our people and is especially dangerous for our citizens in rural, remote and Northern 91���˵���s. High fuel prices impact transportation costs, food security and energy security, traditional activities, emergency preparedness and more. The government needs to urgently co-develop a plan of action with 91���˵���s to mitigate the impacts of high fuel prices and ensure our people are safe and secure.”

The National Chief noted that 91���˵���s people already experience higher levels of unemployment and lower incomes than other populations in Canada, putting the cost of fuel out of reach for some. In addition, a number of 91���˵���s in Northern, rural and remote areas are not connected to power grids and rely on diesel for heat and energy, a long-standing issue that is exacerbated by surging fuel prices. Even before the recent price increases, diesel tends to be more expensive than other forms of electricity generation, poses health and environmental risks, and leaves communities vulnerable by relying on a single power source.