Lax Kw'alaams relaxes restrictions for members, returns ferry to normal use

A return to regular Ferry Service for residents of Lax Kw'alaams
makes for a chance to travel once again for residents of the community
as the Band Council relaxes its lockdown measures

With the Province of British Columbia beginning its process to ReStart BC, the community of Lax Kw'alaams is preparing to Re-Open the community for Band members once again.

The North Coast First Nation community north of Prince Rupert went into a lockdown in March, restricting access to non-residents and providing for a range of measures to follow for those who live in the community.

Yesterday in an Advisory from the Band Council for Lax Kw'alaams residents, it was announced that effective Monday May11th, the Ferry will revert to normal service and the community will open for Band Members.

While the restrictions are to be lifted, the Lax Kw'alaams Band has noted that some if the community facilities such as the Recreation Centre and School will remain closed.

As well, while reopening for residents they note that non members who wish to visit or enter the community will need to contact the CAO for the Band to explain why they wish to come.

Also to continue, will  be health screening measures which remain in place.

Incoming traffic will be screened by a nurse. We ask that you give her permission to take your temperature. You will be asked a series of questions for screening purposes. This is for your protection, please be cooperative.

However with the relaxation of measures, residents will now be free to travel back and forth to Prince Rupert or elsewhere, which means the Grocery service that was in place during the lockdown will come to an end.

In addition to the ability for community members to travel, there does not appear to be any further mention of any proposed roadblock or checkpoint on Highway sixteen, that controversial suggestion of the last week or so does not receive any attention from the recent updates.

Noting that the pandemic is not over, the Lax Kw'alaams Council urges that community members continue to practice social distancing and other health measures.

You can explore more of the loosening of the restrictions from the Lax Kw'alaams website or Facebook page.

More notes on items of interest from Lax Kw'alaams can be reviewed here.