Aug 25, 2026
Long Point First Nation is sharing a press release following the peaceful gathering held at the Ville-Marie Courthouse on August 24, 2026, where members of the Winneway community came together to express their concerns regarding the ongoing lack of adequate police services in the community.
The gathering took place on the occasion of a court appearance involving an individual who had made threats against Chief Steeve Mathias and who was placed under an undertaking pursuant to section 2 of the Criminal Code.
For Long Point First Nation, the situation once again highlights broader concerns regarding community safety and the sense of insecurity experienced by several members.
“Today, Elders, parents, youth and families have chosen to be here together. Their presence sends a simple message: we want to feel safe in our own community and we want to be heard,” said Chief Steeve Mathias.
Since the dissolution of the Indigenous police service in 2006, Winneway has been without a permanent police station. Long Point First Nation continues to raise concerns that the current level of police coverage is insufficient and poorly adapted to the community’s reality, particularly amid concerns regarding organized crime.
Community members gathered peacefully to emphasize that access to safety should not depend on distance from police services or the ability to obtain a timely response during an urgent situation.
“We want our children to be able to grow up safely, our Elders to feel protected, and our families to know that when they ask for help, someone will respond. We need concrete action,” added Chief Mathias.
The mobilization was intended as a peaceful gesture of solidarity and an opportunity to remind governments that discussions surrounding policing services directly affect the people and families who live with the consequences of inadequate services.
Long Point First Nation continues to call for concrete action toward adequate and reliable police services for Winneway.
For media inquiries:
Sandra Ataman
Sandra@ryanap.com
819-859-0280
