The Inuvik-based Inuvialuit Regional Corporation (IRC) is telling residents of the Inuvialuit Settlement Region (ISR) that a team of reindeer herders will be out on the land working with the reindeer herd on a regular basis.
The IRC adds that it doesn’t want any interference with the round-up and herding of the reindeer, especially during the calving season.
Officials ask that all residents avoid any reindeer and do not use any firearms near them.
The reindeer herders will be working closely with the reindeer herd during this time, and IRC does not wish to see anyone harmed as a result.
IRC Chair and CEO Duane Smith “acknowledges and commends harvesters who are securing country food and meat to share with families and elders and who continue to contribute proactively to food security in their communities, however, all harvesters must recognize that reindeer are not a part of harvesting rights acknowledged under the Inuvialuit Final Agreement.”
The IRC reiterates to all residents of the ISR that harvesting from the reindeer herd is strictly not allowed.
The IRC says it understands and respects that in some instances, harvesters may be accessing the herd to provide for their dependents given recent concerns surrounding COVID-19.
The corporation encourages families to look into On The Land, Child First Initiative and other assistance available.
Officials are asking for the support of everyone in respecting the health of the herd and the safety of herders by not harvesting, using firearms nearby or causing any extra stress to the reindeer.
For more information contact:
Evan Pound
Legal Counsel
Tel: (867) 777-7065
Email: epound@inuvialuit.com
www.irc.inuvialuit.com
