The Walpole Island bridge is now closed to non-residents.
The Walpole Island Emergency Control Group made the announcement official early this afternoon.
The restriction is in effect as of 7pm Monday evening, however, non-resident traffic began reporting being turned around at the bridge shortly after the noon hour.
Exceptions to the ban include essential service workers, emergency personnel, non-member residents, utility repair staff with proper identification and delivery drivers with proper identification.
Chief Daniel Miskokomon says the decision was not made lightly.
“The reality for us is that our population has a much higher prevalence of underlying health conditions that make many of our members more vulnerable,” said the Chief. “So we must take extra precautions as a community to protect these individuals.”
James Jenkins, the Director of Operations for Walpole Island First Nations adds that they experienced a great deal of abuse in reference to the “essential visits” in recent days.
“We ask our neighbours to please respect our decision to limit access so that we can protect our most vulnerable.”
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