CALL OUT FOR COMMUNITY COMMENTS ON THE AKWESASNE FIRE SAFETY LAW

The Working Task Group (WTG) for the Akwesasne Fire Safety Law is currently accepting written comments from Akwesasró:non regarding the essential development needs of this important law. Community input is vital to ensuring the safety and well being of everyone in Akwesasne.

Here are some questions you may wish to consider, keeping in mind that you’re not limited to these:

• What should be considered a fire or burning offense? 
  (e.g., fireworks, unattended/abandoned campfires, excessive smoke)
• What should the repercussions be for violating the law? 
  (e.g., Good Standing Policy actions, fines)
• What additional measures could help ensure the safety of all community members?
  (e.g., increased community outreach/events, educational materials, stricter penalties)
• Who else should be involved in the development of this law? 
  (e.g., AMPS, EMTs)

In the 2020 Akwesasne Law Priority Survey, fire safety was identified as a top concern among participating community members. Although the WTG made previous attempts to reconvene, progress was delayed due to major scheduling conflicts and a lack of quorum.

We are pleased to share that the WTG is now re established, consisting of HAVFD Firemen serving as community experts, Justice Portfolio Chiefs, a District Representative from the Oversight Committee on Legislative Development, and Legislative Services staff. While we now meet the minimum membership needed to move forward with the law, we would still benefit greatly from additional support.

We are seeking passionate community members to join the WTG and assist with the development of this law, as well as the community outreach that will be required. If you feel that you — or someone you know — could serve as a “community expert” on any part of the law’s content, we would be happy to hear from you. Successful candidates who join the group will be compensated for their time at meetings and community events. We hope you’ll consider joining us as we continue working toward this crucial law for the safety and well being of all Akwesasne.

How to Submit Your Comments

Written comments may be submitted by email to:

• Alyson Thompson, Legislative Services Manager — alyson.thompson@akwesasne.ca
• Emily King, Legislative Researcher — emily.king@akwesasne.ca   

Comments may also be delivered in person at the Akwesasne Justice Department Administration Office, located at 45 Johnson Rd., Kaná:takon (formerly the old Tickets store).

The deadline to submit comments is Friday, May 29, 2026, by 4:30 p.m.