Stornoway – Renard Mining Site : investing in the health and communities of the Cree Nation with COVID-19 testing lab
In an effort to provide and ensure the Renard Mining Site with a safe environment, Stornoway has opted to invest in the health of its workers
Nemaska, Eeyou Istchee (August 25, 2020)
The company has invested significant funds in developing a testing capacity protocol, laboratory, and health providers that will assist in detecting the presence of COVID-19 at the site.
The benefits of this investment for the Stornoway Renard Site will be quickly appreciated by the families and friends of Cree workers returning home after their 14-day shift.
"We would like to take this opportunity to thank the workers for their patience and sacrifice as these protocols were being developed. They are our first priority and getting it right is critical. We also need to commend Stornoway for their collaboration and for placing importance on the health and safety of their staff. Partnernships should go beyond just natural resources and consider the human resources necessary to our success. Stornoway is exemplary." – Grand Chief Dr. Abel Bosum
As of September 8, 2020, workers returning to their community after their shift at Stornoway's Renard site, with appropriate documentation, may be exempt from the Mandatory Self-Isolation Law adopted by local governments.
"The Cree Nation of Mistissini wishes to thank the management of Stornoway for doing everything they can to assure the safety of all workers and working with the Cree Nation of Mistissini in the true spirit of partnership." – Chief Thomas Neeposh
The Cree Nation continues to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and its impacts in and around our region with our members and essential services at the fore. Continued collaborations with companies like Stornoway and Osisko who display their understanding of how important the health of our members, their families, as well as our local health capacity, helps us maintain the low-risk of transmission status for Eeyou Istchee.
Melissa Saganash
Director of Cree-Quebec Relations
Press Release (PDF)