The state of Highway 123 leading into Cumberland House has forced the community to declare a state of emergency.

Recent rains have washed out the highway, limiting emergency supplies and service access to the village and nearby First Nation.

The community says the health and well-being of members are in jeopardy, and they call on the Federal and Provincial governments to meet with their leadership as soon as possible.

Cumberland Cree Nation Chief Rene Chaboyer says they “need a safe and reliable access for emergency services, food supplies, and vital resources. Immediate action needs to be taken to repair the road and come up with a long-term plan to replace the poorly constructed Highway.”