According to the ‘Na̱mg̱is First Nation, a visitor has been banished from all Na̱mg̱is land after allegedly attacking a travel nurse from Calgary on Thursday night. Two youths intervened during the assault, and the victim is currently recovering from her injuries.
‘Na̱mg̱is First Nation Enforces Banishment Following Attack
The ‘Na̱mg̱is chief and council convened for an emergency meeting on Friday following the incident on Thursday night. According to the nation, officials unanimously voted to banish the visitor from all Na̱mg̱is land. The decision received wholehearted support from the village of Alert Bay and the Whe-la-la-u Area Council, as stated in an official release from the nation.
In the statement, leadership expressed support for the victim and wished her a speedy recovery. Council also extended sincere gratitude to the two youths who intervened at risk to their own safety and well-being, alongside witnesses who offered support during and after the event. According to the ‘Na̱mg̱is, this banishment marks the first to be publicized since Homiskanis Don Svanvik took office as chief in May.
Community Healthcare Context on Cormorant Island
The assaulted nurse is an integral part of the Cormorant Island Community Health Centre, where she was walking home from her regular route when the attack occurred. Operated by Island Health, the health center is one of two healthcare service delivery locations on Cormorant Island, alongside the nation-operated ‘Na̱mg̱is Health Centre. The facility features four acute-care beds, 10 long-term care beds, and an emergency department that has remained closed overnight since 2023 due to ongoing staffing shortages.
Built in 2002 for $5.6 million, the facility stands on land donated by the ‘Na̱mg̱is to replace St. George’s Hospital, which previously served the region’s healthcare needs beginning in 1909.
Investigation Status and Next Steps
According to reports, the Alert Bay RCMP did not immediately respond on Saturday to requests for comment about the alleged attack.
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