The Kahnawake COVID-19 work group has installed signs at the side of the road in order to restrain access to motorists from entering its territory. The group believes that this act is necessary because some non-residents continue to gain access there to make purchases.
Audrey-Ledfuc-Brodeur Translation Dan Rosenburg
The signs, erected since April 8, indicate to drivers that they can circulate only if they are residents of the territory or want to gain access to the Mercier Bridge.
“It is important to note that these signs have been erected to address the continuing problem of non-locals attempting to purchase goods on the territory, particularly tobacco products, despite two public notices making it clear that Kahnawake is closed for business during the COVID-19 pandemic,” stated Public Safety Commissioner Lloyd Phillips. “The signs have not been erected to stop local deliveries or essential workers from accessing the territory. However, it is clear that stronger measures are needed, as a significant number of people with no business being here continue to enter our community with no regard for our health and safety. Simply put, we are doing everything in our power to limit contact from the outside,” he continued. “That is our only intent. Anyone in contravention will be liable for serious fines.”
The non-residents who work at enterprises and groups offering essential services to Kahnawake are not affected by this notice.
The service stations and grocery stores that operate along routes 132, 138 and 207 must limit their access to non-residents. The latter expose. themselves to $1,000 fines.
