To curb the spread of COVID-19 in First Nations, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak has rolled out a protocol to all 26 of its communities.

The protocol, which was developed in partnership with the Manitoba RCMP and Public Prosecution Service of Canada or PPSC, would assist RCMP officers to enforce local COVID-19 bylaws enacted by First Nations communities in the region once signed by an MKO First Nation.

It would also allow for PPSC to conduct the prosecution of bylaw offenses committed in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic upon their discretion.

During a press conference, grand Chief Garrison Settee likened the protocol as a tool that is available for Northern First Nations to help them better enforce their bylaws, and is not intended to undermine the sovereignty of said communities.