REAFFIRMING MIDWIFERY SERVICES IN OMUSHKEGOWUK TERRITORY

Resolution No. 2020-01-11

REAFFIRMING MIDWIFERY SERVICES IN OMUSHKEGOWUK TERRITORY

WHEREAS in 2011 the Mahmowihitowin of the Omushkegowuk passed resolution 2011-09-26-Midwifery Services in the Mushkegowuk Region which declared the provision of midwifery services be a priority in all Mushkegowuk First Nations; and

WHEREAS resolution 2011-09-26 Midwifery Services in the Mushkegowuk Region also supported an original proposal and call for funding to deliver midwifery services in the Omushkegowuk Territory; and

WHEREAS since 2011, multiple attempts to coordinate, fund and provide midwifery services in more communities have been made; and

WHEREAS in 2012, Neepeeshowan Midwives opened the first practice in Attawapiskat, with the long-term goal of adding midwifery services to the other communities; and

WHEREAS the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority Obstetrics Unit has been closed since August 2018 and WAHA recognizes the urgent need to re-open and provide services; and

WHEREAS the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority has initiated conversations with Neepeeshowan Midwives and Mushkegowuk Council to explore solutions and create a plan to participate in the re-opening of the obstetrics

unit at WAHA through the support of midwifery services; and

WHEREAS the delegation of the Kichinaskomitowin recognized the history of midwifery in the Omushkegowuk territory and affirms that every Omushkego family has the right to have their children be born in their territory;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the delegation of the Kichinaskomitowin provide support for Neepeeshowan Midwives, Mushkegowuk Council, and Weeneebayko Area Health Authority to collaborate on securing the funding, human resources, and partnerships required to effectively increase Midwifery services in the Omushkegowuk Territory;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the delegation of the Kichinaskomitowin direct the Mushkegowuk Council of Chiefs to provide support to Neepeeshowan Midwives to secure housing and clinic space, as this is currently limiting the expansion of midwifery services;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Neepeeshowan Midwives, Mushkegowuk Council and Weeneebayko Area Health Authority commit to a partnership to establish midwifery services that respond to the population's needs and vision;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a report be provided to the Annual General Assembly on the status of Midwifery services.

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